Hi Folks, I recently purchased a 99' XJ. When I took it in for NYS inspection, I had an open recall #860 for the Airbag Control Module replacement and relocation. I called two local Jeep dealerships and they said the parts are no longer available. I then called the Jeep customer care 1-800 number and at first the rep said that the recall is still open and that I could take it to any dealer for the recall to be completed. I then told the Rep on the phone that the dealership(s) informed me that they could not longer get the parts. She put me on hold and then came back with "the parts are discontinued and the recall was closed because it is no longer a safety issue." Is this true and or can I relocate the ACM myself? How bad is the risk of AB deployment if I leave the ACM where it is under the driver's seat? Thanks.

 

As I recall (pun intended) the ACM recall just moved the module to the hump under the console from under the driver's seat. My understanding was that it was subject to more moisture under the seat which caused electrical problems with the module. You could relocate the ACM yourself, but you have to pay attention to the safety habits for those who move/replace/mess with airbag circuits. Disconnect the battery, touch the cables together with the switch on to discharge components and probably others I am not aware of.
Good Luck!

 

Disconnecting the battery AND waiting a half hour for the capacitor that continues to power the air bag to discharge ought to take care of that issue.

The problem I see is that if you do the recall yourself how do you get the "outstanding recall" on your vehicle off NY list. That has to be some sort of bureaucratic nightmare involving Chrysler,NHTSA, and NY and I can't see Chrysler helping you because of liability issues.
I realize this response isn't helping, just never thought about this problem with old vehicles before.
According to this a manufacturer won't pay for a recall after 15 yrs. It doesn't address the parts problem or getting off the list.
https://www.nhtsa.gov/document/motor-vehicle-safety-defects-and-recalls

 

Thanks for the replies and the nhtsa.gov link. Here's what the NHTSA has to say about vehicles that are over 15 years old. "There is a limitation based on the age of the vehicle. In order to be eligible for a free remedy, the vehicle cannot be more than 15 years old on the date the defect or noncompliance is determined. Under the law, the age of the vehicle is calculated from the date of sale to the first purchaser. However, consumers should realize that even though manufacturers are not obligated to remedy safety defects in older cars, a safety problem might still exist. If you receive notification of a defect on a vehicle older than 15 years, take the responsibility to have your car repaired at your own expense – and eliminate unnecessary safety risks." So I think my best course of action is to go to a junkyard and try to find the parts and relocate the sensor myself for my own safety and piece of mind. This is what the NHTSA is essentially saying.

 

Thanks for the responses. Update: I was able to locate an ACM and harness for the recall at a salvage yard. Does anyone know if I will need to have the ACM reprogrammed at a Jeep dealership after I relocate and install it myself? I'm hoping that it is just a plug-in and done. Thanks, Anthony.

 

I think they only replaced the module if it appeared to have water damage?

 

No programming required. Plug-N-Play

Todd