In a step taken to avert any safety scandals, Stellantis has recalled the Dodge Hornet and the Alfa Romeo Tonale for the 2024 and 2025 models due to the breakdown of their brake pedals. As reported by the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA), there is a possibility that the braking system in the models may break down resulting in the drivers’ inability to stop the vehicles. The risk is adverse as most drivers would panic when their cars stop reacting to the brakes. The pronouncement made on 9th October 2024 includes around 21,069 units concerned.
While NHTSA states that merely five percent of the damaged vehicles can have instances of their brake pedals collapsing, the bare fact that it does exist is worrisome. It is possible that drivers of such models may not be able to bring their vehicles to a stop under normal circumstances. Therefore in cases of brake failure, the public is encouraged to utilize the given electronic parking system which is controlled by pulling the brake lever located in the center console. This method assists the drivers in bringing the automobile to rest without causing any disturbance to the occupants. A spokesperson for Stellantis has also explained that even when a collision is imminent and a driver has lost the use of the brake pedal, the automatic braking system is engaged.
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Stellantis reported only one incident involving this defect and there were no injuries or deaths from the accident. The automaker has claimed to have a remedy for the defect: adding a bolt and nut to reinforce the brake pedal assembly. This remedy will be offered to the affected consumers at no cost, under the recall. Also, U.S. customers, who paid to fix such a repair previously, will be compensated, given that such a work was done and a receipt provided.
Investigation reveals problems
This problem was found in the course of the internal investigation sealed off by Stellantis on September 27, 2024 after several warranty claims about brake pedal failures were filed. After extensive analysis of supplier information and warranty data, Stellantis found 12 cases concerning separate incidents about the brake pedal falling. Based on these results, an early intervention safety recall was announced on October 2, 2024, and the complete recall followed a week later.
The brake pedal problem affects vehicles manufactured between July 30, 2023, and September 26, 2024, for the Dodge Hornet, and up until September 30, 2024, for the Alfa Romeo Tonale. Stellantis urges all owners of these vehicles to have their cars inspected and repaired as soon as possible to avoid any potential risks while driving.
This recall comes on the heels of other braking-related issues in the automotive industry. Earlier this year, BMW recalled over 1.5 million vehicles globally due to a failure in the primary braking system, a component provided by the supplier Continental. The Dodge Hornet and Alfa Romeo Tonale were also recalled previously for a different issue involving loose battery cables, which posed a fire risk. Although the battery cable recall was a separate problem, it highlights the need for close attention to vehicle safety, particularly for newer models like the Hornet and Tonale.
To minimize any inconveniences caused by the recall, the owners of the affected Dodge and Alfa Romeo vehicles are advised to call their local dealers for more details about the recall and book an appointment for a free repair. The reinforced brake pedal assembly will make certain that the vehicles will be able to perform their braking function while driving. Furthermore, Stellantis will actively evaluate the developments and make sure that the repair of all impacted vehicles will be completed in a timely manner.
Such recalls reinforce the need to act on any vehicle nuisances with speed. Even though very few of the affected car models may suffer from a total brake failure, to disregard the implications of losing the braking system is a risk that should not be taken. Stellantis has taken measures to rectify the issue. However, it is equally important that the vehicle owners take measures to protect their lives and those of other road users.
