Stellantis has issued a recall for approximately 81,000 Jeep and Ram vehicles due to a defect in their engines that can cause repeated stalling. For those unfamiliar with Stellantis, we previously detailed in our blog post here that it is a new automotive manufacturing corporation formed in 2021 that encompasses Fiat Chrysler (“FCA”) Therefore, Stellantis can be the one to issue recalls for a whole range of models that fall under the FCA umbrella such as the:
· Chrysler Pacifica
· Chrysler 300
· Ram 1500
· Jeep Grand Cherokee; and
· Grand Wagoneer
The issue in Stellantis’ recall, identified as recall 20V-475, is that an issue exists that affects models equipped with 3.0-liter diesel engines, namely the 2014-2019 Ram 1500 and the 2014-2020 Jeep Grand Cherokee. The problem is related to a tone wheel, which is a wheel with teeth mounted around the flywheel. Magnetic material on the tone wheel can separate, leading to a malfunction in the crank position sensor. This sensor is crucial for the engine control unit (ECU) to determine the ignition timing. Without a properly functioning tone wheel, the crankshaft position sensor fails, resulting in engine stalling and potential failure to restart.
Although there have been no reported accidents caused by this issue, Stellantis has received 611 warranty claims related to it. To address the problem, Stellantis will not replace the tone wheel itself. Instead, the company plans to update the powertrain control module software, allowing the vehicle to maintain propulsion by relying on the camshaft position signal if the crankshaft position signal is lost.
Dealers will update the powertrain control module software to maintain vehicle propulsion, free of charge. Owner notification letters are expected to be mailed July 28, 2023.
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