LEMON Manuals: Even more car manuals for everyone
Home >> Jeep >> 2009 >> Commander Overland, 4WD >> Repair and Diagnosis >> Quick Lookups >> Technical Bulletins >> Campaigns >> Other Variant >> Restraints Control Systems >> Safety Recall J13 - Steering Column Control Module (J13)

Safety Recall J13 - Steering Column Control Module (J13)

WARNING: This page is about the Commander Sport, 3.7 K, AWD, which is a different variant/trim than selected.
Publication date: 2009-05-01
Reference number: J13

SAFETY RECALL J13 - STEERING COLUMN CONTROL MODULE

SAFETY RECALL J13 - STEERING COLUMN CONTROL MODULE

SERVICE CAMPAIGN BULLETIN

Reference Number(s): J13, Date of Issue:  May, 2009
CHRYSLER: 2009 (JC) Dodge Journey, (JK) Jeep® Wrangler, (WK) Jeep® Grand Cherokee, (XK) Jeep® Commander

MODELS

2009 (JC) Dodge Journey 

NOTE: This recall applies only to the above vehicles built from February 09, 2009 through February 24, 2009 (MDH 020916 through 022417)  .

2009 (JK) Jeep® Wrangler 

NOTE: This recall applies only to the above vehicles built from February 10, 2009 through February 26, 2009 (MDH 021008 through 022608). 

2009 (WK) Jeep® Grand Cherokee 

(XK) Jeep® Commander 

NOTE: This recall applies only to the above vehicles built from February 19, 2009 through February 25, 2009 (MDH 021910 through 022509)  .
IMPORTANT: Many of the vehicles within the above build period have already been inspected or repaired and, therefore, have been excluded from this recall.
IMPORTANT: Some of the involved vehicles may be in dealer new vehicle inventory. Federal law requires you to complete this recall service on these vehicles before retail delivery.  Dealers should also consider this requirement to apply to used vehicle inventory and should perform this recall on vehicles in for service. Involved vehicles can be determined by using the VIP inquiry process.

SUBJECT

The Steering Column Control Module (SCCM) on about 4,300 of the above vehicles may have the squib connector wiring reversed for the driver airbag module. This could cause the driver side airbag not to deploy as intended and increase the risk of injury during a crash.

REPAIR

The Steering Column Control Module build date code must be inspected on all vehicles. Those vehicles that have Steering Column Control Modules with a Julian date code of 0409, 0419, or 0429 must receive an additional inspection on the driver airbag squib wires. Steering Column Control Modules with suspect driver airbag squib wires must be replace.

ALTERNATE TRANSPORTATION

Dealers should attempt to minimize customer inconvenience by placing the owner in a loaner vehicle if inspection determines that Steering Column Control Module replacement is required and the vehicle must be held overnight.

PART INFORMATION

PARTS INFORMATION

Part Number  Description 
68003216AG Steering Column Control Module

There will be no initial parts distribution. Parts should only be ordered after inspection determines the need for replacement.

SPECIAL TOOLS

The following special tools are required to perform this repair: 

* Part of CH9400 kit.

SERVICE PROCEDURE

A. Inspect Steering Column Control Module Data Label

  1. Turn the steering wheel to the 6 o'clock position (Figure 1  ).
    G07709717
  2. Unsnap the knee bolster at the top of the bolster and allow it to hinge downward (Figure 2  ).
    G07709718
  3. Remove the upper and lower plastic steering column shrouds.
  4. Inspect the first four digits of the Julian data code (disregard the fifth digit) on the label located on the bottom of the Steering Column Control Module (Figure 3  ) for the following:
    G07709719
    • If the Julian date code on the bar code data label is  0409, 0419, or 0429 continue with Section B. Inspect Steering Column Control Module Wiring Orientation. 
    • If the Julian date code on the bar code data label is not  0409, 0419, or 0429 the Steering Column Control Module does not require further inspection or replacement. Continue with Step 5  of this procedure.
  5. Install the steering column cover shrouds.
  6. Install the knee bolster.
  7. Return the vehicle to the customer.

