2019 Jeep Wrangler Steering
Owner-reported problems and safety issues filed with NHTSA. Review common failures, severity levels, and complaint trends over time.
Complaint Timeline
Chronological view of owner reports
The contact owns a 2019 Jeep Wrangler. While the contact’s wife was driving with the heated steering wheel activated, the driver attempted to adjust the steering wheel position, and suddenly an electrical short occurred, causing white smoke to come from the center of the steering wheel. The vehicle was immediately stopped, and the heated steering wheel and heated seats were deactivated. The cause of the failure was not yet determined. The manufacturer and local dealer were notified of the failure, but no assistance was offered. The failure mileage was 82,000.
Since new Jeep has experienced "excess play in the steering" the Jeeps steering "wanders" and vehicle pulls to both the left and right. Steering wandering increases in hot temperatures and at higher speeds and becomes UNSAFE to operate the vehicle. When purchasing new, I noticed the "excess play in the steering", but was told by the Jeep salesperson that "that's how Jeeps drive" and "They do not drive like typical passenger vehicles". I did not take my Jeep in for service for this issue because the salesperson told me that this is how the vehicle is designed to drive. However, I recently found out that Jeep issued a Technical Service Bulletin #08-074-20 REV.B back on September 26, 2020 that addresses this issue of "excess play in the steering" and "wandering" and the TSB gives recommendations to fix the steering by installing a new and improved Steering Gear Box that is made from steel as opposed to aluminum. I took my Jeep into a Jeep dealership with regards to this issue. The Jeep dealership confirmed that I have the "old style" steering gearbox mentioned in Technical Service Bulletin #08-074-20 REV.B and recommended that I replace it with the new design as recommended by the TSB. I asked Jeep to repair by vehicle free of charge as this is a "known" issue on Jeep Wrangler JL 2018-2020 as described in the TSB, but Jeep refused to pay for the safetly modification to my steering, stating that I am "out of the warranty period". This is a KNOWN manufacture defect. Jeep installed inferior aluminum steering gear boxes on their Jeep Wrangler JL 2018-2020 and 2020 Jeep Gladiators and they have since upgraded that critical safety component to a "steel version." Jeep should without question issue a "recall" to fix all current Jeep owners 2018-2020 Wrangler JLs and 2020 Jeep Gladiators that have a faulty aluminum steering gear box and replace it with the upgraded steel version that fixes the "wandering steering" and "excess play in the steering".
My Jeep Wrangler when driving 65mph or higher starts to wooble making it very hard to control. Usually it happens when there is small bumps roughness in the road. This issue started since it got to the 22K miles.
I am filing this complaint regarding a known safety defect affecting my 2019 Jeep Wrangler Sahara (VIN: [XXX] ) - specifically the steering damper column defect commonly referred to as "Death Wobble." ISSUE: My vehicle experiences violent and uncontrollable steering wheel oscillation when hitting bumps or road imperfections at highway speeds (typically above 55 mph). This phenomenon causes the entire front end to shake violently, requiring me to immediately slow down to regain control of the vehicle. This poses an extreme safety risk to myself, my passengers, and other motorists. DIAGNOSIS: A certified mechanic has diagnosed my vehicle with steering damper failure - the exact same defect addressed in Customer Satisfaction Notification V41 issued by FCA in June 2019. THE PROBLEM: While FCA issued CSN V41 covering approximately 192,000 2018-2019 Jeep Wranglers for steering damper defects, my VIN was arbitrarily excluded from this notification despite experiencing the identical safety defect. FCA selectively applied the remedy to certain VINs rather than addressing all affected vehicles from these model years. SAFETY CONCERNS: This defect creates loss of vehicle control at highway speeds, significantly increasing crash risk. The NHTSA investigation (PE19-012) identified frame weld quality deficiencies and steering-related defects in 2018-2019 Wranglers affecting approximately 270,000 vehicles. Multiple investigations have documented steering looseness, steering wobble/shimmy, and loss of steering control in these model years. MANUFACTURER REFUSAL: Despite the known defect and my vehicle exhibiting the exact symptoms addressed in CSN V41, Jeep/Stellantis refuses to repair this safety issue under warranty, forcing me to bear the financial burden for a known manufacturing defect. REQUEST: I request NHTSA investigate why FCA limited CSN V41 to select VINs when the defect clearly affects a broader population of 2018-2019 Wranglers, and mandate a comprehensi INFORMATION REDACTED PURSUANT TO THE FREEDOM OF INFORMATION ACT (FOIA), 5 U.S.C. 552(B)(6)
