NHTSA owner reports · September 18, 2026 snapshot.
What owners actually said
134 reports11,000 miles · Dec 4, 2019
Wheels
I PURCHASE A 2016 DODGE RAM 3500 DUALL LIMITED WITH 2K MILES ON IT. THE TRUCK HAS GARBAGE NEXAN TIRES ON IT. NEXAN CLAIMS IT IS A 40K MILE WARRANTY TIRE. FUNNY THOUGH, AT 11K MILES I HAD ONE NEXAN TIRE FAILURE DUE TO TREAD SEPARATION. TOOK TRUCK TO DEALER, DEALER GOT WITH NEXAN, WORKING WITH NEXAN LIKE 'GOING TO THE DENTIST …
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I PURCHASE A 2016 DODGE RAM 3500 DUALL LIMITED WITH 2K MILES ON IT. THE TRUCK HAS GARBAGE NEXAN TIRES ON IT. NEXAN CLAIMS IT IS A 40K MILE WARRANTY TIRE. FUNNY THOUGH, AT 11K MILES I HAD ONE NEXAN TIRE FAILURE DUE TO TREAD SEPARATION. TOOK TRUCK TO DEALER, DEALER GOT WITH NEXAN, WORKING WITH NEXAN LIKE 'GOING TO THE DENTIST TO GET ANYTHING DONE. SAID THEY WOULD REIMBURSE ME FOR THE TIRE THAT FAILED AT 11K MILES, THAT WAS TWO MONTHS AGO STILL NO REFUND AND I CALL EVERY WEEK LOOKING FOR MY REFUND. COUPLE MONTHS GO BY AND ANOTHER NEXAN TIRE FAILURE AT 13K MILES. YOU GUESSED IT ANOTHER TREAD SEPERATION. TAKE TRUCK TO DEALER, THEY SAY CAN'T HELP. CALL NEXAN THEY SAY YOU NEED TO SHIP ALL 6 TIRES BACK SO WE CAN TEST THEM. IM TESTING THEM FOR YOU AND THEY ARE CRAP! TWO TIRE FAILURES WELL UNDER 40K, THIS IS NOT A COINCIDENCE THESE TIRES ARE GARBAGE. I HAVE MY WIFE AND DAUGHTER WHO I DRIVE AROUND IN A $75K RAM DUALLY LIMITED AND I AM SCARED FOR THEIR SAFETY WITH THESE FAILING TIRES. NEXAN MIGHT AS WELL TELL ME TO GO #@$& MYSELF AS THEIR CUSTOMER SERVICE AGAINST AND WARRANTY DEPARTMENT ARE A JOKE. BEWARE DONT BUY NEXAN TIRES. DODGE ALSO SHOULD STOP PUTTING THESE GARBAGE TIRES ON THEIR TRUCKS, GOING TO GET SOMEONE KILLED.
NHTSA ODI #11286908
21,000 miles · Nov 9, 2019
Wheels
I FORGOT TO INCLUDE THE TIRE SIZE ETC WITH MY ORIGINAL COMPLAINT. ORIGINAL COMPLAINT #11279115 SHIFTED BELT IN TIRES NEXEN LT235 80R17E ON & OFF ROAD TIRES ORIGINAL EQUIPMENT ON MY 2016 RAM 3500 DUALLY
NHTSA ODI #11279116
21,000 miles · Nov 9, 2019
Wheels
VIBRATION IN FRONT WHEEL, DIAGNOSED AT DEALERSHIP THAT THE TIRE HAS A SHIFTED BELT. THIS TIRE IS ON THE DRIVER'S SIDE. WE ALREADY REPLACED THE PASSENGER SIDE FRONT TIRE 2/13/19. THIS IS A DUALLY TRUCK AND WE ARE CONCERNED THAT THIS WILL ALSO HAPPEN TO THE 4 REAR TIRES. THE VEHICLE CURRENTLY ONLY HAS 21,390 MILES. THIS SHOULD …
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VIBRATION IN FRONT WHEEL, DIAGNOSED AT DEALERSHIP THAT THE TIRE HAS A SHIFTED BELT. THIS TIRE IS ON THE DRIVER'S SIDE. WE ALREADY REPLACED THE PASSENGER SIDE FRONT TIRE 2/13/19. THIS IS A DUALLY TRUCK AND WE ARE CONCERNED THAT THIS WILL ALSO HAPPEN TO THE 4 REAR TIRES. THE VEHICLE CURRENTLY ONLY HAS 21,390 MILES. THIS SHOULD NOT BE OCCURRING AND IS A SAFETY HAZARD. I TRIED TO CONTACT THE MANUFACTURER BUT THEY HAVE NOT RETURNED MY CALLS.
