Battery Fire Risk Sparks Action from Stellantis
Jeep owners across the U.S. are being urged to take immediate safety precautions following a massive recall issued by Stellantis, the automaker behind Jeep. The company is recalling more than 320,000 plug-in hybrid SUVs after discovering a defect that could cause the high-voltage battery packs to overheat and catch fire, even when the vehicles are turned off.
This recall covers two of Jeep’s most popular plug-in hybrid models: the Wrangler 4xe, built between 2020 and 2025, and the Grand Cherokee 4xe, produced from 2022 through 2026. Combined, the campaign affects nearly a third of a million vehicles in the U.S., with additional units recalled worldwide.
What’s Behind the Recall
Stellantis discovered that the issue stems from an internal problem within the hybrid battery packs. Some battery cells were manufactured with minor internal damage that can cause electrical short-circuits or overheating over time. These flaws can lead to what’s known as a “thermal event,” or in plain terms, a fire.
What makes this situation especially concerning is that the fires can occur while the vehicles are parked and turned off. Several incidents have already been reported, prompting federal regulators to advise owners to take extra caution until repairs can be made.
Although Stellantis previously issued smaller recalls related to the same hybrid systems, this latest campaign is much broader, suggesting that earlier fixes may not have fully addressed the root cause of the problem.
Safety Instructions for Owners
Owners of affected vehicles are being told to avoid charging their Jeeps until further notice, since the risk of fire appears greater when the battery is in a high-charge state. Stellantis is also advising customers to park their vehicles outdoors and away from buildings, garages, or other cars, just in case an unexpected fire starts.
Drivers who have already received earlier recall repairs should still check to see if their vehicle is included again, since this campaign overlaps with previous efforts.
What Happens Next
Stellantis is developing a permanent repair, which is expected to include software updates and possibly a full battery replacement in some cases. Owners will receive official notices by mail starting in early December, with detailed instructions on when and where to schedule service.
Until then, vehicle identification numbers (VINs) can be checked through Jeep or federal safety databases to confirm inclusion in the recall. However, the company is warning that even if a Jeep was previously serviced, it might still fall under this new campaign if the original parts or updates failed to eliminate the risk completely.
Why This Matters
Plug-in hybrids combine both electric and gasoline power, and their high-voltage battery systems operate under significant stress. While such recalls are uncommon, they highlight the challenges automakers face as they push toward electrification. A small flaw in the battery’s manufacturing process, especially at the cell level, can have serious safety consequences.
For Stellantis, this is not just about addressing a defect; it’s also about protecting the reputation of Jeep’s electrified lineup. The Wrangler 4xe and Grand Cherokee 4xe have been key models in the brand’s move toward hybrid and electric vehicles. This recall, though costly, underscores the company’s need to reassure customers that safety remains a top priority.
What This Means For Hybrid Jeep Owners
If you drive a Jeep Wrangler 4xe (model years 2020–2025) or a Grand Cherokee 4xe (model years 2022–2026), treat this recall seriously. Avoid charging your vehicle, park it outside, and wait for the official fix to become available. While the inconvenience is real, taking these steps could prevent a dangerous situation.
Battery technology continues to evolve, and every incident like this reminds both automakers and consumers of the delicate balance between innovation and safety. Stellantis says it’s working quickly to resolve the issue and restore confidence in its hybrid vehicles, but until then, Jeep owners are wise to take no chances.
