Is there a true fix for the Steering/Wandering issue?

[2019RubiconNY]

I'm glad you posted this. I have an earlier 2018 Rubicon JLU, all stock and had severe wandering issues. My service manager, when I was Hollywood FL, called someone he knew at Jeep and was told that some 4 door models had 2 door steering software installed by mistake, he uploaded the correct software and it was night and day! All fixed...it seems many people do not know about this.

My dealer says that’s not it.

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[Milk Money]

OK, update on my JLU. Per the specs, there is nothing wrong. I actually forwarded this thread to the dealership and they did some of the things noted by @californiajeeping (driving another JLU, reviewing gear response time) and then they called into Chrysler to discuss. Chrysler Engineering is aware of the issue, but does not have a solution just yet. They do have a stiffer torsion bar (bushings) as a patch, but not a solution yet.

I'm not one to just throw parts at a problem without understanding the root cause (it's the engineer in me) so I'm taking my JLU back and the issue has been logged into Chrysler's warranty system. I will likely continue tweaking what I can myself without swapping parts to find out what I can about root cause. When there is a true fix, I'll be back in and get it repaired. Since I'm not planning on a lift or new tires right away (soft top and nerf bars are the first purchases I'll be making), I should still be stock when a solution becomes available.

Also of note - if NHTSA starts an investigation, the OEM is required to have a response within 90 days. Based on another post and the sheer number of complaints (IIRC over 500), NHTSA will have definitely contacted Chrysler and begun their work. Does not guarantee that Chrysler has a solution in 90 days, but does guarantee that they are working hard on it (the penalties are huge). Exactly when the solution becomes available will also depend on how soon it can be manufactured. Depending on what that solution is, that could take a while.

So the moral is hang tight, feel free to do any and all tweaks you can and prepare to go back to stock steering components when a true solution becomes available.

Loose Steering: Notice the lag in response time between the steering shaft and the pitman arm nut in the video below. This could be a bad steering box. There should be some lag, but not this much lag. The power steering will pick up some of it based on driving conditions. Drive another JL from the dealer's lot, find one that steers like it should, then look under it and notice the lag time differences. Both 2018 and 2019 owners have discovered loose ball joint nuts, loose track bar, drag link, etc. bolts as well, which can cause either loose steering and/or wandering issues.

Drifting / Wandering: Fixes include the toe-in adjustment that needs to be at the max range of the spec of 0.20 total toe. If you just get a basic alignment, toe is the only adjustment and most dealers won't adjust it to anything specifc or at all if it is in the spec range between 0.0 and 0.20. Reference the Star case listed in the Recall, TSB, etc. list and they will adjust toe to 0.20. If the toe-in adjustment doesn't fix wandering, then install the Mopar lower control arms from the Mopar lift kit to increase caster. Also try TSB 08-092-18.
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[American Adventurist]

OK, update on my JLU. Per the specs, there is nothing wrong. I actually forwarded this thread to the dealership and they did some of the things noted by californiajeeping (driving another JLU, reviewing gear response time) and then they called into Chrysler to discuss. Chrysler Engineering is aware of the issue, but does not have a solution just yet. They do have a stiffer torsion bar (bushings) as a patch, but not a solution yet.

I'm not one to just throw parts at a problem without understanding the root cause (it's the engineer in me) so I'm taking my JLU back and the issue has been logged into Chrysler's warranty system. I will likely continue tweaking what I can myself without swapping parts to find out what I can about root cause. When there is a true fix, I'll be back in and get it repaired. Since I'm not planning on a lift or new tires right away (soft top and nerf bars are the first purchases I'll be making), I should still be stock when a solution becomes available.

Also of note - if NHTSA starts an investigation, the OEM is required to have a response within 90 days. Based on another post and the sheer number of complaints (IIRC over 500), NHTSA will have definitely contacted Chrysler and begun their work. Does not guarantee that Chrysler has a solution in 90 days, but does guarantee that they are working hard on it (the penalties are huge). Exactly when the solution becomes available will also depend on how soon it can be manufactured. Depending on what that solution is, that could take a while.

So the moral is hang tight, feel free to do any and all tweaks you can and prepare to go back to stock steering components when a true solution becomes available.

Thanks for that update!

 

[Lou Bunn]

I can't understand this. If Jeep A has horrible steering and Jeep B is fine -no issues and they are both the same year/model. There has to be something glaringly wrong and comparing the two, something ought to jump out as the root cause. If both are checked side by side using the same tools for torque spec, alignment, same rev level for parts. Then check the welds and look for anything not exactly like the good Jeep, what else could it be? I honestly feel bad for the folks with the issues, I hope that Jeep uncovers the cause (s) and a recall is done. For me, just lowering the air in the tires to 36 lbs did the trick. Good luck ya'll !

 

[Milk Money]

As my profile states, I work for GM, and not in steering. What I can say is that comparing parts is part of the standard process to find the root cause - troubleshooting and doing what we call here a Red-X study (Chrysler has their own terminology I'm sure). It's a systematic process of comparing good vs bad, swapping parts between the two and finding which parts the issue follows until you get to THE root cause. You start at the entire vehicle, then swap assemblies, then sub-assemblies, then parts until you know exactly what the offending part is.

