Stellantis Recalls 1.3 Million Jeeps Due to Fire Risk in Steering
Stellantis is initiating a global recall of over 1.3 million Jeep Wrangler and Gladiator vehicles (model years 2021-2025) due to an electrical connection defect in the power steering pump. The company has reported 51 fire incidents and one injury, prompting the recall following an investigation by the NHTSA opened in September 2024.
Power Steering Defect Poses Fire Risk Even When Parked
The identified issue involves the electro-hydraulic power steering pump, where an electrical connection failure in the wiring can lead to overheating of combustible materials. According to the NHTSA, this defect poses a fire risk even when the vehicle is parked. Stellantis plans to inspect, repair, or replace the wiring or power steering pump based on the diagnosis. The company advises owners to park their vehicles outdoors, away from buildings and other vehicles, until the repair is completed.
North America Bears the Brunt of the Recall
The recall primarily affects about 1.08 million vehicles in the United States, with an additional 106,000 units in Canada, 23,000 in Mexico, and nearly 125,000 in other international markets. The recall was triggered following an NHTSA investigation launched in September 2024 after multiple fire reports, before Stellantis reopened its own internal investigation due to the increasing incidents.
A Safety Record Part of a Series of Recalls
This recall occurs in a context of quality tensions for the group. Stellantis had also recalled about 700,000 hybrid vehicles in April 2026 due to a fire risk associated with the proximity between the particulate filter and the alternator-starter. The accumulation of massive recalls, especially concerning fire risks, impacts the perception of product reliability at a time when the group is trying to boost its commercial momentum with new launches and significant investments.
