A new class action lawsuit has been filed against Stellantis N.V. and its U.S. subsidiary (FCA US, LLC), alleging serious defects with the hybrid battery systems in certain Jeep Wrangler 4xe and Jeep Grand Cherokee 4xe plug-in hybrid vehicles.
According to the complaint, filed in the U.S. District Court for the District of Utah, the lawsuit targets high-voltage lithium-ion batteries in 2020–2025 Jeep Wrangler 4xe and 2022–2026 Jeep Grand Cherokee 4xe models. Plaintiffs Lisa and Jaron Humphreys of Utah, owners of a 2023 Wrangler Unlimited Sahara, say the batteries – manufactured by Samsung – contain internal defects that create a significant fire risk.
Allegations of Defect and Safety Risk
The lawsuit claims the batteries are prone to thermal runaway and overheating, which can lead to fires even when the vehicles are parked and turned off. Plaintiffs argue that multiple recalls issued in 2023, 2024, and late 2025 have failed to adequately resolve the underlying defect. They further contend that Stellantis knew or should have known about the dangerous battery issues but delayed comprehensive corrective action.
One of the striking aspects of the complaint is that owners have been instructed not to charge their vehicles and to park them away from structures until repairs are completed – effectively depriving consumers of a key feature that motivated their decision to buy the plug-in hybrids in the first place.
Recall History and Consumer Impact
Stellantis has issued several recalls related to the 4xe hybrid battery fire risk. The most recent expanded recall reportedly covers virtually all 4xe models ever produced – except for 2026 units – and warns owners to avoid charging or parking their vehicles indoors due to the potential fire hazard. Despite these actions, plaintiffs say the company has not delivered a reliable or permanent fix.
In a related report, automakers including Stellantis reportedly discontinued sales of the Wrangler and Grand Cherokee 4xe plug-in models late in 2025, citing unresolved battery fire risks. Owners have expressed frustration that repeated recalls have left their vehicles unusable in electric mode for extended periods while they await adequate repairs.
Legal Claims and Consumer Rights
The lawsuit asserts claims under federal and state consumer protection laws and seeks to represent all affected Jeep 4xe owners and lessees nationwide. At its core, the complaint alleges that Stellantis concealed known defects, failed to provide effective remedies, and sold vehicles that were unsafe and did not perform as advertised.
Plaintiffs are represented by legal firms including Head Law, PLLC and Janove PLLC. As the litigation proceeds, affected owners may have the opportunity to join the class action and seek compensation or a more permanent remedy for their allegedly defective vehicles.
Lucas graduated cum laude from Southern University Law Center in 2025, finishing second overall in his graduating cohort. He was a recipient of the Southern University Law Center Merit Scholarship, awarded to students in the top five percent (5%) of the class based on merit, academic performance, and character. Lucas is admitted to practice law in the State of Louisiana. While his time in formal legal practice is recent, he has been part of the Auto Lemon Lawyer team for over five years, during which he has worked in every position within the firm. This experience provides him with a comprehensive understanding of Lemon Law cases from intake through litigation and resolution.