by Key Facts About the Recall
Cars break down. Even tough cars break down. Jeeps, built for harsh conditions and regularly subjected to stress, break down often. Off-roading and extreme driving can damage joints, steering components, and even axles. However, Jeep owners do not expect a wheel to crack during normal operation, especially a steel one. Stellantis states this is possible, and 641 owners have been ordered to stop driving.
Cause of the Problem
The issue affects Wranglers and Gladiators manufactured between November 10 and November 16, 2025, equipped with a specific steel wheel from Maxion Wheels. According to documents submitted to the NHTSA, the wheel may have been manufactured with a “thin wall.”
Risks and Solution
If the wheel cracks and ultimately separates, the driver may suddenly lose control of the vehicle, increasing the risk of an accident. FCA notes there are no warning signs of potential wheel failure. As of June 24, 2026, the company reported that it had received no warranty claims, customer reports, field reports, accident reports, or injury reports related to this defect in any market.
Despite this, and to Jeep’s credit, the FCA Vehicle Regulation Committee recognized on July 9, 2026, that this condition constitutes a safety defect requiring a recall. The solution is simple. Dealerships will inspect the steel wheel and replace it if necessary. Interestingly, FCA will also replace the valve stem as part of the repair.
Recommendations for Owners
An important point for Jeep owners at this time is to stop driving if they are using the wheels in question. Notably, FCA even stated that owners should park the vehicle “outdoors.” It is unclear why this is the case, but it is better to err on the side of caution.
Notification Timeline
Dealerships will be notified from July 23, 2026, and notification letters to owners will begin mailing on September 4, 2026. Affected VINs will be available for search in the NHTSA recall database starting July 23.
Photo: Jeep
This situation underscores how important quality control is, even for seemingly simple components like steel wheels. Although the number of affected vehicles is relatively small, Stellantis’s decision to immediately halt their operation highlights the seriousness of the potential threat. It is worth noting that the absence of warning signs makes this defect particularly dangerous, as the driver cannot react in time. For Jeep owners accustomed to relying on the reliability of their vehicles, this is a reminder that even the toughest machines can have hidden flaws, and timely manufacturer response is key to safety.