NHTSA ODI #11279115
62,000 miles · Nov 8, 2019
Air Bags
TL* THE CONTACT OWNS A 2016 RAM 3500. THE CONTACT STATED THAT THE AIR BAG INDICATOR PERIODICALLY ILLUMINATED. THE VEHICLE WAS TAKEN TO AN INDEPENDENT MECHANIC WHERE THE CONTACT WAS INFORMED THAT THE FAILURE WAS WITHIN THE DRIVER'S SIDE AIR BAG. THE VEHICLE WAS NOT REPAIRED. THE VEHICLE WAS NOT TAKEN TO A DEALER FOR DIAGNOSTIC TE…
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TL* THE CONTACT OWNS A 2016 RAM 3500. THE CONTACT STATED THAT THE AIR BAG INDICATOR PERIODICALLY ILLUMINATED. THE VEHICLE WAS TAKEN TO AN INDEPENDENT MECHANIC WHERE THE CONTACT WAS INFORMED THAT THE FAILURE WAS WITHIN THE DRIVER'S SIDE AIR BAG. THE VEHICLE WAS NOT REPAIRED. THE VEHICLE WAS NOT TAKEN TO A DEALER FOR DIAGNOSTIC TESTING OR REPAIRS. NORTHPOINT CHRYSLER DODGE JEEP RAM (4441 US-5, DERBY, VT 05829, (802) 334-3179) AND MIDSTATE CHRYSLER DODGE JEEP RAM (1365 US-302, BARRE, VT 05641, (802) 479-0586) WERE CONTACTED AND INFORMED THE CONTACT THAT THE VEHICLE NEEDED TO BE DIAGNOSED AND THE REPAIR WOULD BE PAID AT THE CONTACT'S EXPENSE. THE MANUFACTURER WAS CONTACTED AND STATED THAT THERE WAS NO EXTENDED WARRANTY ON THE VEHICLE FOR THE FAILURE. THE FAILURE MILEAGE WAS 62,000.
NHTSA ODI #11278925
17,500 miles · Nov 5, 2019
Steering
I APPLAUD YOUR WORK IN HOLDING AUTOMAKERS ACCOUNTABLE AND RESPONSIBLE FOR FIXING VEHICLE SAFETY ISSUES. HOWEVER, MY VEHICLE WAS RECALLED FOR V06/NHTSA 19V-021 (STEERING SYSTEM RECALL). RATHER THAT PROVIDING NEW PARTS FOR THE DEFECTIVE PARTS, RAM STATES THAT NHTSA HAS APPROVED WELDING THE STEERING JAM NUTS TO THE ADJUSTER. THE…
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I APPLAUD YOUR WORK IN HOLDING AUTOMAKERS ACCOUNTABLE AND RESPONSIBLE FOR FIXING VEHICLE SAFETY ISSUES. HOWEVER, MY VEHICLE WAS RECALLED FOR V06/NHTSA 19V-021 (STEERING SYSTEM RECALL). RATHER THAT PROVIDING NEW PARTS FOR THE DEFECTIVE PARTS, RAM STATES THAT NHTSA HAS APPROVED WELDING THE STEERING JAM NUTS TO THE ADJUSTER. THE DEALER SUBMITTED A STAR CASE (#101582875) TO HAVE REPAIR PARTS PROVIDED WHICH WAS DENIED, BASED ON NHTSA APPROVAL OF WELDING. ALSO, CALLED RAM CARE (CASE # 68052515) THEY REFUSED TO PROVIDE REPAIR PARTS AND DIRECTED ME TO CONTACT THEIR FCA HQS VIA STANDARD MAIL. IT IS APPALLING TO ME THAT WE HAVE HEAVY DUTY TRUCKS ON THE ROAD THAT COST OVER $60K AND RATHER THAT REQUIRING RAM TO REPLACE DEFECTIVE PARTS, WE ALLOW THEM TO WELD PARTS. MOST OF THESE HEAVY DUTY TRUCKS ARE USED TO HAUL HEAVY TRAILERS. WELDS IF NOT DONE PROPERLY WEAKEN METAL AND CAN BREAK UNDER STRESS. ADDITIONALLY, THIS FIX (WELDING) RENDERS STEERING SYSTEM ADJUSTMENTS INOPERABLE WITHOUT GRINDING THE WELD ADJUSTING THE STEERING AND RE-WELDING THE PART ALL OF WHICH DAMAGES AND STRESSES THE CRITICAL EXISTING STEERING PARTS. REQUEST THAT NHTSA REQUIRE RAM TO REPLACE THE DEFECTIVE STEERING PARTS AND NOT ALLOW A JAM NUT TO THE ADJUSTER WELD AS A PERMANENT FIX TO THE STEERING SAFETY RECALL. THANKS
NHTSA ODI #11278267
9,680 miles · Oct 24, 2019
Unknown Or Other
I BOUGHT THIS 2016 RAM 3500 BRAND NEW IN APRIL 2016. I NOW HAVE 9600 MILES ON IT AND THE RIGHT FRONT TIRE SEPARATED. THE LEFT FRONT IS GOING TO DO THE SAME THING. THE TIRE DOT CODE IS 2215. THESE TIRES WERE ALMOST A YEAR OLD WHEN I BOUGHT THE TRUCK. I WANT TO KNOW IF THERE ARE ANY RULES AND REGULATIONS ON SELLINGVEHICLES WITH TI…
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I BOUGHT THIS 2016 RAM 3500 BRAND NEW IN APRIL 2016. I NOW HAVE 9600 MILES ON IT AND THE RIGHT FRONT TIRE SEPARATED. THE LEFT FRONT IS GOING TO DO THE SAME THING. THE TIRE DOT CODE IS 2215. THESE TIRES WERE ALMOST A YEAR OLD WHEN I BOUGHT THE TRUCK. I WANT TO KNOW IF THERE ARE ANY RULES AND REGULATIONS ON SELLINGVEHICLES WITH TIRE ONE YEAR OLD. I WAS ON THE FREEWAY DOING 70 MPH.
