Faulty OTA Update Causes Power Loss On 24,000+ Jeep Wrangler SUVs

Jeep has issued a major recall for over 24,000 Wrangler SUVs after a botched over-the-air (OTA) software update left vehicles "bricked," resulting in sudden propulsion loss while driving. 

The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) of the USA announced the recall, citing a software glitch that disrupts hybrid system communication, with no prior warning to drivers.

Thankfully, the affected models are all 4xe plug-in hybrid variants, which are not sold here in India. So, Wrangler owners in the country need not worry.

Anyway, affected vehicles total 24,238 units, primarily recent Wrangler 4xe models equipped with the problematic Telematics Box Module and Hybrid Control Processor. 

The issue emerged from an OTA update that triggered an incomplete data exchange between modules, forcing the Hybrid Control Processor to reset unexpectedly.

This can cause a complete loss of motive power mid-drive, heightening crash risks, though no accidents or injuries have been reported so far. Drivers have complained of vehicles stalling abruptly, with over 200 U.S. cases flagged by NHTSA's Vehicle Defect Division, plus seven in Canada and widespread forum buzz.

Stellantis, Jeep's parent, was alerted on October 14, 2025, prompting an immediate probe that uncovered 111 customer complaints, 69 field reports, and 55 related incidents within days. "We acted swiftly to investigate and deploy an interim fix," a Stellantis spokesperson noted, crediting rapid response to online chatter and regulatory tips.

As a stopgap, Jeep has rolled out a backend software tweak via OTA to prevent resets and power failures. Owners will be notified by mail starting December 2025, with free dealer reprogramming for the permanent solution under development. 

In the interim, affected drivers are urged to check their VIN on the NHTSA site and avoid highway travel if symptoms appear. 

This recall underscores growing pains in OTA tech adoption, as automakers race to update fleets wirelessly amid rising hybrid demand.

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