Wirtz Law Blog

Jaguar Land Rover North America has issued yet another recall for the 2019 I-Pace electric SUV, urging owners to park away from structures and other vehicles due to potential battery-related fire risks. The recall highlights ongoing challenges with electric vehicle (EV) battery technology, specifically related to the thermal management of high-voltage batteries.

Why This Recall Happened

Despite three previous recalls and software updates to address battery overheating, several recent battery-related fires in the United States have compelled Jaguar to implement further safety measures. There have been no reports of injuries or crashes arising from battery fires.

The main issue lies in the high-voltage battery supplied by LG Energy Solution, which Jaguar identifies as having potential flaws that could lead to overheating and, in some cases, fire. The recall affects around 2,760 I-Pace vehicles from the 2019 model year, manufactured between January 5, 2018, and March 14, 2019.

Jaguar’s most recent diagnostic software update aimed to detect overheating risks early, but the fix was seemingly not comprehensive enough to prevent all incidents. In response to these continued issues, Jaguar has directed its dealers to install a new software update that limits the battery’s charge capacity to 80 percent. The measure is intended as an interim fix while a permanent solution remains in development.

Understanding the Battery Issue

Battery packs in the I-Pace models have been identified as susceptible to thermal overload, which is particularly concerning given the battery’s 90-kilowatt-hour capacity. Thermal management in EV batteries is crucial because excessive heat can result in battery fires — a risk Jaguar and other automakers have been working to mitigate.

The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration has been monitoring such battery concerns. In 2022, the agency started investigating LG’s battery components after recalls were issued across multiple automakers, including General Motors, Hyundai, Mercedes-Benz, and Volkswagen. The recalls largely stemmed from a defect in battery cells, which could cause fires or stalling, especially in high-demand or extreme temperatures.

Jaguar’s high-voltage battery problem isn’t isolated, either. Major manufacturers have issued recalls over similar battery concerns, emphasizing EV development’s broader challenges.

What the Recall Means for Owners

Until Jaguar Land Rover can deploy a final remedy, the company’s immediate response involves capping the battery charge at 80 percent. This temporary measure, which aims to prevent overheating, will reduce the vehicle’s overall range but is considered a safer operating mode for affected owners. Jaguar recommends that owners continue to park and charge their vehicles outdoors and away from buildings for 30 days after the update as an extra precaution.

Jaguar said it would notify affected customers with instructions on how to get the update, which will be offered free of charge at dealerships. Affected vehicle owners should contact their nearest Jaguar dealership as soon as possible.

While the temporary charging limit addresses some immediate safety concerns, vehicle owners should remain aware of any signs of overheating, including unusual smells or excessive heat while charging. If a fire occurs, move away from the vehicle and call 911 right away.

Owners can determine if their I-Pace is part of this recall by entering their 17-character vehicle identification number (VIN) on Jaguar’s official website or contacting Jaguar customer service at 1-800-452-4827. All 2019 I-Pace vehicles with a VIN starting with SA are likely included, as Austria-based Magna Steyr manufactured them. Vehicles included in previous recalls for the same issue will also require the new software update.

Contact Wirtz Law APC

For any vehicle owners seeking legal assistance with a defective vehicle or lemon law case, Wirtz Law APC is here to help. Our attorneys are experts in representing consumers in California lemon law cases and understand the complexities involved in vehicle recalls. Contact Wirtz Law APC today to learn more about how we can help protect your rights. We can advise you on your legal options for getting compensation if you have been injured by a defective vehicle or are struggling with one.