NHTSA ODI #11270846
Mileage unknown · Oct 10, 2019
EngineSteering
TL* THE CONTACT OWNS A 2016 RAM 3500. THE CONTACT RECEIVED A RECALL NOTICE FOR NHTSA CAMPAIGN NUMBER: 18E096000 (STEERING). THE CONTACT TOOK THE VEHICLE TO HUMES CHRYSLER JEEP DODGE & RAM (1010 ROUTE 19 NORTH, WATERFORD, PA 16441, (888) 571-5737) WHERE THE RECALL REPAIR WAS PERFORMED. THE VEHICLE WAS RETURNED TO THE CONTACT. A F…
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TL* THE CONTACT OWNS A 2016 RAM 3500. THE CONTACT RECEIVED A RECALL NOTICE FOR NHTSA CAMPAIGN NUMBER: 18E096000 (STEERING). THE CONTACT TOOK THE VEHICLE TO HUMES CHRYSLER JEEP DODGE & RAM (1010 ROUTE 19 NORTH, WATERFORD, PA 16441, (888) 571-5737) WHERE THE RECALL REPAIR WAS PERFORMED. THE VEHICLE WAS RETURNED TO THE CONTACT. A FEW MONTHS LATER, THE VEHICLE NEEDED THE OUTER TIE ROD REPLACED AND A FRONT END ALIGNMENT. THE CONTACT TOOK THE VEHICLE TO AN INDEPENDENT MECHANIC AND WAS INFORMED THAT, DUE TO A WELDING THAT HAD BEEN PERFORMED ON THE VEHICLE FROM THE RECALL REPAIR, THE VEHICLE COULD NOT BE REPAIRED. THE MANUFACTURER WAS NOTIFIED AND STATED THAT THE WELDING WAS AN APPROVED REPAIR BY NHTSA AND HE WOULD NEED TO CONTACT NHTSA FOR MORE INFORMATION. THE VIN WAS UNKNOWN. THE CONTACT HAD NOT EXPERIENCED A FAILURE. *BF *TP
NHTSA ODI #11267629
22,690 miles · Sep 30, 2019
Wheels
TIRE SEPARATION AND VIBRATION IN ALL 6 TIRES. VEHICLE HAS 22690 MILES ON IT AND HAS HAD TIRE ISSUES SINCE NEW WITH VIBRATION AND SEPARATION OF CHEAP TIRES DODGE HAS PUT ON THESE VEHICLES, THAT THEY SELL AT A HIGH PRICE. DRIVING AND MADE IT TO MY GARAGE WHEN THE TIRE SEPARATED. IT WAS THE FRONT DRIVERS SIDE TIRE. THANKFULLY I…
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TIRE SEPARATION AND VIBRATION IN ALL 6 TIRES. VEHICLE HAS 22690 MILES ON IT AND HAS HAD TIRE ISSUES SINCE NEW WITH VIBRATION AND SEPARATION OF CHEAP TIRES DODGE HAS PUT ON THESE VEHICLES, THAT THEY SELL AT A HIGH PRICE. DRIVING AND MADE IT TO MY GARAGE WHEN THE TIRE SEPARATED. IT WAS THE FRONT DRIVERS SIDE TIRE. THANKFULLY I WASN'T DOING HIGHWAY SPEED.
NHTSA ODI #11259075
28,300 miles · Sep 6, 2019
Unknown Or Other
RAM DEALER SERVICE DEPT. AFTER COMPLETING A STEERING DRAG LINK RECALL SERVICE REPORTED AFTER TEST DRIVE A SHIMMY /SHAKE IN STEERING WHEEL STARTING AT VEHICLE SPEED OF APPROX. 20 MPH. DIAGNOSIS AS A FAULTY STEERING DAMPER, REPLACED DAMPER AND RETURNED VEHICLE TO CUSTOMER. CUSTOMER RETURNED NEXT DAY REPORTING BAD SHIMMY, WAS TOLD…
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RAM DEALER SERVICE DEPT. AFTER COMPLETING A STEERING DRAG LINK RECALL SERVICE REPORTED AFTER TEST DRIVE A SHIMMY /SHAKE IN STEERING WHEEL STARTING AT VEHICLE SPEED OF APPROX. 20 MPH. DIAGNOSIS AS A FAULTY STEERING DAMPER, REPLACED DAMPER AND RETURNED VEHICLE TO CUSTOMER. CUSTOMER RETURNED NEXT DAY REPORTING BAD SHIMMY, WAS TOLD VEHICLE WOULD NEED TO BE SCHEDULED FOR ANOTHER SERVICE VISIT AND ALLOWED TO LEAVING WITHOUT SERVICE DEPT INSPECTING VEHICLE. CUSTOMER RETURNED APPROXIMATELY 2 WEEKS LATER INSISTING SERVICE WRITER TEST RIDE VEHICLE, VEHICLE WAS INSPECTED AND DETERMINED TO HAVE BELT SEPARATION IN DRIVER SIDE FRONT TIRE. TIRE WAS REMOVED AND REPLACED WITH SPARE TIRE. DEFECTIVE TIRE IS WITH VEHICLE OWNER. RAM 3500 DUAL REAR WHEEL, NEXEN 235/80 R17 ROADIAN AT PRO 8, 28,300 MILE. ORIGINAL TIRES, ORIGINAL OWNER ROTATED ONCE AT APPROX 18,000 MILES
NHTSA ODI #11253709
8,010 miles · Aug 29, 2019
Wheels
ON 8/21/2019 I EXPERIENCED EXCESSIVE VIBRATION & TRUCK PULLING TO THE RIGHT TRAVELING NORMAL HWY SPEED. ISSUE WAS SO SEVERE, I STOPPED TO CHECK. TIRES LOOKED FINE & PRESSURES WERE OK.RETURN TRIP WAS WORSE WITH MAX SPEED OF 35MPH. NEXT DAY I TOOK THE TRUCK TO AN INDEPENDENT TIRE CENTER & WAS TOLD THAT THE BELTS INTHE FRONT TIRES…
