Stellantis recalls 164,000 Jeep vehicles due to door trim issues.

Photo: Reuters

On September 17, 2025, Stellantis, one of the largest global automobile manufacturers, announced a recall of nearly 164,000 Jeep vehicles in the United States. This recall comes after the company identified a safety issue with the door trim pieces on certain Jeep models. The door trim, a piece of the vehicle’s interior that covers the edge of doors, can detach unexpectedly, creating a potential risk for both the driver and others on the road.

The affected models include the Chrysler Jeep Wagoneer and the Jeep Grand Wagoneer, which were produced between 2022 and 2025. Stellantis emphasized that the recall is a preventive measure to ensure the safety of its customers and avoid any accidents or injuries related to this issue.

• Understanding the Problem
• The main concern is that the door trim pieces on some Jeep vehicles may come loose. If a trim piece detaches while the car is moving, it could:
• Obstruct the driver’s view.
• Distract the driver, increasing the risk of a crash.
• Fall onto the road and become a hazard for other vehicles or pedestrians.

While there have been no confirmed reports of accidents caused by this issue so far, Stellantis and the U.S. National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) decided to take immediate action.

The recall is part of Stellantis’s commitment to safety. Car manufacturers often conduct recalls not only after problems cause accidents but also as a preventive measure when defects are detected during inspections, testing, or customer reports.

Affected Vehicles

• The recall impacts the following models:
• Chrysler Jeep Wagoneer (2022–2025)
• Jeep Grand Wagoneer (2022–2025)

In total, nearly 164,000 vehicles are affected in the U.S. alone. These vehicles were built with door trim pieces that may not be securely attached, which increases the risk of detachment during normal use.

Stellantis has provided information to dealers and owners of affected vehicles. Customers are being urged to inspect their vehicles as soon as possible and contact authorized dealerships for free repairs.

Steps Stellantis Will Take

• Stellantis has outlined the corrective actions to address this recall. They include:
• Vehicle Inspection – Authorized dealerships will examine the door trim pieces to determine if they are properly secured.
• Replacement of Defective Parts – Any door trim piece that shows risk of detachment will be replaced free of charge.
• Customer Notifications – Vehicle owners will receive notifications by mail and may also be contacted via email or phone to schedule inspections.

Stellantis emphasized that these repairs will not cost vehicle owners anything, and the process is designed to be simple and efficient. Customers are encouraged to schedule service appointments as soon as possible to ensure their vehicles are safe to drive.

Background: Stellantis Safety Efforts

This recall is not the first safety action taken by Stellantis in recent weeks. The company has been involved in multiple recalls and safety investigations, demonstrating a strong commitment to vehicle safety and customer protection.

Previous Recalls

Earlier in September 2025, Stellantis recalled about 92,000 Jeep Grand Cherokee vehicles due to a software issue in the hybrid control processor, which could lead to loss of drive power.

The U.S. NHTSA also opened an investigation into 287,000 Chrysler Pacifica minivans from the 2017–2018 model years over potential problems with their electric power steering system.

These actions show that Stellantis is actively monitoring its vehicles for safety issues and taking proactive measures when potential risks are detected.

Why This Recall Matters

Vehicle recalls are essential because they protect drivers, passengers, and other road users. In this case, while the door trim issue may seem minor, it can still create dangerous situations if the trim detaches while the car is moving.

• Even small parts, if loose, can:
• Distract the driver.
• Block their line of sight.
• Become dangerous projectiles if they fall on the road.

By issuing a recall, Stellantis ensures that potential problems are corrected before they cause accidents or injuries. This is particularly important for vehicles like the Wagoneer and Grand Wagoneer, which are luxury SUVs often driven on highways and city roads, sometimes carrying multiple passengers.

The Role of the NHTSA

The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) plays a crucial role in monitoring vehicle safety in the United States. When defects are reported or identified, the NHTSA can:

• Open investigations into potential safety issues.
• Require manufacturers to conduct recalls.
• Monitor the effectiveness of recall repairs.
• Protect consumers by ensuring safe driving standards are met.

In this case, the NHTSA has listed the Stellantis Jeep recall as part of its active safety campaigns, providing guidance to owners and dealers to ensure all affected vehicles are repaired promptly.

Customer Guidance

Vehicle owners affected by this recall should follow these steps:

• Check Vehicle Information – Owners can verify if their vehicle is part of the recall by contacting Stellantis customer service or checking the VIN (Vehicle Identification Number) on the NHTSA website.
• Schedule a Dealer Appointment – Authorized dealerships will inspect and replace any faulty door trim pieces.
• Avoid DIY Repairs – Owners are advised not to attempt to fix the issue themselves, as improper repairs could increase safety risks.
• Follow Instructions from Stellantis – The company will provide guidance on when and how to bring the vehicle in for repair.

By following these steps, vehicle owners ensure that their cars are safe and compliant with current safety standards.

Impact on Stellantis and the Auto Industry

Recalls like this one can have several effects:

• Financial Costs – Replacing defective parts and managing recall logistics can be expensive for manufacturers.
• Reputation – While recalls demonstrate responsibility, repeated safety issues may affect consumer trust.
• Regulatory Scrutiny – Companies are monitored closely by the NHTSA and other agencies to ensure compliance with safety standards.
• Despite these challenges, recalls are necessary and beneficial. They protect lives, improve vehicle reliability, and reinforce the manufacturer’s commitment to safety.

Why Door Trim Matters

The door trim is not just a cosmetic feature; it protects the interior of the vehicle, provides insulation, and ensures doors close properly. If it detaches, it can:

• Expose sharp edges.
• Interfere with door operation.
• Cause injury to passengers inside the vehicle.
• Create hazards for pedestrians or other vehicles if it falls onto the road.
• Stellantis’s quick response reflects the importance of even small components in overall vehicle safety.
• Industry Standards and Safety Practices
• Automobile manufacturers follow strict industry standards to design and test vehicles. Recalls occur when:
• A part fails to meet safety standards.
• Unexpected defects arise after vehicles are in use.
• Customer complaints reveal a safety issue.
• Safety recalls are a normal part of vehicle maintenance and reflect the industry’s dedication to public safety rather than failure.

Stellantis’s recall of nearly 164,000 Jeep Wagoneer and Grand Wagoneer vehicles is a proactive safety measure to prevent potential harm from door trim pieces detaching. The recall emphasizes the importance of:

• Regular inspection and maintenance of vehicles.
• Manufacturers being transparent and proactive in addressing safety issues.
• Customers taking recall notifications seriously and scheduling repairs promptly.

Through these measures, Stellantis aims to protect drivers, passengers, and other road users, while ensuring that its vehicles meet the highest safety standards. Recalls like this also reinforce public trust in the brand and demonstrate a commitment to responsible vehicle production.

Vehicle owners are encouraged to contact their local Stellantis dealers immediately and schedule an inspection. By acting quickly, drivers can ensure their vehicles are safe, reliable, and ready for the road.