Plan your 2012 Easter Jeep Safari Trails Here

Head on over to the Red Rock 4-Wheelers to find out which trails will work for on which days. Follow the link for a handy little chart.  The Red Rock 4-Wheelers have been hosting this event since the 1980's.

Jeep's Moab Six

 Jeep always seems to develop some of the coolest concepts. I would love to see each one of these make it to production but especially the J-12 and the FC. That FC would make a incredible expedition vehicle for touring the park system in the US and traveling abroad. Even more so if they would make it in a 4 door or "club cab" variety. Now...on to the press release.

Jeep® and Mopar Unveil Six New Vehicles for the 46th Annual Moab Easter Jeep Safari

All vehicles feature an array of Jeep Authentic Parts and Accessories

• Jeep® Grand Cherokee Trailhawk Concept adds even more legendary Jeep 4x4 capability
• Jeep Wrangler Apache introduces new Mopar 6.4-liter HEMI V-8 conversion kit
• Mighty FC Concept features Mopar portal axles; harkens back to Jeep Forward Control models of 1950s and 1960s
• Jeep J-12 Concept: extended version of Mopar JK-8 conversion kit
• Mopar-accessorized Jeep Wrangler showcases many of the more than 250 Mopar offerings available for Wrangler
• Jeep Wrangler Traildozer: extreme 37-inch tires and another interpretation of a V-8 Wrangler
• Mopar creates new off-road division to develop Jeep Authentic Parts and Accessories

March 27, 2012 , Auburn Hills, Mich. - Jeep® and Mopar are ready for a week of wheeling in Moab.

The brands have created six new vehicles – all featuring a host of Jeep Authentic Parts and Accessories – for the annual Easter Jeep Safari in Moab, Utah. Now in its 46th year and taking place March 31 – April 8, the Easter Jeep Safari will be attended by thousands of die-hard off-road enthusiasts looking to enjoy a week of wheeling on some of the country’s most renowned and challenging trails. Mopar also announced the creation of an off-road division that will create Jeep Authentic Parts and Accessories.

“We’re delighted to showcase six new vehicles to our loyal Jeep fans at this year’s Moab Easter Jeep Safari,” said Mike Manley, President and CEO – Jeep Brand, Chrysler Group LLC. “The Jeep Safari has long been a great way for Jeep to connect with its core audience. We look forward to spending the week demonstrating our latest potential production and customization ideas and gathering instant feedback from the most knowledgeable 4x4 enthusiasts in the world.”

To create these new vehicles, Jeep teamed with Mopar, which celebrates its 75th anniversary this year and offers more than 1,000 accessories and performance parts for Jeep vehicles.

“Mopar is tapping into a growing trend among extreme Jeep enthusiasts who want even more power and capability on the trail,” said Pietro Gorlier, President and CEO of Mopar, Chrysler Group LLC’s service, parts and customer-care brand. “This year, Mopar is pushing the envelope in this arena by offering our customers new Pro 60 portal axles and a new HEMI conversion kit, which we will showcase in these new vehicles. In addition, to further maximize our presence in the off-road market, we are creating a Mopar Off-Road division to develop Jeep Authentic Parts and Accessories.”

Since 2002, Jeep and Mopar have teamed to create more than 30 unique concept vehicles for enthusiasts who attend the popular Easter Jeep Safari.

Jeep Authentic Parts and Accessories, New Mopar Off-road DivisionJeep engineers, working closely with Mopar’s new off-road division, will create authentic parts and accessories for Jeep vehicles. New products from the group will be called Jeep Authentic Parts and Accessories. Each part and accessory will be specifically designed, built and quality-tested in order to meet strict Jeep specifications and fulfill the Jeep brand’s requirements for 4x4 capability, craftsmanship and versatility.

2012 Jeep Wrangler Apache from Mopar




Jeep enthusiasts have been asking for a V-8 powered Jeep HEMI Wrangler, and Mopar is coming through. Debuting at the Easter Jeep Safari will be the new Mopar 6.4-liter HEMI V-8 engine conversion kit specifically for the Jeep Wrangler. Producing approximately 470 horsepower and 470 lb.-ft. of torque to the rear wheels, the Mopar V-8 conversion kit gives Jeep enthusiasts an unprecedented blend of power and capability. 

