Jeep 4XE Battery Fire Risk Recall

Fiat Chrysler Automobiles (FCA) is recalling over 154,000 plug-in hybrid SUVs, including the 2020-2024 Jeep Wrangler 4xe and 2022-2024 Jeep Grand Cherokee 4xe, due to a risk of the vehicles catching fire while parked or driving.

Until a solution is provided, Jeep has advised owners to park their vehicles outdoors, away from structures, and to refrain from charging them. This defect could lead to fires and potentially significant property damage.

If you’ve experienced battery issues with your Jeep Wrangler or Grand Cherokee 4xe, you may be entitled to compensation under California’s Lemon Law. At The Barry Law Firm, we’re here to help Southern California consumers understand their rights and pursue legal action when necessary.

What Is Causing the Jeep 4xe Battery Fire Recall?

The Jeep 4xe battery fire recall has been attributed to defects in the high-voltage battery packs used in these plug-in hybrid electric vehicles (PHEVs). Specifically, the issue stems from damage to the battery’s internal separators. These separators are critical components within the battery pack that prevent the positive and negative electrodes from coming into contact. When the separators are compromised, it can lead to overheating, which poses a significant risk of vehicle fires.

This defect affects the 2020-2024 Jeep Wrangler 4xe and 2022-2024 Jeep Grand Cherokee 4xe, both of which are popular plug-in hybrid models designed to offer efficiency and eco-friendliness without compromising on performance. However, the safety concern surrounding the battery packs has overshadowed their innovative design.

The batteries involved in this recall were manufactured by Samsung SDI, a leading supplier of electric vehicle batteries. While FCA (Fiat Chrysler Automobiles) has not disclosed the exact cause of the separator damage, industry experts suggest it could be due to manufacturing defects, material degradation, or improper assembly of the battery packs. Regardless of the root cause, the result is the same: overheating batteries that pose a risk to the safety of drivers, passengers, and property.

This isn’t the first time Jeep’s 4xe lineup has faced scrutiny for battery-related risks. In November 2023, FCA recalled over 32,000 Jeep Wrangler 4xe models from the 2021-2023 model years due to similar fire risks associated with the high-voltage battery. At that time, Jeep urg

ed owners to park their vehicles outdoors and avoid charging them until repairs were completed. Unfortunately, despite these earlier recalls, the latest reports indicate that the problem persists in newer models, raising questions about the effectiveness of FCA’s prior remedies.

For affected owners, the situation is both frustrating and concerning. While FCA has promised fixes, such as software updates to the battery management system and the replacement of defective components, the safety and reliability of these vehicles remain in question. Jeep’s recommendation to park vehicles outdoors and avoid charging them underscores the seriousness of the issue, as even stationary vehicles could catch fire due to the battery defect.

How Can You Check if Your Vehicle Is Affected?

If you own a Jeep Wrangler 4xe or Grand Cherokee 4xe, it’s important to check if your vehicle is part of this recall. Here’s how:

  • Use the NHTSA Recall Database: Visit the NHTSA’s website and enter your vehicle’s 17-digit Vehicle Identification Number (VIN) to check for open recalls.
  • Watch for Recall Notices: Jeep has begun sending recall notifications to affected owners by mail as of October 15, 2024. Keep an eye on your mailbox for official updates.
  • Visit an Authorized Dealership: If you suspect your vehicle is impacted, visit a Jeep dealership for a professional diagnosis. Dealerships can confirm if your vehicle is part of the recall and explain your options for repair.

What Should You Do If Your Vehicle Is Affected?

If your Jeep Wrangler 4xe or Grand Cherokee 4xe has been identified as part of this recall, it’s important to take action immediately to protect your safety, preven

t further risks, and ensure that your vehicle is repaired or replaced as necessary. FCA has issued specific guidelines for affected owners to follow, and adhering to these instructions is crucial.

1. Follow FCA’s Safety Recommendations

Jeep has strongly advised owners of recalled vehicles to:

  • Park Outdoors: Always park your Jeep outdoors and away from any structures, such as homes, garages, or buildings. This reduces the risk of property damage in the event of a battery fire.
  • Avoid Charging the Battery: Refrain from plugging in your vehicle for charging until repairs are completed. Charging the high-voltage battery could increase the likelihood of overheating and potential fire.

Even if your vehicle seems to be functioning normally, these precautions are essential to avoid putting yourself or others in harm’s way.

