2019 Jeep Wrangler Steering Problems

While driving my 2019 Jeep Wrangler, the vehicle suffered a major electronic/CAN-network failure. Service Shifter, ABS and ESC warnings appeared, the wipers activated on their own, controls malfunctioned, and power-steering assistance failed while the vehicle was moving, making it extremely difficult to steer. My two young children were in the vehicle. Jeep dealer diagnostics showed widespread communication faults involving steering, ABS/brake, transmission and other control modules. The dealer replaced the power-steering assembly and RF Hub, but the problem remains. On the first drive after repair, the ABS and ESC warnings repeatedly flashed on and off at highway speed. Interior lights are also flickering. I am concerned another network failure could again disable steering assistance or compromise ABS/braking-related safety systems and cause loss of vehicle control or a crash.

NHTSA ID

11762997

Incident

Aug 18, 2026

2019 Jeep Wrangler JLU experienced intermittent CAN-C communication failure. Vehicle has repeatedly experienced simultaneous loss of multiple electronic systems. On September 7th 2026, while driving, vehicle unexpectedly lost electric power steering, windshield wipers activated without command, ABS/TPMS/ESC warning lights illuminated, and vehicle subsequently would not shift into gear after stopping at a traffic light. Hazard lights would not activate. After shutting vehicle off, vehicle would not enter ACC or restart normally. Opening driver’s door unexpectedly caused vehicle to enter ACC. Manipulating the CAN-bus wiring/STAR connector behind the glove box has historically temporarily restored normal operation. Vehicle has previously required repair to this wiring/connector, and the failure has recurred. This has been occurring for at least 3 years and since 60,000 miles. This presents a significant safety hazard because steering assistance, shifting/propulsion, and signaling were simultaneously affected while driving. It is a known Chrysler issue (FCA STAR Case S2108000146) and should be recalled as there is a CLEAR and present danger with this ongoing issue.

NHTSA ID

11762615

Incident

Sep 7, 2026

Getting the well know Jeep "Death Wobble". Was advised by Carvana when I bought this vehicle that it had an open recall for this exact issue (Manufacturer Recall Number CDJR XF1) due to the Steering Damper having air in it. However, when I contacted a Jeep dealership to get it fixed, I was told there is no recall for the Steering Damper for my specific vehicle. When I look it up on NHTSA, there isn't a recall listed on here either. Whenever I hit transitions in the pavement while driving above 50mph, I get the death wobble on the front of the vehicle. I have not yet had it repaired, but I plan to do so regardless of whether a recall exists. This is clearly an affected vehicle that was wrongly excluded from the manufacturer's recall for the Steering Damper on vehicles manufactured prior to August 11, 2020. My vehicle was manufactured in April 2019, so it is definitely in the correct date range, and with the exact same issue of others that were recalled. The only reason I have not crashed is because I've taken EVOC classes (for driving firetrucks and ambulances), and I am able to control it when it does happen. There were approximately 65k miles on the vehicle when I bought it, and there is about 72k miles now. It has been happening since I bought it in December 2025 from Carvana.

NHTSA ID

11761655

Incident

Sep 1, 2026

Check engine, ABS, Service Shifter suddenly pops up and the steering was hard to turn almost had an accident

NHTSA ID

11757827

Incident

Aug 16, 2026

The contact owns a 2019 Jeep Wrangler. While the contact's daughter was driving at an undisclosed speed, the heated steering wheel feature was enabled; however, the heated steering wheel feature failed to function as intended. In addition, the contact became aware of a burning odor. The contact deactivated the heated steering wheel feature. The vehicle was taken to the dealer, where it was diagnosed with interior melting of the steering wheel. The contact was informed that the steering wheel and the steering wheel housing needed to be replaced. The vehicle was not repaired. The contact was informed that the parts were ordered. The contact referenced an unknown recall; however, the VIN was not associated with a recall related to the failure. The manufacturer was made aware of the failure but provided no assistance. The contact was advised to contact the NHTSA Hotline and report the failure. The failure mileage was approximately 71,663.