Available this summer, the Mopar Wrangler V-8 conversion kit initially will mate to Chrysler Group’s W5A580 five-speed automatic transmission, and eventually to the six-speed manual transmission that drives the 2012 production Wrangler.

Other performance parts on the Jeep Wrangler Apache are Mopar Pro 60 5.13 front and rear axles, a 4.5-inch Stage 3 long arm lift kit and off-road bead-lock wheels. Aesthetic and functional modifications include high-clearance flat fenders, rock rails, front and rear half-door kits, a Stinger front bumper, a Warn 9.5ti XP winch, Katzkin leather seats, a locking center console box and a Mopar branded interior.

Jeep Grand Cherokee Trailhawk Concept

The Jeep Grand Cherokee is well known for its benchmark off-road capability, courtesy of its Quadra-Lift™ air suspension, Selec-Terrain™ traction control system, Off-Road Adventure packages, tow/recovery hooks tested to twice the vehicle’s Gross Vehicle Weight, and class-leading 4x4 systems – including Jeep’s Quadra-Drive® II system that includes a rear Electronic Limited-slip Differential (ELSD), delivering industry-leading tractive capability.

Already the most awarded SUV ever over its lifetime compared to any other SUV, the new Grand Cherokee Trailhawk concept takes the premium Jeep vehicle’s legendary off-road prowess to a new level, while providing a one-of-a-kind, more aggressive visual punch sure to delight Jeep enthusiasts.

Leading the off-road improvement are new 18-inch Goodyear Wrangler SilentArmor off-road tires – chosen to provide even more aggressive off-road performance combined with quiet highway manners – that are wrapped around new painted 5-spoke alloy Mineral Gray wheels. Grand Cherokee Trailhawk’s SilentArmor tires include additional side-wall protection that enhances durability and reduces road noise. Modified Mopar rock rails – engineered to fully protect the lower body from rugged rocky terrain – are included and add to the functional off-road capability.

Visually, while the vehicle is featured in Stone White, a Mineral Gray and Red theme is highlighted throughout. Specifically, the grille surround, lower front applique, mirror caps and rear light bar join the wheels in Mineral Gray, while contrasting in eye-catching Red are the upper grille mesh, front and rear tow hooks, Jeep logos on wheel center caps and bolt holes in the alloy wheels. A Red trim line outlines a matte black hood applique that is utilized to reduce glare during technical off-road maneuvers.

Other unique touches include black headlamp surrounds, black exterior front and rear badging, Red “Trail Rated” badges on the front fenders and a unique “Trailhawk” badge on the rear tailgate.

Jeep Mighty FC Concept

The Jeep Forward Control was built from 1956 to 1965 and offered a clever packaging solution.
It kept overall length at a minimum for maneuverability but maintained a full-length cargo box for utility. For 2012, Jeep has created a modern version of this classic: the Jeep Mighty FC concept.

To create the Jeep Mighty FC concept, the design team started with a 2012 Wrangler Rubicon and repositioned the cabin over and ahead of the front axle, lengthened the wheelbase, and added a custom built drop-side cargo box. The cab utilizes a roof from the Mopar JK-8 conversion kit, as well as a custom-designed front clip. The Wrangler-based interior has been enhanced with bold, heavy-duty Katzkin leather and a unique color scheme. The cargo area is handled by a full-width, drop-side tray-style bed that measures more than eight feet in length.

Off-road function is dramatically improved with the addition of Mopar’s new Portal Axle set. These offset axles offer the greatest amount of ground clearance without requiring excessive suspension lift.

Mopar’s Front Portal Axle (8-lug, part number P5155670) is available at a Manufacturer’s Suggested Retail Price (MSRP) of $12,500, and the Rear Portal Axle’s (8-lug, part number P5155671) MSRP is $11,000.

The axles are controlled with King coil-over assemblies along with beefy Teraflex control arms and track bars. Traction is handled by massive 40-inch tires mounted on custom Hutchinson 17-inch beadlock wheels.

Other Jeep Mighty FC highlights include King coil-over reservoir shocks, Hanson bumpers, a Warn 16.5 winch and a Corsa stainless steel exhaust system.



