Chrysler (Stellantis) has issued a recall for a potential battery fire risk, even while the vehicle is parked
the staff of the Ridgewood blog
Paramus NJ, The Paramus Fire Department is sharing crucial information regarding a major safety recall impacting over 320,000 Jeep plug-in hybrid electric vehicles (PHEVs). If you own a Jeep Wrangler 4Xe or Grand Cherokee 4Xe, your immediate attention is required. This recall is linked to a significant fire hazard and the unique dangers posed by Lithium-Ion (Li-Ion) battery fires.
🚨 Is Your Jeep Affected by the Fire Risk Recall?
Chrysler (Stellantis) has issued a recall for a potential battery fire risk, even while the vehicle is parked.
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Affected Vehicles:
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2020 to 2025 Jeep Wrangler 4Xe
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2022 to 2026 Jeep Grand Cherokee 4Xe
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The Hazard: The high-voltage battery pack in these vehicles may contain defective cells susceptible to separator damage, increasing the risk of a fire.
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Immediate Action Required (Manufacturer’s Warning):
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Do NOT Charge: Owners are strongly urged to allow the batteries to fully deplete and not recharge them until an official, effective remedy is applied to the vehicle.
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Park Outside: Park your vehicle outdoors and significantly away from other vehicles and any structures (homes, garages, businesses).
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The remedy for this serious defect is still under development by the manufacturer. Please heed these warnings to protect your property and loved ones.
The Lithium-Ion Fire Challenge: What Residents and First Responders Need to Know
This recall highlights a growing safety concern for all vehicle owners and emergency services: the unique dangers of Li-Ion battery fires. The Paramus Fire Department wants the community to understand the risks:
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Self-Sustaining & Long-Burning: Li-Ion batteries are capable of creating their own fuel through a process called “thermal runaway,” allowing them to burn intensely for an extended period—sometimes upwards of 24 hours.
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Highly Toxic Gases: These fires release extremely dangerous, highly toxic gases. Inhaling these fumes should be strictly avoided. There are recorded cases of emergency responders suffering permanent lung damage from exposure.
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Flammable Gas Risk: The gases vented by a failing battery are also highly flammable, posing an additional risk of an explosion if they encounter an ignition source.
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Delayed Ignition Hazard: As we have experienced locally, a damaged Li-Ion battery can be unpredictable. In one case, a damaged battery that had been secured after a vehicle fire later off-gassed and ignited a week later.
⚠️ If you observe a Li-Ion battery—in a vehicle or any device—exhibiting signs of “off-gassing” (e.g., unusual smoke, hissing, popping, excessive heat, bulging), we recommend you evacuate the area immediately and call 9-1-1.
Proper Disposal and Safety is Key
If your vehicle’s Li-Ion battery is known to be damaged (e.g., post-accident, showing physical signs of damage), the risk of keeping it far outweighs the cost of replacing it. Damaged batteries can spontaneously ignite.
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Never attempt to open, repair, or dispose of a damaged Li-Ion battery yourself.
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Contact your dealer, the manufacturer, or a certified hazardous waste professional for guidance on safe handling and disposal.
The Paramus Fire Department is continuously training and adapting to the challenges posed by new energy vehicles. While we are not Li-Ion battery experts, we are committed to providing the best guidance and emergency response possible.
Contact and Resources
For the most up-to-date and authoritative information regarding the recall and the remedy, please contact the vehicle manufacturer or official safety organizations:
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Chrysler Customer Service: 800-853-1403
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NHTSA Recall Search: Visit the NHTSA website and enter your VIN to check for outstanding recalls.
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