Depending on the issue, the process can either be quick or take quite a while. If it's an interaction between multiple parts (like tolerances in different teeth of a gear), it can get very complicated as it could be that both parts are in spec, but when a certain combination is assembled, the problem exists. I've had this happen more than once to me - swap a single component between a good and bad vehicle and the issue goes away on both vehicles. There is also the possibility that there are multiple issues with a similar effect - steering gear, torsion bar, stabilizer, etc. So until they know exactly what the issue is, they won't issue a fix as it gets really expensive to just throw parts at an issue and not necessarily find a solution.

I'm not involved in this other than owning a JLU with the issue, so I can't say for sure what Chrysler is doing, just that I was informed that they are aware and working on it. I would expect they will find the root cause(s) and get a fix out. Whether it's a recall, extended coverage, TSB, etc. will depend on what they agree to with NHTSA. Something like this I would expect they release as a TSB and negotiate extended coverage (again, just my guess) since it does not impact every JL. No need to replace on vehicles without the issue since it seems if it's there, it's there from day one and doesn't show up after a year. Again, just my guess, but I've been involved in similar issues on other components.

I can't understand this. If Jeep A has horrible steering and Jeep B is fine -no issues and they are both the same year/model. There has to be something glaringly wrong and comparing the two, something ought to jump out as the root cause. If both are checked side by side using the same tools for torque spec, alignment, same rev level for parts. Then check the welds and look for anything not exactly like the good Jeep, what else could it be? I honestly feel bad for the folks with the issues, I hope that Jeep uncovers the cause (s) and a recall is done. For me, just lowering the air in the tires to 36 lbs did the trick. Good luck ya'll !

 

[orey22]

 

[2019RubiconNY]

UPDATE: dealership calls me early in the day to explain to me that 3 drivers could not feel the wandering issue. For me to come up and show them or come get my Jeep.
Told them I sent them 4 videos of it and they said they need to see it first hand. Seemed they were more concerned about me returning the loaner.
Told them I was 90min away and sent 4 videos, shouldn’t that be enough? Guy said he would talk to manager. I said to please let me know if I’m needed.
I get called, 30 MINUTES before they close the shop, that they need me to come and show them OR come get my Jeep.
Luckily I was already en route, no time for games.
Now I’m here waiting to go out with someone.

STAY TUNED!

 

[2019RubiconNY]

UPDATE 2:
Drove with a mechanic and he agreed there was way too much play with my steering wheel. Now it’s going to be further looked into tomorrow. Finally.
Secondly, I needed my fender flare painted and installed, had damage on my stock flare. The work was HORRIBLE! Photos attached. Told service guy that it MUST be redone. Very sloppy. And the clear coating was so bad!
Keep you guys posted on the steering issue

 

[JeepCares]

OK, update on my JLU. Per the specs, there is nothing wrong. I actually forwarded this thread to the dealership and they did some of the things noted by @californiajeeping (driving another JLU, reviewing gear response time) and then they called into Chrysler to discuss. Chrysler Engineering is aware of the issue, but does not have a solution just yet. They do have a stiffer torsion bar (bushings) as a patch, but not a solution yet.

I'm not one to just throw parts at a problem without understanding the root cause (it's the engineer in me) so I'm taking my JLU back and the issue has been logged into Chrysler's warranty system. I will likely continue tweaking what I can myself without swapping parts to find out what I can about root cause. When there is a true fix, I'll be back in and get it repaired. Since I'm not planning on a lift or new tires right away (soft top and nerf bars are the first purchases I'll be making), I should still be stock when a solution becomes available.

Also of note - if NHTSA starts an investigation, the OEM is required to have a response within 90 days. Based on another post and the sheer number of complaints (IIRC over 500), NHTSA will have definitely contacted Chrysler and begun their work. Does not guarantee that Chrysler has a solution in 90 days, but does guarantee that they are working hard on it (the penalties are huge). Exactly when the solution becomes available will also depend on how soon it can be manufactured. Depending on what that solution is, that could take a while.

So the moral is hang tight, feel free to do any and all tweaks you can and prepare to go back to stock steering components when a true solution becomes available.

Hi Milk Money,
We apologize that you are experiencing this steering concern as well. Has a case been opened on the customer care side to offer some additional assistance? If you plan to continue working with your dealership, please send our team a private message and we would be happy to get this started for you.
Alex
Jeep Social Care Specialist

 

[snelldogg]

I have a couple of points worth mentioning here. I have a custom-ordered 2019 Sahara with only 100 miles on it. On the way home from the dealership, keeping it in the lane on the road was a nuisance. It kept wandering and steering was sloppy/loose in general.

I talked to the dealership, they were clueless. I called Jeep, they knew nothing but I did log a case with Customer Care.

Tire pressure:
It is noteworthy that the tires were at 41 psi. I guess they ship like that and the dealership didn't care to adjust them. On the door jam, it suggests 36 psi. I have 255/70R18 113T. I just dropped them down to 36 psi and went on a quick test drive. It seems better in terms of wandering. The result is not conclusive. I have to go on another test drive and will write here again. But initially, it appears that wandering decreased.