Jeep J-12 Concept

The Jeep J-12 concept is essentially an extended version of Mopar’s recently introduced JK-8 pickup conversion kit for the Jeep Wrangler. With a new 2012 Wrangler Unlimited as the starting point, the rear of the vehicle’s frame is extended 18 inches, allowing the spare tire to be relocated under the bed floor and making the cargo box a full six feet in length. A custom hood and front fender set was created as a nod to aficionados of the beloved Jeep Gladiator series trucks.

Off-road muscle has been improved with the addition of the new Mopar three-inch suspension lift kit, as well as Teraflex sway bars controlling ARB air-locker equipped Dynatrac D-44 and D-60 axle assemblies. Traction is handled through classic 36-inch tires mounted on 16-inch steel wheels.

The cabin of the J-12 concept has been “dressed down” in support of a basic truck theme, with the carpet being replaced by rugged truck bed liner, and the bucket seats re-crafted into a modern version of a bench seat, trimmed in white with a whimsical plaid pattern.

Further highlights include a Mopar fuel-filler door, Mopar slush mats, Tom Woods custom driveshafts and Katzkin seat trim.

2012 Jeep Wrangler Traildozer Concept

To prep are the Jeep Wrangler Traildozer for Moab’s toughest trails, Jeep Design worked closely with the American Expedition Vehicles (AEV) engineering team to bring it to life. Starting with a new Dozer Yellow 2012 Jeep Wrangler Rubicon, the team added a bolt-in 470 horsepower 6.4-liter HEMI V-8 engine mated to a Getrag 238 six-speed manual transmission. Power runs through Rubicon-specific Dana 44 axles equipped with 4:10 gears and electronic locking differentials.

To clear the 37-inch Mickey Thompson Baja Claw radials mounted on Mopar Classic five-spoke wheels,
an AEV Dualsport RS 3.5-inch suspension lift was installed. For severe off-road body protection, Mopar premium front and rear bumpers and rear corner guards were added. Additional items include a Mopar performance heat reduction hood, Mopar half-door kit and a Mopar/Warn 9.5 Cti winch.

Jeep Wrangler Traildozer’s interior includes an AEV ‘F-1’ leather seat trim kit and Mopar slush mats
.

Rallye Aïcha des Gazelles

So I had no idea this rally existed.  Pretty cool stuff and this all female rally has been going on since 1990. 

Today's news.

March 26, 2012 (El Fecht, Morocco) - The first of two Marathon Legs in the Rallye Aïcha des Gazelles has just come to a close, and Team #107 from the U.S., Amy Lerner and Tricia Reina, are holding solid in seventh position overall. The sister duo, new to off-road after completing the 2011 Gazelle, is impressing organizers and competitors with a strong performance since the initial Prologue stage on Wednesday. Piloting the AEV modified Jeep Rubicon, Lerner successfully nailed the difficult checkpoints in the famed Erg Chebbi Dunes, the largest dunes in Morocco.

Lerner feels the AEV modifications on their Jeep Rubicon impacted their results this year, helping them leap into the top ten. "Suspension was key, as well as the electronic sway bar disconnect and heat reaction hood - I didn't have to worry about it overheating out there despite the rough conditions. The Jeep's added lift made it tackle the camel grass well, and the handling and comfort level has been phenomenal. When you're out there for 14 hours a day, that's highly important.

You can follow the rally here. They finished Day 5 today and moving on to Day 6. The official finish is March 31st.

Official site: www.rallyeaichadesgazelles.com

Jeep® Introduces New Limited-edition 'Altitude' Grand Cherokee, Compass and Patriot Models

Jeep® Introduces New Limited-edition 'Altitude' Grand Cherokee, Compass and Patriot Models

• Unprecedented consumer interest in Jeep® Grand Cherokee concept confirms production; drives creation of Compass and Patriot limited-edition models
• Jeep Grand Cherokee Altitude first shown as concept at Houston Auto Show in January
• Winning “Altitude” name chosen from more than 100,000 entries in Jeep “Name My Ride” consumer contest
• New Jeep vehicles boast “blacked-out” exteriors with distinct, aggressive flair
• Jeep brand vehicle sales up 34 percent in 2012 (through February)

March 26, 2012 , Auburn Hills, Mich. - Following an overwhelmingly positive consumer response to the recently introduced Grand Cherokee concept and related “Name My Ride” contest, the Jeep® brand has announced it will produce not just one, but three new limited-edition Jeep vehicles: the Grand Cherokee, Compass and Patriot Altitude models.

