OVER a million vehicles could be a risk to drivers as officials are investigating multiple death and injury reports over a locking issue.
The National Highway Traffic Administration is investigating a model of Stellantis Ram trucks that had been recalled after vehicles began rolling away on their own, according to the agency.
The trucks are being investigated after 20 Brake Transmission Shift Interlock reports[/caption]
The issue could result in truck rollaways (stock image)[/caption]
Reports have been made signalling that the problem was not solved after the recall, leading to crashes and injuries.
Truck transmissions were said to leave parking mode unexpectedly, without a driver braking or a key in the car’s ignition.
The BTSI, or Brake Transmission Shift Interlock system, has a locking key that could become stuck, leading to rollaway cars.
The investigation is looking into almost 1.2 million trucks with models ranging from 2013 to 2018.
The trucks were recalled before in 2017 and 2018 for the same issue, according to Bloomberg.
The report claimed that seven people had been injured in six incidents.
Out of the 20 reports in total, 12 detailed a crash or fire.
No fatalities have been reported.
The models being investigated are 1500, 2500, 3500, 4500, and 5500, according to the release.
The recall query was opened on the models to “review the effectiveness of the…recall remedies, understand the root cause of additional vehicle rollaway incidents, and identify any other possible root cause that may affect the performance of the BTSI system.”
Stellantis, the parent company of Chrysler and Ram, just recalled over a million cars across Europe after fears over engine failure.
In June, it also recalled over 250,000 vehicles due to incorrectly fitted airbags.
The NHTSA said that the airbags may not have the right pressure to stop injuries.
The agency also said that it could lead to an increased ejection risk.
A free inspection and replacement of the side curtain air bags were offered to vehicles that needed it.
Competitor Ford was also just forced to recall 200,000 vehicles after a backup camera glitch that could increase crash risks.
Stellantis said that they were cooperating with the investigation.
Those interested in knowing if their car has been recalled can visit the NHTSA’s website at nhtsa.gov/recalls.
On the site, users can look at recalls for vehicles, car seats, tires, and equipment.
In order to check a vehicle, a license plate or VIN number is needed.
