Electric Cars

Chrysler is once again recalling over 328,000 Grand Cherokee vehicles from the 2021-2023 model years due to a recurring issue with their rear coil springs. This marks the third attempt to rectify a manufacturing defect that could lead to the detachment of coil springs while the vehicle is in motion, posing a significant safety risk. The affected models include the Grand Cherokee L, Grand Cherokee, and Grand Cherokee 4xe, all equipped with standard coil springs. Owners who previously had their vehicles serviced under earlier recalls for the same problem are advised that they must still bring their vehicles in for this latest repair.

This ongoing recall highlights persistent quality control challenges for Jeep. Despite previous repair efforts, the core issue of improperly seated coil springs has not been fully resolved, leading to this third campaign. While the reported defect rate is low, the potential for a spring detachment at speed necessitates immediate attention from owners. Chrysler is actively working to ensure that all affected vehicles receive the correct and final remedy to prevent potential accidents and injuries, emphasizing the importance of owner cooperation in addressing this safety concern.

Affected Models and Previous Recall History

This latest recall encompasses 328,381 Jeep Grand Cherokee models produced between December 2020 and May 2023. Specifically, it targets 97,477 two-row Grand Cherokees, 215,433 three-row Grand Cherokee Ls, and 15,471 Grand Cherokee 4xe plug-in hybrids. Vehicles equipped with Quadra-Lift air suspension are not affected, as the defect is isolated to those with standard coil springs. This is the third time these vehicles have been recalled for the same underlying problem, following campaigns in June 2023 (NHTSA ID 23V413) and February 2026 (NHTSA ID 26V051). Owners whose vehicles underwent repairs during these earlier campaigns are now required to seek this new fix, regardless of prior service, indicating that previous attempts were insufficient to permanently resolve the issue.

The repeated nature of this recall raises questions about the initial assembly process and the effectiveness of prior repair protocols. The issue stems from the coil springs not being correctly seated during manufacturing, rather than a defect in the springs themselves. If improperly installed, the springs can shift out of position or detach completely, creating an unpredictable handling situation and a severe safety hazard for drivers. Although Chrysler has not reported any accidents or injuries directly linked to this defect, the potential for serious consequences if a spring detaches while driving at speed underscores the critical importance of addressing this recall promptly and effectively. Owners are encouraged to check their vehicle's VIN on the NHTSA website for eligibility and schedule the necessary repair with their dealership.

Understanding the Defect and Repair Protocol

The core problem identified by Jeep is not with the integrity of the coil springs themselves, but rather with an improper assembly process. During manufacturing, the rear coil springs were not consistently seated correctly. This manufacturing oversight can cause the springs to dislodge from their normal position or even completely detach from the vehicle while in motion. A sudden spring detachment can drastically alter a vehicle’s handling characteristics without warning, presenting a significant safety risk to occupants. Despite the severity of the potential issue, Chrysler has stated that there have been no reported accidents or injuries linked to this specific defect, suggesting that awareness and early intervention through recalls have mitigated more severe outcomes.

To rectify this persistent issue, technicians will replace both rear coil spring lower isolators with a new part, specifically part number 68668244AA. This repair will be provided at no cost to the vehicle owners. Owners can verify their vehicle's recall status by checking their VIN on the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) website. Interim notification letters to owners are scheduled to begin by September 29, 2026, with a second round of notifications planned once parts and comprehensive repair instructions are fully available to dealerships. It is crucial for all affected owners, even those who participated in previous recall repairs, to schedule this appointment to ensure their vehicles are safely and permanently fixed, preventing any further recurrence of this assembly-related defect.

The Volkswagen ID. Polo has garnered immense popularity, leading to a complete sell-out across Europe even before its official release. More than 30,000 units have been ordered since April 2026, resulting in a substantial waiting period of at least ten months for new customers. This overwhelming demand highlights the car's broad appeal across all trims, from the entry-level Trend model to the high-performance GTI variant.

Orders Surge, Production Struggles to Keep Pace

Volkswagen's ID. Polo has witnessed an unprecedented surge in demand, leading to a complete sell-out across Europe before any customer vehicles have been delivered. Since the order books opened in April 2026, over 30,000 orders have been accumulated, placing new buyers on a waiting list that extends to at least ten months. This enthusiastic reception spans the entire model range, from the budget-friendly Trend trim, priced at €24,995 (approximately $27,200), to the more powerful GTI variant, set to launch this autumn at just under €39,000 (around $42,500).

The entry-level ID. Polo Trend features a 37 kWh LFP battery, providing a WLTP range of 323 kilometers (201 miles) and is powered by a 114 horsepower motor. The Life trim, starting at €33,795 (approximately $36,800), offers an optional 52 kWh NMC battery for extended range and supports DC fast charging, capable of recharging from 10 to 80 percent in 23 minutes. The strong demand for all configurations indicates a widespread appeal for the electric vehicle rather than interest concentrated in a single model. The main obstacle to quicker deliveries is the limited production capacity at the Martorell plant in Spain, where the ID. Polo shares an assembly line and the MEB entry platform with the Cupra Raval, both competing for the same manufacturing slots that became available in June.

The remarkable demand for the ID. Polo underscores a growing market for compact electric vehicles, signaling that consumers are eager for accessible and well-equipped EV options. However, the current production bottleneck suggests that Volkswagen may need to adjust its manufacturing strategies to meet this unexpected enthusiasm. The challenge for the automaker will be to balance strong consumer interest with practical production capabilities, ensuring that the prolonged wait times do not deter potential buyers in the long run. The situation also raises questions about the allocation of production, with a potential prioritization of readily available stock or simpler configurations to expedite deliveries.