In January, Jeep introduced a distinctive, “blacked-out” production-intent concept Grand Cherokee at the Houston Auto Show, and connected with consumers to name the model. With more than 100,000 entries from enthusiasts of the Jeep brand – which boasts more than 2 million Facebook fans – “Altitude” emerged as the winning vehicle name. 

“The fact that well over 100,000 consumers entered our ‘Name My Ride’ contest reinforces the passion behind the Jeep brand, and its position as one of the most recognizable and popular brands in the world,” said Mike Manley, President and CEO – Jeep Brand, Chrysler Group LLC. “The extraordinary response to both the concept and the contest resulted in an easy decision to produce ‘blacked-out’ editions of the Grand Cherokee – and the Compass and Patriot. These new Jeep Altitude editions will clearly have a broad appeal among consumers, especially those looking for something distinctive, edgy, and just plain cool.”

The new, limited-edition Grand Cherokee, Compass and Patriot Altitude models will arrive in Jeep showrooms in May.

Jeep Grand Cherokee AltitudeJeep’s premium icon – the Grand Cherokee – is the most awarded SUV ever over its lifetime compared to any other SUV. The Grand Cherokee Altitude edition combines a variety of exterior design changes to create a unique model with an aggressive chrome and “blacked-out” look.

The vehicle’s grille surround appears in black gloss, and mesh grille texture in platinum chrome. A platinum chrome lower fascia applique completes the unique front-end appearance. Black headlamp bezels and a black liftgate light bar continue the “blacked-out” theme throughout the vehicle’s exterior.

The Grand Cherokee Altitude rides on 20-inch tires that surround black-gloss aluminum wheels.

The Jeep Grand Cherokee Altitude model includes standard leather-trimmed seats, heated front seats, leather-wrapped steering wheel and shifter, a 9-speaker 506-watt amp sound system with subwoofer, iPod/MP3 connectivity, Parkview™ rear back-up camera, ParkSense® rear-park assist system, Keyless Enter-N-Go, Chrysler Group’s Uconnect hands-free communications system, and more than 50 advanced safety and security features.

Available in Deep Cherry Red, Brilliant Black, Mineral Gray, Bright Silver Metallic, Maximum Steel Metallic and Stone White, the Jeep Grand Cherokee Altitude starts at a U.S. Manufacturer’s Suggested Retail Price (MSRP) of $35,595 for 4x2 models and $37,595 for 4x4 models.

Jeep Compass AltitudeThe new limited-edition Compass Altitude continues the “from-the-factory” customized look first seen in the Grand Cherokee concept shown in January.

A distinctive black gloss finish surrounds Compass’ trademark seven-slot Jeep grille and headlamps, and the treatment continues with black roof rails and a black step pad. The Compass Altitude rides on exclusive 18-inch black gloss aluminum wheels wearing Firestone BSW all-season performance tires.

The Jeep Compass Altitude model is available in three drivetrain configurations (including available Freedom Drive I and Freedom Drive II Off-Road packages), and features power heated exterior mirrors and heated seats, remote start, continuously variable automatic transaxle, a leather-wrapped steering wheel with audio controls, and includes numerous safety and security features, such as electronic stability control, electronic roll mitigation, Hill-start Assist (with manual transmission), and side-curtain air bags that cover all rows.

Available in Deep Cherry Red, Black, Mineral Gray and Bright White, the Jeep Compass Altitude’s starting U.S. MSRP is $22,190 for 4x2 models and $23,940 for 4x4 models.

Jeep Patriot AltitudeThe Jeep Patriot Altitude continues the “blacked-out” theme found on Grand Cherokee and Compass versions, but features more chrome and polished steel than its Compass sibling.

Riding on 17-inch high-gloss black aluminum wheels and Firestone BSW all-season touring tires, the Jeep Patriot Altitude boasts a bright chrome lower fascia and rear step pad appliques, and bright polished steel roof rails. 

