The US Department of Transportation announced on Monday that it is investigating around 150,000 Ram trucks and Jeep SUVs due to reports of sudden engine stalls, which often prevent the vehicles from restarting.
The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) has identified issues with 2022 RAM 1500 trucks and 2022 Jeep Wagoneer SUVs, alleging that they experience a sudden “loss of motive power” linked to electrical problems that can cause the engine to shut down and may allow for only intermittent restarting.
The Office of Defects Investigation has received 80 consumer complaints regarding engine stalls and power loss in the vehicles produced by Stellantis. The affected models are equipped with the Fiat Chrysler Automotive Group LLC (FCA) 5.7L Hemi eTorque hybrid engines.
According to the NHTSA, many complaints indicate that the engines shut off unexpectedly, often at low speeds, leading to the vehicles automatically shifting into park and applying the emergency brake.
So far, no injuries have been reported due to this malfunction, prompting the NHTSA to initiate a preliminary investigation, which might lead to a recall. Stellantis has stated that it is fully cooperating with the investigation.
This investigation adds to the challenges facing Stellantis, as sales for its brands, including Chrysler, Dodge, Jeep, and Ram, declined in the second quarter. Earlier in the month, the government launched a recall investigation regarding 94,000 Jeep Wranglers. Additionally, in June, the company had to recall over 1 million vehicles in North America after a software error was discovered that could elevate the risk of crashes.