Jeep recalls 194,000 plug-in hybrid SUVs over fire risk
Daily News Article — Posted on October 3, 2024
(by Paul Sancya, Associated Press at NPR) DETROIT — Jeep is recalling more than 194,000 plug-in hybrid SUVs worldwide because they can catch fire [while driving or] with the ignition turned off.
In addition, Jeep is urging owners not to charge the SUVs and to park them outdoors and away from structures [and other vehicles] until they are repaired.
The recall covers the Wrangler four by e from the 2020 through 2024 model years, as well as the Grand Cherokee four by e from 2022 through 2024. Most of the recalled SUVs are in North America.
Stellantis, which makes Jeeps, said a remedy is near and affected customers will be notified when they can schedule service. The company says the risk of fire is reduced when the battery charge is depleted.
A routine review of customer data led to an investigation that found 13 fires with two injuries. Stellantis estimates that 5% of the SUVs have the problem.
[The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) reported: Owners can expect to be notified by mail starting Oct. 17. Chrysler dealers will update the battery pack control module software. Dealers will also inspect and, if necessary, replace the high-voltage battery. The NHTSA recall numbers are 24V-720 and 24E-080.]
Owners with questions should contact Jeep Customer Care at (800) 853-1403 or visit www.mopar.com. NOTE: Scroll down for videos below the questions.
Published Oct. 1 at NPR from an Associated Press report. Reprinted here for educational purposes only. May not be reproduced on other websites without permission.
Background
Watch an August 3, 2024 home security video posted to First State News Facebook page:
Watch a February 2024 report from Pittsburgh's WTAE news:
Watch an NTSB report on EV fires: