2021-2023 Jeep Wrangler Radio Stays On, Battery Drain TSB

Owners of various 2021-2023 Stellantis vehicles, including the 2021 Jeep Wrangler, may encounter an electrical system problem where the vehicle's radio remains active even after the ignition has been switched off. This persistent operation can lead to an excessive current draw, ultimately resulting in a dead battery. This specific concern is detailed in manufacturer communication TSB 10247953, which provides guidance for technicians to diagnose and resolve the issue.

Symptoms

The primary symptoms associated with this manufacturer communication are directly related to the vehicle's electrical system and battery health. Owners might notice:

• "Radio Remained On After Ignition Is Switched Off": The radio unit continues to play or display information even after the vehicle's ignition has been turned off and the key removed.
• "Dead Battery From Excessive Radio Current Draw": Due to the radio remaining active, it continuously draws power from the battery, leading to a discharged or completely dead battery, especially after the vehicle has been parked for some time.

These symptoms indicate an underlying electrical fault that prevents the radio from properly shutting down with the rest of the vehicle's systems.

Diagnosis and Trigger Conditions

The TSB 10247953 addresses scenarios where the radio fails to power down correctly. While the summary does not specify complex diagnostic steps, the core trigger condition is the ignition being switched off, followed by the radio failing to enter its low-power or off state. Technicians will likely investigate the vehicle's electrical system, focusing on the radio unit and its communication with other control modules, to pinpoint the exact cause of the persistent power draw.

Repair Procedure Summary

Although the full details of the repair procedure are not available in the summary, manufacturer communications like TSB 10247953 typically outline specific diagnostic routines and repair steps for technicians. These procedures often involve checking for software updates for the radio or related control modules, inspecting wiring harnesses for faults, or, in some cases, replacing the affected radio unit or a related component within the electrical system. The goal is to ensure the radio properly powers down when the ignition is off, thereby preventing a "Dead Battery From Excessive Radio Current Draw."

Owner Action

If you own a 2021-2023 Jeep Wrangler or another affected Stellantis vehicle and experience the radio staying on after the ignition is off, or frequently find your battery dead, it is recommended to contact your authorized dealership. Inform them about the symptoms you are experiencing and mention manufacturer communication TSB 10247953. The dealership technicians will have access to the full bulletin and can perform the necessary diagnostics and repairs under warranty if applicable.

Source: NHTSA ID 10247953