2023-2025 Jeep Compass Emission Recall 12D for TCM Software

FCA US LLC has announced Emission Recall 12D, impacting approximately 192,745 Jeep Compass vehicles equipped with a 2.0L engine (sales code EC1). This recall focuses on a software issue within the Transmission Control Module (TCM) that can hinder the clearing of "Permanent Fault Codes" after an On-Board Diagnostic (OBD) scan tool clear request. This condition can lead to vehicles failing required Inspection/Maintenance (I/M) testing, particularly in states like California.

Why This Matters

The primary concern with this issue is the inability to clear "Permanent Fault Codes" from the vehicle's system. These codes, once set, indicate a persistent problem that the vehicle's computer cannot resolve. If these codes cannot be cleared, the vehicle may not pass mandatory emission Inspection/Maintenance (I/M) testing, which is required for vehicle registration renewal in many areas.

What's Being Recalled

The recall, identified as Emission Recall 12D, targets the Transmission Control Module (TCM) software in specific 2023-2025 Jeep Compass models. The issue is not with the hardware itself, but with the software's ability to properly manage and clear diagnostic trouble codes related to emissions. The affected vehicles are those equipped with the 2.0L engine.

Symptoms

Owners of affected 2023-2025 Jeep Compass vehicles may not notice any immediate driving symptoms. The issue primarily manifests as:

• Inability to clear "Permanent Fault Codes" using an OBD scan tool.
• Failure to pass state-mandated Inspection/Maintenance (I/M) testing due to uncleared emission-related fault codes.

Repair Procedure Summary

The repair for Emission Recall 12D involves updating the Transmission Control Module (TCM) software. Dealers will perform the following steps:

1. Connect a battery charger to the vehicle, ensuring a stable voltage between 13.0 and 13.5 volts throughout the process. It is crucial that the vehicle is NOT connected to a high voltage battery charger.
2. Connect the WiTECH MicroPod II / MDP device to the vehicle's data link connector.
3. Place the ignition in the "RUN" position and access the WiTECH 2.0 website.
4. Log in with dealer credentials and select the vehicle to be updated.
5. Navigate to the "Topology" tab, select the "TCM" module icon, and then the "Flash" tab.
6. Compare the "Current Electronic Control Unit (ECU) Part Number" with the "New ECU Part Number". If they are different, proceed with the software update.
7. Select the appropriate TCM flash part number and follow the on-screen instructions to complete the flash.
8. After the flash, cycle the ignition to "OFF" and then back to "RUN". Clear any Diagnostic Trouble Codes (DTCs) that may have been set during the flashing process.
9. Remove the WiTECH device and battery charger.
10. Install an Authorized Modification Label (Part No. 04275086AE) to confirm the recall 12D has been completed.

The labor operations for this service are 18-12-D1-81 for inspecting the TCM software level (0.2 hours) and 18-12-D1-82 for inspecting and updating the TCM software (0.2 hours).

Required Tools or Parts

To perform the Transmission Control Module software update, technicians will use specific tools and parts:

• Part Number: 04275086AE (Authorized Modification Label)
• Special Tools:
  • WiTECH MicroPod II / MDP
  • Laptop Computer
  • WiTECH Software

Important Warnings

Owners and dealers should be aware of several critical points regarding this Emission Recall 12D:

• Dealer Inventory: "Dealers must perform this repair on all unsold vehicles before retail delivery." This also applies to vehicles in used vehicle inventory and those brought in for service.
• Charging during Flash: "The vehicle MUST NOT be connected to a high voltage battery charger during the flash process." Only a standard battery charger providing 13.0-13.5 volts should be used.
• California Residents: "The State of California requires the completion of this emission recall repair prior to vehicle registration renewal." Owners in California will receive a Vehicle Emission Recall Proof of Correction Form, which must be saved as proof for vehicle registration.

Owner Action

FCA US LLC is notifying all known owners of affected vehicles by first-class mail. If you own a 2023-2025 Jeep Compass, you should schedule a service appointment with an authorized Chrysler, Jeep®, Dodge, or RAM dealership to have the Transmission Control Module software updated. This repair will be performed free of charge (parts and labor).

If you have already experienced this specific condition and paid for the repair, you may be eligible for reimbursement. Visit www.fcarecallreimbursement.com to submit your request online. For any questions or assistance, you can contact the FCA Recall Assistance Center at 1-800-853-1403.

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Source: NHTSA ID: 11030050