2021-2025 Jeep Compass Windshield Wiper Motor Issue

Jeep has released a manufacturer communication, identified by NHTSA ID 11002425, concerning the "MOTOR - WINDSHIELD WIPER" for certain 2021-2025 Jeep Compass models. This communication is specifically aimed at dealerships to manage their inventory of a particular windshield wiper motor part.

The focus of this communication is on identifying and returning suspect parts from dealer stock or those in transit. This proactive measure ensures that only compliant parts are used for new vehicle assembly or service replacements, addressing potential quality concerns with the Jeep Compass windshield wiper motor before they reach consumers.

Understanding a Quality Inspection Request

This document is categorized as a Quality Inspection Request (QIR), which is a type of manufacturer communication. Unlike a safety recall, which directly involves vehicles already sold to consumers and typically addresses a safety defect, a QIR focuses on internal quality control and inventory management within the dealership network. It aims to prevent potentially faulty components from being installed in new vehicles or used for repairs.

For owners, this means that while the manufacturer is taking steps to ensure quality, this specific communication does not initiate a recall campaign for your 2021-2025 Jeep Compass if it's already on the road. Instead, it's a directive for dealers to inspect and manage their parts inventory.

The Suspect Windshield Wiper Motor Part

The communication identifies specific windshield wiper motors as suspect. The key identifier for these parts is part number 68359563AB. Dealers are instructed to check their inventory for this particular part number.

Crucially, only parts built before June 6, 2023 (06.06.2023) are considered suspect. This build date cutoff is a critical factor for dealers when identifying which parts need to be returned. The communication refers to the component as a "MOTOR - WINDSHIELD WIPER," indicating the specific function of the part in question.

Dealer Instructions and Actions

Jeep has provided clear instructions to its dealerships regarding the suspect parts. Dealers who have been identified as having "stock on hand or in transit" are required to take immediate action. The primary directive is to "check and return suspect stock of part numbers: 68359563AB build before 6th June 2023."

All identified suspect parts must be returned to the facing depot using "Return Code 02." The deadline for these returns is July 11, 2024. Dealers are also advised to "return any open orders in process too" for these parts. For replacement parts, dealers are instructed to "place new orders." Any direct questions regarding these returns should be directed via email to "[email protected]."

Identifying Suspect Inventory

The Quality Inspection Request includes details on how to identify the build date code on the part. The document features an image highlighting the location of the built date code on the part's label. An example shown indicates a format like "MM.DD.YYYY," with "09/20/23" representing September 20, 2023. Dealers must verify that the part number is 68359563AB and that its build date falls before the specified cutoff of June 6, 2023.

This precise identification process helps ensure that only the correct suspect parts are removed from the supply chain, preventing potential issues with the Jeep Compass windshield wiper motor in future installations.

What This Means for Owners

It is important for owners of 2021-2025 Jeep Compass vehicles to understand that this manufacturer communication (NHTSA ID 11002425) is primarily an internal dealer directive for inventory management. It is not a recall that requires owners to bring their vehicles in for a repair or inspection.

However, if you own a 2021-2025 Jeep Compass and experience any issues with your windshield wipers, it is always recommended to contact your authorized Jeep dealership. While this communication doesn't directly impact vehicles already delivered, it highlights a proactive quality control effort by the manufacturer. Your dealer can diagnose any wiper system problems and ensure that any replacement parts used are compliant and free from the identified suspect batch.