Jeep, one of the most iconic names in off-road and adventure vehicles, has announced a significant recall impacting over 194,000 of its plug-in hybrid (PHEV) models globally. The reason? A potential fire hazard that could occur even when the vehicles are turned off. This recall affects two popular models: the Wrangler 4xe from the 2020 to 2024 model years and the Grand Cherokee 4xe from 2022 to 2024.
For owners of these vehicles, it’s essential to take immediate precautions. Jeep is advising customers to stop charging their vehicles and park them outdoors, away from buildings or any other structures, until repairs can be made. Here’s what you need to know to stay safe and what steps to take next.
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The fire risk appears to stem from the vehicle’s high-voltage battery system, which remains a concern even when the ignition is off. Stellantis, Jeep’s parent company, revealed that a recent review of customer data uncovered 13 reported fire incidents, two of which resulted in minor injuries. Though the fires occurred with the vehicle off and the battery not actively charging, it has prompted an urgent response from Jeep.
Of the 194,000 affected vehicles, the majority are located in North America, highlighting the importance of this recall for U.S. owners in particular. Stellantis estimates that around 5% of the recalled SUVs may actually be at risk, though the full scope of the problem is still being investigated.
If you own a Wrangler or Grand Cherokee 4xe from the affected model years, it’s crucial to follow Jeep’s instructions for your safety:
Jeep has assured customers that a fix is on the way. A remedy to the problem is being developed, and affected owners will be notified when it’s time to schedule their service appointment. Stellantis also mentioned that the fire risk is reduced when the vehicle’s battery charge is depleted. However, this is not a permanent solution—owners should await the official repair.
So, how did Jeep discover the issue? A routine data review conducted by the automaker uncovered patterns that led to an investigation. The fires have been linked to the SUVs’ plug-in hybrid systems, though the exact cause is still under analysis. While most of the incidents were reported without injuries, the two injury cases add urgency to resolving the situation quickly.
For further questions or updates, Jeep owners can reach out to Jeep Customer Care at (800) 853-1403. In addition, Stellantis has recommended checking their website at www.mopar.com, where owners can input their Vehicle Identification Number (VIN) to see if their specific SUV is part of the recall.
