Jeep recalls 194,000 plug-in hybrid SUVs over fire risk
Stellantis, the parent company of Jeep, has issued a recall for around 194,000 plug-in hybrid SUVs due to potential fire risks. The recall affects specific models of the Jeep Wrangler 4xe made between 2020 and 2024, as well as some units of the Jeep Grand Cherokee 4xe produced from 2022 to 2024. The company estimates that about 5% of these vehicles may have this defect.
Recall triggered by 13 reported fire incidents
The recall kicked off after Stellantis found the issue during an internal probe, which was sparked by a routine check of customer data. The company got wind of the problem when 13 fires were reported, all happening while the vehicle was parked and turned off. Even with these incidents, Stellantis hasn't yet asked customers to bring their hybrids in for servicing but assures that a "remedy is imminent."
Stellantis advises owners to avoid recharging
In the meantime, Stellantis has given some advice to the owners of the affected vehicles. The company said, "Vehicle risk is reduced when the battery charge level is depleted. Accordingly, owners are advised to refrain from recharging." As a precaution, the company is also advising owners of these vehicles to park away from structures or other vehicles until a solution is provided.
Recall impacts primarily US-based customers
The recall mainly impacts folks in the US, with 154,032 vehicles being called back across the country. In Canada, just over 14,000 vehicles are caught up in this recall, while in Mexico and outside of North America, the numbers are 673 and 25,502, respectively. In India, where Jeep sells models like the Compass, Meridian, Wrangler, and Grand Cherokee with petrol and diesel engines, the recall won't affect customers since plug-in hybrids aren't available here.
