Stellantis, the parent company behind several well-known automotive brands, is issuing a recall for over 1.2 million Ram 1500 trucks due to a potentially serious software malfunction in the anti-lock brake system (ABS). This issue could affect vehicle safety by inadvertently disabling key safety features. The recall, which was announced by the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA), affects select 2019, 2021-2024 Ram 1500 models, marking a significant number of vehicles on the road that are at risk.
RECALL ALERT‼️ Stellantis recalls 1.5 million Ram trucks to fix software bug that can disable the stability control https://t.co/I85AKuPl6K pic.twitter.com/XP7vuaL6LW
— WPDE ABC15 (@wpdeabc15) September 7, 2024
The root of the issue lies in a software glitch within the ABS module. This malfunction has the potential to disable the Electronic Stability Control (ESC) system, a critical feature designed to prevent the vehicle from skidding and losing control during certain driving conditions. While this issue could undermine the stability of the vehicle, Stellantis assured its customers that the primary foundation brake system remains unaffected. Despite the ESC system being compromised, drivers can still rely on the core braking function.
As a result of the ABS software malfunction, a series of warning lights will illuminate on the dashboard when the affected vehicle is started. These include indicators for ABS, ESC, Adaptive Cruise Control, and Forward Collision Warning. These lights serve as a signal to drivers that these important systems are not functioning properly, prompting them to seek repairs.
In response to the issue, Stellantis is offering a free ABS software update to correct the malfunction and restore the ESC system’s functionality. Dealerships will be responsible for performing the update at no cost to vehicle owners. Importantly, Stellantis has confirmed that, to date, no accidents or injuries have been reported in connection with this software glitch. The recall is seen as a proactive measure to ensure the continued safety of Ram 1500 drivers and their passengers.
This recall comes just months after Stellantis issued a similar recall in June, which impacted nearly 158,000 Ram 2500 trucks due to a comparable issue in the ABS system. The recurrence of such software problems highlights the importance of rigorous testing and oversight in modern vehicles, where digital systems play an increasingly vital role in overall vehicle safety.
Chrysler parent Stellantis recalls 1.46 million vehicles worldwide https://t.co/JlYITP7n0O pic.twitter.com/a9amdyC8NE
— Reuters U.S. News (@ReutersUS) September 7, 2024
In addition to the recall of Ram 1500 trucks, Stellantis is also addressing a separate issue affecting certain Jeep models. The recall includes select 2020-2024 Jeep Gladiator and 2018-2024 Jeep Wrangler vehicles. The problem with these models stems from an internal short circuit in the instrument panel cluster, which could cause the dashboard to fail entirely. This issue, while different from the Ram ABS problem, also poses significant risks to drivers, as a malfunctioning instrument panel could leave them without crucial vehicle information.
Stellantis is working to correct these issues quickly and efficiently, ensuring that affected vehicle owners receive the necessary repairs. As vehicles become more technologically advanced, the integration of complex software systems introduces new challenges for automakers. However, by addressing these issues through recalls and updates, Stellantis aims to maintain the safety and satisfaction of its customers.
Key Points:
i. Stellantis is recalling over 1.2 million Ram 1500 trucks due to a software malfunction in the ABS system, which can disable the ESC system.
ii. Warning lights will illuminate to indicate that the affected systems, such as ABS, ESC, Adaptive Cruise Control, and Forward Collision Warning, are unavailable.
iii. Despite the malfunction, the foundation brake system remains functional, and Stellantis is offering a free software update to fix the issue.
iv. No reported accidents or injuries have been associated with this malfunction, and the recall is being handled proactively.
v. Stellantis is also recalling Jeep Gladiator and Wrangler models due to a separate issue with the instrument panel cluster, which could fail due to an internal short circuit.
Al Santana – Reprinted with permission of Whatfinger News
