Diesel Jeep SUVs and Ram Pickup Trucks Recalled for Potential Stall Risk

Fiat Chrysler Automobiles (FCA) is recalling more than 58,000 Jeep Grand Cherokee SUVs and Ram 1500 pickup trucks with 3.0-liter diesel engines because they could potentially stall and pose a crash risk. According to Consumer Reports, a problem with a sensor inside the engine could cause the vehicle to stop suddenly. A part inside the engine called a tone wheel may lose its magnetic coating over time.

Details of the Recall

This makes it unable to send an electrical signal to the engine’s crankshaft sensor. When this happens, the vehicle won’t be able to sense how much fuel to send to the engine and when to send it. This could cause the engine to stall suddenly. If this happens when the vehicle is in motion, it could lead to a crash. Similar FCA vehicles that do not have 3.0-liter diesel engines are not included in this recall.

The automaker says in a report to the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) that there have been 1,020 warranty claims because of this problem. FCA says it is not aware of any related crashes or injuries. The recall includes 58,016 2014-2016 Jeep Grand Cherokee SUVs manufactured between June 9, 2014, and March 29, 2016, as well as 2014-2018 Ram 1500 pickup trucks manufactured between June 13, 2014, and March 7, 2018. When the recall begins Oct. 2, FCA dealers will update the vehicle software to prevent a stall if the tone wheel fails. Vehicle owners with questions may call FCA at 1-800-853-2002 for more information.

The Dangers of Stalling

When a vehicle stops without warning when the driver is operating it, the consequences can be devastating. Such stalling could in itself result in a crash. The occupants of the stalling vehicle also risk serious injury or death if they are struck by other vehicles that are unable to stop in time to avoid a collision. Often times, when vehicles are stalled in the middle of the roadway, they are also at risk of getting hit by impaired, distracted or otherwise negligent drivers.

If you or a loved one has been injured as the result of a defective vehicle or a faulty auto part, please remember that you have legal rights. Injured victims of defective autos can seek compensation for their injuries, damages and losses by filing an auto product liability claim against the manufacturer of the vehicle and/or the part. Injured victims can seek compensation for damages such as medical expenses, lost income, hospitalization, rehabilitation, pain and suffering and emotional distress. A knowledgeable auto defect attorney will be able to advise victims and their families regarding their legal rights and options.

Source: https://www.consumerreports.org/car-recalls-defects/diesel-jeeps-ram-trucks-recalled-for-stall-risk/