Stellantis has announced a significant recall of more than 320,000 Jeep plug-in hybrid SUVs in the United States and Canada due to a potential fire risk linked to high-voltage battery packs. The recall affects the 2020-2025 Jeep Wrangler 4xe and the 2022-2026 Grand Cherokee 4xe models, following an internal review by the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) that identified defects in the lithium-ion cells of the battery packs.
The NHTSA reported that the defect could lead to thermal leaks, potentially causing fires whether the vehicles are in motion or parked. In light of this danger, the agency has advised affected owners to park their vehicles outdoors, away from structures, and to avoid charging the batteries until a resolution is implemented. The recall notice specifically warns that the risk of fire may increase with a charged battery compared to a depleted one.
Efforts to address this issue began in September when Stellantis attempted to replace the entire battery pack and issued a software update. Unfortunately, these measures have not been effective, and a definitive solution is still pending. The company is expected to announce its findings soon, particularly following reports of one injury and 19 fires related to the defect.
While Stellantis is not currently facing legal action regarding this recall, it is involved in a class-action lawsuit concerning defects in other Jeep models, including the 2020-2024 Jeep Wrangler and 2021-2023 Jeep Gladiator.
Recommendations for Affected Owners
The NHTSA’s guidance for owners emphasizes the importance of precautionary measures. Until a fix is provided, parking outdoors and refraining from charging the vehicle are crucial steps to mitigate risks. Affected individuals can find more information on the official NHTSA website or by contacting Stellantis directly.
In summary, this recall not only highlights a pressing safety concern but also underscores the ongoing challenges faced by Stellantis with its Jeep brand. As the company moves forward, the focus will remain on ensuring the safety of its customers and resolving the underlying issues with its plug-in hybrids.
