Stellantis is back in the headlines as they just announced the recall of 123,396 vehicles in the USA after detecting that there are safety issues with the exterior trim pieces. According to the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA), there is a risk that they may come loose while the vehicles are in motion and cause a tragedy by hitting other vehicles or pedestrians nearby. A tragedy that can be avoided.
What models are affected?
This campaign includes the Chrysler Jeep Wagoneer and Jeep Grand Wagoneer models, both from the years 2022-2024, although it is believed that there could be even more vehicles affected with the same problem, considering the number of cars manufactured under the Stellantis name.
What is the fault?
The documents filed with the NHTSA indicate that the problem occurs in the exterior trims, which are not properly secured, causing them to come off while the vehicle is in motion.
The investigation and Stellantis’ response
The problem was identified because there were complaints from drivers, and field reports indicated the issue.
It was then (and not before) that Stellantis began to investigate what was happening and determined that, although no serious accidents or injuries had been reported so far, the possibility of incidents is real, and they acted preventively.
Will it cost money?
Obviously not, it will be free for users as it is a problem generated during the production of the vehicles.
Starting this October the company will notify users and offer an appointment at their nearest workshop or dealership. The process will not be complicated, they will check the trims and secure them (or replace them) to avoid problems.
Why are recalls important?
Because what should matter most in the industry is not what model you drive but that it is safe. It is a way to guarantee road safety, both for the driver and for other road users.
In recent years, the NHTSA has intensified its oversight so that manufacturers respond quickly to any defect that puts consumers at risk, it should always be that way and companies themselves should ensure their vehicles before they go on sale.
Stellantis = recall
In recent months, Stellantis has already had to issue several recalls for defective airbags and other problems in braking systems.
This new recall is only fueling the idea that the industry needs to improve to maintain consumer trust…
What should drivers do
Owners of affected vehicles can check if their car is within the recall through the VIN number on the official NHTSA website or by contacting Stellantis directly. It is recommended not to delay the visit to the dealership once the notification is received.
123,000 vehicles this time, along with the other 164,000 from the previous recall. That is many vehicles with problems (although without fatal accidents, thank God). Stellantis will have to fight to regain its position in the market and not lose consumer trust!
For owners, the warning is clear, pay attention to official notifications and attend the free repair as soon as possible.