Stellantis Recalls More Than 330,000 Vehicles Due to Faulty Seat Belt Sensors
U.S. auto safety regulators are currently investigating complaints about certain Ram pickup trucks and Jeep Wagoneer SUVs potentially losing power, entering park gear, and engaging emergency braking systems.
Investigation by National Highway Traffic Safety Administration
The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) recently announced an investigation involving approximately 150,000 2022 model-year vehicles manufactured by Stellantis. These vehicles are equipped with the company’s 5.7-liter Hemi e-Torque mild-hybrid system, allowing them to generate their own power.
The system is designed to convert energy captured during braking into power for various electrical components. It includes a 48-volt battery pack and motor-generator that provides power to the crankshaft during gear changes.
Concerns and Manufacturer Response
However, the NHTSA has received 80 complaints from owners reporting that the engines of these vehicles may shut down, particularly at low speeds, and sometimes may fail to restart. The agency is investigating which models are affected, the frequency of these incidents, and the reasons behind the engine stalls, potentially leading to a recall.
Stellantis has stated that it is fully cooperating with the investigation and advises any owners experiencing symptoms in their vehicles to contact their dealership promptly. NHTSA mentioned a prior recall by the company involving around 131,000 Ram pickup trucks and Wagoneers last April, where power loss was attributed to excess fuel in the air-gasoline mixture. However, Stellantis acknowledged that recent complaints of engine stalling may be related to electrical issues.
Conclusion
Overall, the investigation by NHTSA into the potential power loss and engine stalling in certain Ram pickup trucks and Jeep Wagoneer SUVs highlights the importance of addressing safety concerns in vehicles promptly. Stellantis’ commitment to collaborating with regulators and resolving issues underscores the automotive industry’s dedication to ensuring the safety and reliability of their products.
