June 11, 2020 NHTSA CAMPAIGN NUMBER: 20E037000
Power Transfer Input Splines May Break
A loss of drive can cause a vehicle crash without prior warning. A loss of the Park function can cause unintended vehicle rollaway which can increase the risk of a crash or injury.
NHTSA Campaign Number: 20E037
Manufacturer Chrysler (FCA US LLC)
Components POWER TRAIN
Potential Number of Units Affected 2,669
Summary
Chrysler (FCA US LLC) is recalling certain Two-Speed Power Transfer Units (PTU) sold as replacement parts for certain Jeep Cherokee vehicles, part numbers 68090605AJ, 68090605AK, 68090605AL, 68282447AA, 68282447AB, 68282447AC, 68307403AA and 68307403AB. Relative movement in the Power Transfer Unit (PTU) between the differential input splines and the transmission output shaft may cause some input spline teeth to wear off, which may eventually cause a loss of engagement between the transmission and the differential inside the PTU. If this occurs, power cannot be transferred between the front wheels and the transmission which results in a loss of drive while the vehicle is in motion and a loss of the Park function while stationary.
Remedy
FCA US LLC will notify owners, and dealers will perform a software update that will maintain vehicle propulsion by engaging rear wheel drive and prevent rolling in Park by activating the electronic parking brake if a failed input spline occurs. If the subject part is not installed in a vehicle, it will be exchanged with a new part. All repairs will be conducted free of charge. This recall began July 16, 2020. Owners may contact FCA USA LLC customer service at 1-800-853-1403. FCA’s number for this recall is W48.
Notes
Owners may also contact the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration Vehicle Safety Hotline at 1-888-327-4236 (TTY 1-800-424-9153), or go to www.----escape_sem_autolink_uri:9c8e025c4aa77f9510aacb39890c86eb----.
July 2020
Dealer Service Instructions for:
Safety Recall W48 / NHTSA 20E-037 PTU Input Spline – Equipment
Subject
About 2650 Power Transfer Units (part numbers 68090605AJ, 68090605AK, 68090605AL 68282447AA, 68282447AB, 68282447AC, 68307403AA, and 68307403AB) may have been built to allow movement in the PTU between the differential input splines and the transmission output shaft. This condition may result in the teeth of the input splines wearing off, which may eventually cause a loss of engagement between the transmission and the differential inside the PTU. If this occurs, torque cannot be transferred between the front wheels and the transmission, which will result in a loss of motive power while the vehicle is in motion and a loss of the PARK function while stationary. A loss of motive power or PARK function can cause a vehicle crash without prior warning and/or injury to others outside the vehicle.
Repair
If the PTU the owner purchased has not been installed, exchange it for a new one.
If the PTU has been installed, reprogram the affected vehicle with software for the Drive Train Control Module (DTCM) and the Electric Park Brake (EPB) that will maintain vehicle propulsion by engaging rear wheel drive function and prevent rolling in the PARK selection by activating the electric park brake if a failed input spline occurs.
Alternate Transportation
Dealers should attempt to minimize customer inconvenience by placing the owner in a loaner vehicle if inspection determines that reprogramming is required and the vehicle must be held overnight.
Parts Information
If exchanging the part over the counter, use the following part number.
| Description | Part Number |
| Power Transfer Unit | 68307403AG |
Recalled parts: part numbers 68090605AJ, 68090605AK, 68090605AL 68282447AA, 68282447AB, 68282447AC, 68307403AA, and 68307403AB.
Parts Return
Core return is required for this campaign. Return the PTU to the MOPAR Core Return Center for core credit.
Special Tools
The following special tools are required to perform this repair:
| wiTECH MicroPod II |
| Laptop Computer |
| wiTECH Software |
Service Procedure
NOTE: This flash procedure is for vehicles that have had a recalled PTU installed. The flash is designed for 2014-2017 (KL) Jeep Cherokee.
NOTE: This recall applies only to the above vehicles equipped with a Power Transfer Unit (PTU) (sales code DK4).
IMPORTANT: Some of the involved vehicles may be in dealer used vehicle inventory. Dealers should complete this recall service on these vehicles before retail delivery. Dealers should also perform this recall on vehicles in for service. Involved vehicles can be determined by using the VIP inquiry process.
