Jeep Grand Cherokee Recall: Potential Airbag Deployment Issues Affect Over 400,000 Vehicles

A significant safety recall has been issued for hundreds of thousands of Jeep Grand Cherokee and Grand Cherokee L models due to a potential defect in the occupant restraint control modules that could lead to delayed side airbag deployment. According to information submitted to the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA), Chrysler (FCA US, LLC) is recalling approximately 419,035 of these vehicles manufactured between May 2022 and August 2025.

The recall specifically affects 2022-2026 model year Jeep Grand Cherokees, with 140,130 units potentially involved, and 2023-2025 model year Jeep Grand Cherokee L vehicles, totaling 278,905 units. The issue stems from software within the Occupant Restraint Controller (ORC) modules, which may cause faults in the door airbag pressure sensors to become permanently active. While there are no immediate warnings before this fault occurs, once it is set, the airbag warning light will remain illuminated, and a chime will sound each time the vehicle is started.

This defect poses a safety risk because a delayed deployment of the side airbags could reduce occupant protection during certain types of crashes. Federal Motor Vehicle Safety Standard 571.214, which governs side impact protection, requires that side airbags deploy to meet injury criteria for various occupant sizes and crash scenarios. A faulty door airbag pressure sensor might compromise the timely deployment of these crucial safety devices, potentially increasing the risk of injury to occupants. The component manufacturer for the affected ORC modules is Robert Bosch LLC.

Chrysler became aware of warranty incidents related to door airbag pressure sensors in February 2023. An extensive investigation and problem-solving process involving engineering, supplier quality, and manufacturing departments ensued over the following months. This analysis included examining returned parts, modifying door wire harnesses, and reviewing field data concerning wire harness routing and sensor faults. The Technical Safety and Regulatory Compliance organization at FCA US initiated its own investigation in June 2024, leading to the determination on April 22, 2026, that a vehicle build issue existed that could affect side airbag deployment and potentially result in a noncompliance with Federal Motor Vehicle Safety Standards.

The remedy for this safety recall involves reprogramming the ORC module with updated software. Owners of affected vehicles are advised not to drive the vehicle and to park it outside until the recall repair is completed. Chrysler will begin notifying dealers on or about May 28, 2026, and owners will be notified starting around June 11, 2026. The VINs of potentially affected vehicles will be searchable starting May 28, 2026. The manufacturer has a general reimbursement plan on file for any owners who may have incurred costs related to this issue.

Article by Mel Anara, based upon information from NHTSA and FCA US, LLC.

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