Jaguar Land Rover (JLR), has initiated a recall affecting 16,759 Range Rover models produced between 2014 and 2016 in the United States. This recall stems from a potential defect in the front suspension upper knuckle joint, which may develop cracks and, in severe cases, lead to complete detachment. Such a failure could significantly compromise the vehicle's handling and stability, increasing the risk of accidents.
The affected Range Rovers were manufactured in two distinct periods at JLR's Solihull Vehicle Assembly Plant in the United Kingdom. The first batch was produced between October 1, 2014, and March 31, 2015, while the second batch was built from November 2, 2015, to March 16, 2016. The faulty component, the front suspension upper knuckle joint, was sourced from SuperAlloy Industrial, a Taiwanese supplier.
JLR first became aware of a potential issue with the front suspension knuckle in late 2019 or early 2020 when a Range Rover experienced a failure during low-speed maneuvering. The company closely monitored subsequent reports throughout 2020 and 2021. In 2022, JLR identified the faulty supplier but determined that the available field evidence did not indicate an immediate and unreasonable safety risk. However, further analysis, particularly in regions like the UK and Canada where road salt is used during winter, led to a recall in those markets in late 2022.
Approximately two years later, JLR has decided to extend the recall to the United States. Between October 1, 2015, and October 18, 2024, the company has received 12 claims and field reports related to the front suspension knuckle issue.
Owners of affected vehicles will be notified of the recall by January 3, 2025. They will be instructed to visit an authorized JLR dealership to have their vehicle inspected. Technicians will examine both the left and right front suspension knuckles for signs of cracking. If a crack is detected, the entire knuckle will be replaced. If no cracks are found, a retaining bracket will be installed as an additional safety measure.