The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) reported that more than 1.5 million vehicles have been recalled so far this year due to fire risks that can occur even while the engines are turned off. These "park outside" recalls instruct owners to park away from buildings and other vehicles to prevent potential property damage or injuries should a "key-off fire" occur.
The frequency of these specific recall campaigns has increased annually. According to an analysis of NHTSA data, there were approximately 10 "park outside" recalls in 2024 and 19 in 2025. Between January 1 and July 31 of 2026, the agency had already issued 17 such campaigns. Former NHTSA investigator Frank Borris stated that the rise in integrated electronics causes circuits to remain hot while parked, increasing the risk of ignition when combined with higher engine operating temperatures.
Several major manufacturers have issued warnings recently. Stellantis recalled 1,076,999 Jeep Gladiators and Wranglers (2021-2025 models) in June following 51 reported fires, citing an electrical wiring issue in the hydraulic power steering pump. In July, Kia recalled 462,869 Tellurides (2020-2024 models) due to front seat motors that could overheat and melt. BMW also issued a warning for the 530e xDrive regarding fire risks.
The shift in recall strategy also signals a change in how the automotive industry manages safety. Michael Brooks of the Center for Auto Safety noted that manufacturers are increasingly notifying owners of dangerous conditions before a repair is ready, rather than waiting for a finalized fix. This means a driver may be forced to change their parking habits for weeks or months while waiting for parts or software updates. For example, Stellantis reported in June that it expected to have a solution for its steering pump issue by July, though the source does not confirm if that deadline was met for all owners.
The increase in these incidents sets a precedent for how modern vehicles—which contain more densely packed electronics—will be monitored by federal regulators. As cars operate at higher temperatures and rely more heavily on hot circuits, the NHTSA and manufacturers may continue to rely on "park outside" orders as a standard safety protocol. Owners of the affected Jeep, Kia, and BMW models should check their vehicle identification numbers (VIN) on the NHTSA website for specific guidance, as these recalls remained active through August 2026.