2018-2024 Jeep Wrangler/Gladiator Corrosion Warranty Update

Jeep Wrangler Gladiator Corrosion Warranty Claim Simplification

Jeep has issued Warranty Bulletin D-23-04 to simplify the process for corrosion warranty claims related to paint repairs and panel replacements on specific models. This update, effective for repairs completed on or after August 13, 2024, applies to 2018-2024 Jeep Wrangler (JL) and 2020-2024 Jeep Gladiator (JT) vehicles. The bulletin clarifies that this is a process change for dealers and does not alter existing warranty coverage.

The primary goal of this bulletin is to streamline the warranty claim procedure, making it easier for dealerships to process claims for corrosion-related issues. This includes updates to timing, the addition of 2024 model year vehicles, and revisions to labor and material allowances for new repair processes. This simplification directly impacts how corrosion repairs are handled under the Jeep Wrangler Gladiator corrosion warranty.

Key Changes for Corrosion Repairs

A significant change introduced by Warranty Bulletin D-23-04 is the elimination of the Vehicle Digital Imaging (VDI) pre-approval requirement for these specific corrosion repairs. Previously, extensive documentation including measurement requirements and a "Repair vs Replace" worksheet was necessary for claim support. These are now no longer required, simplifying the initial steps for a Jeep Wrangler Gladiator corrosion warranty claim.

The bulletin also addresses a redesigned hinge for these vehicles, which incorporates a new gasket to mitigate corrosion issues. When replacing these redesigned hinges, they MUST be replaced as a set (upper and lower per component) to ensure a consistent appearance. Dealers are advised not to replace hinges on other doors if no corrosion is present. For additional information on hinge repairs, technicians should refer to Technical Service Bulletin 23-020-23. A thorough quality inspection of all hinge mounting areas and panel seams is recommended to ensure all corrosion is addressed during a single service visit.

Identifying Corrosion Damage

The bulletin provides guidance on identifying specific types of corrosion that may require panel replacement. One common issue is "Pitting found after sanding the affected area," which indicates deeper corrosion requiring attention. Another critical indicator is "Corrosion found on the seam of the panel."

If corrosion is identified on the seam of a panel, the entire door shell will be replaced. The bulletin explicitly states that "No additional sanding in the hinge or seam area is supported" in such cases. The repair allowance for bundled Labor Operations (LOPs) covers either hinge area repairs or corrosion repairs on panel edges or bottoms. If corrosion is found in both areas, the entire panel should be replaced to ensure a complete and lasting repair. Collision Service Bulletin 31-001-24 provides further details on when panel replacement is necessary.

Simplified Warranty Claim Process

The process for submitting warranty claims for these corrosion repairs has been streamlined. Dealers will now submit these as normal Warranty (W) claims, rather than sublet claims, even if the repair was completed by a third-party body shop. This ensures the maximum supported reimbursement is processed.

New Labor Operations (LOPs) have been created to bundle all necessary tasks, including de-trimming, repair, and refinishing. For example, LOP 23-75-53-02 is designated for repairing a front door hinge area, and LOP 23-85-53-11 is used when a door shell is replaced. These new LOPs cover the entire repair, eliminating the need for multiple individual labor operations. When submitting a claim, dealers must provide a clear photo of the corrosion that MUST include the VIN and the affected body panel.

It is important to note that certain items are not reimbursable under this warranty bulletin. These include hazardous material disposal fees, shop supplies, pre and post scans, cleaning/waxing/sanitizing supplies, protective covers, fitting/aligning panels, resetting electronics, de-nib and polish, disconnecting/reconnecting the battery, upgraded anti-corrosion/paint protection, body shop administrative fees, towing/storage fees, and any additional labor or parts not supported by the Collision Service Bulletin.

Important Information for Owners

This bulletin primarily details changes to the internal warranty claim process for dealerships. It is crucial for owners to understand that this is a "process change communication, not a coverage change." Your vehicle's warranty coverage for corrosion remains as per your original warranty terms. Owners should always verify their specific coverage using DealerCONNECT or wiADVISOR VIP.

Furthermore, this update supersedes previous requirements for Vehicle Digital Imaging pre-approval and the "Repair vs Replace" worksheet, which were previously outlined in bulletins like Warranty Bulletin D-19-27. Dealers are specifically instructed to "Please ensure all affected dealership personnel are aware of this bulletin" to ensure consistent application of the new procedures. If you suspect your 2018-2024 Jeep Wrangler (JL) or 2020-2024 Jeep Gladiator (JT) has corrosion issues, contact your authorized Jeep dealer for inspection and repair under the updated Jeep Wrangler Gladiator corrosion warranty guidelines.