The automaker Stellantis—parent company of Jeep, Ram, and Chrysler—faces a wave of backlash after it began sending marketing notifications directly to its vehicle owners’ infotainment screens. Enthusiasts and owners say the strategy feels more like spam than service, and the uproar is growing.
Auto writer Zerin Dube first brought the ads to public attention when he shared a photo of a “marketing notification” that popped up on the infotainment system of his Jeep Grand Cherokee. The message offered a $1,500 loyalty bonus toward the purchase of a new Jeep. Soon after, others with Jeep, Ram, and Chrysler vehicles reported similar pop‑up ads appearing inside their cars.
Stellantis defended the practice, saying the notification system is a tool to keep drivers connected to important messages like recall notices or vehicle health alerts—but added that some of these messages were marketing offers. A company spokesperson said the marketing notification “appears only on startup and while the vehicle is stationary,” disappears once the car is moving or the driver dismisses it, and that owners can “permanently opt out … by calling the company’s customer care line.” Despite the reassurances, many owners say the distinction between necessary alerts and unsolicited ads is clear—and unwelcome.
The effort is part of Stellantis’ broader strategy to boost sales and retain customers in competitive segments such as the off‑road SUV market. While some drivers took advantage of the loyalty discount offers, the majority expressed frustration. “Guess what I’m never buying again if this is how they treat me,” one user posted online. Some even warned the move is a sign of a wider industry shift: “If this is happening in my car, it’ll soon be happening in all cars,” the commenter added.
The story has struck a nerve in online communities and forums, with some drivers calling for legislative action and stronger protections against in‑vehicle marketing. Privacy advocates and automotive experts warn that such pop‑ups could cause driver distraction and erode trust between owners and manufacturers.
For now, Stellantis stands by its policy, emphasizing the ability to opt out and the claim that only a small subset of owners received the messages. But with growing backlash and buyers disgruntled, the company may face a reputational risk if the practice continues or expands.
