Stellantis, the automotive giant based in the Netherlands, is recalling over 300,000 Ram Heavy Duty pickup trucks due to a potential issue with the hydraulic control unit. This defect could lead to failures in the anti-lock braking system, electronic stability control, and traction control. Fortunately, regular braking systems are not affected, and the company reports no known injuries related to this issue.
The recall covers Ram models from the years 2017 and 2018, specifically the 2500, 3500, 4500, and 5500 series, totaling 317,630 trucks. A small number of these vehicles are also located in Canada, Mexico, and other regions. Stellantis has committed to providing guidance to affected customers on how to receive free repairs.
In addition to this recall, Stellantis previously announced a separate recall involving around 207,000 Jeep and Dodge SUVs in the U.S. due to similar electronic issues impacting safety features. Furthermore, last month, the company issued a recall for nearly 1.5 million Ram pickup trucks globally, addressing a software issue that could disable electronic stability control.
On another note, last week, the company’s CEO, Carlos Tavares, announced his departure after nearly four years in the position. Stellantis has also been facing challenges as sales figures have dropped significantly, leading to layoffs and an increase in unsold inventory at dealership lots. In the last quarter, net revenues fell by 27% compared to the same period the previous year.
Stellantis, which ranks as the world’s fourth-largest automaker, formed in 2021 through the merger of PSA Peugeot and Fiat Chrysler Automobiles, is navigating significant hurdles as it works to resolve these safety recalls while managing its financial stability.
