The U.S. Department of Transportation announced on Monday that it is launching an investigation into approximately 150,000 Ram trucks and Jeep SUVs due to reports of sudden engine stalls that often prevent the vehicles from restarting.
The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) indicated that 2022 RAM 1500 pickup trucks and 2022 Jeep Wagoneer SUVs are facing an unexpected “loss of motive power related to electrical issues resulting in engine shutdowns with sporadic ability to restart.”
The Office of Defects Investigation has recorded 80 consumer complaints concerning engine stalls and power failures in vehicles manufactured by Stellantis, which utilize the Fiat Chrysler Automotive Group LLC (FCA) 5.7L Hemi eTorque hybrid engines.
Many of the complaints highlight instances where the engine would turn off, frequently while the vehicle was moving at low speeds, causing it to shift into park and engage the emergency brake, according to the NHTSA.
Fortunately, no injuries have been reported in relation to this issue, and the NHTSA has initiated a preliminary investigation that could potentially lead to a recall. Stellantis has stated that it is fully cooperating with the investigation.
This investigation adds to the challenges facing Stellantis, as brands like Chrysler, Dodge, Jeep, and Ram have all reported decreased sales figures for the second quarter. Earlier this month, a recall investigation was also announced for 94,000 Jeep Wranglers. Additionally, in June, the company had to recall over 1 million vehicles in North America due to a software glitch that increased the likelihood of crashes.