US government investigates Stellantis over loss of braking power

Washington, D.C. – January 8, 2023 – The U.S. government’s auto safety regulator is investigating Stellantis (NYSE:STLA) over an allegation that the brakes on their heavy-duty trucks may stop working. A loss of braking power ups the risk of a crash and injury. 

If the investigation leads to a recall, it could affect an estimated 390,077 trucks, including the following: 

  • 2017 – 2018 RAM 2500
  • 2017 – 2018 RAM 3500

Investigation summary  

The regulator, the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA), opened an investigation on November 11 of last year following 134 complaints about a loss of braking, which would occur intermittently or permanently and “at all speeds.”

Replacing the anti-lock brakes (ABS), along with the hydraulic control unit (HCU) would sometimes correct the issue but, at least in several cases, the parts were not available due to a back order. Both systems work together to control the braking force for each wheel and prevent lockups during sudden braking. 

Risks

With inoperable or ineffective brakes, the vehicle may not be able to stop in time. This increases the risk of a crash and injury.  

Other RAM truck recalls 

There were several RAM 2500 recalls that took place last year.. Among them, the one caused by a transmission fluid leak, which may lead to a fire, is the latest.

Back in June 2022, a large batch of RAM trucks was pulled from the road because their rearview cameras hadn’t been showing an image when backing up.  

Is your vehicle part of a recall?

This RAM brake performance issues may eventually lead to a recall, possibly affecting more than 300,000 trucks. To do a RAM recall check and see if your car is one of them, please use MotorSafety’s free vehicle lookup tool.

Bojan PopicUS government investigates Stellantis over loss of braking power