Yet another recall problem for Stellantis U.S. brands, this time involving RAM vehicles, specifically its famous pickup trucks. The automotive group recently announced a massive vehicle recall, affecting more than one million units. The cause appears to be a serious software flaw that would go on to implicate consumers’ driving safety.
Compromised safety system
More trouble for Stellantis has come after RAM pickup trucks were recalled following software checks. The recall was carried out as soon as the issue arose, and unfortunately for the automotive giant, the cars that are affected seem to be very numerous. At stake would be the safety of the people in the affected car.
Specifically, the recall is due to the electronic vehicle stability control (ESC) system. This is a decidedly crucial component that is used to ensure the vehicle’s safety on the road, especially when you find yourself in emergency situations. The primary purpose of this system is precisely to prevent loss of control of the vehicle in difficult situations for the driver, i.e. while making dangerous turns, when on slippery road surfaces or in general abrupt maneuvers.
Now because of a problem found in its software, the ESC is in danger of disabling completely unexpectedly, jeopardizing the car’s ability to be able to defend itself in the event of dangerous trajectories or maneuvers. ESC is a system that relates closely to the anti-lock braking system (ABS), sharing with it its proper functioning. In fact, if by chance the ESC were to suddenly disengage, the ABS could also stop working properly. This significantly increases the risk of accidents, as it would substantially reduce the car’s braking ability.
Models involved and modes of protection
In this case, the models that are affected by this issue are RAM 1500s that were produced by the American brand between 2019 and 2024. It remains very important to note that this recall comes as an extension of the same problem that had already occurred. In fact, already last June the brand tried to solve this issue, which shows that its complexity is particularly high. But unfortunately, in recent months RAM vehicles have also been recalled for different types of problems, which do not only involve ABS and ESC. As a matter of fact, malfunctions have also been presented regarding rear cameras and risks of sudden engine shutdown.
ABS and ESC warning appearing on the dashboard
Currently, drivers of the vehicles that are affected by the problem might notice the warning light coming on, namely the ABS and ESC warning lights appearing on the dashboard. In addition, driver assistance systems such as Adaptive Cruise Control (ACC) and Forward Collision Warning (FCW) may be malfunctioning. Although the possibility exists of being able to drive a vehicle without ESC, of course manufacturers strongly advise against it. In case it is necessary, the recommendations are to adopt particularly cautious driving, significantly reducing speed while driving and paying close attention during all the maneuvers you perform.
Stellantis now, in order to try to solve the problem has put in place plans for an ABS module software upgrade, to be carried out at the brand’s authorized garages. The operation will be carried out completely free of charge, and owners of vehicles that are affected will be notified by mail within the coming month of October. In addition, it is also possible to check whether your vehicle is affected by the fault, using the sophisticated vehicle search system that has been made available by MotorSafety.