NHTSA Complaint #11610044 — 2011 JEEP GRAND CHEROKEE

While my wife was driving, there was a noticable whining sound that was followed by heat, burning smell and smoke coming into the cabin. After taking in for service, I was told that the problem was the alternator which would have caught fire or failed without warning increasing the risk of a crash. Upon learning it was the alternator I discovered that there were 2 separate recalls (P60 and & T36) for defective alternators for 2012-2014 vehicles. "The alternator diodes on your vehicle may experience a rapid failure. Variability in the failure mode ranges from no output, reduced output, and/or a fully shorted to ground condition. Depending on the alternator failure mode and timing, vehicle electrical system voltage may drop to critical levels, disabling systems such as Antilock Brake System (ABS), Electronic Stability Control (ESC), Electronic Control Module (ECM), and/or the Central Body Controller (CBC). The driver will have limited or no detection of the alternator failing, which can result in vehicle shutdown while driving and/or an underhood electrical fire." Something terrible could have happened to my wife. Thankfully it did not. When I was told that my vehicle was not included because it is a 2011 I was angry and frustrated which is why I am reporting this to you. I am questioning why the NHTSA - would not include 2011 vehicles in the safety recall as the problem with the alternator is the same. Am I supposed to believe that the defective alternator in my vehicle is not the same as the ones that are in the 2012 when they are having the exact same problem? Along with the anger I feel because of the danger it posed to my family, I am equally frustrated that the repair is not covered under the costly repair because my VIN didn't not fall under the recall.