2024-2025 Jeep Steering Column Difficult to Adjust TSB S2523000039

Owners of 2024-2025 Jeep Wrangler and Gladiator models may encounter a condition where the steering column is difficult to adjust. This issue, described as "Steering Column Difficult To Adjust Up Or Down," can make it challenging to set the steering wheel to a comfortable position. Stellantis has issued TSB S2523000039 to provide technicians with a procedure to diagnose and resolve this problem.

Symptoms

If you own a 2024-2025 Jeep Wrangler or Gladiator, you might notice the following symptoms related to your steering column:

• "Steering Column Difficult To Adjust Up Or Down"
• Steering column binding
• Requires excessive effort to move the steering column during up or down adjustment

These observations indicate that the column is not moving smoothly through its intended range of motion.

Diagnosis and Trigger Conditions

Technicians will observe the "Jeep steering column difficult to adjust" symptom directly when attempting to move the steering column up or down. The primary trigger condition is the requirement of excessive effort to perform this adjustment, indicating a mechanical binding within the column assembly.

Repair Procedure Summary

Technical Service Bulletin S2523000039 outlines a multi-step repair process for the "Jeep steering column difficult to adjust" issue:

1. Initial Adjustment: The first step involves loosening the four nuts that secure the steering column assembly. Following this, the nuts are re-tightened in a specific sequence (1-rearward passenger side, 2-forward passenger side, 3-rearward outer side, 4-forward) to a torque of 27 Nm. This initial adjustment aims to alleviate any binding caused by improper tension or alignment.
2. Bracket Alignment (If Needed): If the initial adjustment does not resolve the binding, the steering column must be removed. It is then placed on a flat fixture or two flat bars, and the adjustment lever is unlocked. Technicians must ensure that the lower bracket bridge material (bracket extrusion) does not contact the fixture. The rake bracket is then pushed against the fixture/bars to verify that the front and rear brackets are properly aligned. Once aligned, the lever is locked.
3. Reinstallation: After alignment, the steering column is reinstalled. The four mounting nuts are torqued again to 27 Nm, following the same sequence as in the initial adjustment. For detailed removal and installation instructions, technicians are directed to refer to "Service Library 19 - Steering / Column / Removal and Installation."
4. Column Replacement (Last Resort): If none of the preceding steps successfully resolve the issue, the TSB indicates that the steering column should be replaced.

Important Warnings

This document serves as a record of past experiences and does not authorize warranty repairs. It does not provide conclusions about the root cause of the vehicle's condition. Technicians are considered experts responsible for determining the appropriate course of action. Owners should be aware that this communication is for informational purposes for service professionals.

Source: NHTSA ID 11017864