Jeep is recalling 42,887 units of manual-transmission 2018-2021 Wrangler and 2020-2021 Gladiator due to a problem with the pressure clutch plate. This component is responsible for transferring power to the clutch.
According to documents filed with the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration, the issue is not because the part is defective. Instead, it has to do with a flaw in the design, which could cause friction and fracture on the plate. This may lead to overheating and may possibly result in the transmission case cracking and expelling heated debris or igniting a fire.
Jeep said it intends to fix the problem by updating its software to reduce engine torque when the temperature in the clutch assembly is too high. Customers are advised to be wary of a burnt odor as this may be a sign of overheating in the clutch pressure plate.
Jeep also said it has been made aware of one accident related to the issue, but clarified that no injuries have resulted from it.
Owners of the affected Jeep Wrangler and Gladiator units are advised to bring their vehicles to a local dealer for an immediate software update.
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