An incomplete update could render the headlights unusable.
The Jeep Grand Cherokee is the latest SUV in the brand’s expanding lineup. But, that growth has not come without some challenges. Select models with smart lighting modules (SLM) are now under recall. A failure to update the SLM software can cause one or both of your headlights to go out. This is illegal and dangerous. Federal law requires that cars have functioning headlights. Jeep is requesting a recall.
The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) estimates that there are nearly 37,000. The agency’s recall report does not go beyond the basics and is very sparse. Inoperable headlights can make it very difficult to see, and even more dangerous. Jeep will start notifying owners by mail beginning January 28, 2022. Owners will be directed to their dealers by the company, who will reprogram your software at no cost.
This recall is the second related to headlights for this model since it was introduced earlier in the year. The company recalls SUVs without automatic high-beam headslights. This was due to an issue that made activating the high beams difficult. It was a minor recall, affecting just over 7,000 vehicles. The ongoing chip shortage also affected the new Grand Cherokee L, which led to the automaker building the model without the Quadra-Lift air suspension.
This is most likely the start of a trend where minor software updates can make vital vehicle systems unusable. Bad software updates have caused large swathes to be lost on the internet. We should expect similar problems with cars in the future. Human error is possible because no code is perfect. It is frustrating to not have functioning headlights, especially for those who live in areas where nighttime darkness can arrive during their evening commute home.