Grand Cherokee & Durango Sun Visor Fire Risk and Droop Fix (2011-2014)

Symptoms of a Failing Sun Visor

A failing sun visor can present several issues, ranging from minor annoyances to significant safety hazards.

• Drooping or Not Staying Up: This is the most common failure. The internal mechanism that holds the visor in the stowed position wears out, causing the visor to droop and obstruct the driver's view.
• Vanity Light Failure: The vanity mirror light may flicker or stop working entirely. This is often caused by a break in the wiring where it flexes at the pivot point, or a short circuit.
• Burning Smell or Smoke: A strong electrical burning smell or visible smoke coming from the headliner near the visor is a critical safety issue. This indicates a short circuit in the vanity light wiring and poses a significant fire risk. Pull over and stop the vehicle immediately if this occurs.
• Rattling Noise: A loose or broken internal component can cause the visor to rattle or buzz, especially when driving over rough surfaces.
• Broken Mounting Point: The plastic base where the visor mounts to the roof can become brittle and crack, causing the entire visor to become loose or detach.

Known Issues, Recalls, and Technical Service Bulletins (TSBs)

Chrysler (now FCA/Stellantis) issued several recalls to address the sun visor wiring fire risk on 2011-2014 Jeep Grand Cherokee and Dodge Durango models with illuminated vanity mirrors.

• NHTSA Recall 14V-391 (FCA P36): This initial recall was launched for approximately 651,000 vehicles built through December 11, 2013. The fix involved installing plastic guides to protect the wiring. However, this remedy proved insufficient in some cases.
• NHTSA Recall 15V-879 (FCA R71): After reports of fires in vehicles that had the first recall performed, a second, more robust recall was issued for about 388,600 vehicles built through September 1, 2012. This repair involved replacing the sun visors, modifying the sheet metal, and installing wire guides.

Before purchasing a used vehicle or a replacement visor, it is crucial to check the Vehicle Identification Number (VIN) on the NHTSA's website to see if these recalls apply and if the repair work has been completed by a dealer.

Vehicle and Part Compatibility: Getting the Right Visor

While the basic shape is the same, several variations exist. Ordering the correct visor is essential for proper fit and function.

• Vehicle Fitment: This guide and the associated recalls apply specifically to the 2011-2014 Jeep Grand Cherokee (WK2) and 2011-2014 Dodge Durango. While some part numbers may show compatibility with newer models, the primary issues and recalls are concentrated in this period.
• Left vs. Right: Visors are specific to the driver (left) and passenger (right) sides.
• Illuminated vs. Non-Illuminated: The most important distinction. Visors for vehicles with illuminated vanity mirrors have an electrical connector. Visors for base models without the light do not. They are not interchangeable.
• Color Matching: The most common interior colors are black, gray, and beige/tan. The interior trim code for your vehicle is located on a sticker in the driver's side door jamb and is often labeled as "TRM".
🎬 See this video to help locate your interior trim code.

Buying a Used Sun Visor: What to Look For

A used OEM sun visor can be a cost-effective solution, but careful inspection is key.

1. Check the Pivot Joint: This is the most common failure point for drooping. Hold the visor base and move the visor arm. It should feel firm and hold its position without falling. Avoid any visor that feels loose or floppy.
2. Inspect the Wiring: For illuminated models, carefully inspect the wiring where it enters the mounting base. Look for any signs of fraying, pinching, or previous amateur repairs. Given the fire recall, this is the most critical safety check.
3. Test the Vanity Mirror Door: Open and close the vanity mirror cover. The hinge should be intact and the door should stay closed. A broken door is a common cosmetic issue.
4. Verify Features: Ensure the visor has the same features as your original—specifically the illuminated mirror and/or HomeLink buttons.
5. Confirm Recall Status: If possible, ask if the visor came from a vehicle that had the final recall (R71) performed. While difficult to verify, it's worth asking. It is safer to assume a used part has not had the recall performed and to inspect the wiring carefully.

Sun Visor Replacement Guide

Replacing the sun visor is a straightforward DIY project that usually takes less than 30 minutes.

Tools Needed:

• Small flathead screwdriver or trim removal tool
• T20 or T25 Torx driver (or a 5/16" socket, depending on the screw type used)

Step-by-Step Process:

1. Pry Open the Trim Cover: Use a small flathead screwdriver to gently pry open the plastic cover at the base of the sun visor where it meets the headliner.
2. Remove Mounting Screws: Remove the two or three screws holding the visor to the roof structure. Support the visor as you remove the last screw.
3. Disconnect Electrical Connector: If you have an illuminated visor, carefully lower it to expose the electrical wire. There will be a small plastic connector. Press the release tab and pull the two halves of the connector apart. Do not pull on the wires themselves.
4. Install the New Visor: Connect the electrical plug of the new visor. Position the new visor and install the mounting screws, being careful not to overtighten them as they often thread into plastic.
5. Test and Finish: Test the vanity light and the visor's movement. Snap the plastic trim cover back into place.

Cost Comparison

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)