The U.S. Department of Transportation has initiated 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) revealed that the models affected primarily include the 2022 RAM 1500 pickup trucks and the 2022 Jeep Wagoneer SUVs, which are experiencing a critical “loss of motive power” attributed to electrical issues that result in engine shutdowns.
The NHTSA’s Office of Defects Investigation has so far received 80 consumer complaints detailing instances where the vehicle’s engine unexpectedly turns off while driving, particularly at low speeds. Reports indicate that affected vehicles shift into park mode and engage the emergency brake upon stall.
Fortunately, no injuries linked to this malfunction have been reported, prompting the NHTSA to open a preliminary investigation that could potentially lead to a recall. Stellantis, the parent company, has confirmed its commitment to fully cooperating with the ongoing investigation.
This development comes as a challenging period for Stellantis, which has already faced declining sales across its Chrysler, Dodge, Jeep, and Ram brands in the second quarter. Adding to the company’s recent troubles, a separate investigation was launched earlier this month concerning 94,000 Jeep Wranglers. In June, the automaker recalled over 1 million vehicles in North America due to a software defect that raised safety concerns.
While these recent events present immediate challenges, there is an opportunity for Stellantis to enhance its reputation by proactively addressing these issues and prioritizing consumer safety. By cooperating with investigations and implementing necessary changes, the company can potentially restore consumer confidence and improve its sales trajectory in the future.
In summary, the investigation into these vehicles highlights significant safety concerns that could lead to recalls, but it also opens the door for Stellantis to showcase its commitment to quality and public safety.