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ON 8/21/2019 I EXPERIENCED EXCESSIVE VIBRATION & TRUCK PULLING TO THE RIGHT TRAVELING NORMAL HWY SPEED. ISSUE WAS SO SEVERE, I STOPPED TO CHECK. TIRES LOOKED FINE & PRESSURES WERE OK.RETURN TRIP WAS WORSE WITH MAX SPEED OF 35MPH. NEXT DAY I TOOK THE TRUCK TO AN INDEPENDENT TIRE CENTER & WAS TOLD THAT THE BELTS INTHE FRONT TIRES WERE SEPARATING. TIRES ARE NEXEN ROADIAN HTX LT235/80/R17.THEY ARE ORIGINAL TIRES WITH ONLY 8,010 MILES ON THEM. I CONTACTED RAM THRU THEIR WEBSITE. GOT NO RESPONSE. EMAILED THE DEALERSHIP WHERE I BOUGHT THE TRUCK. NO RESPONSE. I CALLED NEXEN & WAS TOLD THAT THE WARRANTY ONLY COVERED TREAD WEAR. THEY WERE NOT CONCERNED ABOUT THE SEPARATION.THEY EMAILED A PACKET OF INFORMATION THAT THEY WOULD NEED TO INVESTIGATE MY ISSUE. THEY ALSO ADVISED ME TO CHANGE THE TIRES ASAP BECAUSE ONCE I NOTIFIED THEM OF THE PROBLEM, THEY WERE NOT RESPONSIBLE FOR ANY DAMAGES OR INJURIES.I CALLED THE NEAREST RAM DEALERSHIP AND ASKED IF THEY COULD CHECK IT OUT. THE BEST THEY COULD DO WAS SCHEDULE AN APPT IN TWO WEEKS. SINCE I COULD NOT SAFELY DRIVE THE TRUCK, I REPLACED ALL SIX NEXEN TIRES ON 8/27/2019 AT A COST OF OVER $1,800. THAT TIRE CENTER ALSO CONFIRMED A PROBLEM WITH THE TIRES. I FINALLY HEARD FROM FCA. THEY CREATED A CASE # AND ASKED THAT I MAKE AN APPT AT A DEALERSHIP SO THEY COULD INVESTIGATE. I ASSUMED FCA WAS GOING TO CONTACT THE DEALERSHIP SINCE THEY ASK FOR THE APPT INFO. DROVE 60 MILES TO THE DEALERSHIP WHERE WE BOUGHT THE TRUCK. THEY KNEW NOTHING ABOUT THE ISSUE. FCA DID NOT CONTACT THEM. IN FACT THEY CLOSED MY CASE AS SOON AS THEY CONFIRMED THE APPT. BOTTOMLINE, THESE TIRES ARE DANGEROUS. THERE ARE MULTIPLE COMPLAINTS ON THE VARIOUS FORUMS FOR TIRES AND TRUCKS. RAM DOESN'T CARE. FIATCHRYSLER DOESN'T CARE. NEXEN DOESN'T CARE. I'M HOPING YOU DO. I'VE DRIVEN LOTS OF VEHICLES IN MY TIME, I WAS SCARED DRIVING ON THOSE TIRES AND LUCKY TO GET HOME.
NHTSA ODI #11252319
Official recalls
14Jan 16, 2025
Chrysler (FCA US, LLC) is recalling certain 2016-2019 Ram 3500, Ram 1500, 2016-2020 Ram 2500, and 2016 Ram 3500 Cab Chassis vehicles. The right and left side curtain air bag inflators may rupture due to a manufacturing defect.
Consequence & remedy
Consequence: An inflator rupture may result in sharp metal fragments striking occupants, resulting in injury.
Remedy: Dealers will replace one or both side curtain air bags, as necessary, free of charge. Owner notification letters were mailed February 13, 2025. Owners may contact FCA customer service at 1-800-853-1403. FCA's numbers for this recall are 05C, 09C, and 10C.
Aug 12, 2021
Chrysler (FCA US, LLC) is recalling certain 2015-2020 Ram 1500 Classic, 2015-2016 Ram 3500, and Ram 2500 vehicles, and 2016 Ram 3500 Cab Chassis with a gross vehicle weight rating less than 10,000 lbs. The side air bag inflatable curtain (SABIC) inflator end cap may detach from the inflator, or the inflator sidewall may rupture.
Consequence & remedy
Consequence: A separated inflator end cap or inflator rupture can allow compressed gas to escape, resulting in the end cap or other components being propelled into the vehicle, increasing the risk of injury or crash.
Remedy: Dealers will inspect and replace as necessary, the SABIC assemblies, free of charge. Interim owner notification letters were mailed on October 4, 2021. Owner notification letters were mailed on May 26, 2022. Owners may contact FCA US, LLC customer service at 1-800-853-1403. FCA US, LLC's number for this recall is Y55.
Additional source detail variants (2)
Air Bags:side/window:curtain:inflator
Chrysler (FCA US, LLC) is recalling certain 2015-2020 Ram 1500 Classic, 2015-2016 Ram 3500, and Ram 2500 vehicles, and 2016 Ram 3500 Cab Chassis with a gross vehicle weight rating less than 10,000 lbs. The side air bag inflatable curtain (SABIC) inflator end cap may detach from the inflator, or the inflator sidewall may rupture.
