NHTSA Complaint #11447506 — 2021 JEEP GLADIATOR

The vehicle’s Auto Start / Stop System activates and shuts off the vehicle while the instrument cluster reads “STOP/START NOT READY”, in direct conflict with owner’s manual. Per the owner’s manual, the first condition for an Auto Stop with a manual transmission is that the instrument cluster must read “READY”. Other Jeep vehicles, clearly show “READY” on the instrument cluster before shutting off. However, the Jeep Gladiator presents a false / incorrect “NOT READY” notification to the driver on the instrument cluster before shutting off. This anomaly with the Auto Stop / Start System distracts the driver and creates confusion impeding normal driving operations such as stopping at traffic lights / signs, pedestrian areas, and parking lots. This poses a serious safety hazard as the vehicle will unexpectedly shut off when the driver is not prepared and presented with an incorrect notification warning. In heavy traffic, this could lead to a stalled vehicle and a rear-end collision. The “NOT READY” malfunction was reproduced and confirmed by multiple service personnel at 2 different dealership, who expressed safety concerns. The “NOT READY” malfunction was also recreated by 4 independent mechanic shops and documented as a safety concern. However, an FCA Technical Advisor (TA) claimed that the vehicle was “operating as designed“. The vehicle is NOT operating as designed, as the Jeep design engineers would likely not design a vehicle that presents blatantly incorrect information to the driver. If this display screen on the instrument provides false information to the driver, other displays may also provide false readings to the driver. I feel unsafe driving the vehicle. The vehicle is available for inspection upon request.