- The fires are suspected to originate from the passenger front side of the engine compartment.
- The NHTSA has received numerous filed reports, including a death and injury report, about the issue.
- The automaker is aware of several fires starting at the power steering pump electrical connector.
More than 781,000 Jeep Wrangler and Gladiator models are being investigated in the United States due to the possibility of them catching fire, even if they’re turned off.
The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration’s (NHTSA) Office of Defects Investigation (ODI) has received nine owner questionnaires, multiple field reports, and a death and injury report. These documents claim that engine compartment fires can ignite even when the vehicle’s ignition is off, with the fires believed to start on the passenger side of the engine compartment.
Read: ‘Nap Mode’ Feature? Jeep Recalls Gladiator and Wrangler Models Over Sudden Screen Death
Authorities note that a fire can increase the risk of occupant injury and the risk of injuries to those outside the vehicle. It can also cause property damage “with little or no warning.”
The ODI has been in contact with the FCA and has been informed of several fires originating at the power steering pump electrical connector in recent Jeep Wrangler and Gladiator models, which just so happens to be at the passenger front side of the engine compartment. The company says it’s cooperating with the ongoing investigation.
A total of 781,459 vehicles are in the NHTSA’s crosshairs, consisting of 2021-2023 Jeep Wrangler and 2021-2023 Jeep Gladiator models. The investigation, or ‘Preliminary Evaluation’ as the safety agency describes it, will assess the cause, scope, and frequency of the alleged defect. It does not mean a recall will be issued, although it is possible one will be required, depending on the findings.
Speaking with The Detroit News, executive director of the nonprofit Center for Auto Safety, Michael Brooks, recommended owners of impacted Wrangler and Gladiator models to pay them outside until the matter is resolved. After all, it’s better to be safe than sorry, and nobody wants to see their pride and joy go up in flames while parked in a garage.
