Jeep Renegades Recalled for Trailer Hitches

FCA US is recalling 8,561 2015-2016 model-year Jeep Renegade compact SUVs because of faulty trailer hitch assemblies, according to the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration.

The recall covers Renegades manufactured from Aug. 25, 2014, to June 25, 2016. They are all equipped with a factory-installed optional trailer hitch package. The trailer hitch assembly may have been attached with only a single fastener per side, not three per side as required, NHTSA said on the agency’s website.

“Without the proper amount of fasteners, the trailer hitch assembly may separate from the vehicle, and any towed vehicle may no longer be properly connected, increasing the risk of a crash,” NHTSA warned.

Jeep dealers will install two additional fasteners per side, free of charge, to fix the problem.

Vehicle owners can reach FCA (Fiat Chrysler Automobiles) customer service at (800) 853-1403. The automaker’s number for this recall is S62.