Alfa Romeos Recalled for Cruise Control Fault

Fiat Chrysler is recalling around 60,000 Alfa Romeo models on the global stage to prevent the adaptive cruise control system from taking owners on an unwanted ride.

The recall covers the entire lifespan of the Giulia sedan and Stelvio SUV (2017-2019). Due to a software error, the cruise system in those models could continue operating, and even accelerate, after the driver taps the brake.

Because of the issue, FCA advises owners to hold off on using the system until technicians have their way with the vehicle. There are no accidents or injuries reported as a result of the fault.

Recall notices should reach owners next month, at which time technicians will update the vehicle’s brake software free of charge. While tapping the brake might not cause the adaptive cruise system to disengage, prolonged brake pedal application will do the trick, FCA claims.

According to an FCA spokesperson who spoke to RoadShow, the fault was discovered by a company employee. The circumstances that could lead to a runaway Alfa are very exact; under such circumstances, the vehicle may accelerate above the set speed.

This isn’t the first time FCA vehicles have been bedevilled by a faulty cruise control system. Last May, the automaker recalled more than 4.8 million vehicles to fix a system that might not disengage at all, regardless of brake application. It recalled a smaller number of rear-drive cars the following month.

In that recall, a short circuit was the culprit, with the only real-world incident involving a rental Dodge Journey owned by Avis. FCA subsequently bought the vehicle. To prevent freeway terror, the automaker advised drivers with a “stuck” cruise control system to apply firm brake pressure, shift into neutral, and pull over.

[Image: Fiat Chrysler Automobiles]