The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) has launched an investigation into complaints regarding certain Ram pickup trucks and Jeep Wagoneer SUVs. This probe, announced on Monday, targets approximately 150,000 vehicles produced by Stellantis during the 2022 model year. The investigation centers on vehicles equipped with Stellantis’ 5.7-liter Hemi e-Torque mild hybrid system, which includes a 48-volt battery pack and a motor generator designed to harness energy captured during braking to power various electrical components and assist with gear changes.
Nature of the Complaints
NHTSA has received 80 complaints from vehicle owners about these models experiencing significant issues. The primary problem reported is the sudden loss of power, which sometimes forces the vehicle to shift into park and apply the emergency brake. In some cases, affected vehicles have been reported to shut down completely, especially at low speeds, and can be difficult or impossible to restart. This issue raises safety concerns as it could lead to unexpected vehicle stalling while driving.
Investigation Details
The NHTSA’s investigation aims to understand the frequency and underlying causes of these power loss incidents. The agency will examine how often these problems occur and investigate the potential root causes of the engine stalling. Based on the findings, NHTSA could potentially seek a recall to address these issues and ensure vehicle safety.
Stellantis’ Response
In response to the investigation, Stellantis has stated its commitment to cooperating fully with the NHTSA. The company advises vehicle owners who experience symptoms consistent with the reported issues to contact their local dealership for assistance. Stellantis emphasizes that the current complaints might be related to an electrical issue, distinct from a previous recall concerning the same system.
Previous Recalls and Related Issues
Stellantis had previously recalled approximately 131,000 Ram pickups and Jeep Wagoneer SUVs last April due to similar issues with the Hemi e-Torque system. That recall was prompted by a problem where the air-fuel mixture contained too much fuel, causing power loss. Stellantis has indicated that the latest complaints about engine stalling are likely due to different causes, specifically related to electrical malfunctions rather than the air-fuel mixture problem.
Implications and Next Steps
The NHTSA’s probe into these models highlights ongoing concerns about vehicle safety and the reliability of new automotive technologies. If the investigation confirms a widespread defect, a recall could be mandated to prevent further issues and ensure that affected vehicles are repaired or replaced as necessary.
For the time being, owners of Ram pickup trucks and Jeep Wagoneer SUVs who are having problems are urged to report them to their dealerships and to heed any advice given by Stellantis or the NHTSA in order to address and resolve these issues.