Jeep Underhood Fire Class Action Lawsuits: Do You Have a Claim?

Two class action lawsuits are currently underway against Stellantis (formerly FCA US, LLC) over fire hazards related to certain Jeep plug-in hybrid models, including the 2020–2024 Jeep Wrangler 4xe and 2022–2024 Jeep Grand Cherokee 4xe.

These lawsuits, filed in January and March 2025, allege that despite multiple recalls and software updates, the core issues with the lithium-ion battery system and electrical connectors have not been properly addressed by the manufacturer Stellantis.

Jeep owners who have faced battery-related safety concerns, particularly those linked to dangerous underhood fires, may be eligible to pursue legal action.

Both lawsuits accuse Stellantis of breaching warranties, concealing critical defects, and violating consumer protection laws.

Notably, the plaintiffs emphasize that the NHTSA’s (National Highway Traffic Safety Administration) Office of Defects Investigation (ODI) has linked at least one fatality to the fires.

Formal complaints from Jeep drivers detail several incidents where vehicles from the affected group caught fire unpredictably, including one case where a Jeep allegedly ignited six hours after being parked and turned off, leaving the vehicle completely destroyed.

Jeep Fire Class Action Lawsuits

Several class action lawsuits have been filed in recent years over fire-related concerns with Jeep 4xe plug-in hybrid models.

These cases reflect growing frustration among consumers who believe Stellantis failed to adequately warn about or resolve known safety risks. Below are some of the most significant legal actions in recent years:

• 2023 Jeep 4xe Battery Fire Lawsuit: This lawsuit centered around Jeep Wrangler 4xe and Jeep Grand Cherokee 4xe models. Plaintiffs alleged that the vehicles’ high-voltage lithium-ion batteries were prone to spontaneous fires—even while parked and turned off. The complaint further claimed that Stellantis (FCA US LLC) was aware of the danger but did not take sufficient action to correct the issue.
• 2024 Jeep 4xe Recall Lawsuit: Following continued reports of battery-related fires, a new class action lawsuit was filed in 2024. It targeted the same Jeep plug-in hybrid models, arguing that previous recalls in 2023 and 2024 were inadequate. Plaintiffs said the automaker failed to notify customers of the full extent of the fire risks at the time of sale.
• January 2025 Jeep 4xe Battery Recall Lawsuit: This lawsuit once again focused on the Jeep Wrangler 4xe and Jeep Grand Cherokee 4xe vehicles. Plaintiffs asserted that Stellantis should have provided earlier and stronger warnings about the potential for battery fires. The suit claimed the automaker’s prior recalls had not eliminated the risk.
• March 2025 Jeep 4xe Battery Fire Lawsuit: In another case filed by a New York resident, Stellantis was accused of failing to fix the persistent fire danger despite multiple recalls and software patches. The lawsuit alleges that a physical defect in the Samsung-manufactured lithium-ion battery cells makes these Jeeps vulnerable to catching fire—even when powered down and stationary.

Bell v. FCA US LLC 

In March 2025, a class action lawsuit was filed against FCA US LLC, alleging that certain Jeep vehicles are equipped with a dangerous defect that could result in engine compartment fires—even when the vehicle is parked and turned off.

The lawsuit centers on 2021–2023 model-year Jeep Wrangler JL and Jeep Gladiator vehicles, claiming that a defective electrical connector at the power steering pump may overheat and ignite surrounding components, increasing the risk of spontaneous fires.

Plaintiff Nikki Bell asserts that at least one fatal incident has already been linked to this defect. She also claims FCA had knowledge of the fire risk long before the lawsuit was filed, citing consumer complaints and the company’s communications with federal regulators.

Rather than disclosing this potential hazard to consumers, the lawsuit alleges FCA continued to market and sell the affected vehicles without warning.

The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration formally opened an investigation in September 2024 through its Office of Defects Investigation (ODI), focusing on numerous reports of engine fires in Wrangler and Gladiator models.

The agency’s inquiry reportedly covers hundreds of thousands of vehicles and was prompted by concerning accounts of fires occurring without warning—sometimes while the vehicle was parked and unoccupied.

According to the lawsuit, this investigation supports the claim that FCA was aware of the potential for thermal events but failed to take swift corrective action.

The case seeks class certification and aims to represent all U.S. owners and lessees of the affected Jeep models.

It includes claims of breach of implied warranty, violations of consumer protection laws, and unjust enrichment, as well as a request for damages, legal fees, and a jury trial.

Paris v. Fiat Chrysler Automobiles US LLC

Another class action lawsuit filed in January 2025 against FCA claims that several Jeep vehicles suffer from a dangerous defect that could lead to spontaneous fires—even when parked and turned off.

