Stellantis recalls 419,035 Jeeps in US due to side airbag defect

Stellantis has recalled 419,035 vehicles in the United States after a software fault was discovered that could delay side airbag deployment during a crash.

According to the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA), as reported by US news outlet Quartz on Friday (29 May) local time, the affected vehicles fail to meet US federal motor vehicle safety standards.

The affected models include the 2022-2026 Jeep Grand Cherokee and 2023-2025 Jeep Grand Cherokee L.

NHTSA stated that vehicle owners can update the occupant restraint controller module software free of charge at dealerships.

Stellantis, which oversees brands including Abarth, Alfa Romeo, Chrysler, Citroen, Dodge, DS Automobiles, Fiat, Jeep, Lancia, Maserati, Opel, Peugeot, Ram, and Vauxhall, has previously conducted large-scale recalls.

In April, Stellantis recalled around 700,000 vehicles globally due to potential fire risks.

The recall covered vehicles from Peugeot, Citroen, DS Automobiles, Alfa Romeo, Jeep, Fiat, and Opel, according to the German Transport Authority.

The Brussels Times reported on 1 April that a Stellantis spokesperson said the issue relates to spacing between certain components in some 2023-2026 models.

In wet conditions, the gap could cause an electrical arc, potentially leading to overheating or thermal issues. In extreme cases, this could pose a fire risk in the engine compartment.

Stellantis said it has directly contacted affected customers, with repairs taking approximately 30 minutes and carried out free of charge.