ROME--Shares in Italian auto maker Fiat Chrysler Automobiles NV were suspended several times from trading in Milan on Thursday for excessive loss after losing more than 10%, underperforming an overall weaker market.

Traders say the company's shares were hit by a news report by Automotive News, saying that two Chicago car dealerships have filed a lawsuit alleging the company offered dealers large amounts of money to report U.S. unsold vehicles as sold.