Jeep Cherokee fire hazard recall

Stellantis, the parent company behind Chrysler and Jeep, said the vehicles have a power tailgate on the hatchback, and its power dash is prone to water leaks. This may cause an electrical short and fire, regardless of whether the vehicle is running or not.

Drivers should look for inoperable power lift gates as an indication of a problem, The company said.

Vehicle owners can arrange free repairs by contacting their local dealer or calling customer service at 800-853-1403 and referring to Recall 49A.

The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration said the automaker has not yet developed a fire hazard treatment. Drivers whose vehicles are damaged by defective parts are entitled to compensation.

SUVs repaired under the 2015 recall require new repairs, officials said. Owners of affected vehicles will be notified by mail starting June 30.

FCA, formerly Fiat Chrysler, began investigating an “increasing trend in cargo compartment fires” in some Cherokee vehicles in January 2022, according to a regulatory filing.

From July 2017 through January 2023, FCA identified 50 customer assistance records, 23 warranty claims and 21 field reports related to the liftgate defect, NHTSA reported.

The company said it was not aware of any accidents or injuries caused by the defect.