2020-2023 Jeep Gladiator Power Steering: Pump Failures, TSBs, and Steering Box Issues

Known Issues, TSBs, and Recalls

The power steering system on the 2020-2023 Jeep Gladiator is a known point of concern, with issues ranging from the pump itself to the steering gear it operates. Numerous owner complaints and several Technical Service Bulletins (TSBs) have been issued to address these problems.

Steering Wander and TSB 08-074-20

One of the most widely discussed issues is a feeling of loose steering, wandering, or excessive play that requires constant driver correction to keep the truck straight. This was particularly prevalent on earlier models. In response, Jeep issued TSB 08-074-20 (and subsequent revisions like 08-003-21 REV. A), which involves replacing the original aluminum steering gear with a more robust steel unit and updating the EHPS software. 🎬 Watch: See the new steel steering box being installed. Many owners who had this TSB performed reported a significant improvement in steering feel, describing it as much tighter and more responsive.

Power Steering Pump Electrical Issues & Fire Risk

For 2021-2023 models, a serious issue involves the power steering pump's electrical connector. The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) opened an investigation into reports of spontaneous engine compartment fires, even when the vehicle was turned off. The suspected origin is the power steering pump's electrical connector on the passenger side of the engine bay. This has led to a class-action lawsuit alleging that a defect in the manufacturing or installation of the pump's electrical components creates a fire hazard. TSB 9100185 also instructs technicians to contact FCA before replacing the EHPS pump for damage at the electrical connection.

Intermittent or Sudden Loss of Power Steering

Owners have reported a sudden and complete loss of power steering while driving, making the wheel extremely difficult to turn. This issue can be intermittent, sometimes resolving itself after slowing down or restarting the vehicle. Potential causes discussed by owners and in TSBs include poor electrical grounds, loose fuses in the power distribution center, a faulty CAN bus connector, or internal pump failure. TSB S2019000005RevB and U0131-00 address lost communication with the power steering control module, which can cause the EPS light to illuminate and steering assist to fail.

Symptoms of a Failing Power Steering Pump 🎬 Watch: A quick guide to common steering pump failure signs.

1. Whining or Groaning Noises

A common first sign of a failing power steering pump is a whining or groaning noise that changes pitch with engine RPM. The noise will often get louder when you turn the steering wheel. This is typically caused by low fluid levels, air in the system, or a worn-out pump struggling to pressurize the fluid. Grinding sounds may indicate metal-on-metal contact inside the pump.

2. Stiff or Difficult Steering

If turning the steering wheel, especially at low speeds, requires significantly more effort than usual, the pump is likely not providing adequate hydraulic pressure. This can be a constant issue or happen intermittently, as some owners have experienced a sudden loss of assist that returns later.

3. Fluid Leaks

The power steering fluid in a Gladiator should be a clear, light-colored fluid with a pink or reddish hue. If you notice reddish puddles under the front passenger side of your vehicle, you may have a leak from the pump, hoses, or steering gear. A low fluid level is a primary cause of pump damage due to overheating and lack of lubrication.

4. Contaminated Fluid

When checking the power steering fluid reservoir, look at the fluid's condition. If it appears dark, sludgy, or has a burnt smell, it has likely broken down and is no longer protecting the system. If you see shiny metallic particles, this is a critical sign of internal pump failure, as metal components are grinding against each other. Continuing to run the vehicle with contaminated fluid can damage the entire steering system, including the expensive steering gear.

Buying a Used Power Steering Pump

Given the high cost of a new OEM power steering pump, a used OEM unit from a low-mileage vehicle can be a cost-effective solution. When buying used, you get a part designed with the exact flow and pressure specifications for your vehicle, often avoiding the quality control issues of some aftermarket brands.

What to Inspect:

• Housing: Check the pump's body for any cracks, heavy corrosion, or signs of impact damage.
• Pulley: The pulley should be intact and spin freely by hand without any grinding noises or wobble.
• Ports: Look at the fluid inlet and outlet ports. They should be clean and free of debris. Capped ports are a good sign the seller took care to prevent contamination.
• Electrical Connector: Carefully inspect the electrical connector and wiring for any signs of melting, corrosion, or damage, which is a known fire-risk issue on these vehicles.
• Source Vehicle Mileage: If possible, get the mileage from the donor vehicle. While these pumps can fail at any mileage, a pump from a vehicle with under 50,000 miles is a much safer bet than one with over 100,000 miles.

Replacement and Installation

Replacing the power steering pump is a moderately difficult job that can be done by a skilled DIY mechanic. However, proper procedure is critical to avoid damaging the new pump or other components.

Related Parts to Consider

• Serpentine Belt: Since you will have to remove the serpentine belt to access the pump, it's a good time to inspect and replace it if it shows signs of cracking or wear.
• Power Steering Fluid: You must flush the entire system and fill it with new, correct-spec fluid (Mopar P/N 68088485AB, MS-11655). Failure to flush the system can leave old, contaminated fluid and debris that will quickly destroy the replacement pump.
• Hoses and Clamps: Inspect all power steering hoses for cracks, brittleness, or soft spots. Replace any that are suspect to prevent future leaks.

Bleeding the System

After installing the new pump and filling the reservoir, you must bleed all air from the system before starting the engine. Air trapped in the system can cause pump cavitation (where the pump tries to compress air instead of fluid), leading to immediate noise and damage.

1. With the engine OFF, raise the front wheels off the ground so they can be turned easily.
2. Turn the steering wheel fully from lock to lock 20-30 times. Keep an eye on the fluid reservoir and top it off as the level drops.
3. Once the fluid level stabilizes and you see no more bubbles, you can lower the vehicle, start the engine, and check for proper operation and any leaks. Some procedures call for repeating the lock-to-lock turns with the engine running.

Cost of Replacement

The cost to replace a Jeep Gladiator power steering pump varies significantly between doing it yourself and having a shop perform the work, primarily due to the high cost of the OEM part.

Frequently Asked Questions