The U.S. Department of Transportation has initiated an investigation into around 150,000 Ram trucks and Jeep SUVs following reports of sudden engine stalls and difficulties with restarting.
The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) revealed that the issue pertains to 2022 RAM 1500 pickup trucks and 2022 Jeep Wagoneer SUVs, which are experiencing a sudden “loss of motive power” linked to electrical problems that could lead to the engine shutting down and intermittent restart capabilities.
The Office of Defects Investigation has received 80 complaints from consumers regarding engine stalls and power loss in these Stellantis-manufactured vehicles, particularly those equipped with the FCA 5.7L Hemi eTorque hybrid engines.
Many complaints recount instances of the engine shutting off while the vehicle was moving at low speeds, causing the vehicle to unexpectedly shift into park and activate the emergency brake, according to the NHTSA.
No injuries have been reported in connection with these malfunctions, and the NHTSA has commenced a preliminary investigation, which could potentially result in a recall. Stellantis has indicated that it is fully cooperating with the investigation.
This investigation adds to a challenging period for Stellantis, as sales for Chrysler, Dodge, Jeep, and Ram brands have declined in the second quarter. Earlier in the month, the government also started a recall investigation involving 94,000 Jeep Wranglers. Additionally, in June, the company recalled over 1 million vehicles in North America due to a software issue that heightened the risk of crashes.