Jeep Recalls 4xe Models For Engines That Catastrophically Blow

Chrysler is preparing another sweeping recall of its plug-in hybrid SUVs after tracing a wave of engine failures and fires to contaminated engine blocks.

The campaign covers select 2023–2025 Jeep Grand Cherokee 4xe and 2024–2025 Jeep Wrangler 4xe models, following months of internal investigation into unexpected loss-of-power incidents and under-hood fires.

This is the second major recall for Jeep's 4xe models in a matter of weeks. Earlier this month, Jeep called back six model years of its plug-in hybrid SUVs after reports of fires linked to defective high-voltage batteries. Both the Wrangler and Grand Cherokee 4xe models are powered by a 2.0L Turbo I4 engine paired with a 17.3-kWh battery pack that delivers a total system output of 375 hp and 470 lb‑ft of torque.

According to documents filed with federal regulators, sand left behind during the engine-block casting process can circulate through the engine, damaging internal components. The engine blocks were produced by Nemek in their facility just outside Monterrey, Mexico.

In the most severe cases, that contamination can trigger catastrophic engine failure, which may lead to an engine-bay fire or an abrupt—and unrecoverable—loss of propulsion. Chrysler says some drivers may notice a check-engine light or knocking sounds before failure occurs, but in many cases, the breakdowns have happened with little warning.

The defect traces back to a supplier issue between June 2023 and March 2024, during which engines were not adequately cleaned after casting. Chrysler’s safety office launched its investigation in May 2025 after noticing a spike in field reports. By late October, the company had logged 36 fires, 50 loss-of-drive propulsion cases, and more than 140 warranty claims linked to the issue. Three injuries have been reported, though no crashes.

A fix is still being developed. Chrysler plans to mail interim notices to owners on December 29, 2025, outlining the safety risk and advising them what to watch for. A second round of letters will follow once the final repair is ready.

This article was co-written using AI and was then heavily edited and optimized by our editorial team.

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