Rugged, off-road models like the Jeep Wrangler are meant to take a beating, but select 2026 Wrangler and Gladiator models have a critical weak point, according to recall documents filed with the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration. Around 641 units of Jeep’s Wrangler and Gladiator models were recalled on July 16, 2026, over steel wheels that are prone to cracking and separating.
Recall filings explain that 4x4s were fitted with steel wheels that were produced with a thin-wall condition, and that all 641 units included in the recall are fitted with the faulty wheels. “Some 2026MY Jeep Wrangler vehicles may have been built with a steel wheel that was produced with a thin-wall condition. A steel wheel with a thin-wall condition can contribute to potential wheel cracking and separating resulting in potential compromised vehicle control,” the recall notice reads.
View Price on Amazon“Compromised control of the vehicle can cause a vehicle crash without prior warning.” Jeep’s parent company, Stellantis, first found out about the weakened wheel in December 2025 and opened an internal investigation shortly after. Stellantis’ Technical Safety and Regulatory Compliance organization met between December 2025 and June 2026 to determine the scope of the issue. Stellantis is not aware of any warranty claims, crashes, or injuries related to the faulty wheels.
The recall population is limited to models built within ten days in November 2025. The Gladiator pickup accounts for 35 of the 641 units recalled, while Wranglers account for 606 units. Recall documents did not specify if a certain trim level was primarily affected by the recall.
The fix is relatively simple. Jeep will inspect and, if necessary, replace the faulty steel wheels and valve stems. Until then, all 641 owners should probably stay off the trails.
Source: roadandtrack.com
