Stellantis Recalls 1.3M Jeep Wranglers Over Fire Risk

Stellantis has launched a major safety recall affecting more than 1.08 million Jeep Wrangler and Gladiator models in the United States after discovering a fire hazard serious enough that owners are being advised not to park their vehicles inside garages or close to buildings. What makes this issue particularly concerning is that a fire could start even when the vehicle is turned off.

According to the automaker, the problem involves wiring connected to the electric power steering pump. A defect in the harness can create excessive heat, potentially igniting nearby materials. Because the condition does not depend on the engine running, an affected Jeep sitting in a driveway or garage overnight could still pose a risk.

The recall covers 2021-2025 Jeep Wranglers built between June 24, 2020, and December 2, 2024, as well as 2021-2025 Jeep Gladiators assembled from August 18, 2020, through December 2, 2024.

At the moment, Stellantis has not released a repair procedure. However, the company told CBS News that it expects to have a solution available no later than July. Until then, dealers cannot perform repairs, leaving owners with one important recommendation: park affected vehicles outdoors and away from homes, garages, carports, or any other structures where a fire could spread.

Unlike many automotive recalls involving overheating or fuel leaks during operation, this issue can develop while the vehicle is completely shut down. That eliminates many of the warning signs drivers might otherwise notice behind the wheel and makes the temporary parking instructions especially important.

Owners of affected Wranglers and Gladiators are encouraged to take several steps immediately. First, follow Stellantis' advice and avoid parking inside or near buildings whenever possible. Second, verify whether your specific vehicle is included by checking the VIN through the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration's recall database under recall number 26V-363. Finally, contact your local Jeep dealer so your vehicle can be flagged and you can receive updates as soon as replacement parts and repair procedures become available.

Stellantis will also notify affected owners by mail in accordance with federal requirements, but contacting a dealership directly may provide faster updates.

Despite the seriousness of the issue, this is not a "Do Not Drive" recall. Owners can continue using their Wranglers and Gladiators normally. The biggest precaution for now is simply being mindful of where the vehicle is parked when left unattended.

Given the scale of the campaign and the unusual nature of the defect, Jeep owners may want to check their VINs sooner rather than later and keep an eye out for additional information from Stellantis in the coming weeks.