Some Jeep Grand Cherokee L Owners Are Getting Locked Out Of Their Cars

Feb. 25, 2022 1:32 PM ET by Nikesh Kooverjee Recall / 5 Comments

The issue has prompted Jeep to issue a temporary stop-sale order.

The Jeep Grand Cherokee L is just over a year old and since its release, it has been winning the hearts of many consumers shopping in the large SUV segment. This is thanks to its premium comfort levels, a generous list of standard features, and spacious three-row interior. This year's model was treated to a mild technology update that added a set of more modern digital displays, further enforcing its position as a segment leader. A new Limited Black Package was also added for those who wanted a stronger visual presence.

Unfortunately, despite this strong start, it has not been a problem-free ownership experience for some. Last year, the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) issued a recall for 36,929 units in the USA to resolve an incomplete software update. This flaw meant that owners could suffer from one or both of the headlights simply not operating.

2021-2022 Jeep Grand Cherokee L Frontal Aspect

2021-2022 Jeep Grand Cherokee L Aft View

2021-2022 Jeep Grand Cherokee L First Row

Now it looks like the model is being subjected to yet another software-related flaw if the Jeep Garage forum is anything to go by. Earlier this month, owners started taking notice of the fact that they were getting locked out of their cars. The reason for this seemed to be because the SUVs were disconnecting from their allocated key fobs.

The issue was identified by Jeep to be a faulty Radio Frequency Hub Module in the car's system. Some owners took their cars to Jeep dealerships for a resolution but the fault resurfaced a few days after a repair was executed. The glitch has become so bad that Stellantis has ordered its dealers to cease the sale of all Grand Cherokee L models until a repair for the module is rolled out.

2021-2022 Jeep Grand Cherokee L Instrument Board

2021-2022 Jeep Grand Cherokee L Headlights On

2021-2022 Jeep Grand Cherokee L Sideward Vision

Speaking to The Drive, a Jeep spokesperson said, "We have identified a solution and are expediting delivery of the appropriate parts to our dealer network. This issue affects a limited number of vehicles and does not require a safety recall. We are contacting customers to advise them that free service is available."

Jeep added it would start with repairs on cars that have already been sold, then work on the models currently sitting on the floor. In this short time, it is understood that a group of Grand Cherokee L owners has been seriously inconvenienced by the matter, with one not even being able to drive their newly delivered model off the dealership floor.