Chrysler Stalling due to Powertrain Module Problem

In September 2018 FCA (Chrysler) filed recall 18V524 because the powertrain control module (PCM) on some 2017 to 2019 Chrysler, Dodge, Fiat, Jeep and Ram vehicles may contain a voltage regulator chip that can fail. When it does, the engine can stall while driving or refuse to start. The fix is a new PCM, free at the dealer. Chrysler’s own number for this campaign is U87.

Keep the scale in mind: the recall covers about 12,779 vehicles across 15 models, a small slice of the cars built in those years. If your car stalls, check your VIN, but do not assume this recall is the cause until a scan or a dealer confirms it.

Symptoms

• Engine Stalls
• The car will not start.
• The engine starts and then shuts off immediately.
• The engine loses power and then dies.

Problem

This problem is caused by a defective chip in the powertrain controller. Once the chip fails, the powertrain module stops working, causing the vehicle not to start or stall while driving.

The typical fix for this problem is to replace the PCM module. It is possible to troubleshoot the PCM and replace the failed chip, but your mechanic or dealer is less likely to perform this solution.

Instead, a new or used PCM module is typically installed.

Solution

Chrysler dealers will replace the powertrain control module free of charge. Owners may contact Chrysler customer service at 1-800-853-1403. Chrysler’s number for this recall is U87.

If Your Car Is Not Covered

• Check the VIN first. Enter it at nhtsa.gov/recalls or ask a dealer. If the recall was already done, or your VIN is not listed, the stall has another cause.
• Rule out the common causes. A weak battery or bad ground, a failing crankshaft position sensor, low fuel pressure and a dirty throttle body stall FCA vehicles far more often than this PCM chip. Read the codes before buying a module.
• A failed PCM can often be repaired. A module repair service such as Module Medics can test and rebuild many PCMs, which avoids programming a new unit. A used PCM has to be matched and programmed to your VIN and immobilizer, so it is rarely plug and play.

Affected Vehicles

• CHRYSLER > 300 > 2018
• CHRYSLER > PACIFICA > 2018 to 2019
• CHRYSLER > TOWN AND COUNTRY > 2017 to 2018
• DODGE > CHALLENGER > 2018
• DODGE > CHARGER > 2018
• DODGE > DURANGO > 2018
• DODGE > GRAND CARAVAN > 2017 to 2018
• DODGE > JOURNEY > 2018
• FIAT > 500X > 2018
• JEEP > CHEROKEE > 2018 to 2019
• JEEP > COMPASS > 2018
• JEEP > GRAND CHEROKEE > 2018
• JEEP > RENEGADE > 2018
• JEEP > WRANGLER > 2017 to 2018
• RAM > 1500 > 2018
• RAM > PROMASTER > 2018

Possibly Affected Part Numbers

The following are the parts numbers for the Chrysler / Dodge Powertrain Control Module that may have been affected by this problem.

• 68259136AB
• 68243303AB
• 68259127AB
• 68342095AA
• 68259137AB
• 05150926AB
• 68330904AA
• 68342094AA
• 68243304AB
• 68330910AA
• 68243295AB
• 68330924AA
• 68259135AB
• 68342093AA
• 68330909AA
• 68330922AB
• 68292196AD
• 05150861AH
• 68397063AA

Check these troubleshooting and repair guides for more help on your Chrysler.

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