US government investigates Stellantis on back of fire-related fatality

Washington, D.C. October 2, 2024 – The U.S. government auto safety regulator is investigating Stellantis (NYSE:STLA) over allegations of Jeeps bursting into flames, even with the vehicle being turned off. 

The investigation comes on the back of a fatality and could lead to a recall of roughly 780,000 SUVs and pickups. 

The following models would be affected:

  • 2021 – 2023  Jeep Wrangler
  • 2021 – 2023  Jeep Gladiator 

Investigation summary  

The regulator, the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA), opened a preliminary investigation on September 6, 2024, following a fatal accident, which happened as a result of a vehicle fire, as reported

Aside from that, eight more fires have been reported. A power steering pump – located on the passenger side of the engine compartment, which is where most fires originated – have been identified as the possible culprit.

Risks and safety tips 

All risks posed by vehicle fire, as well as what to do if it happens to you can be found in this article.  

“Burned to the ground”

Many complaints mentioned the vehicle catching on fire out of the blue while driving or parked.  In one case, the fire occurred six hours after the car was parked and turned off. In another case, the car spontaneously “burned to the ground while parked next to [the] house.”  

Other Jeep recalls

The U.S. government is currently investigating Jeep over alleged power loss, as reported.

In December 2023, hybrid Wranglers were recalled over faulty batteries that would overheat, potentially causing a fire, also as reported.     

Is your vehicle part of a recall?

This investigation could lead to a Jeep fire recall, affecting more than a quarter of a million SUVs and trucks. To do a Jeep recall check and see if your vehicle might be a part of it, please use MotorSafety’s free vehicle lookup tool.

Bojan PopicUS government investigates Stellantis on back of fire-related fatality