Jeep Grand Cherokee Side-Airbag Recall: Your California Lemon Law Rights

Stellantis (FCA US) has recalled 419,035 Jeep Grand Cherokee and Grand Cherokee L SUVs (NHTSA recall 26V328000, Mopar reference 01D) because the side airbags may deploy too late in a side-impact crash. Here's what the recall covers, what to do, and when a recall like this can become a California lemon law claim.

What the recall covers

The recall affects about 140,130 model year 2022–2026 Grand Cherokee (WL74) and 278,905 model year 2023–2025 Grand Cherokee L (WL75) SUVs. A software defect in the occupant restraint controller can delay deployment of the side airbags, which fails to meet Federal Motor Vehicle Safety Standard 214 and can reduce protection in certain side-impact crashes. Warning signs include a continuously lit airbag light and a chime at each ignition cycle.

What owners should do now

• Watch for your Stellantis owner-notification letter and schedule the free software update.
• If the airbag warning light stays on, have it addressed promptly.
• Confirm your VIN at nhtsa.gov/recalls.
• Keep your recall letter and every repair order.

When this recall can become a lemon

A recall isn't automatically a lemon — dealers update the restraint controller software for free. But an airbag that may not deploy properly is a serious safety defect. If the update doesn't resolve it, the warning light persists, or your Grand Cherokee has other unrepaired warranty defects, California's Lemon Law may entitle you to a buyback, replacement, or cash settlement, with the manufacturer paying your attorney fees.