Jeep Patriot is the best-priced SUV in America, was recently named an Edmunds.com Lowest True Cost To Own® vehicle, and has earned an Insurance Institute for Highway Safety (IIHS) “Top Safety Pick.” 

The Patriot Altitude edition is available in three drivetrain configurations (including available Freedom Drive I and Freedom Drive II Off-Road packages), and features power heated exterior mirrors and heated seats, power windows (driver one-touch) and locks, continuously variable automatic transaxle, a leather-wrapped steering wheel with audio controls, and includes numerous safety and security features, such as electronic stability control, electronic roll mitigation, Hill-start Assist (with manual transmission), and side-curtain air bags that cover all rows.

Available in Deep Cherry Red, Black, Mineral Gray and Bright White, the Jeep Patriot Altitude’s starting U.S. MSRP is $20,240 for 4x2 models and $23,275 for 4x4 models.

Jeep “Name My Ride” ContestFor several weeks following the Houston Auto Show, consumers had the opportunity to name the Jeep Grand Cherokee concept vehicle by visiting Jeep.com. The brand then compiled entries and narrowed them down to three favored choices:

- Altitude: representing the new heights the Jeep brand is reaching, with an array of new vehicles and special-edition models consumers have been seeking, a wide variety of vehicle and brand awards, and a string of recent sales successes that includes 23 months of increased sales – up 24 percent in 2010, 44 percent in 2011 and 34 percent so far in 2012 

- Midnight: for the distinctive, mysterious, deep and dark “blacked out” appearance of the vehicle; and

- Obsidan: a dark-colored – usually jet black – volcanic rock that displays curved surfaces – and may tie to a potential future Jeep model name.

After two weeks of online voting, “Altitude” was chosen as the winning name. Mark Johnson, of Sanger, Calif., submitted the name and will receive a new 2012 Jeep Grand Cherokee.

Jeep Sales HighlightsIn 2011, Jeep brand sales increased 44 percent in the U.S. – with each Jeep model up more than 30 percent – while industry sales rose 11 percent. Globally, Jeep sales increased 41 percent in 2011. Through the end of February, Jeep sales are up 34 percent in 2012 (versus industry increase of 14 percent), and 35 percent globally.

Jeep BrandBuilt on more than 70 years of legendary heritage, Jeep is the authentic SUV with class-leading capability, craftsmanship and versatility for people who seek extraordinary journeys. The Jeep brand delivers an open invitation to live life to the fullest by offering a full line of vehicles that continue to provide owners with a sense of security to handle any journey with confidence.

The Jeep vehicle lineup consists of the Compass, Grand Cherokee, Liberty, Patriot, Wrangler and Wrangler Unlimited. To meet consumer demand around the world, all six Jeep models are sold outside North America – and all are available in right-hand drive versions and with gasoline and diesel powertrain options. Chrysler Group LLC sells and services vehicles in approximately 120 countries around the world.

Thanks Tony!!!

Simi Valley, CA – March 26, 2012 – Fortunate enough to have one of the most extreme testing grounds in their backyard, GenRight Off-Road felt it was necessary to do their part to protect the Johnson Valley OHV area from the 29 Palms Marine Base Expansion.

To help fund the cause GenRight Off-Road is donating $1500 to Savethehammers.org.

Currently the Marines are looking to expand the 29 Palms Marine base west into the Johnson Valley OHV area. The current marine base is three quarters the size of the state of Rhode Island and if the expansion takes place it will be equal to the state of Rhode Island. It’s also important to note that the Johnson Valley OHV area represents 50% of the area available for off-road recreation in California. Closing this area would leave less than 1% of California available to OHV access.

GenRight is proud of the amount of time they spend in Johnson Valley! Wether it’s testing new products on the famous “Hammers” trails, leading trail rides for groups of enthusiasts, or preparing for the King of the Hammers there is a good chance you can find the GenRight crew in Johnson Valley on any given weekend. “Anything we can do to help preserve the Johnson Valley OHV area for future generations is a step in the right direction and we are happy to support www.savethehammers.org.” Stated GenRight Off-Road owner Tony Pellegrino.

You too can do your part to help save the hammers and protect Johnson Valley. Visitwww.savethehammers.org to learn more.

