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. This inquiry comes from the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA), which is specifically looking into 2022 models of the RAM 1500 pickup truck and the Jeep Wagoneer SUVs.
The issue appears to stem from electrical problems that result in a loss of power, prompting the engine to shut down unexpectedly and intermittently fail to restart. The NHTSA has received around 80 complaints regarding these engine stalls and loss of power, with many consumers reporting that their vehicles would unexpectedly shift into park and engage the emergency brake while driving at low speeds.
Thus far, there have been no reported injuries related to these malfunctions. The NHTSA has opened a preliminary investigation, which may lead to a recall if warranted. Stellantis, the parent company of the affected brands, has stated that it is fully cooperating with the investigation.
This new investigation poses additional challenges for Stellantis, already facing difficulties as sales for Chrysler, Dodge, Jeep, and Ram declined in the second quarter. Earlier this month, the government also began investigating a recall for 94,000 Jeep Wranglers, and in June, more than 1 million vehicles were recalled in North America due to a software issue that could heighten the risk of crashes.
In summary, the ongoing investigation highlights the importance of vehicle safety and the responsiveness of regulatory agencies to consumer complaints. While the situation presents challenges for Stellantis, it also reflects the proactive measures being taken to ensure the safety of drivers and passengers. This kind of thorough scrutiny can ultimately lead to improved vehicle safety standards, providing consumers with more reliable and secure automobiles in the future.