Own a 2021-2023 Jeep Wrangler or Gladiator? An underhood component allegedly causes the vehicle to catch fire spontaneously, even when the car is turned off and parked. Find out your rights to potential compensation »
WHAT’S THE ISSUE?
The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) is investigating complaints of spontaneous, underhood fires from owners of 2021-2023 Jeep Wrangler and Gladiators. According to NHTSA, they have opened an investigation into an alleged power steering pump electrical connector on the passenger side of the engine compartment that could cause underhood fires with no warning. Owners report fleeing the vehicle or discovering it on fire while parked near their homes, as spontaneous engine fires place them in immediate risk of injury and threaten surrounding property.
AFFECTED MODELS
Jeep Wrangler (gas and hybrid) and Gladiator models from 2021 through 2023. NHTSA estimates more than 781,000 vehicles could be affected.
JEEP FIRE DEFECT ALLEGATIONS EXPLAINED
On Sept. 6, 2024, NHTSA opened an investigation into Fiat Chrysler Automobiles, Jeep’s automotive manufacturer, after receiving nine complaints of spontaneous underhood fires from owners of 2021-2023 Jeep Wrangler and Gladiators.
Several of the complaints from car owners reported that the alleged fires happened spontaneously while the car was turned off and parked. According to NHTSA, “An ignition ‘OFF’ vehicle fire can result in an increased risk of occupant injury, injury to persons outside the vehicle, and property damage, with little to no warning.”
“My vehicle caught fire while parked in my driveway and burned to the ground resulting in a totaled vehicle, damaged garage, and damaged concrete and driveway.” — Aug. 3, 2024, owner complaint submitted to NHTSA for 2021 Jeep Wrangler Unlimited SUV 4WD.
“The contact owned a 2022 Jeep Wrangler…stated while the vehicle was parked and turned off, there was smoke coming from the vehicle. The contact stated the fuse box located on the passenger side of the vehicle had caught on fire. The vehicle was extinguished by the fire department…The vehicle was destroyed.” — Sept. 10, 2024, owner complaint submitted to NHTSA for 2022 Jeep Wrangler SUV 4WD.
HOW DO I KNOW IF MY JEEP IS AFFECTED?
Owners and drivers of affected vehicles have reported fire and smoke from under the passenger-side of the vehicle’s hood. Jeep has not yet issued a recall, so owners of all potentially impacted vehicles should monitor their car’s performance and take any precautions they deem necessary.
TOP AUTO LITIGATION FIRM
Hagens Berman is one of the most successful auto litigation law firms in the U.S. and is presently leading nationwide class-action lawsuits against major automakers for safety defects and negligence. Your potential claim will be handled by attorneys experienced in automotive consumer law.
NO COST TO YOU
In no case will any class member ever be asked to pay any out-of-pocket sum. In the event Hagens Berman or any other firm obtains a settlement that provides benefits to class members, the court will decide a reasonable fee to be awarded to the class’s legal team.
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