2021-2024 Jeep Transmission Suspect Parts Return

MOPAR has issued a Quality Inspection Request (QIR) for specific 8-speed transmission components, impacting various 2021-2024 Jeep models. This communication, identified by NHTSA ID 11013652, is primarily directed at dealerships to ensure that potentially faulty parts are identified and removed from their inventory before installation into vehicles. The focus is on identifying Jeep transmission suspect parts based on a visual characteristic.

This QIR highlights the importance of quality control within the supply chain, aiming to prevent the use of non-conforming parts in new vehicle production or service repairs. While this is an internal dealer communication, it's crucial for owners to understand its implications, especially if their vehicle has recently undergone transmission service.

What's the Issue? Identifying Suspect 8-Speed Transmission Parts

The core of this Quality Inspection Request revolves around identifying specific 8-speed transmission parts that exhibit a particular visual anomaly. The affected part numbers are 68415437AE, 68338289AE, 68615857AB, and 68583446AB. MOPAR has provided clear guidance for distinguishing between 'good' and 'suspect' parts.

According to the communication, 'good parts' are those with "No bosses present in marked area." Conversely, 'suspect parts' are identified by the presence of "2 bosses present in marked area." These 'bosses' are small protrusions, likely molding marks or structural features, that should not be present in a specific location on the transmission component. The presence of these two bosses indicates a manufacturing deviation, rendering the part suspect and requiring its return.

This visual identification process is critical for dealers to ensure that only correctly manufactured components are used for vehicle assembly or repair, preventing potential issues related to the POWER TRAIN system down the line. The QIR emphasizes that any Jeep transmission suspect parts must be returned.

Why This Matters

While this Quality Inspection Request is primarily an instruction for dealerships to manage their inventory, it indirectly impacts owners of affected vehicles. The purpose of removing Jeep transmission suspect parts from the supply chain is to prevent potential future problems. Although the specific nature of the defect caused by these bosses is not detailed in the communication, such deviations can lead to various issues, including premature wear, improper function, or reduced durability of the 8-speed transmission.

For owners, this means that MOPAR is proactively working to maintain the quality and reliability of their vehicles. If these suspect parts were to be installed, they could potentially lead to unexpected transmission malfunctions, requiring future repairs. By addressing this at the dealer stock level, MOPAR aims to safeguard the performance and longevity of the POWER TRAIN in models like the Jeep Wrangler, Grand Cherokee, and Grand Cherokee L.

Dealer Instructions: Return of Suspect Stock

MOPAR has issued explicit instructions to dealerships regarding the handling of these Jeep transmission suspect parts. Dealers who have been identified as having stock on hand or in transit are required to:

• Check Inventory: Thoroughly inspect their current stock of part numbers 68415437AE, 68338289AE, 68615857AB, and 68583446AB for the visual characteristic of two bosses in the marked area.
• Return Suspect Parts: Any identified suspect parts must be returned to their facing depot. The specific return method is using "Return Code 02."
• Deadline: All suspect parts must be returned by February 11, 2025.
• Open Orders: Dealers are also instructed to return any open orders in process that involve these suspect parts.
• Replacement Orders: For necessary replacements, dealers are advised to place new orders.
• Inquiries: Direct questions regarding returns to [email protected].

This rigorous process ensures that the faulty components are effectively quarantined and removed from circulation, preventing their installation into vehicles.

What Owners Should Know

This Quality Inspection Request (NHTSA ID 11013652) is an internal communication to dealerships and does not involve a direct consumer notification or a recall campaign. Therefore, owners of 2021-2024 Jeep Wrangler, Grand Cherokee, or Grand Cherokee L vehicles will not receive a letter or direct communication about these Jeep transmission suspect parts.

However, if your vehicle has recently undergone a transmission repair or replacement involving any of the specified part numbers (68415437AE, 68338289AE, 68615857AB, 68583446AB), it may be prudent to inquire with your servicing dealership. While the QIR is primarily for preventing installation of new suspect parts, understanding if any such parts could have been used in a recent service is a reasonable concern. It's important to note that the document does not specify if parts already installed in vehicles are affected or require action.

Important Warnings

• Dealers are explicitly instructed to return all suspect stock of part numbers 68415437AE, 68338289AE, 68615857AB, and 68583446AB using "Return Code 02" before the deadline of February 11, 2025.
• Any open orders for these parts that are currently in process must also be returned.
• MOPAR is NOT notifying consumers directly about this Quality Inspection Request, as it pertains to dealer inventory management rather than a vehicle recall.

Source: NHTSA ID: 11013652