Classic cars forum & vehicle restoration.

[christine lowery]

Just in case anyone owns one of these :-
Practical Caravan's tow car expert David Motton explains why this Jeep recall means the end of the road for some tow cars – find out if you are affected
The recall doesn't spell the end of towing for all the affected owners
Jeep has announced a recall of more than 30,000 Cherokee and Grand Cherokee models which will leave many of these cars unsuitable for towing.

The recall is to strengthen the rear of the car, following reports in the US of an unusually high number of vehicle fires in the event of a rear impact. Under the recall, a cross beam is fitted to provide additional crash protection.

In some cases, this means a Jeep Cherokee or Grand Cherokee will need to have an existing tow ball removed in order for the cross beam to be fitted. Once the cross beam is in place, it's no longer possible to fit a towball to the car.

Cars affected are the Grand Cherokee built between 01/01/92 and 27/10/98, and the Cherokee built between 2002 and 2007. Letters have been sent out to owners advising them of the recall.

Jeep told us: "If a customer is concerned his or her vehicle is affected and they have not received a letter, they should contact Customer Service on 00800 3428 0000 option 3, and we can check and advise accordingly."

Practical Caravan was alerted to the issue by reader John Gamble, who posted on our Facebook page: "Jeep Cherokee, previous tow vehicle, with only 55k miles. Advised, by Jeep, that our Cherokee is no longer fit to tow. No longer able to have a towbar fitted due to safety recall to have rear reinforcement structure fitted. JEEP NOT FIT FOR PURPOSE."

John isn't alone in being angry that his tow car can no longer be used for the purpose for which he bought it. We've found a number of frustrated bloggers and disappointed comments on owners' club forums.

The recall doesn't spell the end of towing for all the affected owners, however. Some towballs may not have to be removed if, after inspection by a Jeep dealer, it is decided that the towball offers the safety benefits of the cross beam.

According to Jeep: "If a tow bar is already fitted to the vehicle it needs to be inspected to verify if it conforms to the certified

[Peter_L]

A little confusion ?


The answer: tow hitches.

Apparently Jeeps with a tow hitch installed are better able to withstand rear collision, the hardware serving as an extra bumper and an extra way to distribute force to the frame (rather than the gas tank.) So when Chrysler talks about a “visual inspection,” what it means is that dealers will be checking for tow hitches. Vehicles that have a decent-quality hitch installed and in good condition will be free to go. Those without a hitch, or without one in good shape, will receive one on Chrysler’s dime.