Problems with the Jeep Wrangler and Jeep Gladiator are spreading like wildfire. A new class-action lawsuit is bringing the heat as it involves roughly 781,000 models due to severe fire risks. 

Jeep Wrangler and Gladiator models face a fire-related lawsuit 

According to HBSS Law, a class-action lawsuit alleges that Fiat Chrysler created a risk of injury, death, or property damage. It was filed with the United States District Court for the Eastern District of Michigan. 

The alleged defect impacts roughly 781,000 2021 – 2023 Jeep Wrangler and Jeep Gladiator models. Models equipped with gas-powered and hybrid powertrains are included. 

It’s believed that FCA sold models that are susceptible to spontaneous underhood fires due to an alleged defect in the power steering pump electric connector. It’s located in the front passenger side of the engine compartment. 

Reportedly, the defect has caused about nine spontaneous fires under the hood and one injury. However, the FCA did previously recall Wrangler and Gladiator models due to other fire risks and instructed owners to park outside and away from structures. 

But there hasn’t been a recall that’s related to this particular fire risk. Also, the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) is currently investigating the matter. A recall could be issued later based on its findings. 

The lawsuit claims that hundreds of thousands of vehicles are on the road and parked in or around structures. Other vehicles are at risk of catching on fire and owners are without a safely operable vehicle for an unknown and potentially lengthy period. 

Plus, the lawsuit includes claims of Magnuson-Moss Warranty Act violations, consumer warranty violations, and unjust enrichment. It seeks to provide relief on behalf of owners of the possibly affected Jeep Wrangler and Gladiator models. 

There are a few personal accounts from drivers detailing how the fires impacted their families and pets, even as they were driving around. 

Stay tuned to see how this plays out.