Jeep Owners Sue Stellantis Over Fire Risks

Michael Accardi
by Michael Accardi

The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) has launched an investigation into 781,000 Jeep Wrangler and Gladiator models from 2021 to 2023 over reports of spontaneous underhood fires—this has prompted a class-action lawsuit from Jeep owners.



The issue, reportedly originating from a faulty electrical connector in the power steering pump, has led to nine documented fires and at least one injury. Some fires occurred while the vehicles were parked and turned off, prompting safety concerns.

Jeep Wrangler


A class-action lawsuit filed in Michigan alleges these vehicles are inherently unsafe and unsuitable for their intended use. The lawsuit includes four plaintiffs who claim they would not have purchased their vehicles or would have paid less, had they known about the fire risks. The filing argues that Stellantis, Jeep’s parent company, should have been aware of the problem earlier and accuses the automaker of misleading consumers with marketing suggesting the vehicles were safe.


Stellantis has not issued a formal recall for the vehicles but has previously advised owners of other recalled models with similar fire risks to park away from structures and other flammable materials.


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Michael Accardi
Michael Accardi

An experienced automotive storyteller and accomplished photographer known for engaging and insightful content. Michael also brings a wealth of technical knowledge—he was part of the Ford GT program at Multimatic, oversaw a fleet of Audi TCR race cars, ziptied Lamborghini Super Trofeo cars back together, been over the wall during the Rolex 24, and worked in the cut-throat world of IndyCar.

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