Stellantis’ Decision
Over the weekend, Stellantis, the parent company of Chrysler, made a significant announcement regarding the recall of 1.46 million vehicles globally. Among these, close to 1.2 million vehicles in the United States are affected by a software malfunction in the anti-lock brake system, raising concerns about potential crash risks.
Scope of the Recall
Aside from the 1.2 million vehicles earmarked for recall in the U.S., approximately 159,000 vehicles in Canada, 13,000 in Mexico, and 61,000 outside of North America are also subject to the recall. Stellantis emphasized that while the issue poses a risk, there have been no reported injuries or crashes related to the malfunction.
Technical Details
The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) drew attention to a software glitch in the anti-lock brake system (ABS) control module. This anomaly may potentially disable the electronic stability control system, warranting the call for action to rectify the situation and mitigate any associated risks.
Recall Implementation
Stellantis dealers are poised to update the ABS control module software as a corrective measure, at zero cost to vehicle owners. Notification letters are scheduled for dispatch on October 3, 2024, to ensure affected individuals are promptly made aware of the necessary steps to address the issue.
Corporate Response
The journey to this recall initiation began in February, with the Dutch automaker being made aware of the software malfunction. Subsequent rigorous investigations carried out in March and April led to the voluntary recall by Fiat Chrysler Automobiles at the end of August. This action, in turn, culminated in the NHTSA’s official recall announcement in the current week.
Additional Recalls
Aside from the extensive vehicle recall, Stellantis has also issued a recall for 32,863 Jeep Gladiator vehicles manufactured between 2020 and 2024, and Jeep Wrangler vehicles produced between 2018 and 2024. The recall pertains to a flaw in the vehicle’s instrument panel cluster, which can potentially trigger an internal short circuit and consequently heighten the risk of a crash.
