In a string of recalls involving 4xe engines, the latest one stands out for a rather unusual reason: sand may have made its way into the engine. The affected models are the Grand Cherokee and Wrangler equipped with the 4xe plug-in hybrid system for model years 2024 and 2025.
- 5,658 engines are being recalled in Canada
• The issue is due to sand contamination during the casting process
• Stellantis is still evaluating how to resolve the problem
The issue stems from sand contamination during the casting process
Stellantis is still evaluating solutions to address the problem
Following two major recalls in recent weeks, reliability and design issues continue to pile up for Jeep—especially concerning its 4xe plug-in hybrid powertrain. In this case, the affected system is found under the hood of the Jeep Wrangler and Jeep Grand Cherokee produced for the Canadian market for the 2024 and 2025 model years.
The problem originates at the Mexican assembly plant that builds the 2.0-litre four-cylinder engines used in the 4xe powertrain. After multiple issues were reported by owners, Stellantis discovered that the engines may have been contaminated with sand during manufacturing, specifically during the casting process.
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If an engine is affected, a number of symptoms may appear. Sand contamination can damage the engine, cause a sudden loss of power, and/or trigger an engine-bay fire.
While Canadian data is not yet available, the situation in the United States shows a significant number of confirmed cases linked directly to this problem:
- 36 customer assistance cases
- 144 warranty claims
- 36 fires
- 50 loss-of-propulsion incidents
- 50 other related incidents
- 3 people injured in various situations
Here is Transport Canada recall number 78C:
Issue: On certain vehicles, the engine may not have been manufactured properly. As a result, the engine could make abnormal noises and a warning light may turn on. If you continue to drive the vehicle with these symptoms, the engine could fail. Note: This recall only affects plug-in hybrid (PHEV) models.
Safety Risk: An engine failure could cause a sudden loss of power to the wheels and/or increase the risk of a vehicle fire. Both issues could increase the risk of a crash or injury.
Corrective actions: FCA Canada will notify owners in writing. The corrective actions for this recall are under development.