The issue is believed to stem from an electrical connector at the power steering pump, which may overheat and spark underhood fires.

The complaint targets 2020–2024 Jeep Wrangler, 2021–2023 Jeep Gladiator, and 2022–2024 Jeep Grand Cherokee models, asserting they left the factory with a hidden flaw that posed a serious safety risk to unsuspecting consumers. The lawsuit seeks to represent all U.S. owners and lessees of these affected vehicles.

According to plaintiff Stan Paris, who purchased a used 2023 Jeep Wrangler 4xe in July 2024, the threat of fire has already had financial consequences—even though his own vehicle hasn’t caught fire.

He claims he has been forced to park the Jeep in an uncovered airport lot, spending $26 per day, to prevent the risk of damaging nearby property.

Should I Join a Class Action Lawsuit?

If you’re dealing with a Jeep underhood fire issue, joining a class action lawsuit could be a solid option, especially if you’re not the only one affected by this defect.

In many cases, class actions allow individuals who share similar complaints to combine their efforts and pursue legal action collectively.

One of the main advantages of joining a class action is the shared legal costs. Since the fees are split among all plaintiffs, it can significantly reduce your personal financial burden.

Another benefit is the strength in numbers. If many Jeep owners are experiencing the same underhood fire issue, a class action can amplify the impact of the claims.

A large group of plaintiffs can often lead to a more powerful case and potentially a larger settlement or judgment.

This can be a more efficient way to address the issue, especially if the problem is widespread and the manufacturer may be more willing to settle to avoid extensive litigation.

Class action lawsuits also typically operate on a contingency fee basis, meaning you don’t pay any upfront costs.

You only pay if the lawsuit is successful, which can make this a low-risk option for consumers.

Additionally, class actions streamline the legal process, consolidating many cases into one, which can save time and effort compared to pursuing individual lawsuits.

However, there are some downsides to consider. One of the main drawbacks is that you have less control over the case.

Since the lawsuit is being handled by lawyers representing the group, you may not have a direct say in some aspects of the legal process.

Furthermore, the payout in a class action is typically smaller than what you might receive from an individual lawsuit, as the settlement or judgment must be divided among all plaintiffs.

Before deciding to join a class action, it’s important to evaluate the specifics of the case, such as how widespread the issue is, the potential compensation, and whether you’re comfortable with the process.

Consulting with an attorney specializing in lemon law can help guide you in making the best choice for your situation.

Should I File a Lemon Law Claim? 

On the other hand, the lemon law approach is often faster than joining a class action and may lead to a more substantial outcome for the individual owner.

If your claim meets the necessary criteria, you could be entitled to a full refund or a replacement vehicle. In many cases, lemon law claims also allow for reimbursement of costs such as repairs, towing, and rental cars.

Another benefit is that, if you win, the manufacturer is typically required to cover your legal fees. The main downside is that lemon law claims are only available to those who meet specific requirements, such as a certain number of repair attempts or issues occurring within a set timeframe.

If your vehicle has been subject to recalls or continues to experience battery-related problems, it’s important to explore all your available legal avenues.

Whether you choose to join a class action or file a lemon law claim, speaking with an experienced attorney can help you understand your rights and determine the best course of action.

Below is an approximate range of potential settlements for Jeep models impacted by this underhood fire issue:

Affected Vehicle	Average Lemon Law Settlement
Jeep Wrangler 4xe	$62,811
Jeep Grand Cherokee	$86,193
Jeep Gladiator	$55,551

*Please note, the figures presented in the chart are approximations based on past case results and should not be interpreted as a prediction or guarantee. Each case is unique and requires personalized legal guidance.

Reach Out to Our Team of Lemon Law Experts!

This isn’t the first time Jeep has faced challenges related to safety and electrical issues. In fact, manufacturer FCA is currently under scrutiny due to fire risks linked to defective high-voltage lithium-ion batteries and faulty electrical connectors in the 2022–2024 Jeep Grand Cherokee 4xe models.

With thousands of vehicles affected and serious safety concerns arising, Jeep owners are understandably frustrated when these dangerous issues aren’t resolved after multiple repair attempts.

If your 2022–2024 Jeep Grand Cherokee has experienced repeated fire risks, electrical malfunctions, or other ongoing defects, you may be eligible for relief under lemon law protections.

Since 2009, the Lemon Law Experts have successfully helped countless vehicle owners recover compensation for defective cars, and we can help you too.

Our team offers free case evaluations to determine if you qualify for a vehicle buyback, repairs, or compensation.

Don’t wait—take the first step toward resolving your lemon law case and protecting your rights today.