The problem occurs in my 2019 Jeep Wrangler, suddenly, typically after hitting a small bump or uneven section of pavement at around 60–70 mph. The entire front end begins to shake violently, and the steering wheel jerks rapidly back and forth, making it extremely difficult to maintain control of the vehicle. The only way to stop the shaking is to brake hard and slow down below 50 mph, which creates a dangerous situation. This violent steering vibration causes loss of directional stability and could easily lead to an accident if it happens in traffic or during lane changes. The sensation is so severe that it feels as if the front suspension or wheels are coming loose. I brought my Jeep to Wallace Jeep in Stuart, Florida where the technicians confirmed steering instability but stated that the steering damper is covered but the steering gear is not covered under warranty. I also contacted Jeep Cares, case # [XXX], and was told that Jeep “does not have to cover” my vehicle, even though it falls directly within the affected 2018–2020 Wrangler JL range identified in the [XXX]. v. FCA US LLC class action settlement related to the Death Wobble. The dealership’s refusal contradicts Jeep’s own Technical Service Bulletin 08-074-20 REV. E (“Improved Steering Feel”), which addresses steering wander, pull, and excessive play by replacing the steering gear and updating the EHPS software — exactly the symptoms I’m experiencing. This is a serious safety issue that occurs without warning and has not been resolved through the repairs or coverage Jeep has offered. The manufacturer’s denial of responsibility despite a known defect leaves drivers at risk of losing control at highway speeds. I am requesting that the NHTSA investigate and require Jeep/Stellantis to expand the recall or provide full coverage for all steering-related components contributing to this dangerous condition. INFORMATION REDACTED PURSUANT TO THE FREEDOM OF INFORMATION ACT (FOIA), 5 U.S.C. 552(B)(6)
Filing this complaint regarding a known safety defect affecting my 2019 Jeep Wrangler Sport - specifically the steering damper column defect commonly referred to as "Death Wobble." ISSUE: My vehicle experiences violent and uncontrollable steering wheel oscillation when hitting bumps or road imperfections at highway speeds (typically above 55 mph). This phenomenon causes the entire front end to shake violently, requiring me to immediately slow down to regain control of the vehicle. This poses an extreme safety risk to myself, my passengers, and other motorists. I believe my vehicle has an issue with steering damper failure - the exact same defect addressed in Customer Satisfaction Notification V41 issued by FCA in June 2019. THE PROBLEM: While FCA issued CSN V41 covering approximately 192,000 2018-2019 Jeep Wranglers for steering damper defects, however my VIN was excluded from this notification despite experiencing the identical safety defect. FCA selectively applied the remedy to certain VINs rather than addressing all affected vehicles from these model years. SAFETY CONCERNS: This defect creates loss of vehicle control at highway speeds, significantly increasing crash risk. The NHTSA investigation (PE19-012) identified frame weld quality deficiencies and steering-related defects in 2018-2019 Wranglers affecting approximately 270,000 vehicles. Multiple investigations have documented steering looseness, steering wobble/shimmy, and loss of steering control in these model years. MANUFACTURER REFUSAL: Despite the known defect and my vehicle exhibiting the exact symptoms addressed in CSN V41, I believe once I take it in for service, Jeep will refuse to repair this safety issue under warranty, forcing me to bear the financial burden for a known manufacturing defect. REQUEST: I request NHTSA investigate why FCA limited CSN V41 to select VINs when the defect clearly affects a broader population of 2018-2019 Wranglers.
My 2019 Jeep Wrangler is experiencing the "death wobble" every time I hit any uneven pavement while traveling at 60-65. This is extremely unsettling and could cause serious injury or death. Why haven't all the Jeeps during this time span been recalled considering the number of reports of this issue on the 2019 Jeep Wrangler?
The contact owns a 2019 Jeep Wrangler. The contact stated that while driving over a bump in the road at an undisclosed speed, the vehicle experienced the death wobble. The contact slowed down to 30 MPH to correct the failure. The contact stated that all four tires had previously been replaced. The vehicle was not diagnosed or repaired by an independent mechanic or dealer. The manufacturer was made aware of the failure. The failure mileage was approximately 44,000.
In two separate incidents (six months apart) and without warning, the Jeeps power steering suddenly failed. An indicator warning did come on but not prior to the failure in both instances. In both situations, I was attempting to exit very busy highways and little to no control over my vehicle. Some time after I had exited the highway, the Jeeps powering steering suddenly came back on. When I returned home, I had the vehicle inspected at the dealership both times and they were unable to determine any reason as to why the steering would have failed and without warning. Without an identifiable and fixable problem, I am very concerned about my personal safety and the safety of others on the roadway in the event that this should happen again without warning.
The Module Steer in the steering wheel has failed in my 2019 Jeep Wrangler Rubicon.
When vehicle hits pot hole front end steering wheel vibrate shakes steering wheel and whole car. I took it to Jeep dealership in Beeville Tx and was told it’s not under warranty
I was stopped waiting for traffic to clear to make a right turn into oncoming traffic. I started going to the nearest lane I had available . When I was half way into the turn, the power steering went out. I had to react fast as there was a vehicles coming and due to the power steering failing it caused me to merge slightly into the middle lane. Luckily the other vehicle that was going to crash me changed lanes. So I pulled over and turned off the jeep, turned it back on and it drove normal. I have taken it to multiple shops and they stated pcm is okay battery is okay but they cannot find what nearly put my 2 year old son in an accident.
