Four problems related to power steering failed have been reported for the 2018 Jeep Wrangler. The most recently reported issues are listed below.
Tl the contact owns a 2018 Jeep Wrangler. While driving approximately 40 mph, the tire pressure warning indicator illuminated and the power steering failed. The contact stated that extra effort was needed to maneuver the vehicle. The contact stated that the failure occurred twice. The contact stated that turning the steering to the right operated as intended; however, when turning the steering wheel to the left, the wheels hesitated to respond. The vehicle was taken to lindsay Chrysler Dodge Jeep ram (8100 centreville rd, city of manassas, va 20111, (888) 241-6888) to be diagnosed, which was still pending. The vehicle was not repaired. The manufacturer was contacted and provided case number: 68116814. The approximate failure mileage was 11,300. The VIN was not available.
In one instance, when driving at speeds above 60 miles per hour on the highway, the power steering either failed or something within the steering system locked up. Decelerating below 40 miles per hour releases the steering and you can steer the vehicle properly again. In another instance, driving 45 miles per hour on city streets, the same lock up occurred. Slowing down to below 40 miles per hour allowed the Jeep to be controlled once again. This happened once on 12/14/2018 (highway) and then again on the city street on 12/15/2018. Thankfully in both instances I was able to safely maneuver to the side of the road to avoid collision.
Jeep is experiencing intermittent steering lock-up while driving, typically at faster speeds such as 65mph. The steering feels al though the engine seized or power steering completely failed. Once speed slows, the steering engages again. It's very dangerous. This has happened both on the highway and on residential roads.
My 2018 Jeep Wrangler has experienced power steering failure primarily during highway driving and more often in cold weather. You become aware of the failure after entering the highway and attempt a slight correction right or left and realize there is no power assist. You apply more pressure then realize it is going to take a lot more effort to make the car move in the direction desired, the initial thought is the car is not going to turn but with more pressure it finally moves. This may continue for a few seconds or can come and go for miles. I cannot make the car do it at will so I've made no effort to have the car repaired. I also have followed forums on line describing steering problems but as of yet,it appears there is no dealer repair offered. The car has been in service since 5/5/2018. The problem has persisted since shortly after delivery. I am currently just past 40k miles in this time period. Out of factory warranty but I did purchase a 100k mile warranty at time of sale. I keep thinking this problem is going to become a recall along with excessive steering play,(wandering),and the ever famous "death wobble" of which this vehicle has all three. So far that hasn't happened. Regardless of being termed safety issues my experience is that they are most certainly safety issues. Thank you, john t grandmontagne.