B. Inspect Steering Column Control Module Wiring Orientation

WARNING: To avoid serious or fatal injury on vehicles equipped with airbags, disable the Supplemental Restraint System (SRS) before attempting Steering Column Control Module replacement. Disconnect and isolate the battery negative (ground) cable, then wait two minutes for the system capacitor to discharge before proceeding. This is the only sure way to disable the SRS. Failure to take the proper precautions could result in accidental airbag deployment.
  1. Disconnect and isolate the negative battery cable, then wait two minutes before proceeding.
  2. Place the steering wheel in the straight ahead position.
    NOTE: The front wheels must also be in the straight ahead position.
  3. Separate the driver airbag module from the steering wheel but do not disconnect the driver airbag module squib wires.
    CAUTION: Do not allow the driver airbag module to hang by the squib wires.
    NOTE: Some models use three clips to hold the driver airbag module to the steering wheel (Figure 4  ).
    G07709720
  4. Remove the black electrical tape that holds the two sets of squib wires together (Figure 5  ).
    G07709721
  5. Inspect the driver airbag module squib wiring orientation going into the Steering Column Control Module (Figure 6  ):
    G07709722
    • If the pair of red and blue wires going into the Steering Column Control Module enter on the left side  and the pair of yellow and brown wires enter on the right side,  the Steering Column Control Module does not require repair. Continue with Step 6  of this procedure.
    • If the pair of red and blue wires going into the Steering Column Control Module enter on the right side  and the pair of yellow and brown wires enter on the left side, the Steering Column Control Module is defective and must be replaced. Continue with Section C. Replace Steering Column Control Module. 
  6. Install the driver airbag module onto the steering wheel.
  7. Install the steering column cover shrouds.
  8. Install the knee bolster.
  9. Connect the negative battery cable.
  10. Return the vehicle to the customer.

C. Replace Steering Column Control Module

CAUTION: The clockspring in the Steering Column Control Module is shipped with the clockspring pre-centered and with a molded plastic locking pin installed. This locking pin must not be removed until the steering wheel has been installed on the steering column (Step  20).
  1. Disconnect the driver airbag module wires and place the module aside.
  2. Disconnect the white steering wheel wiring connector.
  3. Remove the steering wheel retaining bolt.
  4. Remove the steering wheel from the steering shaft.
  5. Move the steering column to the fully lowered position.
  6. Remove the three screws that secure the Steering Column Control Module to the steering column bracket.
  7. Pull the Steering Column Control Module away from the steering column far enough to access and disconnect the three instrument panel wire harness connectors from the receptacles on the back of the Steering Column Control Module case.
  8. Remove the Steering Column Control Module from the steering column.
  9. Transfer the right multi-function switch from the old Steering Column Control Module to the new Steering Column Control Module (Figure 7  ).
    G07709723
  10. Transfer the left multi-function switch from the old Steering Column Control Module to the new Steering Column Control Module (Figure 8  ).
  11. Transfer the multi-function switch jumper harness from the old Steering Column Control Module onto the new Steering Column Control Module (Figure 8  ).
    CAUTION: Make sure that the jumper wire connectors are locked in place by gently pulling on them.
    G07709724
  12. Carefully slide the Steering Column Control Module down over the steering column upper shaft far enough to reconnect the three instrument panel wire harness connectors to the receptacles on the back of the Steering Column Control Module case.
  13. Position the Steering Column Control Module onto the steering column bracket.
  14. Install and tighten the three screws that secure the Steering Column Control Module to the steering column bracket to 27 in. lbs. (3 N.m) in the following sequence:
    • Lower right screw
    • Upper left screw
    • Upper right screw
      CAUTION: Use of an improper sequence when tightening the Steering Column Control Module mounting screws may result in an audible ticking noise as the steering wheel is rotated.
  15. Install the upper and lower shrouds onto the steering column.
  16. Install the knee bolster.
  17. Move the steering column back to the fully raised position and move the tilt release lever to the locked position.
  18. Install the steering wheel onto the steering column.
  19. Install the steering wheel retaining bolt and tighten bolt to 45 ft. lbs. (61 N.m).
  20. Remove the plastic locking pin that secures the clockspring rotor to the Steering Column Control Module case.
  21. Connect the white steering wheel wiring connector.
  22. Connect the squib connectors to the driver airbag module.
  23. Install the driver airbag module to the steering wheel.
  24. Perform the Supplemental Restraints Verification Test below:
    1. Connect the scan tool to the 16-way data link connector located on the driver's side lower edge of the instrument panel.
    2. Turn the ignition switch to the "ON" position and exit the vehicle with the scan tool.
    3. Check and make certain that nobody is in the vehicle, then reconnect the negative battery cable.
    4. Using the scan tool, read and record active and historical Diagnostic Trouble Codes (DTC's).
    5. Use the scan tool to erase the stored DTC's.
    6. Turn the ignition to the "OFF" position for about 15 seconds, and then back to the "ON" position. Observe the airbag indicator lamp in the instrument cluster. It should light for six to eight seconds and then go out. This indicates that the SRS is functioning normally and that the repairs are complete.
    7. Remove the scan tool from the vehicle.
    8. Return the vehicle to the customer.

COMPLETION REPORTING AND REIMBURSEMENT

Claims for vehicles that have been serviced must be submitted on the DealerCONNECT Claim Entry Screen located on the Service tab. Claims submitted will be used by Chrysler to record recall service completions and provide dealer payments.

