NHTSA Upgrades Investigation into Nearly 1 Million Dodge SUVs Over Door Locks and Windows Fault

The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) has upgraded its investigation into nearly 1 million Dodge SUVs manufactured by Stellantis due to issues with door locks and windows. This probe, initially opened in May 2023, comes after a fatal incident in December 2022 and spans vehicles from the 2009 to 2020 model years.

The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration has upgraded and expanded its probe into nearly 1 million Stellantis-made Dodge sport utility vehicles due to faulty door locks and windows. This development follows a tragic incident involving a death reported in Middleton, Wisconsin.

In May 2023, NHTSA began a preliminary evaluation of 82,000 2009 model year Dodge Journey SUVs. On Friday, the agency escalated the investigation to an engineering analysis that now covers 992,000 Journey vehicles from the 2009 to 2020 model years. The initial probe was launched after a report that a person had died following entrapment during a vehicle fire.

The NHTSA continues to explore the cause of the fire and any potential connection to the door-lock malfunction. The regulator has identified 19 potential incidents, including the fatality, where malfunctioning doors and windows were reported. An engineering analysis is a prerequisite for the NHTSA to mandate a recall. Stellantis stated, "We extend our sincerest sympathies to the family and friends of the customer whose life was lost, and we are providing NHTSA with our full cooperation." Other complaints have noted similar issues, including doors failing to unlock and electrical problems.

(With inputs from agencies.)