Stellantis has initiated a recall of over 1 million Jeep vehicles due to a defect that could cause engine fires, posing a serious risk to drivers and nearby property. The recall, announced last week by the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA), covers approximately 787,887 Wrangler models and 289,112 Gladiator trucks from the 2021 through 2025 model years.
The issue stems from the electric hydraulic power-steering pump wiring, which NHTSA warns can overheat and lead to a vehicle fire. In a statement, the agency advised owners: “Park outside and away from structures, until their vehicle is repaired.” This precaution underscores the severity of the potential hazard, as fires could spread to garages or other buildings.
While only an estimated 0.1% of the affected vehicles are believed to have the defect, the broad scope of the recall reflects Stellantis’s effort to address the problem before any incidents escalate. The company will inspect and replace faulty parts at no cost to owners. Notification letters are scheduled to be mailed on July 9, and owners can contact Stellantis customer service at 1-800-853-1403 using recall number 21D.
This recall is the latest in a series of automotive safety actions. Ford recently recalled 420,000 vehicles over seat belt defects and issued a do-not-drive order, highlighting ongoing quality challenges across the industry. Similarly, Toyota recalled 43,000 Tundra trucks for an engine defect that could cause power loss, underscoring the prevalence of manufacturing flaws that require federal intervention.
For Jeep owners, the immediate steps are clear: park the vehicle outside, away from any structures, and wait for the free repair. The NHTSA notice emphasizes that while the defect is rare, the consequences of a fire could be catastrophic. Stellantis has not yet reported any injuries or fatalities related to the issue, but the recall is a proactive measure to prevent potential harm.
The recall also raises questions about Stellantis’s quality control processes, especially as the company pushes to expand its electric vehicle lineup. EV ownership costs vary widely by state, with some markets proving far more expensive than others, and automakers face pressure to ensure reliability in both conventional and electric drivetrains. This recall could dent consumer confidence in Jeep’s flagship models, which are popular among off-road enthusiasts and daily drivers alike.
Owners with questions can also check the NHTSA website for updates. The agency will continue to monitor the recall’s progress, ensuring that Stellantis meets its obligation to fix the defect without delay. As the automotive industry grapples with supply chain issues and rising safety standards, recalls like this one serve as a reminder that even minor wiring flaws can have major consequences.
