The US Department of Transportation has initiated an investigation involving approximately 150,000 Ram trucks and Jeep SUVs due to reports of sudden engine stalls that frequently prevent the vehicles from restarting.
The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) identified that certain models, specifically the 2022 RAM 1500 pickup trucks and the 2022 Jeep Wagoneer SUVs, are facing a “loss of motive power” attributed to electrical issues that result in engine shutdowns and intermittent restart capabilities.
The Office of Defects Investigation has received 80 complaints from consumers regarding engine stalls and power losses in these Stellantis-manufactured vehicles, which feature the Fiat Chrysler Automotive Group LLC (FCA) 5.7L Hemi eTorque hybrid engines.
According to the NHTSA, many complaints indicate that the engine would turn off, often at low speeds, causing the vehicle to switch into park mode and activate the emergency brake.
No injuries have been reported due to this issue, and the NHTSA’s preliminary investigation may potentially result in a recall. Stellantis has stated that it is fully cooperating with the investigation.
This investigation adds to a series of challenges for Stellantis, as sales for its brands, including Chrysler, Dodge, Jeep, and Ram, have declined in the second quarter. Earlier this month, a recall investigation was also launched for 94,000 Jeep Wranglers. Additionally, in June, over 1 million vehicles in North America were recalled due to a software defect that increased the likelihood of crashes.