The U.S. Department of Transportation has initiated an investigation into around 150,000 Ram trucks and Jeep SUVs due to reports of unexpected engine stalls that often prevent the vehicles from restarting. The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) specifically noted issues with the 2022 RAM 1500 pickup trucks and the 2022 Jeep Wagoneer SUV, citing a “loss of motive power” which is linked to electrical problems that can result in engine shutdown.
The investigation was prompted by 80 consumer complaints related to these sudden power losses, predominantly concerning vehicles equipped with the FCA 5.7L Hemi eTorque hybrid engines. Many complaints detail alarming situations where the engine turned off while the vehicle was moving at low speeds, resulting in the vehicle automatically shifting into park and engaging the emergency brake.
So far, there have been no reported injuries linked to these engine malfunctions. The NHTSA’s preliminary investigation may eventually lead to a formal recall of the affected vehicles. Stellantis, the manufacturer, has stated that they are cooperating fully with the inquiry.
This investigation adds to the ongoing challenges for Stellantis, which has faced declining sales across its Chrysler, Dodge, Jeep, and Ram brands in the second quarter. Recently, the government also started investigating a recall concerning 94,000 Jeep Wranglers and initiated a significant recall of over 1 million vehicles in North America due to a software issue that could heighten the risk of crashes.
Despite the troubling news, it is hopeful that the transparency and cooperation demonstrated by Stellantis during this investigation may foster improvements in vehicle safety and reliability for consumers. This proactive approach could ultimately lead to enhanced trust and a stronger commitment to quality from the automotive manufacturer.
Overall, while the situation is concerning, it showcases the importance of regulatory oversight in ensuring vehicle safety and the capacity of manufacturers to address issues as they arise, which is essential for consumer protection.