2023-2025 Jeep Compass TCM Software Emissions Recall

FCA US LLC has announced Emissions Recall 12D, affecting approximately 192,745 2023-2025 Jeep Compass vehicles equipped with a 2.0L (EC1 sales code) engine. This recall addresses a software issue within the Transmission Control Module (TCM).

The problem may prevent the vehicle from properly clearing "Permanent Fault Codes" after an On-Board Diagnostic (OBD) Scan tool clear request. This can lead to the vehicle failing required Inspection/Maintenance (I/M) testing, particularly in states like California that mandate such checks.

Why This Matters

This emissions recall is crucial because the inability to clear "Permanent Fault Codes" directly impacts your vehicle's compliance with environmental regulations. If your Jeep Compass TCM software cannot properly manage these codes, it may fail emissions inspections.

For residents of California, this issue is particularly important as the state requires completion of emission recall repairs before vehicle registration renewal. Failure to address this could result in an inability to renew your vehicle's registration.

What's Being Recalled

The recall specifically targets the Transmission Control Module (TCM) software in certain 2023-2025 Jeep Compass models. The remedy involves updating this software to ensure it can correctly erase "Permanent Fault Codes" and allow the vehicle to pass emissions testing.

Symptoms

Owners of affected vehicles may not notice any immediate driving symptoms. The primary symptom is the vehicle's inability to erase "Permanent Fault Codes" when an OBD Scan tool clear request is performed. This condition will manifest as a failure to pass Inspection/Maintenance (I/M) testing.

Repair Procedure Summary

The repair for Emissions Recall 12D involves updating the Transmission Control Module (TCM) software. This procedure must be performed by an authorized dealership using specific tools and software.

Technicians will begin by connecting a battery charger to maintain voltage and connecting a wiTECH micro pod II / MDP device to the vehicle's data link connector. The ignition is then placed in the "RUN" position.

Using the wiTECH 2.0 website, the technician logs in and selects the vehicle. From the "Action Items" screen, they navigate to the "Topology" tab and select the "TCM" module icon. The "Flash" tab is used to compare the "Current Electronic Control Unit (ECU) Part Number" with the "New ECU Part Number".

If the part numbers differ, the technician proceeds to flash the TCM with the latest software calibration level. After the flash, the ignition is cycled to "OFF" and then back to "RUN" to allow the network to sleep and wake. Any Diagnostic Trouble Codes (DTCs) that may have been set during the process are then cleared using the "View DTCs" and "Clear All DTCs" functions.

Finally, the wiTECH device and battery charger are removed, and an Authorized Modifications Label (Part No. 04275086AE) is installed to confirm the recall completion. For California residents, a "Vehicle Emission Recall Proof of Correction Form" (Form No. 81-016-1053) must also be completed.

Required Tools or Parts

To perform this recall, technicians will use the following specific tools and parts:

• WiTECH MicroPod II / MDP: A specialized diagnostic interface.
• Laptop Computer: Required to run the diagnostic software.
• WiTECH Software: The diagnostic and programming software must be at the latest release level.
• Authorized Modification Label (Part No. 04275086AE): Applied to the vehicle after the repair is completed.

The labor operations associated with this recall are 18-12-D1-81 for inspecting the TCM software level and 18-12-D1-82 for inspecting and updating the TCM software.

Owner Action

If you own a 2023-2025 Jeep Compass affected by Emissions Recall 12D, you should schedule an appointment with an authorized Chrysler, Jeep, Dodge, or RAM dealership as soon as possible. The repair, which involves a Transmission Control Module (TCM) software update, will be performed free of charge for both parts and labor.

The estimated repair time for the software update is approximately 15 minutes, though additional time will be needed for vehicle check-in, preparation, and check-out. For California residents, it is mandatory to complete this recall before your vehicle's registration renewal. Your dealer will provide a "Vehicle Emission Recall Proof of Correction Form" (Form No. 81-016-1053) upon completion of the service.

Important Warnings

• Dealer Action: "Dealers must perform this repair on all unsold vehicles before retail delivery." This ensures new vehicles are compliant before reaching customers.
• Battery Charger: "The vehicle MUST NOT be connected to a high voltage battery charger during the flash process." Only a standard battery charger providing 13.0 to 13.5 volts should be used.
• Flash Process: "Do NOT allow the charger to time out during the flash process." The charger must be set to continuous charge.
• Voltage Accuracy: "Voltages outside of the specified range will cause an unsuccessful flash." An accurate stand-alone voltmeter should be used, as the battery charger's voltmeter may not be sufficiently precise.

Source: NHTSA Manufacturer Communication 11031246