Chrysler and BMW are recalling nearly 100,000 vehicles in the United States after the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) identified separate safety issues that could put drivers at risk. The recalls—affecting popular Jeep Grand Cherokee plug-in hybrid SUVs and several BMW luxury models—have sent ripples through the automotive community, with owners urged to check their vehicles and await further instructions from the manufacturers.
On September 4, 2025, the NHTSA announced that Chrysler is recalling 91,787 Jeep Grand Cherokee Plug-In Hybrid Electric Vehicles (PHEVs) from model years 2022 through 2026. According to USA TODAY, this sweeping action was prompted by a software error within the hybrid control processor. The error can cause the microprocessor in the Battery Pack Control Module to become overloaded, which may lead to system resets. During these resets, the Hybrid Control Processor might misinterpret signals, resulting in a sudden loss of drive power, a situation that could increase the risk of crashes.
As outlined in a safety recall report cited by NPR, the NHTSA warned, “An unexpected loss of propulsion can cause a vehicle crash without prior warning.” While the scenario sounds alarming, Chrysler’s parent company Stellantis has emphasized that, as of August 18, 2025, it is not aware of any injuries or accidents linked to the defect. Frank Matyok, a spokesperson for Stellantis, told NPR, “Affected customers will be advised when they may obtain service, which will be provided free of charge.”
The issue has certainly not gone unnoticed by Jeep owners. According to MotorBiscuit, Stellantis has received 96 owner complaints, 110 field reports, and 320 service records related to the problem. Many drivers have expressed concern about the possibility of losing power unexpectedly in traffic, and the recall is seen as a critical step to address these fears.
Chrysler is currently developing a remedy for the software problem. Although some might expect a simple software update to resolve the issue, the fix is not yet finalized. Notification letters to affected owners are scheduled to be mailed starting October 23, 2025. For those eager to check their status sooner, Vehicle Identification Numbers (VINs) involved in the recall will be searchable on the NHTSA website beginning September 11, 2025. Chrysler has also set up a dedicated customer service hotline at 1-800-853-1403 for questions and support. The recall campaign has been registered under Chrysler’s number 73C.
Owners in other countries are not immune to the recall’s reach. Stellantis spokespersons have confirmed that about 3,500 vehicles in Canada and 1,800 in Mexico are also affected and will be included in the recall process. In the United States, Jeep dealerships across Delaware and other states are preparing to assist customers once the remedy is available. The process is expected to be free of charge for all affected owners.
This is not the first time the Jeep Grand Cherokee has faced a major recall. As NPR notes, more than 330,000 Grand Cherokees were recalled last year due to a steering wheel issue that could cause drivers to lose control. The current recall, however, is distinct because it specifically targets the plug-in hybrid electric models—a segment that has grown in popularity as more consumers seek environmentally friendly options without sacrificing performance.
Meanwhile, BMW has issued its own recall, though on a smaller scale. According to USA TODAY, 1,406 vehicles—including the 2026 X5 Plug-in Hybrid, X5, and X7 models—are being recalled due to improperly sealed windshields. The NHTSA found that faulty windshield seals could allow water to seep into the power distribution box or electronic control unit, potentially leading to electrical failures or other safety hazards.
BMW’s approach to the issue is straightforward: dealers will inspect the windshield seal, and if any leaks are detected, the seal will be repaired. If necessary, vehicle control units and wiring will also be replaced, all at no cost to the owner. Notification letters for the BMW recall are expected to be mailed by October 17, 2025. Owners can contact BMW customer service at 1-800-525-7417 for more information or to schedule an inspection.
For both Chrysler and BMW owners, the NHTSA recommends using its online VIN tool to check whether their vehicle is affected by the latest recalls. The agency’s website is updated regularly with new recall information, and vehicle owners are encouraged to stay vigilant and respond promptly to manufacturer notifications.
The dual recalls serve as a stark reminder of the complexities involved in modern vehicle manufacturing—especially as cars become more reliant on sophisticated electronics and software. Plug-in hybrid and electric vehicles, while offering significant benefits in terms of fuel efficiency and emissions, also bring new challenges that manufacturers must address quickly and transparently when issues arise.
Industry experts point out that the swift identification and public announcement of these recalls reflect improvements in automotive safety oversight. The NHTSA’s role in monitoring, investigating, and publicizing vehicle safety concerns has grown increasingly prominent, and consumers now have more tools than ever to ensure their vehicles remain safe on the road. As Delaware News Journal reports, local dealerships are prepared to assist owners as soon as remedies are available, with a focus on minimizing inconvenience and maximizing safety.
For Jeep Grand Cherokee PHEV owners, the waiting period until the remedy is finalized may feel frustrating. Still, the proactive steps taken by Chrysler and the NHTSA aim to prevent potential accidents before they happen. BMW owners, too, are advised to act quickly once notification letters arrive, as water intrusion into sensitive electrical components can lead to unpredictable outcomes.
Ultimately, these recalls highlight the importance of ongoing vigilance in the automotive industry. As vehicles become more complex, both manufacturers and regulators must adapt to new types of risks, ensuring that safety remains the top priority for everyone on the road.
The coming weeks will be crucial for affected owners as they await further instructions from Chrysler and BMW. In the meantime, checking recall status online and staying in touch with customer service lines can provide peace of mind—and, hopefully, a speedy resolution to these unexpected bumps in the road.
