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Jeep Drivers Complain of “Death Wobble” Steering Flaw
Hundreds of Jeep Wrangler drivers in the U.S. have reported that the steering systems in their SUVs can begin to shake violently after hitting a modest bump at highway speeds.
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Hundreds of Jeep Wrangler drivers in the U.S. have reported that the steering systems in their SUVs can begin to shake violently after hitting a modest bump at highway speeds.
The Detroit Free Press says Jeep fans describe it as a “death wobble,” although no fatalities have been blamed on the effect. Fiat Chrysler Automobiles NV calls it “steering system vibration.” The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration reportedly has collected more than 600 complaints since 1995 about Jeep wobbling or vibrating.
The cause isn’t clear. But the Free Press notes that observers have blamed the issue on aftermarket suspension modifications, oversize tires, poor wheel balance, incorrect tire pressure or a worn steering stabilizer unit.
FCA says it has studied steering shimmy, which does occur rarely in vehicles like the Wrangler with a solid front axle, but found no safety issue. NHTSA has investigated similar complains about Ford F-Series pickup trucks and concluded there was no basis for a safety recall.
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