NHTSA ID

11752022

Incident

Nov 11, 2025

Mileage

71,663 mi

The contact owns a 2019 Jeep Wrangler. The contact stated that while driving at an undisclosed speed, the vehicle stalled. The contact pulled over and waited for several minutes before restarting the vehicle. The vehicle was taken to the dealer, who replaced the wiring harness, but the failure persisted with the speedometer and fuel gauge fluctuating and the instrument panel icons flashing. Additionally, the vehicle was jerking and experienced a loss of power steering assist while driving. The vehicle was jumpstarted. The vehicle was taken back to the dealer; however, the vehicle was not yet diagnosed or repaired. The contact related the failure to NHTSA Campaign Number: 24V652000 (Electrical System); however, the VIN was not included in the recall. The manufacturer was not made aware of the failure. The failure mileage was approximately 82,000.

NHTSA ID

11746391

Incident

Mar 1, 2026

Mileage

82,000 mi

My speedometer blacked out couldnt see the fuel gage or speedometer. Light flickering, auto park engages, steering wheel locks up.

NHTSA ID

11743292

Incident

Jun 6, 2026

What component or system failed or malfunctioned, and is it available for inspection upon request? After diagnostics of multiple 'no communication' codes, it was determined that the CAN buss star connector was faulty. The part has been replaced, but is available for inspection. How was your safety or the safety of others put at risk? The malfunction caused repeated warning lights and loss of steering at unpredictable times. Luckily I was always able to put on my hazard lights and get out of the path of traffic. Has the problem been reproduced or confirmed by a dealer or independent service center? Yes Has the vehicle or component been inspected by the manufacturer, police, insurance representatives or others? No Were there any warning lamps, messages or other symptoms of the problem prior to the failure, and when did they first appear? Yes, a variety of warning lamps and messages over a period of 10-12 days, which would disappear after restarting the vehicle (restarting was necessary to get the steering working again). Messages such as traction control, auto on/off, and check engine light were a few different ones. They came and went so quickly it was hard to catch them all while I was focused on getting safely off the road.

NHTSA ID

11735845

Incident

Apr 25, 2026

Jeep Wranglers in the older/early models had aluminum steering steering boxes that would have excessive play do to thermal expansion. Jeep never made it recall but did provide a TSB NUMBER: 08-074-20 REV. B GROUP: 08- Electrical DATE: September 26, 2020. The TSB would recommend the aluminum steering box be replaced with a steel one. The issue is that many dealers refused to do the fix/change parts for free under or out of warranty. Its clearly an issue as later/newer models of the Jeep JL Wrangler started shipping with the steel steering box.

NHTSA ID

11722073

Incident

Jul 31, 2024

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".

NHTSA ID

11720655

Incident

Sep 18, 2019

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.

NHTSA ID

11717516

Incident

Feb 5, 2026

Mileage

82,000 mi

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.

NHTSA ID

11713157

Incident

Jan 1, 2023

I was driving on the interstate and when I went over a little bump my truck started to shake like it was going to loose control. I read up on this and people who own jeeps refer to it as the death waddle is there a recall on this issue.

NHTSA ID

11712821

Incident

Jan 1, 2026

Concern: Suspension, steering, and electrical system malfunction Description of the Problem: While driving at highway speeds (approximately 75 mph), the vehicle experiences a wiggling or unstable sensation in the suspension, making the car feel unsafe. At the same time, the steering wheel becomes stiff and difficult to turn. Additionally, a warning message appears stating “Service Shifter.” When this occurs, the electrical system freezes, affecting vehicle functions. This electrical malfunction lasts for 1 to 2 days, during which systems do not respond properly before eventually resetting on their own. Safety Concern: The suspension instability, loss of steering responsiveness, and electrical failure at high speeds present a serious safety risk to the driver and others on the road. Request: Requesting a full inspection of the suspension, steering system, shifter system, and electrical components, including any sensors or modules that may be causing these failures.

NHTSA ID

11707223

Incident

Dec 27, 2025

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.

NHTSA ID

11704349

Incident

Dec 10, 2025

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 INFORMATIO

NHTSA ID

11701864

Incident

Nov 1, 2025

The steering wheel started to shake and then escalated to the whole car shaking at which time I had to stop the vehicle on the highway to make it stop shaking. This isn’t the first time this has happened.

