The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) has launched an investigation into over 781,000 Jeep Wrangler and Gladiator SUVs from model years 2021 to 2023 after receiving reports of underhood fires. The agency has documented nine fire incidents and one injury so far. Many of the fires reportedly occurred while the vehicles were parked with the ignition off.
According to NHTSA, the fires appear to originate at the power steering pump electrical connector located on the passenger side of the engine compartment, aligning with the majority of fire reports.
Several owners reported fires shortly after purchasing the vehicles. One incident involved a 2021 Jeep Wrangler in Rumson, New Jersey, which began smoking and caught fire within 10 minutes, forcing the driver and passengers to evacuate quickly. In Arizona, another 2021 Wrangler with only 1,900 miles on it burst into flames while driving, resulting in a total vehicle loss. A 2022 Gladiator in Auburn, Washington, also caught fire after being parked for two weeks, despite no prior warning signs.
Jeep’s manufacturer, Stellantis, is cooperating with the investigation. This investigation marks the preliminary stage before NHTSA can request a recall of affected vehicles.
