The NHTSA, which is conducting a probe, says it isn’t aware of any accidents or injuries caused by the front suspension problem
July 1, 2025 at 06:50
- It’s understood that the front steering knuckle can completely detach from the brake assembly.
- The NHTSA says it has received 12 Vehicle Owner Questionnaires related to the potential issue.
- In 2017, JLR recalled two of its models for a similar issue with a suspension knuckle joint.
Concerns around a potential steering component defect have prompted a new investigation into more than 91,000 Range Rover Sport models. The U.S. National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) has opened a preliminary evaluation after receiving multiple reports from owners about a front steering knuckle problem. While no recall has been issued yet, this type of evaluation often marks the first significant step in that direction.
The agency says certain 2014 to 2017 Range Rover Sport SUVs may develop cracks in the top joint of the aluminum front steering knuckle assembly. So far, it has received 12 Vehicle Owner Questionnaires (VOQs) detailing the issue.
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According to the complaints, the front steering knuckle has fractured at the point where it connects to the upper control arm ball joint, which is secured by a pinch bolt and nut. The concern is more than cosmetic.
The steering knuckle supports both the front wheel and the entire front brake assembly. A failure at this point could lead to the upper suspension arm detaching, which would significantly increase the risk of a crash.
A total of 91,856 Range Rover Sport SUVs from the 2014-2017 model years have been included in the investigation. So far, there have been no reports of crashes, fire, injuries, or fatalities related to cracked knuckle assemblies.
This is not the first time that JLR has encountered a similar issue. Back in early 2017, it issued a recall for 2016-2017 Range Rover Evoque and Land Rover Discovery Sport models, revealing that the left and right lower control arm-to-knuckle joints could be over-torqued. At the time, it noted that if the fastener failed, the wheel knuckle could separate from the front suspension lower control arm assembly.
The NHTSA’s current evaluation is expected to take several months. In the meantime, owners of affected vehicles may want to stay informed by monitoring updates directly from the NHTSA. While no official action has been taken yet, the outcome of the investigation could lead to further steps, including a recall if safety risks are confirmed.