About GenRight Off-Road:
GenRight Off-Road is an aftermarket automotive parts manufacturer located in Simi Valley, CA. Specializing in Jeeps, they produce suspension kits, gas tanks, body armor and sport cages. All of GenRight’s products are “Made in the USA”. Tony Pellegrino, founder of GenRight Off-Road can be found showcasing his products on one of the GenRight Jeeps at events nationwide. GenRight Off-Road is located at 4535 Runway St, Simi Valley, CA 93063. For more information about GenRight or to purchase their products, please visit their website at www.genright.com or call (805) 584-8635. You can also follow Tony Pellegrino in the Factory GenRight Off Road Ultra4 race buggy #4485 on Facebook at: http://www.facebook.com/genrightoffroad

Rise of the East

WIN PEAKS, CA – March 21, 2012 – Hammerking Productions released the trailer for the 2012 Griffin King of the Hammers movie titled, “Rise of the East” today. The title for this year’s film is a reference to the 2012 King, Erik Miller. Miller is the first winner of the race to reside east of the Mississippi in Cumberland, MD. 

The movie will document the week-long off-road racing event held every February in Johnson Valley, CA. 2012 marked the 6th year for the King of the Hammers race which featured more than 200 teams and 30,000 spectators competing in over 5 days of racing. The movie’s release date is expected this summer following a red carpet premiere.

“Rise of the East” is a joint production between the creators of the Griffin King of the Hammers, Hammerking Productions, and media production company, HeavyMetalConcepts. Dave Cole,

“Rise of the East”

Executive Director of Hammerking Productions, had this to say about the movie, “We’re happy to have Will Gentile of HeavyMetalConcepts working with us again. He knows how to tell a story and has a strong cinematic eye.” HeavyMetalConcepts first began working with Hammerking Productions in 2011 when they produced the 2011 King of the Hammers movie, “Valley of the Kings.”

Griffin King of the Hammers “Rise of the East” will be available for sale on Hammerking Productions web site,www.ultra4racing.com. 

Source: Race-Dezert.com

Members of Congress request info from NHTSA on "Death Wobble"

Copied from autoblog.com today.

By Jeff SabatiniRSS feed

Posted Mar 20th 2012 5:29PM

Comments49

A local television news report on a so-called Jeep "death wobble" has led two members of the House of Representatives to write a letter to the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration requesting more information about the situation, which they describe as a "serious safety issue." The three-page letter does not demand an investigation or recall, but asks the agency numerous questions regarding the problem and what is known about it. The original report aired on KGO-TV in San Francisco in February.

The two members of Congress describe the problem as "a powerful shaking of the steering wheel and front wheels after a driver hits road bumps at speed," affecting 2005-2010 model year Jeep Wranglers. The news report says NHTSA has received over 600 complaints about wobbling and vibrating in Jeep vehicles since 1995, "mostly Wranglers." Indeed, YouTube is rife with videos of shaking Wranglers, some of which we've gathered after the jump.

Chrysler issued the following statement regarding the accusations:

Chrysler Group vehicles meet or exceed every applicable government safety standard and have excellent safety records. All manufacturer vehicles equipped with a solid axle are susceptible to vibration and, if experienced, it can be corrected by performing minor maintenance items, such as properly balancing or changing the tires, or a front end alignment, installing a new steering dampener, or by tightening or replacing other loose or worn parts. In fact, most reported incidents – in all manufacturer vehicles equipped with or without a solid axle – are often linked to poorly installed or maintained after-market equipment, such as lift kits, oversized tires, etc. This is not a safety issue, and there are no injuries involving Chrysler Group vehicles related to this allegation. Indeed, the name you've given to this condition has no basis in fact.

While we're not so sure blaming the customer for improper maintenance is the right response, we will say that Wranglers and their antecedents are unique beasts, what with their solid axles and high centers of gravity. This is why they're so wonderful off road, and why those that choose to use them as daily drivers shouldn't expect them to behave exactly like every other vehicle they encounter on their commute. And of course if there is, indeed, a "serious safety issue" with the Wrangler, we would expect Chrysler to address it.

Click past the jump to read the full letter, watch the most recent news report, and see videos of Jeeps exhibiting the symptoms.