A. Drive Train Control Module (DTCM)
NOTE: The wiTECH scan tool must be used to perform this recall. If the reprogramming flash for the DTCM or EPB is aborted or interrupted, repeat the procedure.
- Open the hood. Install a battery charger and verify that the charging rate provides 13.0 to 13.5 volts. Do not allow the charger to time out during the flash process. Set the battery charger timer (if so equipped) to continuous charge.
NOTE: Use an accurate stand-alone voltmeter. The battery charger volt meter may not be sufficiently accurate. Voltages outside of the specified range will cause an unsuccessful flash. If voltage reading is too high, apply an electrical load by activating the park or headlamps and/or HVAC blower motor to lower the voltage.
- Connect the wiTECH micro pod II to the vehicle data link connector.
- Place the ignition in the “RUN” position.
- Open the wiTECH 2.0 website.
- Enter your “User id” and “Password” and your “Dealer Code”, then select “Sign In” at the bottom of the screen. Click “Accept”.
- From the “Vehicle Selection” screen, select the vehicle to be updated.
- From the “Action Items” screen, select the “Topology” tab.
NOTE: The DTCM must be at the latest software calibration level after completing this recall.
- From the “Topology” tab, select the “DTCM” module icon.
- From the “Flash” tab, compare the “Current Electronic Control Unit (ECU) Part Number” with the “New ECU Part Number” listed.
- If the “Current ECU part Number” is the same as the “New Part Number”, proceed to Step B. Electric Park Brake.
- If the “Current ECU part Number” is NOT the same as the “New Part Number”, continue with Step 10.
- From the DTCM tab, select the DTCM flash part number. Read the flash special instructions page. Select “OK” to continue.
- From the flash ECU agreement page, agree to terms by checking the box.
- Select “Flash ECU” and then follow the wiTECH screen instructions to complete the flash.
- Confirm the software is at the latest available calibration level.
- Click “View DTCs”, select “Clear All DTCs”, click “Continue” and then click “Close”.
B. Electric Park Brake (EPB)
- Go back one page to the Topology screen.
NOTE: The EPB must be at the latest software calibration level after completing this recall.
- From the “Topology” tab, select the “EPB” module icon.
- From the “Flash” tab, compare the “Current Electronic Control Unit (ECU) Part Number” with the “New ECU Part Number” listed.
- If the “Current ECU part Number” is the same as the “New Part Number”, proceed to Step 9.
- If the “Current ECU part Number” is NOT the same as the “New Part Number”, continue with Step 4.
- From the EPB tab, select the EPB flash part number. Read the flash special instructions page. Select “OK” to continue.
- From the flash ECU agreement page, agree to terms by checking the box.
- Select “Flash ECU” and then follow the wiTECH screen instructions to complete the flash.
- Confirm the software is at the latest available calibration level.
- Click “View DTCs”, select “Clear All DTCs”, click “Continue” and then click “Close”.
- Place the ignition in the “OFF” position and then remove the wiTECH micro pod II device from the vehicle.
- Remove the battery charger from the vehicle.
- Close the vehicle hood.
Completion Reporting and Reimbursement
Claims for vehicles that have been serviced must be submitted on the DealerCONNECT Claim Entry Screen located on the Service tab. Claims paid will be used by FCA to record recall service completions and provide dealer payments.
Use the following labor operation numbers and time allowances:
| Labor Operation Number | Time Allowance | |
| Inspect DTCM/EPB Software Levels | 18-W4-81-81 | 0.2 hours |
| Inspect DTCM/EPB Software Level and Reprogram DTCM and EPB with New Software | 18-W4-81-82 | 0.3 hours |
| Exchange PTU Unit | 18-W4-81-50 | 0.0 hours |
| Related | ||
| Handling Charge for PTU Exchange | 95-21-41-50 | $5 |
NOTE: See the Warranty Administration Manual, Recall Claim Processing Section, for complete recall claim processing instructions.
Dealer Notification
To view this notification on DealerCONNECT, select “Global Recall System” on the Service tab, then click on the description of this notification.
Owner Notification and Service Scheduling
All involved vehicle owners known to FCA are being notified of the service requirement by first class mail. They are requested to schedule appointments for this service with their dealers. A generic copy of the owner letter is attached.
