Unlike many recalls, “park outside” warnings apply even when a vehicle is switched off. Defects cited in these recalls include engine fires, overheating electrical connections, melting seat motors and batteries that may ignite. Owners are advised to keep affected vehicles away from homes, garages, buildings and other vehicles until repairs are complete.

“Essentially what happens there is the vehicle could catch fire even when it’s turned off and unattended,” said Em Nguyen of Carfax.

A major recent recall covers more than 1 million Jeep Wrangler and Gladiator vehicles from model years 2021 through 2025. Stellantis said wiring connected to the hydraulic power steering pump could overheat and cause a fire. The company reported at least 72 fires and one injury associated with the problem.

Kia also recalled nearly 463,000 Telluride SUVs this summer because a front power-seat switch could overheat and ignite the seat. Kia reported seven seat fires and 11 incidents involving melting seat motors. Owners whose vehicles received repairs under an earlier recall still need to return to a dealership for the updated remedy.

Carfax’s Nguyen said there may be dozens or hundreds of other active “park outside” recalls. The warning is particularly urgent because a vehicle does not need to be running for a fire to start.

Owners can check for open recalls at NHTSA.gov/recalls by entering a vehicle identification number or license plate information, or at Carfax.com/recall. Drivers whose vehicles are affected should follow the manufacturer’s instructions and contact an authorized dealership to arrange repairs. Safety recall repairs are free.