The U.S. Department of Transportation has initiated an investigation into around 150,000 Ram trucks and Jeep SUVs over concerns related to sudden engine stalls that often prevent the vehicles from restarting.
The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) has reported that 2022 RAM 1500 pickup trucks and 2022 Jeep Wagoneer SUVs are facing issues resulting in “loss of motive power” linked to electrical problems that can cause the engine to shut down and restart intermittently.
The investigation was prompted by 80 consumer complaints detailing engine stalls and power loss in these Stellantis-made vehicles, which are equipped with the Fiat Chrysler Automotive Group’s 5.7L Hemi eTorque hybrid engines. Many complaints note that the engine can shut off unexpectedly while driving at slow speeds, leading the vehicle to shift into park and engage the emergency brake.
Fortunately, no injuries have been reported due to these malfunctions, and the NHTSA has opened a preliminary investigation that may result in a recall. Stellantis has stated that it is cooperating fully with this investigation.
This news comes at a challenging time for Stellantis, as the brands associated with the company, including Chrysler, Dodge, Jeep, and Ram, have reported declining sales during the second quarter. This investigation follows a previous recall in early October for 94,000 Jeep Wranglers and a significant recall in June, where over 1 million vehicles were affected due to a software bug increasing the risk of crashes.
It’s important to note that the safety of consumers is a priority, and ongoing investigations like this one reflect the proactive stance of regulatory bodies in ensuring vehicle reliability and safety. As Stellantis works through this investigation, there is hope that swift actions will be taken to address these concerns, potentially leading to improvements in their vehicles and restoring consumer confidence.
In summary, while the current circumstance poses challenges for Stellantis, it also provides an opportunity for the company to enhance its safety protocols and product reliability, which could ultimately benefit consumers.