In the complex world of automotive suspension systems, few components are as vital as the suspension knuckle—sometimes called the upright. This solid metal piece plays a central role by connecting key elements such as the steering arms, suspension links, and the wheel hub that supports the tire. When functioning properly, it’s largely invisible to the driver. But if it fails, particularly on a heavy SUV weighing around 2,500 kg, the consequences can be severe, potentially leading to accidents, lawsuits, and extensive insurance claims.
It is precisely this concern that has prompted Jaguar Land Rover (JLR) to issue a major safety recall. The company announced that it is recalling more than 121,000 vehicles globally due to a defect involving their suspension knuckles. Specifically, 66,789 units of the Range Rover Sport and 54,720 units of the Range Rover flagship model are affected.
The risk stems from the possibility that these knuckles could develop cracks. While the part seems straightforward and durable, any structural failure can have serious consequences. If the crack grows large enough, one of the suspension arms could detach, dramatically compromising vehicle control and increasing the risk of a crash. JLR has acknowledged the issue but stressed that it has not yet received reports of accidents or injuries related to the defect. The problematic knuckles were manufactured in Taiwan and installed on Range Rovers and Range Rover Sports built between 2014 and 2017, making them components of the previous-generation models.
Owners of the affected SUVs will be contacted and instructed to visit their local dealerships. There, technicians will inspect both front suspension knuckles. If no cracks are found, a retaining bracket will be installed to reinforce the component. Should cracks already be present—or if the required bracket is unavailable—the knuckle will be replaced entirely.
This is not the first time the automaker has faced this issue. In fact, the recall comes after several years of scrutiny. In November 2023, reports surfaced that JLR was recalling 2014–2016 Range Rovers for the same defect, traced back to the same supplier: SuperAlloy Industrial. Earlier still, in 2022, recalls were issued in Canada and the UK. At that time, JLR explained that road salt used during winter appeared to accelerate the rate of failure, making vehicles in those markets more vulnerable.
The issue gained further traction in the United States in July 2024, when the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) opened an investigation. The probe followed a dozen Vehicle Owner Questionnaires (VOQs) submitted by drivers who reported steering knuckle failures in their Range Rover Sport SUVs.
With this expanded recall, JLR aims to address the problem on a much broader scale, ensuring that owners of all potentially affected vehicles receive inspections and, if necessary, replacements. For a brand built on luxury and capability, the recall is an important step in maintaining safety and customer trust while also closing the chapter on a lingering engineering flaw.