Stellantis is facing a significant vehicle recall, impacting over 54,000 hybrid SUVs, with a brake pedal issue at its center. The recall affects the Alfa Romeo Tonale and Dodge Hornet models from 2024 to 2025. Dealers will reinforce brake pedals with a bolt and nut to fix the issue. Many car owners criticize Stellantis for supposedly using cheap parts on the brake pedals. Over 21,000 vehicles in the U.S. are part of the recall.
Details and Scope of the Recall
The recall involves 54,000 hybrid SUVs under the 2024-2025 Alfa Romeo Tonale and Dodge Hornet models. This action follows after several incidents around the globe revealed an alarming potential for the brake pedal to become disengaged unexpectedly. Of particular concern are the 15 reported incidents, which include one accident that fortunately resulted in no injuries. Of the affected vehicles, a substantial 21,069 are in the U.S. alone.
The recall is not limited to the United States; 2,280 vehicles are affected in Canada, 134 in Mexico, and 30,517 spread across other countries. This global issue underscores the severe nature of the defect. Stellantis plans to address the malfunction by reinforcing the brake pedal mechanism at their dealerships. Until repairs are made, owners are advised to rely on electronic parking brakes and automatic emergency braking systems.
Carmaker Stellantis said Wednesday it is recalling 54,000 hybrid crossover SUVs worldwide because the brake pedal in the vehicles could disengage and stop working. https://t.co/C0I2Eu0pu6
— NEWSMAX (@NEWSMAX) October 16, 2024
Impact and Response
The recall has had a significant impact, considering Stellantis’s sales metrics this year, with 15,566 Hornets and 2,737 Tonales sold in the U.S. up to September 30. Stellantis has shown a proactive approach to managing this recall by initiating repairs at their dealerships and communicating with vehicle owners directly. Letters notified affected owners starting from October 24, 2024, ensuring that individuals are aware of the issue as well as the steps to take for their safety.
The Stellantis recall includes comprehensive customer support, highlighting the prevention of potential incidents that could arise from the brake pedal issue. Owners are encouraged to utilize the electronic parking brake in case the primary brake fails and to ensure the automatic emergency braking remains active to prevent possible collisions.
Stellantis recalls over 21,000 Dodge Hornet, Alfa Romeo Tonale vehicles for break pedal failure https://t.co/V8MQtBYX0v
— USA TODAY (@USATODAY) October 16, 2024
Seeking Assistance and Additional Information
For further assistance and detailed information, owners may contact Stellantis customer service or access recall information via mopar.com/recalls, and the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) provides a safety hotline at 1-888-327-4236 or http://nhtsa.gov. The recall campaign has been identified with the number 24V752000, simplifying the process for accessing related resources and support.
Stellantis remains committed to ensuring customer safety and satisfaction, working diligently to mitigate risks associated with these models. The process reflects a broader strategy within the auto industry to handle safety recalls expediently, ensuring vehicle owners feel justly supported and informed.
