2021-2025 Jeep/RAM Headlamp Switch Quality Issue

Mopar has issued a Quality Inspection Request (QIR) concerning specific headlamp switch parts intended for various 2021-2025 Jeep and RAM models, including the 2021 Jeep Wrangler. This communication, identified by NHTSA ID 11009561, is a proactive measure by the manufacturer to ensure that only high-quality components are used in their vehicles and for service replacements. It is important to understand that a QIR is distinct from a safety recall; it primarily addresses parts inventory management at the dealership level rather than an immediate safety campaign for vehicles already on the road.

This QIR highlights certain headlamp switch part numbers that are considered "suspect" if they were manufactured before a specific Julian date code. The purpose is to prevent these potentially non-conforming parts from being installed in new vehicles or used for repairs, thereby maintaining product reliability and customer satisfaction. The headlamp switch is a critical component for vehicle operation, controlling essential lighting functions that are vital for driver visibility and road safety, especially during nighttime driving or adverse weather conditions.

Identifying Suspect Parts by Julian Date Code

The core of this Quality Inspection Request revolves around the Julian date code, which is a manufacturing date identifier found on the part itself. For the affected headlamp switches, Mopar has specified that any parts built before Julian date code 0094 are considered suspect. Julian date code 0094 corresponds to January 9, 2024. This means that if a part's manufacturing date, as indicated by its Julian code, falls on or before January 8, 2024, it should be treated as suspect.

To identify the Julian date code, technicians and parts personnel must locate the label on the headlamp switch. The provided Mopar communication includes an image illustrating where this code is typically found on the part label. The Julian date code is usually a four-digit number, where the first three digits represent the day of the year (1-365 or 366 for leap years) and the last digit represents the last digit of the year. For example, '2443' would mean the 244th day of a year ending in '3' (e.g., September 1, 2023).

Specific Affected Part Numbers

Mopar has identified a precise list of headlamp switch part numbers that are subject to this Quality Inspection Request. These are the specific components that dealers must scrutinize in their inventory. The affected part numbers are:

• 68156066AC
• 68156065AC
• 68292842AC
• 68292845AC
• 68373903AB
• 68146602AB
• 68156061AD
• 68401933AB

These part numbers represent the exact headlamp switch variants that could be suspect if manufactured before the specified Julian date. Dealers are instructed to cross-reference these numbers with their current stock and any incoming shipments to ensure no non-conforming parts are distributed.

Mopar's Instructions to Dealerships

The Quality Inspection Request (NHTSA ID 11009561) outlines clear instructions for dealerships to manage their inventory of these suspect headlamp switches. These instructions are crucial for maintaining the integrity of the parts supply chain and ensuring that only compliant components are used.

Inventory Check and Identification

Dealerships are required to immediately check their existing stock, including parts currently on shelves and those in transit. This involves physically inspecting the part numbers and the Julian date codes on each headlamp switch to determine if it falls within the suspect manufacturing period (before Julian date 0094). This meticulous inspection helps isolate potentially problematic parts before they can be installed.

Return Procedure and Deadline

All identified suspect parts must be returned to the dealer's facing depot. Mopar has specified the use of "Return Code 02" for this process, which is an internal tracking identifier to categorize these specific returns. This ensures that the returned parts are correctly processed and removed from circulation. The deadline for returning these suspect parts is October 24, 2024. Adhering to this deadline is essential for dealers to comply with Mopar's quality control measures.

New Orders and Open Orders

For any necessary replacements, dealers are instructed to place new orders. This implies that Mopar has made corrected or compliant versions of these headlamp switches available. Furthermore, the communication explicitly states that dealers must return any open orders that are currently in process for these specific part numbers. This prevents suspect parts from being received and added to inventory after the initial inspection, reinforcing the manufacturer's commitment to quality control.

Dealer Support

Should dealerships have any questions regarding the return process or the Quality Inspection Request, they are directed to contact Mopar via email at [email protected]. This dedicated support channel ensures that dealers can get timely assistance and clarification, facilitating a smooth and efficient resolution of the inventory issue.

What This Means for Owners

For owners of a 2021 Jeep Wrangler, or any other affected 2021-2025 Jeep or RAM vehicle, it is important to understand the nature of this communication. This Quality Inspection Request (NHTSA ID 11009561) is primarily an internal Mopar directive for managing parts inventory at dealerships. It is not a recall campaign that would typically involve direct notification to vehicle owners for inspection or repair.

Therefore, owners should not expect to receive a recall letter or any direct communication regarding this specific QIR. Your vehicle is not being recalled for this issue. The manufacturer's action is focused on preventing suspect parts from entering the supply chain or being installed in new vehicles or during service appointments. The proactive removal of these parts from dealer stock helps ensure that if your vehicle ever requires a headlamp switch replacement, only a quality-checked, non-suspect part will be used.

However, if you experience any issues with your vehicle's headlamps, such as intermittent operation, failure to turn on, or other electrical malfunctions related to the headlamp system, you should contact your authorized Jeep or RAM dealership. While this QIR is about parts inventory, any actual malfunction in your vehicle should be diagnosed and addressed by qualified service technicians. They will be able to determine if your vehicle's headlamp switch is functioning correctly and if it requires replacement with a compliant part.

Preventing Future Issues

Quality Inspection Requests like this one are a standard part of a manufacturer's ongoing commitment to product quality and safety. By identifying and isolating suspect components before they reach customers, Mopar aims to uphold its manufacturing standards and minimize potential issues down the line. This process helps to ensure that all vehicles, including the 2021 Jeep Wrangler and other affected models, are equipped with reliable components, contributing to overall vehicle safety and owner satisfaction.

Source: NHTSA Manufacturer Communication 11009561.