2. Contact Jeep or FCA for Recall Details

FCA has begun notifying affected owners about the recall via mail. If you haven’t received a notification but suspect your vehicle might be part of the recall, you can take the following steps:

  • Check the NHTSA Recall Database: Visit the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration’s website and enter your vehicle’s 17-digit Vehicle Identification Number (VIN) to determine if your Jeep is subject to the recall.
  • Contact Jeep Customer Service: You can call Jeep directly to confirm whether your vehicle is affected and to obtain specific instructions on how to proceed.

3. Schedule Repairs at an Authorized Dealership

If your vehicle is part of the recall, Jeep will perform repairs free of charge. FCA has instructed its dealerships to:

  • Perform a software update for the high-voltage battery management system.
  • Replace the battery pack assembly if the defect is severe enough to warrant a full replacement.

Contact your local authorized Jeep dealership to schedule a service appointment. Given the scale of the recall, repair parts may be limited, so it’s important to act quickly to avoid delays.

4. Document the Process

Keep detailed records of every step you take during the recall process, including:

  • Correspondence with Jeep or FCA, such as recall notices or customer service interactions.
  • Dates and details of any dealership visits for inspections, repairs, or updates.
  • Receipts or records of out-of-pocket expenses related to the recall (e.g., rental cars or towing fees).

These records could be valuable if you encounter ongoing issues with your vehicle or decide to pursue a Lemon Law claim later on.

5. Know Your Rights Under California’s Lemon Law

If your Jeep continues to experience battery problems or other safety defects after the recall repairs are completed, you may have a valid claim under California’s Lemon Law. This law protects consumers who purchase or lease vehicles with recurring issues that cannot be resolved after a reasonable number of repair attempts.

You may be entitled to a replacement vehicle, a refund, or other compensation, depending on the circumstances. Even if FCA performs the recall repairs, persistent issues could mean your vehicle still qualifies as a lemon.

What Are Your Legal Options If Your Jeep Has Issues?

If your Jeep Wrangler or Grand Cherokee 4xe is experiencing repeated battery-related problems, you may have a valid claim under California’s Lemon Law. Lemon laws protect consumers who have purchased or leased vehicles that experience significant defects and are unable to be repaired after a reasonable number of attempts by the manufacturer.

Individual Lemon Law Claims vs. Class Action Lawsuits

While some consumers have pursued class action lawsuits against FCA for battery-related issues, an individual Lemon Law claim is often the better option. Here’s why:

  • Tailored Solutions: An individual claim focuses on your specific situation and allows you to seek remedies that fully address your unique circumstances.
  • Higher Compensation: In class action lawsuits, settlements are divided among all participants, which may leave you with a payout that doesn’t fully cover your expenses or losses.
  • Quicker Resolution: Lemon law claims are typically resolved faster than class action lawsuits, which can take years to settle.

Under California’s Lemon Law, you may be entitled to a replacement vehicle or a refund for your defective Jeep, minus a usage fee for the miles driven before the issue arose.

How The Barry Law Firm Can Help

At The Barry Law Firm, we specialize in helping consumers navigate the complexities of California’s Lemon Law. If you’ve experienced battery issues with your Jeep Wrangler 4xe or Grand Cherokee 4xe—or any other recurring vehicle defect—we’re here to protect your rights and pursue the compensation you deserve.

Why Choose Us?

  • Decades of Experience: Our team has successfully handled thousands of Lemon Law cases across Southern California.
  • Proven Results: We’ve successfully obtained the highest financial compensation and the best outcomes for thousands of consumers just like you.
  • Personalized Support: We work closely with every client to understand their unique situation and develop a strategy tailored to their needs.

Complimentary Consultations

If you’re unsure whether your Jeep qualifies as a lemon, don’t worry. We offer FAST and FREE consultations to evaluate your case and explain your legal options. From filing your claim to negotiating with FCA, our attorneys will handle every step of the process so you can focus on what matters most.

Don’t Wait—Contact Us Today

If your Jeep Wrangler or Grand Cherokee 4xe has been recalled or is experiencing ongoing battery issues, don’t wait to take action. The Barry Law Firm is here to ensure that you’re not left with a dangerous or unreliable vehicle.

Contact us today for a FAST and FREE consultation and learn how we can help you pursue a Lemon Law claim. You shouldn’t have to deal with defective vehicles alone—let us fight for the justice and compensation you deserve.

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The Barry Law Firm

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Los Angeles, California 90064

Phone: 310-684-5859

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