Consequence: A separated inflator end cap or inflator rupture can allow compressed gas to escape, resulting in the end cap or other components being propelled into the vehicle, increasing the risk of injury or crash.
Remedy: Dealers will inspect and replace as necessary, the SABIC assemblies, free of charge. Interim owner notification letters were mailed on October 4, 2021. Owner notification letters were mailed on May 26, 2022. Owners may contact FCA US, LLC customer service at 1-800-853-1403. FCA US, LLC's number for this recall is Y55.
Air Bags:side/window:curtain
Chrysler (FCA US, LLC) is recalling certain 2015-2020 Ram 1500 Classic, 2015-2016 Ram 3500, and Ram 2500 vehicles, and 2016 Ram 3500 Cab Chassis with a gross vehicle weight rating less than 10,000 lbs. The side air bag inflatable curtain (SABIC) inflator end cap may detach from the inflator, or the inflator sidewall may rupture.
Consequence: A separated inflator end cap or inflator rupture can allow compressed gas to escape, resulting in the end cap or other components being propelled into the vehicle, increasing the risk of injury or crash.
Remedy: Dealers will inspect and replace as necessary, the SABIC assemblies, free of charge. Interim owner notification letters were mailed on October 4, 2021. Owner notification letters were mailed on May 26, 2022. Owners may contact FCA US, LLC customer service at 1-800-853-1403. FCA US, LLC's number for this recall is Y55.
May 27, 2021
Chrysler (FCA US, LLC) is recalling certain 2012-2021 RAM 3500, 3500 Cab Chassis, 4500 Cab Chassis, and 5500 Cab Chassis vehicles. Incorrect information in the Service and Owner's Manuals may cause the flanged lug nuts to be over-tightened, which could result in a broken wheel stud and possible wheel separation.
Consequence & remedy
Consequence: Wheel separation can cause a vehicle crash.
Remedy: Dealers will update the torque specification in the owner's manual and other published service documents. Dealers will also inspect the vehicle's wheel studs, replacing them if necessary, free of charge. Owner notification letters were mailed on November 30, 2021. Campaign Y36 owner notification letters were mailed on November 30, 2021. Campaign Y26 owner notification letters were mailed on December 1, 2021. Owners may contact FCA US customer service at 1-800-853-1403. FCA US's numbers for this recall are Y26 and Y36.
May 9, 2019
Chrysler (FCA US LLC) is recalling certain 2015-2017 Ram 1500, 2500 and 3500 pickup trucks equipped with an 8 foot bed and a power locking tailgate. Chrysler is also recalling all 2013-2014 and 2018 Ram 1500, 2500 and 3500 pickup trucks built before April 1, 2018 with a 6 or 8 foot bed and a power locking tailgate. On August 29, 2019 Chrysler expanded the recall to include an additional 693,128 model year 2013-2014 Ram 1500, 2500 and 3500 pickup trucks. The tailgate actuator limiter tab may fracture and cause the tailgate to unlatch and open while driving.
Consequence & remedy
Consequence: If the tailgate opens while the vehicle is being driven, cargo may fall out the vehicle and create a road hazard, increasing the risk of crash.
Remedy: Chrysler will notify owners, and dealers will repair the tailgate latch, free of charge. The recall began May 23, 2019. Chrysler is expected to notify owners of the expanded population on October 18, 2019. Owners may contact FCA US customer service at 1-800-853-1403. FCA US's number for this recall is V44. Note: 2015-2017 MY Ram 1500 pickup trucks with truck beds other than 8 foot, are currently covered under NHTSA recall 18V-486 for this issue.
Jan 25, 2019
Chrysler (FCA US LLC) is recalling certain 2013-2018 Ram 3500 and 2014-2018 Ram 3500 Chassis Cab and Ram 2500 vehicles. The outboard steering linkage jam nut may loosen, allowing one end of the drag link to separate.
Consequence & remedy
Consequence: A drag link separation can cause a loss of steering control, increasing the risk of crash.
Remedy: Chrysler will notify owners, and dealers will check the steering linkage jam nut tightness, replacing the drag link assembly or welding the nut to the adjuster sleeve, free of charge. The recall began March 22, 2019. Owners may contact Chrysler customer service at 1-800-853-1403. Chrysler's number for this recall is V06.
Jul 27, 2018
Chrysler (FCA US LLC) is recalling certain 2015-2017 RAM 1500, 2500, and 3500 pickup trucks equipped with a power locking tailgate and either a 5 foot, 7 inch or 6 foot, 4 inch bed. The tailgate actuator limiter tab may fracture and cause the tailgate to unlatch and open while driving.
Consequence & remedy
Consequence: If the tailgate latch releases and the tailgate opens while driving, cargo may fall out, creating a road hazard and increasing the risk of a crash.
Remedy: Chrysler will notify owners, and dealers will repair the vehicle, free of charge. The recall began September 17, 2018. Owners may contact Chrysler customer service at 1-800-853-1403. Chrysler's number for this recall is U74.
Additional source detail variants (2)
Latches/locks/linkages:tailgate:latch
Chrysler (FCA US LLC) is recalling certain 2015-2017 RAM 1500, 2500, and 3500 pickup trucks equipped with a power locking tailgate and either a 5 foot, 7 inch or 6 foot, 4 inch bed. The tailgate actuator limiter tab may fracture and cause the tailgate to unlatch and open while driving.
Consequence: If the tailgate latch releases and the tailgate opens while driving, cargo may fall out, creating a road hazard and increasing the risk of a crash.
