Back on November 6, we covered the Massive Jeep Recall and today we’re giving more in depth info on the HUGE Fire Risks! Stellantis, the automaker behind Chrysler and Jeep, has initiated a major safety recall affecting more than 112,000 plug-in hybrid SUVs across the United States. The recall focuses on specific Jeep Grand Cherokee 4xe and Jeep Wrangler 4xe models after investigators found that debris inside the engine block could lead to sudden mechanical failure or, in extreme cases, an engine fire.
What Triggered the Recall
During routine safety evaluations, the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) discovered contamination inside the engine blocks of certain plug-in hybrid Jeeps. The material, residue believed to have entered during the casting process, has the potential to restrict oil flow or interfere with internal engine components. If that happens, drivers could experience an abrupt loss of power while driving, creating a crash risk. In severe situations, overheating could ignite surrounding materials and cause a fire.
The affected vehicles include 2023–2025 Jeep Grand Cherokee 4xe models and 2024–2025 Jeep Wrangler 4xe models. All were built over a roughly 20-month span during which the engine casting issue appears to have occurred.
Timeline and Notifications to Owners
Stellantis plans to notify owners in stages. Initial letters will explain the nature of the risk and identify the vehicle by its recall designation. More detailed notices will follow once the manufacturer finalizes a permanent repair. As of now, the company is still developing the long-term solution.
Although no official stop-drive order has been issued, owners are encouraged to remain attentive to unusual engine performance, including rough idling, unexpected warning lights, or unusual knocking sounds.
Reports Leading Up to the Recall
Before the recall was announced, Stellantis had documented several real-world incidents tied to the problem. These included reports of engine fires, loss of propulsion at highway speeds, warranty claims associated with internal engine damage, and even a small number of injury cases. While the company did not disclose detailed statistics, the pattern was significant enough to trigger federal oversight and ultimately the nationwide recall.
Not the Only Safety Issue Stellantis Faces
This recall comes on the heels of two other major safety actions involving Jeep plug-in hybrids earlier in the year. One previous recall related to battery issues led owners to be advised to park outside and avoid charging until repairs were available. Another addressed a software malfunction that caused some vehicles to lose power without warning. Combined, these recalls have placed Stellantis under growing pressure to address quality and reliability concerns within its hybrid segment.
What Owners Should Do Now
Drivers can check their vehicle identification number (VIN) through NHTSA’s recall lookup tool or by contacting Jeep customer service. While waiting for the permanent remedy, owners should monitor vehicle performance closely and report any abnormalities to their dealer. Stellantis has committed to performing all recall-related repairs at no cost once the fix is ready.
A Bigger Look at the Industry Challenge
As automakers ramp up production of electrified and hybrid vehicles, even small manufacturing inconsistencies can lead to significant safety risks. This recall underscores the importance of rigorous quality control and the growing scrutiny on hybrid powertrains as consumer demand continues to rise.
