Stellantis, a global automotive powerhouse, has announced a recall affecting nearly 92,000 Jeep vehicles. This action stems from a potential power defect that could significantly elevate the risk of accidents. The core issue lies within a software error affecting the hybrid control processor in certain hybrid electric vehicles, a vulnerability that demands immediate attention.
The recall specifically targets the 2022 to 2026 Jeep Grand Cherokee Plug-In Hybrid models, a segment of vehicles designed to offer both fuel efficiency and robust performance. The heart of the problem resides in a microprocessor within the Battery Pack Control Module (BPCM). Under certain conditions, this microprocessor can become overloaded, leading to a system reset.
This reset, unfortunately, isn't a simple inconvenience. The safety report issued by the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) underscores the severity of the situation, warning that the BPCM reset "may cause loss of propulsion." In essence, the vehicle could unexpectedly lose power while in operation, creating a hazardous scenario for the driver and other motorists.
The NHTSA, in its safety report, emphasizes that the Hybrid Control Processor misinterprets signals from the BPCM during this reset, leading to the propulsion loss. Imagine the implications: a sudden loss of power while merging onto a highway, navigating a busy intersection, or climbing a steep hill. The potential for accidents is alarmingly high.
The gravest concern is the lack of warning. According to the safety report, drivers receive "absolutely no indication such as a warning light on the dash that there is an issue." This absence of advance notice transforms the potential power loss into a sudden and unexpected event, leaving drivers with little to no time to react and potentially avoid a collision.
Think of it like a pilot losing engine power without any prior signs of trouble. The sudden loss of control can be catastrophic. Similarly, in a vehicle, the abrupt cessation of propulsion without warning lights or error messages can quickly lead to panic and poor decision-making, ultimately increasing the likelihood of a crash.
The safety report explicitly warns that "an unexpected loss of propulsion can cause a vehicle crash without prior warning." This stark statement highlights the critical nature of the recall and the urgency with which Stellantis must address the defect. The safety of drivers and passengers depends on a swift and effective resolution.
Currently, Stellantis is actively working on a remedy for this software-related defect. The company understands the urgency and is dedicating resources to developing a solution that will prevent the BPCM microprocessor from becoming overloaded and causing the potentially dangerous loss of propulsion.
While the solution is still under development, Stellantis plans to notify both owners and dealerships about the recall in the coming weeks. The NHTSA anticipates that notification alerts will be mailed to vehicle owners starting on October 23rd. Dealerships, being the front line of service and repair, are expected to receive warnings even earlier, on September 11th.
On September 11th, the NHTSA website will also be updated with a searchable database of Vehicle Identification Numbers (VINs) affected by the recall. This tool will allow owners to quickly determine if their Jeep Grand Cherokee Plug-In Hybrid is among the vehicles potentially impacted by the power defect.
For owners concerned about their vehicle, Stellantis has established a dedicated customer service line. Drivers can call the Chrysler customer service desk at 800-853-1403 to inquire about the recall and receive guidance on next steps. The company is committed to providing transparent and accessible information to all affected customers.
As of August 18, 2025, the report indicates that no accidents or injuries have been directly attributed to this specific power defect. However, the absence of reported incidents doesn't diminish the potential risk. Proactive measures, such as this recall, are essential to prevent future accidents and ensure the safety of drivers and passengers.
Despite the lack of reported accidents or injuries, Stellantis has been tracking potential indicators of the issue. As of August 18, 2025, "FCA US is aware of 96 customer assistance records, 110 field reports, and 320 other service records potentially relating to this issue for all markets with dates of receipt ranging from December 23, 2024, to August 8, 2025." These records suggest that the issue has been observed in the field, even if it hasn't yet resulted in a collision.
Further details about the recall, including specific instructions for owners and a comprehensive explanation of the defect, can be found on the NHTSA website. This resource provides a wealth of information and allows owners to stay informed about the progress of the recall and any updates to the remedy.
This recall isn't an isolated event for Stellantis. The company has recently faced other recalls, highlighting the challenges inherent in modern automotive manufacturing. Earlier, Stellantis had to issue a recall over tire concerns that could also increase the risk of a crash. Tire integrity is paramount to vehicle safety, and any potential weakness demands immediate attention.
Adding to the recent recall activity, Stellantis also recalled over 250,000 other vehicles earlier this summer over another potential safety defect. In that instance, drivers were offered a free replacement to address the issue, demonstrating the company's commitment to rectifying problems and prioritizing customer safety.
Recalls, while disruptive, are a crucial part of the automotive safety ecosystem. They represent a proactive effort by manufacturers to identify and address potential defects before they lead to accidents or injuries. Transparency and open communication are essential throughout the recall process to ensure that owners are informed and can take appropriate action.
The complexity of modern vehicles, with their intricate software and interconnected systems, means that defects can sometimes be difficult to detect during the initial design and testing phases. Recalls serve as a safety net, allowing manufacturers to address unforeseen issues that emerge after vehicles are already on the road.
The sheer volume of vehicles recalled by Stellantis in recent years, including the current recall of Jeep Grand Cherokee Plug-In Hybrids, underscores the increasing scrutiny placed on automotive safety. Regulators and consumers alike demand the highest standards of safety, and manufacturers are held accountable for any potential defects that could compromise driver and passenger well-being.
Drivers who receive notification of the Jeep Grand Cherokee Plug-In Hybrid recall are strongly encouraged to take their vehicles to an authorized dealership as soon as possible. The dealership will perform the necessary software updates or repairs to address the BPCM microprocessor issue and prevent the potential loss of propulsion.
The NHTSA plays a vital role in overseeing automotive safety and ensuring that manufacturers comply with federal regulations. The agency's rigorous testing and monitoring help to identify potential safety defects and initiate recalls when necessary. The NHTSA website is an invaluable resource for consumers seeking information about vehicle safety and recalls.
The automotive industry is constantly evolving, with new technologies and features being introduced at a rapid pace. This innovation brings significant benefits to drivers, but it also presents new challenges in terms of safety and reliability. Vigilance, proactive recalls, and a commitment to continuous improvement are essential to ensuring that vehicles remain safe for all road users.