GM recalls over 132,000 heavy-duty pickups for safety hazard

In November 2023, Stellantis, a major automaker based in the Netherlands, announced that it would be recalling over 300,000 Ram Heavy Duty pickup trucks due to a potentially faulty hydraulic control unit. This defect has the potential to disable various critical safety systems, including the anti-lock brake system and electronic stability control. The recall specifically affects model years 2017-2018 and includes the Ram 2500, 3500, 4500, and 5500 variants. Stellantis reported that while the regular braking systems remain unaffected, the failure of the hydraulic control could pose significant safety risks to drivers and other road users. The company indicated that they were not aware of any injuries stemming from this defect at the time of the announcement. Stellantis emphasized the importance of customer safety and stated that they would provide free service to affected customers. They plan to notify owners about when to bring their vehicles in for repairs, which are expected to be addressed promptly and at no cost. This recall is part of a larger pattern of concerns regarding vehicle safety systems across various models produced by Stellantis. In fact, just the month prior, the automaker had initiated another recall affecting approximately 207,000 Jeep and Dodge SUVs due to a computer problem that could disable crucial braking and stability control features. Moreover, in September 2023, they issued a broader recall impacting nearly 1.5 million Ram pickup trucks globally, stemming from a software issue. The extensive recalls highlight ongoing challenges faced by Stellantis, which have included declining sales that have led to workforce layoffs and increased inventory issues at dealerships. Financial reports reveal that, during the last quarter, Stellantis experienced a staggering 27% reduction in net revenues compared to the previous year. The firm, which emerged from the 2021 merger of PSA Peugeot and Fiat Chrysler Automobiles, is presently grappling with quality control issues that may impact its reputation in the highly competitive automotive market. Overall, Stellantis aims to reassure customers through effective communication and a commitment to rectify safety issues without cost to owners, but the accumulated recalls could sour consumer trust amidst a backdrop of financial struggles and leadership changes, including the recent resignation of CEO Carlos Tavares after nearly four years in the role.