Auburn Hills, MI — In a significant move affecting hundreds of thousands of vehicles, Chrysler, a division of Stellantis, has announced a recall of more than 211,000 SUVs and pickup trucks across the United States. This decision stems from a software malfunction that could potentially disable the electronic stability control systems of the vehicles, raising serious safety concerns.
The Scope of the Recall
The vehicles involved in this recall include the 2022 models of Dodge Durango, and Ram 2500 and 3500. These models are found to have a defect in the anti-lock braking control module that could impair the vehicle’s stability control — a critical feature that helps prevent accidents by maintaining vehicle control during extreme steering maneuvers.
According to the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA), the malfunction could increase the risk of a crash, particularly under adverse conditions. To address this issue, Chrysler dealers will update the anti-lock braking control module software at no cost to the vehicle owners.
Immediate Actions and Customer Communications
Notification letters detailing the recall are scheduled to be sent to dealers and vehicle owners on July 26. Stellantis has advised those with affected vehicles to contact their dealers or Chrysler’s recall assistance centre with any immediate questions or concerns. Until the software update is available, owners are urged to exercise caution and stay informed about the status of their vehicles.
In a statement, a Stellantis spokesperson highlighted that the discovery of the software issue was prompted by a “routine review of customer feedback,” underscoring the company’s commitment to safety and proactive measures. “We are not aware of any accidents or injuries related to this issue to date, but we urge customers to follow the instructions on their recall notices closely,” the spokesperson added.
Broader Impact and Consumer Advice
This recall not only affects a considerable number of vehicles in the U.S. but also extends to international markets, with additional recalls announced for 17,462 vehicles in Canada, 2,313 in Mexico, and 5,023 in other global markets. The total number of vehicles impacted stands at 236,379 worldwide.
Vehicle owners can check if their vehicle is included in the recall by visiting the NHTSA site or using Chrysler’s recall lookup tool. It’s crucial for owners of the specified models to verify their vehicle’s status and ensure that they receive the necessary software update to prevent potential hazards on the road.
As the situation develops, Chrysler is taking all necessary steps to rectify the issue promptly and ensure the safety and satisfaction of its customers. The resolution of this software glitch is pivotal in maintaining the trusted reputation of Chrysler vehicles and the safety of its drivers and passengers alike.
