Automotive giant Stellantis has issued a massive global recall affecting more than 1.3 million Jeep SUVs and pickup trucks due to a critical electrical defect that poses a severe fire hazard. The recall specifically targets Jeep Wrangler SUVs and Jeep Gladiator trucks manufactured between the 2021 and 2025 model years. Owners of the affected vehicles are being strongly urged to park their vehicles outdoors, away from homes, garages, and other structures, until a permanent repair can be completed.

The safety hazard stems from an electrical connection issue within the electric-hydraulic power steering pump wiring. According to safety investigations, a loose connection in this system can overheat and melt, potentially igniting nearby combustible materials. This defect can trigger fires even when the vehicle is turned off and parked. The recall impacts approximately 1.08 million vehicles in the United States, 106,000 in Canada, 23,000 in Mexico, and an additional 125,000 across international markets.

The decision to issue the recall follows a series of investigations into vehicle fires. Stellantis initially closed an inquiry into the issue in early 2024 due to a low incidence rate but reopened the probe in August 2024 after a sudden spike in fire reports. Extensive diagnostic testing, including CT scans, X-rays, and material analysis of returned parts, eventually confirmed that the wiring defect posed an unreasonable safety risk. To date, at least 72 fires and one injury have been linked to the faulty connection.

Dealerships will inspect the affected vehicles and, if necessary, repair or replace the power steering pump or its wiring harness free of charge. Stellantis is currently working to expedite the availability of replacement parts and expects to have the official remedy ready for customers by July. In the meantime, drivers are advised to remain vigilant and adhere to the outdoor parking recommendations to mitigate property damage and safety risks.

Key Takeaways

• Stellantis is recalling over 1.3 million Jeep Wrangler and Gladiator vehicles (model years 2021-2025) globally due to a power steering wiring defect that can cause fires.
• Owners are advised to park their vehicles outdoors and away from structures, as the fire risk persists even when the ignition is turned off.
• The automaker has identified at least 72 fires and one injury linked to the issue and expects to have a repair remedy available by July.

Editor’s Analysis & Impact

This massive recall represents a significant operational and reputational hurdle for Stellantis, particularly as it impacts its highly profitable Jeep brand. The Wrangler and Gladiator are flagship models with passionate customer bases, meaning any widespread safety issue can quickly erode brand loyalty. Financially, the logistics of inspecting and repairing over 1.3 million vehicles globally will incur substantial warranty costs, potentially weighing on the company’s near-term earnings. Furthermore, this incident highlights the growing complexity of modern automotive electrical systems, where minor wiring defects can escalate into severe safety hazards. As regulatory scrutiny intensifies worldwide, automakers face mounting pressure to identify and resolve component vulnerabilities much faster. Stellantis’s proactive, albeit delayed, recall is a necessary step to mitigate liability, but the company must execute the remedy swiftly to restore consumer confidence and stabilize its market position.

Frequently Asked Questions

Q: Which Jeep models are affected by this recall?
A: The recall affects Jeep Wrangler SUVs and Jeep Gladiator trucks from the 2021 through 2025 model years.

Q: Why are owners being told to park their vehicles outside?
A: A loose electrical connection in the power steering pump wiring can overheat and cause a fire, even when the vehicle is parked and the engine is turned off. Parking outside minimizes the risk of a vehicle fire spreading to homes or other structures.

Q: How will the issue be fixed, and when will the remedy be available?
A: Dealerships will inspect the vehicles and repair or replace the wiring harness or power steering pump. Stellantis expects the repair remedy to be fully available to owners no later than July.