Fiat-Chrysler Automobiles issued voluntarily recall for an estimated 3,975 Fiat 500e electric cars to upgrade cruise-control software.
Fiat said that the recall comes as a result of an investigation that discovered certain Fiat 500e vehicles were inadvertently equipped with software that may misread torque levels generated by their motors, causing them to unintentionally shift into neutral.
The condition may occur while the cruise control function is engaged and the driver attempts to override the feature by using the accelerator pedal or rapidly tapping the accelerate/decelerate buttons. According to Fiat Chrysler Automobiles, restarting the vehicle restores normal function. The car shifting into neutral is a prescribed fail-safe mode, but it could increase the chances of a crash if it happens unexpectedly.
The campaign is limited to certain model-year 2013-2015 Fiat 500e models. The Company is unaware of any related injuries, accidents or customer complaints.
New software will be available when affected customers are advised of this action by FCA US. Service instructions are being sent to FCA US dealers.
Customers with questions may call the FCA US Customer Information Center at 1-800-853-1403.