2021-2023 Jeep Wrangler/Gladiator Passenger Airbag Inspection

Jeep has issued a Quality Inspection Request (QIR), identified as NHTSA ID 11026819, concerning the "DOOR - PASSENGER AIR BAG" component in certain 2021-2023 Jeep Wrangler and Gladiator vehicles. This communication directs dealerships to identify and return specific suspect parts to prevent them from being installed in new vehicles or used for repairs. This proactive measure aims to address potential quality issues before they escalate, ensuring the safety and reliability of these vehicles.

This QIR highlights the importance of thorough quality control within the manufacturing and distribution process. While not a recall directly affecting owners, it's a critical step in maintaining product standards. The focus of this communication is a specific Jeep Wrangler passenger airbag inspection at the dealership level.

Understanding the Quality Inspection Request

A Quality Inspection Request (QIR) is a manufacturer's internal directive to dealerships to inspect, hold, or return specific parts that may have a manufacturing defect or quality concern. Unlike a recall, which typically involves notifying vehicle owners about a safety defect in vehicles already on the road, a QIR is often issued to address potential issues with parts in inventory or vehicles awaiting delivery. This allows the manufacturer to manage quality control proactively, ensuring that only components meeting their standards are used.

For the 2021-2023 Jeep Wrangler and Gladiator, this QIR focuses on the passenger airbag system. Dealers are tasked with a Jeep Wrangler passenger airbag inspection to identify and segregate affected components.

The Suspect Component

The specific component under scrutiny is the passenger airbag bezel assembly, identified by part number 6AB28SRRAD. The document refers to this as "PRF PASS BEZEL ASM - HARD ASS." This part is considered suspect if it was built before February 5, 2025 (2/05/2025). The built date code is typically located directly on the part itself, as illustrated in the manufacturer's communication, showing a format like MM/DD/YYYY with a timestamp.

For example, a part with a built date of "5/2/2023 12:54:00 PM" would fall within the suspect timeframe if the cutoff date were earlier than February 5, 2025. The critical date of February 5, 2025, indicates that any part manufactured prior to this date needs to be inspected and potentially returned.

Dealer Actions and Implications

Dealerships are instructed to take immediate action upon receiving this Quality Inspection Request. They must check their current stock, including parts on hand and those in transit, for the specified part number 6AB28SRRAD. Any suspect stock must be returned to the facing depot using Return Code 02 before January 9, 2026. Furthermore, dealers are required to return any open orders that include these suspect parts.

This directive ensures that no potentially faulty passenger airbag bezel assemblies are installed in new vehicles or used as replacement parts for service. By removing these components from the supply chain, Jeep aims to prevent future issues and uphold safety standards. Dealers are advised to place new orders for replacement parts to ensure they have compliant stock available.

What Owners Should Know

It's important for owners of 2021-2023 Jeep Wrangler and Gladiator vehicles to understand that this is a dealer-level communication and not a direct recall notice to consumers. Therefore, you will likely not receive a notification letter regarding this specific Quality Inspection Request. However, this action is a proactive step by the manufacturer to ensure the quality and safety of components before they reach customers or are used in repairs.

If you own a 2021-2023 Jeep Wrangler or Gladiator and have concerns about your vehicle's passenger airbag system, especially if you are awaiting delivery of a new vehicle or have recently had service involving the passenger airbag, it is advisable to contact your local authorized Jeep dealership. You can inquire about the status of any Jeep Wrangler passenger airbag inspection related to your vehicle's VIN. While this communication is primarily for dealer inventory, it reflects a commitment to addressing potential quality issues promptly.

For any direct questions regarding returns or this quality hold, dealers can email [email protected].

Source: NHTSA ID: 11026819