Remedy: Chrysler will notify owners, and dealers will repair the vehicle, free of charge. The recall began September 17, 2018. Owners may contact Chrysler customer service at 1-800-853-1403. Chrysler's number for this recall is U74.
Structure:body:tailgate
Chrysler (FCA US LLC) is recalling certain 2015-2017 RAM 1500, 2500, and 3500 pickup trucks equipped with a power locking tailgate and either a 5 foot, 7 inch or 6 foot, 4 inch bed. The tailgate actuator limiter tab may fracture and cause the tailgate to unlatch and open while driving.
Consequence: If the tailgate latch releases and the tailgate opens while driving, cargo may fall out, creating a road hazard and increasing the risk of a crash.
Remedy: Chrysler will notify owners, and dealers will repair the vehicle, free of charge. The recall began September 17, 2018. Owners may contact Chrysler customer service at 1-800-853-1403. Chrysler's number for this recall is U74.
May 17, 2018
Chrysler (FCA US LLC) is recalling certain 2014-2018 Dodge Journey, Charger and Durango, RAM 2500, 3500, 3500 Cab Chassis (more than 10,000lb), 4500 Cab Chassis and 5500 Cab Chassis, Jeep Cherokee and Grand Cherokee and Chrysler 300, 2014-2019 RAM 1500, 2015-2018 Dodge Challenger, 2015-2017 Chrysler 200, 2016-2018 RAM 3500 Cab Chassis (less than 10,000 lb), 2017-2018 Chrysler Pacifica and 2018 Jeep Wrangler vehicles. These vehicles are being recalled to address a defect that could prevent the cruise control system from disengaging. If, when using cruise control, there is a short circuit within the vehicle's wiring, the driver may not be able to shut off the cruise control either by depressing the brake pedal or manually turning the system off once it has been engaged, resulting in either the vehicle maintaining its current speed or possibly accelerating.
Consequence & remedy
Consequence: If the vehicle maintains its speed or accelerates despite attempts to deactivate the cruise control, there would be an increased risk of a crash.
Remedy: Chrysler will notify owners, and dealers will inspect the software, and perform a software flash on the engine or powertrain control module, free of charge. The recall began June 4, 2018. Owners may contact Chrysler customer service at 1-800-853-1403. Note: Owners are advised to stop using cruise control until the software update has been performed. In the event that cruise control cannot be disengaged while driving, owners should firmly and steadily apply the brakes and shift the transmission to neutral, placing the vehicle in park once it has stopped.
Additional source detail variants (3)
Electrical System:software
Chrysler (FCA US LLC) is recalling certain 2014-2018 Dodge Journey, Charger and Durango, RAM 2500, 3500, 3500 Cab Chassis (more than 10,000lb), 4500 Cab Chassis and 5500 Cab Chassis, Jeep Cherokee and Grand Cherokee and Chrysler 300, 2014-2019 RAM 1500, 2015-2018 Dodge Challenger, 2015-2017 Chrysler 200, 2016-2018 RAM 3500 Cab Chassis (less than 10,000 lb), 2017-2018 Chrysler Pacifica and 2018 Jeep Wrangler vehicles. These vehicles are being recalled to address a defect that could prevent the cruise control system from disengaging. If, when using cruise control, there is a short circuit within the vehicle's wiring, the driver may not be able to shut off the cruise control either by depressing the brake pedal or manually turning the system off once it has been engaged, resulting in either the vehicle maintaining its current speed or possibly accelerating.
Consequence: If the vehicle maintains its speed or accelerates despite attempts to deactivate the cruise control, there would be an increased risk of a crash.
Remedy: Chrysler will notify owners, and dealers will inspect the software, and perform a software flash on the engine or powertrain control module, free of charge. The recall began June 4, 2018. Owners may contact Chrysler customer service at 1-800-853-1403. Note: Owners are advised to stop using cruise control until the software update has been performed. In the event that cruise control cannot be disengaged while driving, owners should firmly and steadily apply the brakes and shift the transmission to neutral, placing the vehicle in park once it has stopped.
Vehicle Speed Control:cruise Control
Chrysler (FCA US LLC) is recalling certain 2014-2018 Dodge Journey, Charger and Durango, RAM 2500, 3500, 3500 Cab Chassis (more than 10,000lb), 4500 Cab Chassis and 5500 Cab Chassis, Jeep Cherokee and Grand Cherokee and Chrysler 300, 2014-2019 RAM 1500, 2015-2018 Dodge Challenger, 2015-2017 Chrysler 200, 2016-2018 RAM 3500 Cab Chassis (less than 10,000 lb), 2017-2018 Chrysler Pacifica and 2018 Jeep Wrangler vehicles. These vehicles are being recalled to address a defect that could prevent the cruise control system from disengaging. If, when using cruise control, there is a short circuit within the vehicle's wiring, the driver may not be able to shut off the cruise control either by depressing the brake pedal or manually turning the system off once it has been engaged, resulting in either the vehicle maintaining its current speed or possibly accelerating.
Consequence: If the vehicle maintains its speed or accelerates despite attempts to deactivate the cruise control, there would be an increased risk of a crash.
Remedy: Chrysler will notify owners, and dealers will inspect the software, and perform a software flash on the engine or powertrain control module, free of charge. The recall began June 4, 2018. Owners may contact Chrysler customer service at 1-800-853-1403. Note: Owners are advised to stop using cruise control until the software update has been performed. In the event that cruise control cannot be disengaged while driving, owners should firmly and steadily apply the brakes and shift the transmission to neutral, placing the vehicle in park once it has stopped.
