If you are the proud new owner of a 2018 Jeep JL Wrangler, you definitely have plenty to be excited about every time you turn that key and drive.
However, at the moment, it looks like the vehicle’s revamped UConnect system may not one of those things.
At least, not for many who pushed through an over-the-air software update late last week.
That’s because the ‘update’ actually somehow tossed the vehicle’s UConnect system into an endless reboot, to the point where numerous owners have lost their radio, navigation, rear-view camera, as well as tons of other features pumped up by Fiat Chrysler Automobiles during the JL Wrangler ramp up.
Currently FCA has not officially commented on the reports, but apparently has emailed dealerships that they are investigating the cause and not to replace radios from affected vehicles at this time.
According to the UConnect Cares Twitter feed, the company is aware of the issues and is working on a fix, but can't yet offer a solution timeline.
Certain 2017 & 2018 Uconnect systems may experience a reboot every 45-60 seconds. Our Engineering teams are investigating the cause and working towards a resolution. We will post here as soon as more information is available and apologize for the inconvenience.
— UconnectCares (@UconnectCares) February 12, 2018
From most user reports, the UConnect issues first flared Friday with many stating that their radios began randomly rebooting, along with a loss of just about every other function displayed on the system’s center screen. While some said this was after accepting a dialog box indicating a new update was available, others said their UConnect automatically applied the update with no option to decline.
These issues also apparently affect some 2018 Grand Cherokee vehicles as well as 2017 and 2018 Dodge, Ram, Fiat and Chrysler models.
First unveiled in 2007 as the MyGig system, UConnect has steadily evolved into an all-encompassing touchscreen infotainment center which controls radio functions, Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, back-up camera, handsfree phone or text use, GPS, and also serves as a 4G WiFi hotspot.
The system entered its fourth generation for all 2018 JL Wranglers, and is available in 5-, 7-, or 8.4-inch displays.