Vehicle Lists, Global Recall System, VIP and Dealer Follow Up
All involved vehicles have been entered into the DealerCONNECT Global Recall System (GRS) and Vehicle Information Plus (VIP) for dealer inquiry as needed.
GRS provides involved dealers with an updated VIN list of their incomplete vehicles. The owner’s name, address and phone number are listed if known. Completed vehicles are removed from GRS within several days of repair claim submission.
To use this system, click on the “Service” tab and then click on “Global Recall System.” Your dealer’s VIN list for each recall displayed can be sorted by: those vehicles that were unsold at recall launch, those with a phone number, city, zip code, or VIN sequence.
Dealers must perform this repair on all unsold vehicles before retail delivery. Dealers should also use the VIN list to follow up with all owners to schedule appointments for this repair.
Recall VIN lists may contain confidential, restricted owner name and address information that was obtained from the Department of Motor Vehicles of various states. Use of this information is permitted for this recall only and is strictly prohibited from all other use.
Additional Information
If you have any questions or need assistance in completing this action, please contact your Service and Parts District Manager.
Customer Services / Field Operations
FCA US LLC
W48/NHTSA 20E-037
YOUR SCHEDULING OPTIONS
- Call the FCA Recall Assistance Center at 1-800-853-1403. An agent can confirm part availability and help schedule an appointment
- Visit mopar.com or download the Mopar Owner’s Companion App.
Get access to recall notifications, locate your nearest dealer, and more through this website or Mopar Owner’s Companion App. You will be asked to provide your Vehicle Identification Number (VIN) to protect and verify your identity.
DEALERSHIP INSTRUCTIONS
Please reference Safety Recall W48.
IMPORTANT SAFETY RECALL
PTU Input Spline
Dear [Name],
This notice is sent to you in accordance with the National Traffic and Motor Vehicle Safety Act.
FCA has decided that a defect, which relates to motor vehicle safety, exists in certain Power Transfer Units (PTUs).
It is extremely important to take steps now to repair your vehicle to ensure the safety of you and your passengers.
WHY DOES MY VEHICLE NEED REPAIRS?
FCA records indicate that you may have purchased a Power Transfer Unit (PTU) for your vehicle [1]. Some PTUs (part numbers 68090605AJ, 68090605AK, 68090605AL 68282447AA, 68282447AB, 68282447AC, 68307403AA, and 68307403AB) may have been built to allow movement in the PTU between the differential input splines and the transmission output shaft. This condition may result in the teeth of the input splines wearing off, which may eventually cause a loss of engagement between the transmission and the differential inside the PTU. If this occurs, torque cannot be transferred between the front wheels and the transmission, which will result in a loss of motive power while the vehicle is in motion and a loss of the PARK function while stationary. A loss of motive power or PARK function can cause a vehicle crash without prior warning and/or injury to others outside the vehicle.
HOW DO I RESOLVE THIS IMPORTANT SAFETY ISSUE?
FCA US will exchange your PTU, or repair your vehicle with new PTU installed [2] free of charge (parts and labor). To do this, your dealer will reprogram the Drive Train Control Module and the Electric Park Brake if the PTU has been installed. If the subject part is not installed in a vehicle, it will be exchanged with a new part. We recommend that you schedule a service appointment to minimize your inconvenience. Please bring the uninstalled PTU that you purchased, or the vehicle with new PTU installed, and this letter with you to your dealership.
TO SCHEDULE YOUR FREE REPAIR,
CALL YOUR CHRYSLER, DODGE, JEEP OR RAM DEALER TODAY
WHAT IF I ALREADY PAID TO HAVE THIS REPAIR COMPLETED?
If you have already experienced this specific condition and have paid to have it repaired, you may visit www.fcarecallreimbursement.com to submit your reimbursement request online. [3] Once we receive and verify the required documents, reimbursement will be sent to you within 60 days. If you have had previous repairs performed and/or already received reimbursement, you may still need to have the recall repair performed.
We apologize for any inconvenience, but are sincerely concerned about your safety. Thank you for your attention to this important matter.
Customer Assistance/Field Operations
FCA US LLC
Mr. Mrs. Customer
1234 Main Street
Hometown, MI 48371
[1] If you no longer own this vehicle, please help us update our records. Call the FCA Recall Assistance Center at 1-800-853-1403 to update your information.