Use one  of the following labor operation numbers and time allowances:

LABOUR OPERATION NUMBER AND TIME ALLOWANCE

  Labor Operation Number  Time Allowance
Inspect Steering Column Control Module date code label 08-J1-31-81 0.2 hours
Inspect Steering Column Control Module date code label and inspect squib wiring orientation 08-J1-32-81 0.3 hours
Inspect Steering Column Control Module date code label, inspect squib wiring orientation, and replace Steering Column Control Module 08-J1-31-82 0.7 hours

Add the cost of the recall parts package plus applicable dealer allowance to your claim.

NOTE: See the Warranty Administration Manual, Recall Claim Processing Section, for complete recall claim processing instructions.

DEALER NOTIFICATION

To view this notification on DealerCONNECT, select "Global Recall System" on the Service tab, then click on the description of this notification.

OWNER NOTIFICATION AND SERVICE SCHEDULING

All involved vehicle owners known to Chrysler are being notified of the service requirement by first class mail. They are requested to schedule appointments for this service with their dealers. A generic copy of the owner letter is attached.

Enclosed with each owner letter is an Owner Notification postcard to allow owners to update our records if applicable.

Dealers are encouraged to consider alternative scheduling and servicing approaches for this recall. This repair does not require hoists or other full service facility special equipment and is a Chrysler Mobile Service approved repair.

VEHICLE LISTS, GLOBAL RECALL SYSTEM, VIP AND DEALER FOLLOW UP

All involved vehicles have been entered into the DealerCONNECT Global Recall System (GRS) and Vehicle Information Plus (VIP) for dealer inquiry as needed.

GRS provides involved dealers with an updated  VIN list of their incomplete  vehicles. The owner's name, address and phone number are listed if known. Completed vehicles are removed from GRS within several days of repair claim submission.

To use this system, click on the "Service"  tab and then click on "Global Recall System."  Your dealer's VIN list for each recall displayed can be sorted by: those vehicles that were unsold at recall launch, those with a phone number, city, zip code, or VIN sequence.

Dealers must perform this repair on all unsold vehicles before retail delivery.  Dealers should also use the VIN list to follow up with all owners to schedule appointments for this repair.

Recall VIN lists may contain confidential, restricted owner name and address information that was obtained from the Department of Motor Vehicles of various states. Use of this information is permitted for this recall only and is strictly prohibited from all other use. 

ADDITIONAL INFORMATION

If you have any questions or need assistance in completing this action, please contact your Service and Parts District Manager.

Customer Services Field Operations

Chrysler

SAFETY RECALL J13 - STEERING COLUMN CONTROL MODULE

Dear: (Name)

This notice is sent to you in accordance with the requirements of the National Traffic and Motor Vehicle Safety Act.

Chrysler has decided that a defect, which relates to motor vehicle safety, exists in some 2009 model year Jeep® Wrangler, Grand Cherokee, Commander, and Dodge Journey vehicles. 

The problem is... The Steering Column Control Module on your vehicle  (VIN: xxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxx) may have the connector wiring reversed for the driver airbag module. This could cause the driver side airbag not to deploy as intended and increase the risk of injury during a crash. 

What your dealer will do... Chrysler will repair your vehicle free of charge (parts and labor).  To do this, your dealer will inspect the steering column control module and replace it if necessary. The inspection will take about 1/2 hour to complete. If steering column control module replacement is required an additional 1/2 hour would be required. However, additional time may be necessary depending on service schedules.

What you must do to ensure your safety...  Simply contact your dealer  right away to schedule a service appointment. Ask the dealer to hold the part for your vehicle or to order it before your appointment. Remember to bring this letter with you to your dealer. 

If you need help...  If you have questions or concerns which your dealer is unable to resolve, please contact Chrysler at 1-800-853-1403.

Please help us update our records by filling out the attached prepaid postcard, if any of the conditions listed on the card apply to you or your vehicle. You may also update this information on the web at CCCCCCCCCCCCCCCCCCCCCCCCCC

If you have already experienced this condition and have paid to have it repaired, you may send your original receipts and/or other adequate proof of payment to the following address for reimbursement: Chrysler Recall Customer Assistance, P.O. Box 21-8007, Auburn Hills, MI 48321-8007, Attention: Reimbursement.

If your dealer fails or is unable to remedy this defect without charge and within a reasonable time, you may submit a written complaint to the Administrator, National Highway Traffic Safety Administration, 1200 New Jersey Ave., S.E., Washington, DC 20590, or call the toll-free Vehicle Safety Hotline at 1-888-327-4236 (TTY 1-800-424-9153), or go to http://www.safercar.gov.

We're sorry for any inconvenience, but we are sincerely concerned about your safety. Thank you for your attention to this important matter.

Customer Services Field Operations

Chrysler

Notification Code J13

Note to lessors receiving this recall: Federal regulation requires that you forward this recall notice to the lessee within 10 days.