NHTSA investigates Jeep Wrangler weld quality

A petition alleges widespread defects across "nearly all" 2018 Jeep Wrangler JL frames.

The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration is reviewing an investigation petition alleging weld defects in the new Jeep Wrangler.

The petitioner claims the JL-generation Wrangler suffers from a wide range of weld deficiencies including porous welds, excessive slag, lack of weld penetration, over penetration, overweld or weld drip, and weld splash.

"The weld defects are allegedly located at a variety of locations on the frame assembly including the track bar bracket welds that have broken and resulted in steering concerns," the NHTSA says, citing an existing recall for the bracket defect. "The petitioner alleges that the existence of the described weld defects could result in 'catastrophic failure.'"

The agency is now evaluating the issue to determine if it will grant or deny the petitioner's request for a formal investigation. So far, the complaints have not been associated with any accidents or injuries.