Jeep recalls Cherokee

Jeep has recalled its current-generation KL Cherokee for the second time this year and the sixth time since its Australian release in June 2014, this time to fix a potentially faulty wiring harness that could leave the vehicle powerless.

"The transaxle wiring harness may have been built with insufficient wire terminal crimp(s), causing an intermittent high electrical resistance in the transaxle wire harness circuit(s)," said Fiat Chrysler Automobiles (FCA) Australia in yesterday's safety recall notice.

"A high resistance circuit(s) in this wiring harness will cause on-board diagnostic system to set a Diagnostic Trouble Code.

"The loss of motive power may cause a crash without warning causing injury to the vehicle occupants or others."

FCA Australia says it will notify vehicle owners, who can take their vehicle to a Chrysler Jeep Dodge service centre to have it repaired at no cost.

"The dealer would inspect the transaxle wiring harness and determine what repair is required for this recall. If consumers have any concerns they can call FCA Australia on 1300 133 079."

The latest Cherokee recall – and the 16th involving an FCA Australia model this year – involves 7201 vehicles, meaning the majority since launch.

It follows a power liftgate control module problem reported in February, air-conditioning hose issues last November, a potential unintended airbag deployment problem last February and issues with shock absorber mounts shortly after launch in September 2014.

Cherokee sales have slumped by a massive 75 per cent so far this year, following a 52 per cent sales slide in August, with just 1273 sold year-to-date – down from 5113 during the same period last year.

Combined with big YTD sales declines for the Compass (-58%), Patriot (-50%), Wrangler (-40%) and Grand Cherokee (-44%), total Jeep sales are down by more than half to August this year.