Electrical System:wiring
Chrysler (FCA US LLC) is recalling certain 2014-2018 Dodge Journey, Charger and Durango, RAM 2500, 3500, 3500 Cab Chassis (more than 10,000lb), 4500 Cab Chassis and 5500 Cab Chassis, Jeep Cherokee and Grand Cherokee and Chrysler 300, 2014-2019 RAM 1500, 2015-2018 Dodge Challenger, 2015-2017 Chrysler 200, 2016-2018 RAM 3500 Cab Chassis (less than 10,000 lb), 2017-2018 Chrysler Pacifica and 2018 Jeep Wrangler vehicles. These vehicles are being recalled to address a defect that could prevent the cruise control system from disengaging. If, when using cruise control, there is a short circuit within the vehicle's wiring, the driver may not be able to shut off the cruise control either by depressing the brake pedal or manually turning the system off once it has been engaged, resulting in either the vehicle maintaining its current speed or possibly accelerating.
Consequence: If the vehicle maintains its speed or accelerates despite attempts to deactivate the cruise control, there would be an increased risk of a crash.
Remedy: Chrysler will notify owners, and dealers will inspect the software, and perform a software flash on the engine or powertrain control module, free of charge. The recall began June 4, 2018. Owners may contact Chrysler customer service at 1-800-853-1403. Note: Owners are advised to stop using cruise control until the software update has been performed. In the event that cruise control cannot be disengaged while driving, owners should firmly and steadily apply the brakes and shift the transmission to neutral, placing the vehicle in park once it has stopped.
Dec 21, 2017
Chrysler (FCA US LLC) is recalling various Dodge, Chrysler, and RAM vehicles equipped with Kidde Plastic-Handle or Push Button 'Pindicator' Fire Extinguishers. A list of the affected trailer models is available at: https://static.nhtsa.gov/odi/rcl/2017/RMISC-17V824-0103.pdf. These extinguishers may become clogged, preventing the extinguisher from discharging as expected or requiring excessive force to activate the extinguisher. Additionally, in certain models, the nozzle may detach from the valve assembly with enough force that it could cause injury and also render the product inoperable. For a full list of the affected fire extinguisher models visit: https://static.nhtsa.gov/odi/rcl/2017/RMISC-17E062-5427.pdf
Consequence & remedy
Consequence: If the fire extinguisher does not function properly, it can increase the risk of injury in the event of a fire.
Remedy: Chrysler will notify owners instructing them to contact Kidde for a replacement fire extinguisher, free of charge. The recall began February 14, 2018. Owners may contact Chrysler customer service at 1-800-853-1403 or Kidde customer service service toll-free at 1-855-262-3540, or online at www.kidde.com and click on "Product Safety Recall" for more information. Chrysler's number for this recall is T82.
Dec 20, 2017
Chrysler (FCA US LLC) is recalling certain 2016-2017 Ram 3500 Cab Chassis with a Gross Vehicle Weight Rating (GVWR) of less than 10,000 lbs, 2011-2017 Ram 3500, 4500 and 5500 Cab Chassis vehicles, 2009-2017 Ram 1500 and 2010-2017 Ram 2500 and 3500 pickup trucks, all equipped with a column shifter. Pushing the brake pedal for prolonged periods when the vehicle is running and in PARK may cause the Brake Transmission Shift Interlock (BTSI) pin to stick in the open position. With the pin in the open position, the transmission can be shifted out of PARK into any gear without pushing the brake pedal or having the key in the ignition.
Consequence & remedy
Consequence: Being able to shift the transmission without pushing the brake pedal and/or without a key in the ignition can increase the risk of an unintended vehicle rollaway that may result in personal injury or a crash.
Remedy: Chrysler will notify owners, and dealers will update the vehicle software, inspect the BTSI, and, as necessary, replace it, free of charge. The recall began February 26, 2018. Owners may contact Chrysler customer service at 1-800-853-1403. Chrysler's number for this recall is T79.
Sep 12, 2017
Chrysler (FCA US LLC) is recalling certain 2013-2017 RAM 2500, 3500, 3500 Cab Chassis, 4500 Cab Chassis, and 5500 Cab Chassis vehicles, equipped with Cummins 6.7L Turbo Diesel engines that have Concentric-brand water pumps without a vent hole. These water pumps may leak coolant.
Consequence & remedy
Consequence: The leaking water pump can increase the risk of an engine compartment fire.
Remedy: Chrysler will notify owners, and dealers will replace the water pumps, free of charge. The recall began February 26, 2018. Owners may contact Chrysler customer service at 1-800-853-1403. Chrysler's number for this recall is T51.
Aug 10, 2017
Streetcar ORV LLC, dba American Expedition Vehicles (AEV) is recalling certain 2013-2017 RAM 2500 and 3500 heavy duty trucks, modified by AEV to be equipped with cast aluminum Katla 8.5" road wheels. The outer surface of the wheel may fracture, resulting in rapid air loss.
Consequence & remedy
Consequence: If the wheel fractures, a loss of vehicle control can occur, increasing the risk of a crash.
Remedy: AEV will notify owners, and dealers will replace the wheels with wheels of similar value, free of charge. The recall began on August 30, 2017. Owners may contact AEV customer service at 1-248-926-0256 extension 500.
