Jeep has issued a recall for 62,909 Wrangler 4xes manufactured between 2021 and 2023 due to a potential engine shutdown while in operation. Unsold units will also face a temporary suspension of sales until the necessary service action is completed, which involves a software update to three powertrain control modules. The engine shutdown poses a safety risk as it could lead to a possible collision. The root cause seems to be a breakdown in communication between a transmission control module, a “hybrid control processor,” and an “auxiliary hybrid control processor,” although the recall lacks detailed specifics.
The recall report from the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration states that, “A number of 2021-2023 MY Jeep Wrangler 4xe vehicles equipped with the 2.0L PHEV may encounter instances of engine shutdown due to diagnostic responses to faults triggered by communication breakdowns.”
Jeep
Stellantis has reported “two collisions and one instance of injury potentially linked to this issue” in all markets where the model is retailed. The Wrangler 4xe is the singular variant of the Jeep Wrangler available in the European market; hence, a similar recall procedure is anticipated across the Atlantic. Vehicle owners will receive notifications regarding the glitch starting from January 12, 2023, through postal mail. The resolution entails a straightforward update to the software of the transmission control module, hybrid control processor, and auxiliary hybrid control processor at no cost to the owners, which will be carried out at authorized dealerships.
All Wrangler PHEVs manufactured between September 2, 2020, and August 17, 2022, fall under this recall. It is important to note that other versions of the Wrangler remain unaffected. Therefore, if your Jeep does not possess the ability to operate on electric power alone, this recall does not pertain to your vehicle.
This is one of the four ongoing recalls related to the Wrangler 4xe. The other three address safety concerns associated with the side marker lights, fuel pump, and a fuse located within the high-voltage battery.
Owners with concerns can contact NHTSA at 1-888-327-4236 (TTY 1-800-424-9153).
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