Stellantis, the parent company of Jeep, has initiated a global recall affecting over 44,000 plug-in hybrid Jeep Wrangler 4xe SUVs due to a potential fire risk associated with their high-voltage battery pack. The recall comes after an internal investigation prompted by eight reported vehicle fires, all occurring while the affected SUVs were parked and turned off. Stellantis advises affected owners to refrain from recharging their hybrid vehicles and recommends parking them away from structures and other vehicles until the necessary remedies are applied. The fix primarily involves a software update, although certain cases may require a full battery pack replacement.
Recall Details
Affected Models and Global Reach: The recall affects specific units of the 2021-2024 model-year Jeep Wrangler 4xe, with a significant global impact. Stellantis is recalling 32,125 units in the United States, an estimated 3,856 in Canada, and 9,249 units outside North America. The decision was prompted by a routine review of customer data that revealed eight incidents of vehicle fires, sparking the internal investigation.
Fire Incidents Overview: All eight reported vehicle fires occurred while the Jeep Wrangler 4xe SUVs were parked and powered off. Six of these incidents were connected to chargers. The recall emphasizes that affected vehicles may still be driven but advises owners against recharging them until the required remedies are applied.
Remedy Process
Software Flash and Potential Battery Replacement: Stellantis outlines that the primary remedy involves a software flash to address the identified issues. However, if a specific error code, undisclosed in the statement, is observed, the complete battery pack will be replaced. The automaker estimates that approximately one percent of the affected vehicles may exhibit the identified defect.
Customer Notification and Service Procedure: Affected customers will be contacted by Stellantis and informed about when they can schedule the necessary service procedure. Stellantis has urged owners to comply with the guidance provided to mitigate potential risks associated with the battery fire concern.
Background on Jeep Wrangler 4xe
Powertrain Overview: The Jeep Wrangler 4xe, introduced in late 2020, features a plug-in hybrid powertrain. It combines a 2.0-liter turbocharged inline-four engine with a motor generator unit integrated into the eight-speed automatic transmission. The hybrid system boasts a combined output of 375 horsepower, utilizing a high-voltage battery with a 17-kilowatt-hour capacity, providing an all-electric range of 21 miles on a full charge.
Market Performance: In the third quarter of the year, the Wrangler 4xe claimed the title of the best-selling plug-in hybrid passenger car in the United States, with 17,662 units sold. The recall comes at a crucial time for the model, highlighting the importance of swift and effective resolution to maintain consumer confidence.
Conclusion: Stellantis’ global recall of over 44,000 Jeep Wrangler 4xe plug-in hybrids emphasizes the paramount importance of addressing potential fire risks associated with the high-voltage battery pack. While the majority of affected vehicles may be rectified through a software flash, the transparency in offering battery replacements for specific cases reflects the commitment to ensuring consumer safety. The recall also serves as a reminder of the evolving landscape of electrified vehicles, necessitating robust measures to address emerging challenges and maintain the momentum of the plug-in hybrid market. Affected owners are urged to heed Stellantis’ guidance until the necessary remedies are applied, ensuring a comprehensive resolution to the identified concerns.
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