07:28 23-07-2026

Jeep Wrangler and Gladiator: 641 vehicles recalled over a steel wheel crack risk

FCA is recalling 641 2026 Jeep Wrangler and Gladiator vehicles with steel wheels — a thin wall can crack and cause the wheel to separate.

FCA is recalling 641 2026 Jeep Wrangler and Gladiator vehicles: a steel wheel wall that’s too thin can crack and let the wheel separate from the vehicle. According to 32CARS.RU, the recall doesn’t cover every 2026 Wrangler and Gladiator — only vehicles built with steel wheels carrying the WAA equipment code. If the wall is too thin, the wheel can crack and detach, and the driver risks losing control of the car. NHTSA has registered the campaign under number 26V456; FCA’s internal number is 05D.

The recall covers 641 vehicles: 606 Jeep Wranglers built between November 10 and 16, 2025, and 35 Gladiator pickups built between November 10 and 15. The manufacturer estimates the defect rate within this batch at 100%, though that doesn’t mean the issue exists on other 2026 model-year vehicles. Cars with alloy wheels and vehicles built outside those dates aren’t part of the campaign.

The risk is that there’s no warning sign. The report lists no unusual noise, no dashboard message, and no gradual loss of handling — a wheel failure could lead to a crash without warning. As of June 24, FCA had no reports of related warranty claims, crashes, or injuries.

Dealers will inspect the steel wheels and replace them along with the valve stems free of charge if needed. In a preliminary notice dated July 17, FCA said no fix was ready yet for dealers, with the campaign expected to launch in the third quarter of 2026. NHTSA later confirmed owner notification letters are planned for September 4, with VIN lookup available starting July 23.

Before a service visit, owners should check the outer and inner faces of the steel wheels. If there’s a visible crack, a sudden pressure drop, heavy vibration, or an impact near the wheel, it’s best not to keep driving — calling a tow truck is the safer option. A routine visual check doesn’t replace a dealer inspection: the defect concerns wall thickness and may not be visible without proper equipment.