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. The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) has identified issues specifically with the 2022 RAM 1500 pickups and 2022 Jeep Wagoneer SUVs, which are experiencing a sudden loss of power attributed to electrical problems leading to engine shutdowns and intermittent restart capabilities.
The Office of Defects Investigation received around 80 consumer complaints detailing incidents where the engine unexpectedly turned off, particularly while the vehicle was moving slowly, resulting in the vehicle shifting into park and activating the emergency brake. These models are equipped with the 5.7L Hemi eTorque hybrid engines manufactured by Stellantis, which encompasses brands such as Chrysler, Dodge, Jeep, and Ram.
Fortunately, no injuries have been linked to these malfunctions thus far. The NHTSA’s preliminary investigation may escalate to a formal recall if the issues are confirmed. Stellantis has expressed its commitment to fully cooperating with the investigation.
This investigation is not the first setback for Stellantis, as the company reported a decline in sales across its brands in the second quarter. Furthermore, earlier this month, the U.S. government began a recall investigation involving 94,000 Jeep Wranglers. Additionally, in June, Stellantis recalled over 1 million vehicles in North America due to a software glitch that raised safety concerns.
In summary, while the investigation into these vehicle models poses challenges for Stellantis, it also highlights the importance of safety and proactive measures in the automotive industry. The commitment to addressing these issues may ultimately enhance consumer trust and reflect positively on the company’s dedication to safety and quality.