The U.S. Department of Transportation has initiated an investigation into approximately 150,000 Ram trucks and Jeep SUVs following reports of unexpected engine stalls that frequently leave vehicles unable to restart. This action was announced on Monday by the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA), which highlighted concerns regarding the 2022 RAM 1500 pickup trucks and 2022 Jeep Wagoneer SUV models. Drivers have reported issues tied to electrical components that lead to sudden engine shutdowns, known as a “loss of motive power,” and intermittent difficulties in restarting the vehicles.
The NHTSA’s Office of Defects Investigation has received around 80 consumer complaints detailing instances where the engine turns off unexpectedly, particularly while the vehicle is moving at low speeds. In some cases, the vehicles reportedly shift into park mode and activate the emergency brake automatically. Fortunately, no injuries have been reported so far related to these engine malfunctions.
As this investigation unfolds, the NHTSA has opened a preliminary inquiry that could pave the way for a possible recall. Stellantis, the manufacturer overseeing brands such as Chrysler, Dodge, Jeep, and Ram, has stated that it is fully cooperating with the ongoing investigation.
This development comes at a challenging time for Stellantis, as the company has recently experienced a decline in sales across its various brands during the second quarter. Earlier this month, another recall investigation commenced for about 94,000 Jeep Wranglers, and in June, Stellantis recalled over 1 million vehicles in North America due to a software issue raising crash risks.
While the situation poses significant challenges for Stellantis, it also presents an opportunity for the company to demonstrate its commitment to vehicle safety and consumer satisfaction through this investigation and any necessary corrective actions that may arise.
In summary, the NHTSA’s investigation into engine stalls in Ram and Jeep vehicles highlights ongoing safety concerns, but it could also lead to improvements in automotive reliability and consumer confidence. Stellantis’ engagement with regulatory authorities is a positive sign that they are taking this matter seriously and prioritizing the safety of their customers.