Jeep’s plug-in hybrid lineup is under a harsh spotlight again. Stellantis and the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration have confirmed a sweeping recall of nearly 113,000 Jeep Wrangler 4xe and Grand Cherokee 4xe models after a manufacturing defect was linked to sudden power loss and potential engine-bay fires.
What Triggered the Recall
At the heart of the issue is Jeep’s turbocharged four-cylinder engine, a key component in both 4xe hybrids. According to the NHTSA recall filing, the engine blocks were contaminated with sand during the casting process. Tiny debris left behind during manufacturing can circulate inside the engine, leading to internal damage, catastrophic failure, and in some cases, fire.
What makes this especially concerning is the time span. The faulty engines were installed over a period approaching two years. Grand Cherokee 4xe production with affected engines ran from July 19, 2023, to March 3, 2025. Wrangler 4xe production stretched even wider, from June 7, 2023, to March 4, 2025. That long window explains why the recall covers such a large volume of vehicles.
How Many Vehicles Are Affected
The recall list includes 36,840 Grand Cherokee 4xe SUVs and 76,019 Wrangler 4xe units from the 2024 and 2025 model years. Both are among Jeep’s most visible electrified offerings. The recall is a serious setback for Stellantis as it works to grow its hybrid portfolio.
The report cites a frightening set of incident data gathered as of October 20. Stellantis had recorded 36 customer assistance reports, 144 warranty claims, 36 fires, 50 real-world loss-of-propulsion events, and another 50 service records that may be linked to the defect. Three injuries were reported, though no crashes were tied to the issue.
What Owners Might Notice
The tricky part is that the warning signs are limited. The NHTSA says owners may hear a knocking sound from the engine bay or see a warning light flash on the dashboard. Beyond that, the failure can occur with very little warning. The outcome can be severe, leading to sudden loss of propulsion or even a fire under the hood.
Stellantis’ Current Guidance
A permanent fix isn’t ready yet. Stellantis says a remedy is “under development,” and until then, owners will be left waiting. Official notification letters aren’t expected to go out until December 29.
In the meantime, the automaker is urging customers not to drive their vehicles and to park them outside advice that underscores the seriousness of the defect. Dealerships will eventually replace or repair affected engines at no cost once the proper remedy is finalized.
A Tough Month for Jeep Owners
This recall comes right after another headache for Jeep’s plug-in hybrid owners. An over-the-air update glitch had bricked some vehicles just weeks earlier. For owners who bought into the 4xe program expecting a smoother blend of electrification and rugged capability, it’s been a rough stretch.
As Stellantis works on the fix, the spotlight is now on how quickly and effectively the company can restore confidence in its flagship hybrid SUVs.
