Jeep Underhood Fire Class Action Lawsuit: What California Jeep Owners Need to Know
If you own or lease a 2021–2023 Jeep Wrangler or Gladiator, you may be affected by a serious safety issue that has led to a nationwide class action lawsuit. At Valero Law APC, we are committed to keeping consumers informed about their rights under California's Lemon Law.
🔥 The Issue: Spontaneous Underhood Fires
Reports have emerged of certain Jeep Wrangler and Gladiator models experiencing spontaneous underhood fires, even when the vehicles are parked and turned off. The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) has launched an investigation into these incidents, focusing on a potential defect in the power steering pump electrical connector located on the passenger side of the engine compartment .
One Jeep owner reported, “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” .
🚗 Affected Models
The vehicles potentially impacted by this issue include:
2021–2023 Jeep Wrangler (Gas and Hybrid)
2021–2023 Jeep Gladiator
2022–2024 Jeep Grand Cherokee (Plug-in Hybrid Electric Vehicles)
The NHTSA estimates that over 781,000 vehicles could be affected .
⚖️ The Legal Action
Multiple class action lawsuits have been filed against Fiat Chrysler Automobiles (FCA), now part of Stellantis, alleging that the company knowingly sold vehicles with a fire risk and failed to take adequate corrective measures. The lawsuits claim violations of consumer protection laws, breach of warranty, and seek compensation for affected owners .
In one case, a plaintiff alleges that after purchasing a 2023 Jeep Wrangler Unlimited 4xe, he was advised to park the vehicle away from structures due to fire risks, leading to significant inconvenience and expense .
🛡️ Your Rights Under California Lemon Law
California's Lemon Law protects consumers who purchase or lease new vehicles with substantial defects that the manufacturer cannot repair after a reasonable number of attempts. If your Jeep has experienced issues related to the underhood fire risk, you may be entitled to:
A replacement vehicle
A refund of the purchase price
Reimbursement for repair costs, towing, and rental expenses
It's important to note that participating in a class action lawsuit may limit your ability to pursue individual claims. Opting out of the class action allows you to seek remedies specific to your situation under the Lemon Law.
📞 Contact Valero Law APC
If you’re in California, if you believe your Jeep Wrangler or Gladiator is affected by this issue, contact Valero Law APC for a free consultation. Our experienced attorneys can help you understand your rights and determine the best course of action.