Wandering vs. Loose Steering:
For me, I am separating between loose steering and wandering. I feel that loose steering is just the way it is. But when it wanders, correcting course with loose steering makes for an annoying experience, further amplifying the issue.

So next steps for all of us experiencing this (let's team up on this):
1. Check tire pressure and reduce to 36 cold. Please report back and tell us what the PSI was and what you changed it to, tire size etc... Test drive and write back.
2. If it persists, please submit a complaint here. This is so important if we're ever gonna get heard.
https://www.nhtsa.gov/vehicle/2019/JEEP/WRANGLER%2520UNLIMITED/SUV/4WD%2520Later%2520Release#complaints
3. Log a case with Jeep Customer care. When you call them, demand that they log a case for you and get the case number. A call without case logged is useless. Tell them that you are concerned about your safety. Number: 877-426-5337. more contact info here: https://fcacommunity.force.com/Jeep/s/article/How-do-I-contact-Jeep2
4. Last but not least, if you feel desperate consider tweeting Jeep about it.

I will write back once I drive it more to conclude whether the tire pressure was an adequate fix. Let's keep this discussion going. Try not to tinker with the vehicle by adjusting and modifying things especially if you bought it new and it's still under warranty.

Just had the Track-bar and Dampers replaced by FCA on my 18 via the dealership. Every time i bring it in for something it comes home needing something else.

While the suspension feels fine (too soon to tell about wandering) the steering wheel is no longer centered. Is this normal? Driving straight the wheel is at around 11:30 instead of 12. So frustrating. Who has time to go back and forth like this and leave it there yet again?

Thoughts/advice welcome.

TIA

 

[2019RubiconNY]

Call and ask for the manager of the dealership. Explain to him/her in a rational way the situation. Keep it factual. Provide dates and details of what happened and whom you've spoken with. From now on also keep a log of all the dates/conversations/names/details with all dealership and FCA employees.

Your posts on here are coming across in a way that if this is also how you are engaging with the dealership you will not get to a solution.

You need to become your own advocate to get this resolved as in todays world nobody will do it for you. The days of great customer care are long gone for many brands; and FCA is one of them.

Just had the Track-bar and Dampers replaced by FCA on my 18 via the dealership. Every time i bring it in for something it comes home needing something else.

While the suspension feels fine (too soon to tell about wandering) the steering wheel is no longer centered. Is this normal? Driving straight the wheel is at around 11:30 instead of 12. So frustrating. Who has time to go back and forth like this and leave it there yet again?

Thoughts/advice welcome.

TIA

tell them they need to align it properly. Should be a quick fix

 

[Driftyd]

Since FCA refuses to fix my steering/wandering issue with my Jeep.

I have two options, to either sell it or fix it out of my own pocket.

If I choose to fix it, are there any "TRUE" fixes out there in which I can purchase quality products the first time so I can enjoy my Jeep the way I intended to when I purchased it.

I am not sure what you have tried I know that there is a flash update at the dealership for the power steering. I had this done and it helped but I still noticed a wobble. I then found a thread on here about tire pressure and upon checking mine, the tires were set at 41PSI and it calls for 37PSI. I have mine set at 35 PSI on the front tires and 36 PSI on the back tires. I set them at cold tire pressure and I noticed when they warm up they go to around 37 in the front and 38 in the back and it is a much better ride.

 

[2019RubiconNY]

I am not sure what you have tried I know that there is a flash update at the dealership for the power steering. I had this done and it helped but I still noticed a wobble. I then found a thread on here about tire pressure and upon checking mine, the tires were set at 41PSI and it calls for 37PSI. I have mine set at 35 PSI on the front tires and 36 PSI on the back tires. I set them at cold tire pressure and I noticed when they warm up they go to around 37 in the front and 38 in the back and it is a much better ride.

He’s talking about wandering wheel, NOT wobble

 

[HiJinx69]

I haven't followed this or the other threads regarding the steering problems for several months and am just now checking in. I have been waiting for a new tie rod end on the drag link for over a month and a half. The date gets getting pushed back every week.

I had to tell them that the tie rod end on the drag link failed and that the track bar bushing at the axle has too much play. They missed this twice on previous occasions. They refused to replace the track bar, but ordered the drag link tie rod.

After giving up on the tie rod coming in anytime soon, I just finished putting in a Synergy Drag Link. This solved whatever the loose drag link was doing. The play I had with the flopping tie rod is gone and the tires and the steering wheel move in unison. The play in the steering wheel is 90% gone!

I'm sure whatever deficit there is now is attributed to the track bar. I've given up on the dealer for this issue. I plan on a new track bar in the future.

 

[WANDRR]

Update, had my adjustable LCA's put on today. Changed caster from 4.7 to 6 as well as corrected too much toe in. What a difference, it's actually driveable, 85mph, no issues. Steering feels tighter, and 90% less wander. Can't say enough good for those on forum who have mentioned to get your caster set at 6 and to AJ at Northridge 4x4 for setting everything up for me. Good luck to all those out there.

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