The contact owns a 2019 Jeep Wrangler. The contact stated while driving at approximately 70 MPH, the front passenger’s side wheel started shaking violently, and the vehicle was maneuvered over to the side of the road to be inspected. The vehicle was taken to the residence. The vehicle was then taken to the dealer where it was diagnosed that the screw hex flange head, bearing intermediate shaft support, shaft steering column, and bolt needed to be replaced. The vehicle was repaired but the failure reoccurred two weeks later. The vehicle was taken to the same dealer where it was diagnosed and determined that the same parts needed to be replaced. The vehicle was repaired but the failure recurred approximately 18 months later. The manufacturer was notified of the failure. The failure mileage was approximately 25,911.
Vehicle has a loose steering feel and wanders , Jeep has a TSB for a steering box replacement for this issue but will not cover the cost under warranty
While driving the power steering went out. Stopped turned the engine off and back on. It still happened several times. Had to the power steering replaced with a power steering pump bought from Chrysler and it did it again. Now what?
I have a 2019 jeep wrangler with under 50,000 miles. The steering damper is defective. I was experiencing what is known as the death wobble. I searched my vin for a recall. No recall is associated with my vin number, although there is a recall for 2019 jeep wranglers. I took my jeep into the dealer to have them inspect. They told me that the steering damper is bad and needs to be replaced. They suggested using an after marker sterling damper because the Oem part is garbage. I paid over $400 to replace the steering damper. I have called and chatted online with Jeep about this concern. Nothing is being done because my vin is not part of the recall even though I had a defective steering damper. The death wobble was getting really bad and I was afraid of getting into an accident. I believe jeep is being reckless and negligent with this lack on action.
Typically in the morning my steeling will jerk the first time I make a turn. Luckily I was able to get it under control but almost went off the side of the rode.
The steering is loose and you have to turn the wheel a lot for it to go around a curve and it’s just a hassle
Significant play in the steering. Very noticeable at highway speeds, vehicle tended to wander and need a lot of steering input to track straight. Took it to the dealer, the replicated the problem. There is a bulletin # 08-003-21 REV A. The repair cost $1300. Seems like it should be a recall and covered by the manufacturer.
Steering wheel as a massive 30 degree play while driving.
The contact owns a 2019 Jeep Wrangler. The contact stated while driving at 50 MPH, the steering wheel was shaking significantly causing the contact to almost lose control of the vehicle. There was no warning light illuminated. The contact stated that the failure ceased upon depressing the brake pedal and coming to a stop. However, the failure reoccurred several times while driving. The vehicle was taken to the dealer, where it was diagnosed that the steering damper and the tie rod needed to be replaced. The contact related the failure to an unknown recall that was previously completed on the vehicle. The vehicle was not repaired. The manufacturer was not notified of the failure. The failure mileage was unknown.
Vehicle experiencing "Death Wobble." Steering is very shaky if a bump is hit at highway speeds.
The steering on this vehicle has always seem to have a lack of input, just wonders about the lane. Driving it on a windy day is bordered on dangerous as the wind will push you around. The Jeep has a pull to the right and while you counter steer that and get a gust also pushing you left, you now are in the other lane. I was on I25 on a windy day fighting the steering and passed a 18 wheeler the dead air while next to the truck allows the Jeep to relax somewhat then the gust from the front of the truck pushed me into the next lane before I could correct nearly making contact with the car in that lane. If that car had not made an evasive maneuver we would have sure collided. As it turns out Jeep is aware of this issue and has a tsb (08-074-20 REV. B) to replace a poorly designed steering gear box but will only do so if the vehicle is under the 3/36 warranty. This Jeep has 47k miles, under no circumstances should a steering gear box be worn out at that mileage period. This should be a recall! Make these manufacturers spend some of the billions in profits and fix the junk they sell. Steering and brakes should be first on the list of things that get recalled.
My jeep is not safe on road for its' passengers or any surrounding vehicles, it has been out of service in 2 different certified jeep facilities for over 11 months, and they cannot repair the loss of steering. The contact stated that the vehicle was taken to two dealerships and neither on could diagnose or repair the issue.
The steering wheel locks up in which it makes it very hard to turn. This usually happens when the vehicle has been sitting for hours and then is driven. Also the weather is usually cold when this happens. Initial driving is hard and it continues for a few minutes. When driving around a roundabout the wheel almost did not straighten out and I would have been going into the curb. This is a dangerous situation in which it has occurred on a regular straight road. The incident occurs at any speed. After putting the vehicle in drive, it is hard to maneuver at the start of being in a parking position. There are no warning lights or error codes that reflect an issue. The dealership has checked it out twice and cannot reproduce the issue. I stated 11/4/23 as the date of occurrence but it has happened many times since late 2022.
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Quick Summary
The 2019 Jeep Wrangler has 264 Steering complaints on file. Review the timeline above for detailed owner experiences.