The US Department of Transportation has initiated an investigation into approximately 150,000 Ram trucks and Jeep SUVs due to reports of sudden engine stalls that frequently prevent the vehicles from restarting. This inquiry has been prompted by complaints regarding the 2022 RAM 1500 pickup trucks and 2022 Jeep Wagoneer SUVs, which are experiencing a sudden “loss of motive power” attributed to electrical issues that lead to engine shutdowns, with sporadic restart capabilities.
The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) reported receiving 80 consumer complaints about these vehicles, which are outfitted with the Fiat Chrysler Automotive Group LLC (FCA) 5.7L Hemi eTorque hybrid engines. Many complaints indicated that engines would turn off while driving at slow speeds, resulting in the vehicle unexpectedly shifting into park and applying the emergency brake.
So far, there have been no reported injuries linked to this defect. The NHTSA has opened a preliminary investigation, which may potentially result in a vehicle recall. Stellantis, the manufacturer of the affected vehicles, has stated that it is fully cooperating with the ongoing investigation.
This development adds to the challenges facing Stellantis, as sales for its Chrysler, Dodge, Jeep, and Ram brands saw a decline in the second quarter. Earlier this month, the government also launched a recall investigation concerning 94,000 Jeep Wranglers, while in June, the company had to recall over 1 million vehicles in North America due to a software glitch that raised safety concerns.