Chrysler Group is a car manufacturer owned by Stellantis, a multinational company formed in 2021
Chrysler Group makes and sells vehicles under several brand names you may recognize: Chrysler, Dodge, Jeep, and Ram. The company was once independent, but in 2021 it merged with Fiat Chrysler Automobiles and the French automaker PSA Peugeot to form Stellantis. Understanding this ownership structure matters if you own a Chrysler vehicle, work for the company, or are considering buying one of their cars.
The merger created one of the world's largest automakers by revenue. Stellantis now operates in dozens of countries and employs hundreds of thousands of people. For most car owners, this means your warranty, recalls, and customer service may be handled through Stellantis systems rather than a standalone Chrysler office.
Key Takeaways
- Chrysler Group is owned by Stellantis, which formed in 2021 when Fiat Chrysler Automobiles merged with PSA Peugeot.
- Chrysler Group brands include Chrysler, Dodge, Jeep, and Ram — each with different vehicle types and price points.
- If you own a Chrysler vehicle, warranty claims and recalls are handled through Stellantis customer service channels.
- Chrysler Group employment, pensions, and benefits are now part of Stellantis' larger corporate structure.
- The company's financial health and decisions affect vehicle prices, financing options, and long-term parts availability.
The four brands under Chrysler Group and what they make
Chrysler produces sedans and minivans aimed at families and everyday drivers. The Chrysler Pacifica minivan and Chrysler 300 sedan are among their main models. These vehicles typically fall in the mid-range price category.
Dodge focuses on performance and muscle cars, including the Charger and Challenger. Dodge also makes the Durango SUV. These vehicles appeal to buyers looking for power and distinctive styling, and they tend to cost more than comparable Chrysler models.
Jeep specializes in off-road and sport utility vehicles. The Wrangler and Cherokee are their best-known models. Jeep vehicles command premium prices and have a loyal customer base.
Ram manufactures pickup trucks and commercial vehicles. The Ram 1500 is their flagship truck. Ram trucks are popular for both personal use and work, and they compete directly with Ford F-Series and Chevrolet Silverado trucks.
How Stellantis ownership affects warranty and vehicle service
When you buy a Chrysler Group vehicle, your warranty is backed by Stellantis, not by a separate Chrysler company. This means warranty claims, recalls, and technical support go through Stellantis' systems. If your vehicle has a defect covered under warranty, you take it to an authorized Chrysler, Dodge, Jeep, or Ram dealer, and that dealer submits the claim to Stellantis for reimbursement.
Recalls are issued by Stellantis when a safety or defect issue is discovered. You can check for recalls on your specific vehicle using the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) website — search by your vehicle's year, make, and model. Stellantis is required by law to notify owners of recalls and provide free repairs.
Parts availability and pricing can be affected by Stellantis' supply chain decisions. Because Stellantis operates globally, parts shortages or production delays in one region can ripple to others. This is especially relevant if you own an older vehicle and need replacement parts.
Employment and pension considerations if you work for Chrysler Group
Chrysler Group employees are now Stellantis employees. This affects your paycheck, benefits, pension, and job security. If you worked for Chrysler before the 2021 merger, your pension and benefits were transferred to Stellantis, but the terms and administration may have changed.
Stellantis operates under different labor agreements in different countries. In the United States, Chrysler Group workers are represented by the United Auto Workers (UAW) union, which negotiates contracts with Stellantis. These contracts cover wages, benefits, job security, and working conditions. If you are a union member, your contract is your primary reference for your rights and obligations.
If you are considering a job with Chrysler Group, remember that you would be employed by Stellantis. Review the job posting carefully for the specific location and role, as compensation and benefits vary by position and region.
How Chrysler Group's financial performance affects car prices and financing
Stellantis' financial health influences how much Chrysler Group vehicles cost and what financing options are available. When the company is profitable, it may offer lower interest rates on loans or larger rebates on vehicles. When the company faces losses or supply chain problems, prices may rise and financing incentives may shrink.
Stellantis also decides which models to keep in production and which to discontinue. If a model you want is being phased out, dealers may offer discounts to clear inventory. Conversely, if a model is in high demand, you may pay more or wait longer to get one.
The company's investment in electric vehicles also affects what you can buy. Stellantis has committed to producing more electric vehicles across all four brands, so the mix of gas, hybrid, and electric options will shift over time.
Buying a used Chrysler Group vehicle: what to know
When you buy a used Chrysler, Dodge, Jeep, or Ram vehicle, the warranty situation depends on the vehicle's age and mileage. Stellantis offers a limited warranty on used vehicles sold through certified pre-owned programs, but coverage is shorter than for new vehicles. A used vehicle bought from a private seller typically has no manufacturer warranty.
Before buying a used Chrysler Group vehicle, check the NHTSA website for any open recalls. You can also request the vehicle's service history from the dealer or previous owner to see how well it was maintained. A vehicle with complete maintenance records is generally a safer purchase than one with gaps in service.
Consider the vehicle's age when thinking about parts availability and repair costs. Older models may have harder-to-find parts, and repair shops may charge more for labor if the vehicle requires specialized knowledge.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is Chrysler still an independent company?
No. Chrysler Group has been owned by Stellantis since 2021, when Fiat Chrysler Automobiles merged with PSA Peugeot. Stellantis is a multinational corporation, and Chrysler Group is one of its divisions.
Where do I find my vehicle's warranty information?
Your warranty documents came with your vehicle when you bought it. You can also contact an authorized Chrysler, Dodge, Jeep, or Ram dealer with your vehicle identification number (VIN), and they can look up your warranty coverage in Stellantis' system.
What happens to my Chrysler vehicle if Stellantis goes out of business?
If Stellantis faced bankruptcy, your vehicle would still run, but warranty coverage might be affected and parts availability could become difficult. This is a rare scenario, but it is why buying from an established manufacturer with global operations reduces this risk compared to smaller companies.
Can I get my Chrysler vehicle repaired at any mechanic, or does it have to be a Stellantis dealer?
You can take your vehicle to any licensed mechanic. However, if you want warranty coverage for a repair, it must be done at an authorized Chrysler, Dodge, Jeep, or Ram dealer. Independent mechanics cannot submit warranty claims to Stellantis.
Does Stellantis make vehicles other than Chrysler, Dodge, Jeep, and Ram?
Yes. Stellantis also owns Peugeot, Citroën, Opel, Vauxhall, Fiat, Alfa Romeo, Lancia, and several other brands sold in Europe and other regions. In North America, the main brands are Chrysler, Dodge, Jeep, and Ram.