NEARLY 2 000 JEEP WRANGLER AND GLADIATOR VEHICLES RECALLED IN SOUTH AFRICA OVER POSSIBLE FIRE HAZARD

JEEP WRANGLER
JEEP WRANGLER

Nearly 2 000 Jeep vehicles have been recalled in South Africa following concerns that an electrical fault could cause overheating and potentially start a fire. The National Consumer Commission (NCC) announced on 3 November 2026 that Stellantis South Africa is recalling 1 896 Jeep Wrangler and Jeep Gladiator vehicles manufactured between 2021 and 2025.

Of the affected vehicles, 1 881 were sold locally, making the recall an important safety warning for Jeep owners across the country. The commission is urging motorists who own the affected models to contact an authorised Jeep dealership and arrange an inspection and necessary repairs.

What is causing the possible fire risk?

According to the NCC, the affected vehicles are fitted with an Electric Hydraulic Power Steering Pump (EHPS), which may have an electrical connection susceptible to high resistance. This electrical problem could cause the connection to overheat under certain circumstances.

If combustible materials around the affected area become hot enough, they could potentially catch fire. The situation could place vehicle occupants and people nearby at risk of injury. The commission explained that some drivers may receive a dashboard warning indicating a loss of power steering assistance or displaying the message “Service Power Steering”.

Motorists who notice this warning should not ignore it. They are encouraged to have their vehicles checked by an authorised dealership.

Which Jeep vehicles are affected?

The recall covers selected Jeep Wrangler and Jeep Gladiator vehicles manufactured between 2021 and 2025. However, not every vehicle from these model years is necessarily affected. Owners should confirm whether their specific vehicles are included in the recall.

The National Consumer Commission has advised motorists to use the vehicle identification number (VIN) checking facility available through Jeep’s official website. A VIN is a unique identification number assigned to each vehicle. It can normally be found on the vehicle’s documentation and in designated areas of the vehicle.

Checking the VIN is important because two vehicles of the same model and manufacturing year may not necessarily be covered by the same safety recall.

Repairs will be carried out at no cost

Stellantis South Africa has confirmed that affected vehicles must be taken to the nearest authorised Jeep dealership for inspection and the necessary corrective work. The repairs will be performed free of charge. Owners should contact their dealerships before arranging a visit so that the service team can confirm whether their vehicles are affected and explain the inspection process.

The NCC has also provided an email address for consumers who need additional information about the recall: ProductRecall@thencc.org.za.

Why vehicle recalls should not be ignored

Vehicle safety recalls are issued when manufacturers or regulators identify defects that could affect the safe operation of a vehicle. Although not every affected vehicle will necessarily experience the electrical problem, the possibility of overheating and fire makes it important for owners to respond promptly.

Power steering is particularly important because it helps drivers control their vehicles, especially when maneuvering at low speeds or making sudden movements. A warning indicating reduced steering assistance should therefore be treated seriously. Motorists should also avoid attempting to repair electrical components themselves. Inspections and corrective work should be handled by qualified technicians familiar with the affected Jeep systems.

What Jeep owners should do next

Jeep Wrangler and Gladiator owners who purchased vehicles between 2021 and 2025 should check their VIN numbers through the manufacturer’s recall facility. If a vehicle is included, the owner should arrange an appointment with an authorised dealership as soon as possible.

The recall highlights the importance of monitoring vehicle safety announcements and responding when manufacturers identify potentially dangerous defects.

For South African motorists, the message from the National Consumer Commission is clear: do not assume your vehicle is safe simply because it has not displayed a warning. Confirm whether it is affected and arrange the required inspection.

JEEP WRANGLER
JEEP WRANGLER

Owners urged to check their vehicles

Jeep owners are encouraged to use the manufacturer’s VIN checking facility to establish whether their Wrangler or Gladiator is included in the recall.

National Consumer Commission announces recall

The NCC announces that 1 896 Jeep Wrangler and Gladiator vehicles are affected by the safety recall. A total of 1 881 were sold in South Africa.

Possible electrical overheating identified

The commission explains that a high-resistance electrical connection in the electric hydraulic power steering pump could overheat combustible materials and potentially cause a fire.

Next step – Free inspections and repairs

Affected owners are advised to contact authorised Jeep dealerships. The necessary inspection and repairs will be conducted at no cost.