Chrysler’s parent company, Stellantis, announced the recall of 1.46 million vehicles worldwide on Saturday due to a software malfunction affecting the anti-lock brake system (ABS), which could increase the risk of a crash. This recall primarily involves nearly 1.23 million Ram 1500 trucks from model years 2019 and 2021-2024 in the United States. Additionally, approximately 159,000 vehicles are being recalled in Canada, 13,000 in Mexico, and 61,000 outside of North America.
According to the U.S. National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA), the software glitch may cause the anti-lock brake system control module to disable the vehicle’s electronic stability control (ESC) system. This issue places the affected vehicles in non-compliance with federal motor vehicle safety standards related to electronic stability control.
Stellantis explained that if the malfunction occurs, several indicator lights, including those for ABS, ESC, Adaptive Cruise Control, and Forward Collision Warning, would illuminate at vehicle startup, signaling that these systems are not functioning. However, foundational braking systems will continue to operate. Fortunately, Stellantis confirmed that it has not received any reports of injuries or crashes related to the issue.
In addition to the Ram truck recall, Stellantis is also recalling around 33,000 Jeep Gladiator models from 2020-2024 and Jeep Wrangler vehicles from 2018-2024. The reason for this separate recall is a potential internal short circuit in the instrument panel cluster, which could impact vehicle safety.
The company plans to notify affected customers and dealerships about the recalls, and owners will be instructed to bring their vehicles in for the necessary software updates and repairs. Stellantis emphasized that safety remains a top priority and that they are working to resolve these issues swiftly and efficiently.
This recall highlights the continued challenges automakers face in ensuring the functionality and reliability of increasingly complex vehicle systems. As modern vehicles incorporate more advanced technology, including electronic stability controls and adaptive cruise systems, maintaining compliance with safety regulations and preventing malfunctions becomes critical to ensuring driver and passenger safety.
Stellantis urges customers with affected vehicles to take action as soon as they receive notification, as resolving these issues will ensure the continued safe operation of their vehicles.
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