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 leave drivers unable to restart their vehicles. The affected models include the 2022 RAM 1500 pickup trucks and the 2022 Jeep Wagoneer SUVs, which may be experiencing engine shutdowns linked to electrical issues.
The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) reported receiving 80 consumer complaints regarding these vehicle malfunctions, highlighting instances where engines shut off unexpectedly, sometimes while the vehicle is moving at low speeds, resulting in the vehicle shifting into park and activating the emergency brake.
Fortunately, no injuries have been reported in relation to this issue. The NHTSA’s preliminary investigation could potentially lead to a recall if further issues are uncovered. Stellantis, the manufacturer of these vehicles, has stated that it is cooperating fully with the investigation.
This situation adds to a series of challenges currently facing Stellantis, as sales across its brands, including Chrysler, Dodge, Jeep, and Ram, have declined in the second quarter. Earlier this month, the government also began a recall investigation concerning 94,000 Jeep Wranglers, while a recall of more than 1 million vehicles in North America occurred in June due to a software issue that could elevate crash risk.
Despite these challenges, the proactive approach taken by the NHTSA and Stellantis could ultimately lead to improvements in vehicle safety. Addressing these concerns comprehensively may also restore consumer confidence in the brand, leading to a more robust response to any future developments in automotive technology and safety protocols.
Overall, this investigation represents an opportunity for Stellantis to enhance its commitment to safety and customer satisfaction.