Stellantis, the automotive giant behind Jeep, has issued a sweeping recall affecting 375,000 plug-in hybrid SUVs worldwide, citing a critical fire risk linked to battery failures. The move comes after 19 reported incidents of vehicles igniting, including cases where cars were parked and turned off. Owners of affected Jeep Wrangler 4xe and Grand Cherokee 4xe models are being urged to park outdoors and avoid charging until repairs are made, according to a statement from the company.

This recall, announced on November 4, 2025, builds on previous safety actions by Stellantis, highlighting ongoing challenges in the hybrid vehicle sector. The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) reported that the high-voltage battery in these models can fail internally, potentially sparking fires even when the vehicle is not in use. At least one injury has been linked to these incidents, per USA Today.

Unpacking the Battery Flaw

Investigations reveal that the battery issue stems from a manufacturing defect in the high-voltage packs supplied for Jeep’s 4xe lineup. Stellantis confirmed that the problem affects models from 2020 to 2024 for the Wrangler 4xe and 2022 to 2024 for the Grand Cherokee 4xe. In the U.S. alone, the recall covers approximately 320,000 vehicles, with the remainder distributed globally, as detailed in a report by Reuters.

Engineers at Stellantis identified the risk after analyzing post-fire data, which showed that battery cells could short-circuit, leading to thermal runaway—a chain reaction causing overheating and combustion. This isn’t the first time Jeep hybrids have faced such scrutiny; a similar recall in 2024 affected 194,000 units, and another in 2023 involved 45,000, according to posts on X (formerly Twitter) from automotive accounts like Whole Mars Catalog.

A History of Hybrid Headaches

Stellantis’ troubles with plug-in hybrids trace back to the integration of electrification in its rugged SUV lineup. The 4xe models, marketed for their off-road prowess combined with eco-friendly credentials, use a turbocharged 2.0-liter engine paired with an electric motor and a 17-kWh battery. However, the push toward electrification has exposed vulnerabilities in battery design and quality control, industry experts note.

According to CNN Business, this latest recall follows nine new fire reports after a previous fix, prompting Stellantis to revisit the issue. ‘We are committed to addressing this safety concern swiftly,’ a Stellantis spokesperson said in a statement, emphasizing free software updates and potential battery replacements at dealerships starting in early 2026.

Impact on Owners and Dealers

For Jeep owners, the advisory to park outside and halt charging poses significant inconveniences, especially in urban areas or during inclement weather. One owner quoted in The Detroit News described the situation as ‘unnerving,’ highlighting fears of spontaneous combustion. Dealerships are preparing for a surge in service demands, with notifications to owners beginning this week.

The recall’s scope underscores broader supply chain challenges in the EV transition. Battery suppliers, often third-party firms, face intense pressure to scale production, sometimes at the expense of rigorous testing. As per Fast Company, Chrysler (a Stellantis brand) is aware of the 19 fires and one injury, prompting urgent action to mitigate risks.

Regulatory Scrutiny and Industry Ripples

The NHTSA has been closely monitoring these developments, with investigations dating back to earlier recalls. This event adds to a growing list of battery-related recalls across the industry, from Chevrolet Bolts to Hyundai Konas, raising questions about the maturity of hybrid technology for mass-market vehicles.

Stellantis, formed by the 2021 merger of Fiat Chrysler and PSA Group, is navigating a turbulent period. Recent reports from Detroit Free Press indicate the company is regaining U.S. market share through cost-cutting measures, but safety issues could erode consumer trust. ‘This recall is a setback, but it’s part of the learning curve in electrification,’ noted auto analyst Jessica Caldwell in a discussion on X.

Economic and Market Implications

Financially, the recall could cost Stellantis millions in repairs and potential lawsuits, though the company has not disclosed estimates. Shares dipped slightly following the announcement, reflecting investor concerns over liability. In the broader context, as governments push for greener vehicles, such incidents highlight the need for robust safety standards.

Competitors like Ford and Toyota have faced similar hybrid fire risks, but Jeep’s off-road branding amplifies the stakes. Owners are advised to check VINs on the NHTSA website or Jeep’s recall portal. As repairs roll out, Stellantis aims to reinforce its hybrid lineup, potentially with enhanced battery monitoring systems.

Looking Ahead in Automotive Safety

Industry insiders predict this recall will accelerate advancements in battery diagnostics, including AI-driven predictive maintenance. Stellantis is investing in next-gen batteries, but the path forward requires balancing innovation with reliability.

Ultimately, this episode serves as a cautionary tale for the auto sector’s electrification rush, emphasizing that safety must keep pace with sustainability goals. With 375,000 vehicles at stake, Jeep’s response will be closely watched by regulators, owners, and rivals alike.