[2] If your dealer fails or is unable to remedy this defect without charge and within a reasonable time, you may submit a written complaint to the Administrator, National Highway Traffic Safety Administration, 1200 New Jersey Ave., S.E., Washington, DC 20590, or you can call the toll-free Vehicle Safety Hotline at 1-888-327-4236 (TTY 1-800-4249153), or go to safercar.gov.
[3] You can also mail in your original receipts and proof of payment to the following address for reimbursement consideration: FCA Customer Assistance, P.O. Box 21-8004, Auburn Hills, MI 48321-8007, Attention: Recall Reimbursement.
Note to lessors receiving this recall notice: Federal regulation requires that you forward this recall notice to the lessee within 10 days.
06/12/2020
New Safety Recall Advanced Communication – W48
FCA US LLC (FCA US) has announced an equipment safety recall on some Power Transfer Units (PTUs) (part numbers 68090605AJ, 68090605AK, 68090605AL 68282447AA, 68282447AB, 68282447AC, 68307403AA, and 68307403AB).
REASON FOR THIS SAFETY RECALL
Some Power Transfer Units (part numbers 68090605AJ, 68090605AK, 68090605AL 68282447AA, 68282447AB, 68282447AC, 68307403AA, and 68307403AB) may have been built to allow movement in the PTU between the differential input splines and the transmission output shaft. This condition may result in the teeth of the input splines wearing off, which may eventually cause a loss of engagement between the transmission and the differential inside the PTU. If this occurs, torque cannot be transferred between the front wheels and the transmission, which will result in a loss of motive power while the vehicle is in motion and a loss of the PARK function while stationary. A loss of motive power or PARK function can cause a vehicle crash without prior warning and/or injury to others outside the vehicle.
SERVICE ACTION
FCA US will conduct a Voluntary Safety Recall to reprogram any affected vehicles with software for the Drive Train Control Module (DTCM) and the Electric Park Brake (EPB) that will maintain vehicle propulsion by engaging rear wheel drive and prevent rolling in PARK by activating the electric park brake if a failed input spline occurs. If the subject part is not installed in a vehicle, it will be exchanged with a new part. Dealers will be notified of the launch of this safety recall by way of established communication methods. This recall is estimated to launch in 3rd Quarter of 2020.
We ask that you please take the time to ensure that your personnel are aware of this communication and are prepared to execute a customer friendly process for inquiries regarding involved vehicles.
Customer Services Field Operations
FCA US LLC
1 Affected Product
Equipment
| BRAND | PART NO. | PRODUCTION DATES |
|---|---|---|
| MOPAR | POWER TRANSFER UNIT | |
7 Associated Documents
Owner Notification Letter(Part 577)
RCONL-20E037-1565.pdf 370.425KB
RCONL-20E037-1565Defect Notice 573 Report
RCLRPT-20E037-9440.PDF 220.108KB
Recall Acknowledgement
RCAK-20E037-4926.pdf 245.059KB
RCAK-20E037-4926Manufacturer Notices(to Dealers,etc) – Media Release re safety recall on some Power Transfer Units (PTUs) (part numbers 68090605AJ, 68090605AK, 68090605AL, 68282447AA, 68282447AB, 68282447AC, 68307403AA, and 68307403AB)
RCMN-20E037-4502.pdf 200.702KB
RCMN-20E037-4502Remedy Instructions and TSB – Dealer Service Instructions re Safety Recall W48 / NHTSA 20E-037 PTU Input Spline – Equipment
RCRIT-20E037-4749.pdf 641.248KB
RCRIT-20E037-4749Recall Quarterly Report #1, 2020-3
RCLQRT-20E037-6724.PDF 211.138KB
RCLQRT-20E037-6724Recall Quarterly Report #2, 2020-4
RCLQRT-20E037-9644.PDF 211.234KB
RCLQRT-20E037-9644Latest Recalls Documents
https://www-odi.nhtsa.dot.gov/acms/cs/documentList.xhtml?docId=20E037&docType=RCL
For the most up to date documents from NHTSA for this Recall, click the lick above
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Last update on 2021-10-26 / Affiliate links / Images from Amazon Product Advertising API
Last update on 2021-10-26 / Affiliate links / Images from Amazon Product Advertising API
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