NHTSA ID

11701291

Incident

Nov 24, 2025

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)

NHTSA ID

11693326

Incident

Oct 11, 2025

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?

NHTSA ID

11689000

Incident

Sep 20, 2025

Service Antilock Brake System. Service Shifter. Service 4WD. Loss communication with MPH. ABS light. Traction Control. Power Steering Failing. BRAKE. Doors Lock/Unlock. Vehicle shut down while I was driving and locked me out completely. Replaced Part No. 68321746AA-001 Vehicle was taken to four auto shops. None were able to diagnosed the issue. Mopar shop wanted to charge over $1,600 to replace ABS sensors and other items. I referred them to look at the part and was told it was not going to fix the issue. It did fix the issue. I have spent the last 2 months trying to figure out what was wrong with my vehicle and several funds later.

NHTSA ID

11685873

Incident

Jul 24, 2025

I drove over a rough patch/bump in the road. A ton of warning messages and failure lights activated on the dash. In addition to the check engine light, there were warnings for electronic stability protection, sway bar disconnect, ABS failure, power steering failure, shift lever malfunction. In addition to these malfunctions a failures, the windshield wipers turned on un-commanded and the radiator fan went into the highest possible speed, the digital engine temperature gauge failed, and both the digital and analog speedometers failed. This happened on a arterial road, losing power steering and braking at ~30mph unexpectedly was a shock, but manageable. At highway speeds it likely would have led to an accident or collision. Unfortunately, I don't have any documentation of the failure lights and systems failing, but it had happened several times prior to this occurrence, albeit only with dash warning lights, no actual system failures. After the system failures, I stopped driving the vehicle. The problem appears to be somewhat widespread and is caused by a failing CAN-C BUS. A quick google search will reveal NUMEROUS descriptions on the same dangerous issue. This thread seems to clearly expIain the root of the issue with the CAN-C BUS: [XXX] I replaced my old CAN-C BUS (p/n 68321746AA) with a new part and it appears to have resolved the issue. I have saved the old CAN-C BUS for inspection if NHTSA is interested. It looks exactly like the failed BUS in the linked reddit thread above. INFORMATION REDACTED PURSUANT TO THE FREEDOM OF INFORMATION ACT (FOIA), 5 U.S.C. 552(B)(6)

NHTSA ID

11681599

Incident

Aug 17, 2025

have been experiencing extreme shaking and vibration so called “death wobble.” In 2023 I took it to the dealership to look into the issue to which they changed the steering stabilizer. Even though that helped for a few years however it did not resolve the problem. It was still occurring just not to the same degree. Currently I have tried to reach out to the dealership to look into the problem and the dealership refuses as the car or the part is not covered under warranty. However not enough time or mileage has passed for the car to not be under warranty. The dealership and the FCA refuse to help. This issue is very serious! It common with these models of Jeep wranglers and are life threatening.

NHTSA ID

11680249

Incident

Aug 15, 2023

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.

NHTSA ID

11675379

Incident

Jul 17, 2025

Mileage

44,000 mi

The contact owns a 2019 Jeep Wrangler. The contact stated that while driving 70 MPH, the vehicle decelerated unintendedly and failed to exceed 40 MPH. Additionally, the vehicle lost power steering functionality and became difficult to steer. The contact stated that the vehicle later operated as needed; however, the failure recurred several times while driving. Several unknown warning lights were illuminated. The vehicle was not diagnosed or repaired by an independent mechanic or dealer. The manufacturer was not notified of the failure. The failure mileage was 111,000.

NHTSA ID

11674246

Incident

Jul 17, 2025

Mileage

111,000 mi

The contact owns a 2019 Jeep Wrangler. The contact stated while driving 20 MPH, the vehicle stalled. The contact stated that the vehicle was restarted. The contact continued to drive, but the power steering became inoperable. The contact stated that the vehicle became extremely hot, and the cells popped and damaged the battery. The contact stated that the check engine, power steering, and battery warning lights were illuminated. The vehicle was towed to the residence. The contact called the local dealer, but the vehicle was not diagnosed or repaired. The manufacturer was contacted, but no additional assistance was provided. The failure mileage was approximately 49,700.

NHTSA ID

11672434

Incident

Jul 8, 2025

Mileage

49,700 mi