Key points
-
Stellantis is recalling 112,859 Jeep 4xe plug-in hybrid vehicles in the U.S. over a defect that can cause sudden engine failure or an engine compartment fire.
-
Cause: sand contamination left over from the engine casting process, which can circulate inside the engine and lead to catastrophic failure.
-
Models affected: 2023–2025 Grand Cherokee 4xe and 2024–2025 Wrangler 4xe, limited to vehicles built within specific production windows.
-
Remedy status: a permanent repair is still under development; interim owner letters are scheduled to begin mailing on December 29, 2025.
-
Warning signs: engine knocking and the malfunction indicator lamp (check engine light) may appear before failure, which can include loss of propulsion or an engine-bay fire.
-
Reported incidents tied to the issue: 36 engine-compartment fires, 50 loss-of-propulsion events, 144 warranty claims, and 3 potential injuries.
-
Repairs will be provided at no charge once a remedy is available.
Which vehicles are included
-
Jeep Grand Cherokee 4xe: built from July 19, 2023 through March 3, 2025.
-
Jeep Wrangler 4xe: built from June 7, 2023 through March 4, 2025.
-
Only vehicles produced within these windows are covered; not every 4xe from these model years is affected.
What owners should do now
-
Be alert for engine knocking and the malfunction indicator lamp. If either occurs, reduce driving, avoid heavy loads, and contact a dealer for guidance.
-
Check your vehicle’s status using your VIN in NHTSA’s recall database once the campaign is active.
-
Watch for an interim letter starting December 29, 2025 explaining risks and symptoms; a second letter will follow once a repair is ready with instructions to schedule service.
-
Ensure your mailing address and contact information are up to date with Stellantis/Jeep and your dealer.
Why this is happening
Engine blocks are cast using molds that often rely on sand to form internal passages. If residual sand isn’t fully removed, it can obstruct oil or coolant flow and degrade lubrication, causing internal damage and potential engine seizure or failure. In some cases, this can trigger engine compartment fires.
Context and timeline
NHTSA received Stellantis’ defect report and will oversee the recall. The company is issuing interim owner notifications while it develops and validates a permanent repair. The action follows other Jeep safety campaigns this fall, including separate recalls in October (rollaway risk) and November (fire risk).
Not a battery issue
The problem is limited to the mechanical engine casting and is not related to the vehicles’ high-voltage battery systems or electric drive components.
What happens next
Stellantis will finalize the remedy, train dealers, and distribute parts. Owners will receive a second notice with repair details and scheduling once the fix is ready. Repairs will be completed free of charge.
