An announcement made recently by Chrysler LLC and its Jeep division revealed that due to its exhaust system, certain Wrangler SUVs will have their skid plates replaced. To comply with revised emissions, Jeep relocated the catalytic converter for the 2010 model year and thus, it became rather close to the automatic transmission’s protective cover. Because of the tighter confines between the exhaust and the plate, debris can accumulate which would result in an excess build up; especially around the heat prone catalytic converter. If the build up isn’t cleaned properly (how often do muddy Wranglers get baths anyways?), the end result could be a vehicle fire. To remedy this potential issue, Jeep will be issuing a voluntary recall.
The recall will cover approximately 67,872 Wranglers and all of them are 2010 model year vehicles. Just SUVs built prior to July 14, 2010 and equipped with the automatic transmission are affected and fitted with a skid plate. The later model’s piece was replaced by a more space-saving and lighter skid bar which is the key component to Jeep’s planned remedy. Owners will soon be contacted to take their Wranglers to certified dealers where the technicians will replace the plate with the bar.
