The U.S. Department of Transportation announced an investigation on Monday into approximately 150,000 Ram trucks and Jeep SUVs due to reports of sudden engine stalls that often render the vehicles unable to restart.
The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) identified issues with 2022 RAM 1500 pickup trucks and 2022 Jeep Wagoneer SUVs, noting a sudden “loss of motive power” attributed to electrical problems that can cause the engine to shut down, with intermittent restarting capabilities.
The Office of Defects Investigation has received 80 consumer complaints related to engine stalls and power loss in these Stellantis-manufactured vehicles, which are equipped with the Fiat Chrysler Automotive Group LLC (FCA) 5.7L Hemi eTorque hybrid engines.
Reports from consumers indicate that the engine may shut off unexpectedly, often while driving at low speeds, which can lead to the vehicle shifting into park and engaging the emergency brake.
So far, no injuries have been reported in connection with this issue, and the NHTSA has initiated a preliminary investigation that may result in a recall. Stellantis has stated that it is fully cooperating with the investigation.
This investigation adds to the challenges faced by Stellantis, as sales for brands such as Chrysler, Dodge, Jeep, and Ram have declined in 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 could heighten the risk of a crash.