JLR Recalls 170K SUVs Over Electrical Failure

Wouter Smit · 2026-04-23

Jaguar Land Rover (JLR) has issued a recall for nearly 170,000 SUVs, including popular models like the Defender and Range Rover, due to a potential electrical failure that could increase the risk of a fire. This is a serious issue, and if you own one of these vehicles, you need to know what's happening and what steps to take. ### What's the Problem? The recall stems from a possible electrical short circuit in the 12-volt battery area. If water gets into the system, it can cause a short, which might lead to overheating and, in worst-case scenarios, a fire. JLR has reported a small number of incidents related to this issue, but they're acting proactively to fix it before more problems arise. ### Which Vehicles Are Affected? Here's the list of models included in this recall: - **Land Rover Discovery Sport** (2019-2024 models) - **Land Rover Range Rover Evoque** (2019-2024 models) - **Land Rover Defender** (2020-2024 models) - **Land Rover Range Rover Velar** (2021-2024 models) If you drive any of these, your vehicle might be part of the recall. The total number is around 170,000 units in the United States, so it's a big one. ### What Should You Do? First, don't panic. Recalls are common, and JLR is handling this one. You can check if your specific vehicle is affected by visiting the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) website or by contacting your local JLR dealer. They'll need your Vehicle Identification Number (VIN) to look it up. Once confirmed, the fix is straightforward: JLR dealers will inspect the battery area and, if needed, install a new component to prevent water ingress. This service is free of charge. The recall is expected to begin in late March 2025, and you'll get a notification by mail if your vehicle is included. ### Why This Matters Electrical failures in cars are no joke. They can strand you on the side of the road or, worse, cause a fire in your garage. This recall is a reminder that even luxury brands like Land Rover aren't immune to manufacturing hiccups. The good news is that JLR is stepping up to fix it, but you need to act. Don't ignore that letter in the mail. ### A Quick Note on Car Recalls Recalls happen all the time, and they're not a sign that a car is bad. They're a sign that the manufacturer is willing to fix a problem. If you're buying a used car, always check for open recalls before you sign the papers. It's a simple step that can save you headaches down the road. ### Bottom Line If you own a 2019-2024 Land Rover Discovery Sport, Range Rover Evoque, Defender, or Range Rover Velar, check your VIN now. The recall is serious, but the fix is free. Don't wait until something goes wrong. Take action, and keep your family safe.