Stellantis has issued a recall for approximately 194,000 Jeep plug-in hybrid vehicles due to fire risks, impacting popular models such as the 2020–2024 Jeep Wrangler 4xe and the 2022–2024 Jeep Grand Cherokee 4xe. This recall raises safety concerns for Jeep hybrid owners and highlights the importance of battery safety in electric and hybrid vehicles.
Why is Stellantis Recalling These Vehicles?
Understanding the Issue
The recall was initiated after reports of 13 vehicle fires, all occurring while the cars were parked and turned off. Stellantis’ internal investigation revealed that a battery component defect could potentially cause overheating, leading to spontaneous combustion in rare cases.
Safety Measures for Owners
To minimize risks while awaiting repairs, Jeep has provided the following safety recommendations:
- Park outdoors and away from structures to prevent damage in case of fire.
- Do not charge the vehicle until the issue is resolved.
- Allow the battery charge to run down to reduce potential overheating risks.
Table: Summary of Stellantis Recall Issue & Safety Measures
| Issue | Cause | Safety Measures |
|---|---|---|
| Fire risk in hybrids | Battery component defect | Park outdoors, avoid charging, deplete battery charge |
Which Jeep Models and Regions Are Affected?
This recall impacts Jeep’s popular plug-in hybrid electric vehicles (PHEVs), primarily in North America. Below is a breakdown of the affected models and estimated numbers:
Affected Models
- Jeep Wrangler 4xe (2020–2024 models)
- Jeep Grand Cherokee 4xe (2022–2024 models)
Affected Regions
- United States: ~154,000 vehicles
- Canada: ~14,000 vehicles
- Mexico: ~700 vehicles
- Other Regions: ~26,000 vehicles
What Should Jeep Owners Do?
If you own one of the affected Jeep plug-in hybrids, follow these steps:
- Check Your VIN (Vehicle Identification Number): Use Mopar’s official recall website to see if your vehicle is included.
- Follow Stellantis’ Safety Measures: Avoid parking indoors, stop charging, and allow the battery to deplete.
- Wait for Notification: Stellantis will send official recall notices when repairs are available.
- Schedule a Repair: Once notified, book an appointment at an authorized Jeep dealership for a free repair.
For immediate questions, Jeep owners can contact Jeep Customer Care at (800) 853-1403.
How Does This Recall Affect Jeep’s Reputation?
Jeep’s hybrid lineup has been a top choice among eco-conscious consumers, but this recall raises concerns about battery safety in plug-in hybrids. This isn’t the first recall for EV or hybrid vehicles, reinforcing the challenges automakers face in battery technology development.
Will This Impact Future Jeep Sales?
Despite the recall, Jeep continues to dominate the off-road hybrid segment. However, handling recalls properly is critical for maintaining brand trust and customer loyalty.
Table: Jeep Hybrid Recall Impact
| Factor | Effect on Brand |
| Consumer trust | Potential decline if issues persist |
| Sales impact | Short-term concern, long-term recovery expected |
| Safety reputation | Damage control needed through proper recall handling |
Conclusion
The recall of 194,000 Jeep Wrangler and Grand Cherokee plug-in hybrids highlights ongoing challenges in hybrid battery safety. If you own one of these models, it’s crucial to follow safety recommendations and stay updated on recall developments. As electric vehicle technology advances, automakers must enhance battery reliability to maintain consumer confidence.