Show full PR text

(1) How many consumer complaints has NHTSA received related to "death wobble,"or underlying steering, suspension and powertrain problems in Jeep vehicles? Please provide a breakdown by model and model years.

(2) Has NHTSA's review of Early Warning Reporting (EWR) data identified concerns regarding steering, suspension and powertrain problems in model year 2005-2010 Jeep vehicles? Please explain the review and the concerns identified.

(3) Has NHTSA analyzed NASS and FARS data on rollovers or other crashes
involving model year 2005-2010 Jeep vehicles to determine whether accidents, injuries and deaths may have been triggered by a sudden loss of vehicle control because of"death wobble" or underlying steering, suspension and powertrain problems? Please explain that analysis.

(4) On NHTSA's website there are swnmaries of four Technical Service Bulletins (TSBs) issued by Chrysler Group LLC that recommend a repair for Jeep Wranglers to address steering and linkage problems. Please provide a complete copy of these four TSBs as well as any others that concern steering, suspension, powertrain or other problems in Jeep vehicles that are potentially related.

(a) Does the agency agree that the repairs recommended in these TSBs can
prevent Jeep Wrangler "death wobble?" If not, what repairs does NHST A
believe are needed?
(b) How does NHTSA ensure that TSBs are disseminated and used effectively?
(c) With many Jeep vehicles affected by "death wobble" no longer under
warranty or soon subject to expiring warranties, how can NHTSA help ensure
Jeep owners have access to necessary repairs?
(d) How does NHTSA determine which TSBs are published or swnmarized on
NHTSA's website and how detailed such summaries should be?
(e) Does NHTSA require, or is it common practice for, manufacturers to maintain indexes of TSBs organized by category of model, model year and vehicle component? If so, why are such indexes not available on manufacturer or NHTSA websites so that consumers can identify TSBs on their vehicle?

(5) We are aware of at least one draft consumer satisfaction notification issued by Chrysler LLC, Customer Satisfaction Notification 134, encouraging owners of certain model year 2007-2010 Jeep Wranglers with right hand steering to visit a local dealership to replace the steering damper and mounting bracket.

(a) How does NHTSA determine whether a consumer service campaign or
consumer notification is necessary, or whether one undertaken by a company
is sufficient?
(b) There are few right hand steering vehicles in the United States.

(i) Is NHTSA aware of any customer satisfaction notifications and/or owner
notification letters addressing steering problems in Jeep Wranglers with
left hand steering or other Jeep models? If so, please provide them.
(ii) Is NHTSA aware of similar Jeep steering problems identified or
addressed by safety authorities in countries where right hand steering is
standard? Please explain.

(c) The notice indicates that repairs will be paid for or reimbursed by the
manufacturer. How does NHTSA determine whether a manufacturer is
required to reimburse owners or pay for a repair? Please provide any
guidance NHTSA offers to manufacturers.
(d) How does NHTSA ensure notification and/or reimbursement is provided
when manufacturer ownership changes, such as the transition of Jeep brand
ownership from DaimlerChrysler Motors Company LLC to Chrysler LLC, to
Chrysler Group LLC after the company emerged from bankruptcy in 2009.
Please provide any guidance NHTSA offers to manufacturers.

(6) Has NHTSA conducted an Issues Evaluation of"death wobble" in Jeep vehicles or any other review to determine whether to open an investigation? Please provide copies of any such evaluation. Does the agency believe a safety recall or consumer service campaign for affected Jeep models is warranted?

The Jeep "death wobble" is a serious safety issue that must be evaluated by NHTSA. It is also representative of the problems involving lack of transparency and access to reliable repairs that are present in other safety and defect cases. We look forward to your response to the questions
we've raised and to working with you to better assist and protect impacted vehicle owners.

Please provide the information requested in writing no later than April 2, 2012. If you have any questions regarding this request, contact Blake Hutnick with Rep. Eshoo's Office at (202) 225-8104 or Michelle Ash with the Energy and Commerce Committee Staff at (202)226-3400.

Sincerely,

Anna G Eshoo
Member of Congress

Henry A. Waxman
Ranking Member, Energy and Commerce Committee

Source: Autoblog