Stellantis, parent company of Jeep, Dodge, Ram, and Chrysler, is facing a proposed class-action lawsuit in the United States alleging that millions of vehicles sold between 2012 and 2024 shipped with anti-theft technology that can be bypassed relatively easily.
What the Lawsuit Alleges
The suit, filed against Stellantis’ American division Fiat Chrysler, centers on push-to-start models equipped with the Sentry Key Engine Immobilizer System (SKIS). Plaintiffs allege that the system can be circumvented using widely available key-programming tools, allowing thieves to start and drive off with vehicles despite the presence of anti-theft technology.
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Different From the Kia/Hyundai Theft Wave
The allegations differ from the widely publicized Kia and Hyundai theft issues, which involved vehicles that lacked immobilizers altogether. In this case, plaintiffs allege that the immobilizer technology exists but fails to function as advertised, allegedly leaving owners with a false sense of security despite paying for anti-theft protection.
Owners Say They’ve Been Affected
According to the complaint, dozens of plaintiffs are involved, some of whom say their vehicles were stolen using the method described in the lawsuit. Court filings reference one case involving a Florida-based Ram 1500 TRX owner whose truck was allegedly stolen using the same technique cited in the suit.
Judge Allows Case to Proceed
A federal judge recently denied Stellantis’ request to dismiss the case or move it into arbitration, ruling that owners had not knowingly agreed to arbitration terms. With that motion denied, the case is proceeding, and Stellantis could face significant liability if the allegations are ultimately proven in court. Stellantis has not been found liable at this stage, and the claims remain allegations that have yet to be tested at trial.