Over 1 Million Jeep Wrangler and Gladiator Models Recalled Due to Fire Risk

A significant recall has been issued for nearly 1.1 million Jeep Wrangler and Jeep Gladiator vehicles in the United States, encompassing model years 2021 through 2025. The recall, detailed in a filing with the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA), addresses a potential defect in the electric hydraulic power steering pump (EHPSP) electrical connection that could lead to overheating and subsequent fires. Owners of affected vehicles are being advised to take precautions to prevent potential property damage and personal injury.

The issue stems from an electrical connection within the EHPSP that may develop high resistance. This condition can cause overheating of combustible materials in the vicinity, creating a fire hazard. The defect affects an estimated 0.1% of the total potentially involved vehicles. Chrysler (FCA US, LLC), the manufacturer, has identified that this electrical connection may not be fully secured due to manufacturing tolerances. Specifically, the EHPSP header was reportedly manufactured outside of specified tolerances, leading to insertion forces that exceed the intended specifications. This can result in spread terminals, reducing the likelihood of a complete connection. Furthermore, a terminal push-out condition has been observed, which can also lead to high resistance in the electrical connection.

The affected vehicles include 2021-2025 model year Jeep Wranglers produced between June 24, 2020, and December 2, 2024. This accounts for approximately 787,887 vehicles. Additionally, 2021-2025 model year Jeep Gladiators manufactured from August 18, 2020, through December 2, 2024, are also included in the recall, totaling approximately 289,112 vehicles. While the recall addresses a substantial number of vehicles, similar models built outside these production dates are not affected. Drivers may experience a loss of power steering assist or see a “Service Power Steering” diagnostic trouble code (DTC) displayed on their dashboard as a potential warning sign.

The investigation into this issue began in May 2023, when FCA US Technical Safety and Regulatory Compliance (TSRC) started looking into fires reported in certain Jeep Wrangler and Gladiator vehicles that appeared to originate at the EHPSP electrical connection. While initially closed due to a low rate of occurrence, the investigation was reopened in August 2024 following an increase in reported incidents. In September 2024, NHTSA’s Office of Defect Investigations also opened its own investigation into engine compartment fires in these Jeep models. Throughout the subsequent months, FCA US TSRC conducted extensive analysis and testing, including vehicle buybacks, part analysis, and bench testing, to determine the root cause. In April 2026, FCA US confirmed that a loose electrical connection could lead to melting at the connection point, potentially resulting in a vehicle fire. As of May 18, 2026, FCA US was aware of 63 customer assistance records, 72 field reports, and 12 other service records potentially related to this issue, with 35 of these confirmed to originate at the EHPSP interface. The manufacturer is not aware of any accidents related to this defect but notes one injury potentially associated with the issue in all markets.

As a precautionary measure, FCA US is advising owners of affected vehicles to park their vehicles outside and away from structures or other vehicles until the necessary repairs can be made. The remedy for this recall involves inspection and repair or replacement of the affected parts as necessary. The manufacturer will notify dealers on or about June 11, 2026, and begin notifying owners by mail on or about July 9, 2026, with owner notifications expected to be completed by August 3, 2026. Owners will be able to check if their specific vehicle is included in the recall by VIN starting June 11, 2026. While the remedy itself does not involve a charge to the owner, the inconvenience of potential parking restrictions and the eventual repair process are factors for vehicle owners to consider. The manufacturer has a general reimbursement plan on file for any owners who may have incurred costs related to this issue prior to the recall.

Article by Mel Anara, based upon information from FCA US, LLC.

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