May 9, 2017
Chrysler (FCA US LLC) is recalling certain model year 2013-2016 Ram 1500, Ram 2500, and 2014-2016 Ram 3500 vehicles. Certain driving conditions, such as driving off-road or debris striking the vehicle may cause the roll rate sensor to trigger a fault within the Occupant Restraint Controller (ORC). If this fault occurs, the rollover side curtain air bag and the seat belt pretensioner will be disabled from deploying.
Consequence & remedy
Consequence: If the rollover side curtain air bags and seat belt pretensioners are disabled, there is an increased risk of injury to the vehicle occupants in the event of a crash that necessitates activation of these safety systems.
Remedy: Chrysler will notify owners, and dealers will update the ORC software, free of charge. The recall began June 26, 2017. Owners may contact Chrysler customer service at 1-800-853-1403. Chrysler's number for this recall is T25.
Additional source detail variants (2)
Air Bags:side/window:curtain
Chrysler (FCA US LLC) is recalling certain model year 2013-2016 Ram 1500, Ram 2500, and 2014-2016 Ram 3500 vehicles. Certain driving conditions, such as driving off-road or debris striking the vehicle may cause the roll rate sensor to trigger a fault within the Occupant Restraint Controller (ORC). If this fault occurs, the rollover side curtain air bag and the seat belt pretensioner will be disabled from deploying.
Consequence: If the rollover side curtain air bags and seat belt pretensioners are disabled, there is an increased risk of injury to the vehicle occupants in the event of a crash that necessitates activation of these safety systems.
Remedy: Chrysler will notify owners, and dealers will update the ORC software, free of charge. The recall began June 26, 2017. Owners may contact Chrysler customer service at 1-800-853-1403. Chrysler's number for this recall is T25.
Air Bags
Chrysler (FCA US LLC) is recalling certain model year 2013-2016 Ram 1500, Ram 2500, and 2014-2016 Ram 3500 vehicles. Certain driving conditions, such as driving off-road or debris striking the vehicle may cause the roll rate sensor to trigger a fault within the Occupant Restraint Controller (ORC). If this fault occurs, the rollover side curtain air bag and the seat belt pretensioner will be disabled from deploying.
Consequence: If the rollover side curtain air bags and seat belt pretensioners are disabled, there is an increased risk of injury to the vehicle occupants in the event of a crash that necessitates activation of these safety systems.
Remedy: Chrysler will notify owners, and dealers will update the ORC software, free of charge. The recall began June 26, 2017. Owners may contact Chrysler customer service at 1-800-853-1403. Chrysler's number for this recall is T25.
Jul 1, 2016
Chrysler (FCA US LLC) is recalling certain model year 2016 Ram 3500 trucks manufactured July 24, 2015, through January 7, 2016, and 2016 Ram 4500/5500 trucks manufactured July 24, 2015, through October 8, 2015. The transfer case may have been manufactured with a misshapen main output shaft, creating voids that may cause a shaft fracture.
Consequence & remedy
Consequence: If the main output shaft fractures, the vehicle may lose motive power, increasing the risk of a crash. Additionally, the driver may be unable to place the vehicle in PARK, increasing the risk of a vehicle rollaway.
Remedy: Chrysler will notify owners, and dealers will replace the transfer case, free of charge. The recall began on August 11, 2016. Owners may contact Chrysler customer service at 1-800-853-1403. Chrysler's number for this recall is S48.
Sep 23, 2015
Chrysler (FCA US LLC) is recalling certain model year 2016 Ram 2500, 3500, 3500 Cab Chassis and 4500/5500 Cab Chassis trucks manufactured July 31, 2015, to August 13, 2015 and equipped with a 6.7L Cummins Diesel engine. In the affected vehicles, the Engine Control Module (ECM) may short circuit, causing the engine to stall without warning.
Consequence & remedy
Consequence: An engine that stalls without warning increases the risk of a crash.
Remedy: Chrysler will notify owners, and dealers will replace the ECM, free of charge. The recall began on December 21, 2015. Owners may contact Chrysler customer service at 1-800-853-1403. Chrysler's number for this recall is R52.
Additional source detail variants (2)
Electrical System:ignition:module
Chrysler (FCA US LLC) is recalling certain model year 2016 Ram 2500, 3500, 3500 Cab Chassis and 4500/5500 Cab Chassis trucks manufactured July 31, 2015, to August 13, 2015 and equipped with a 6.7L Cummins Diesel engine. In the affected vehicles, the Engine Control Module (ECM) may short circuit, causing the engine to stall without warning.
Consequence: An engine that stalls without warning increases the risk of a crash.
Remedy: Chrysler will notify owners, and dealers will replace the ECM, free of charge. The recall began on December 21, 2015. Owners may contact Chrysler customer service at 1-800-853-1403. Chrysler's number for this recall is R52.
Engine And Engine Cooling:engine
Chrysler (FCA US LLC) is recalling certain model year 2016 Ram 2500, 3500, 3500 Cab Chassis and 4500/5500 Cab Chassis trucks manufactured July 31, 2015, to August 13, 2015 and equipped with a 6.7L Cummins Diesel engine. In the affected vehicles, the Engine Control Module (ECM) may short circuit, causing the engine to stall without warning.
Consequence: An engine that stalls without warning increases the risk of a crash.
Remedy: Chrysler will notify owners, and dealers will replace the ECM, free of charge. The recall began on December 21, 2015. Owners may contact Chrysler customer service at 1-800-853-1403. Chrysler's number for this recall is R52.
Model-level recall history does not show whether a particular VIN is affected or has received a repair. Check a VIN with NHTSA ↗
NHTSA investigations
3RQ25003 · Post Recall Remedy Brake Transmission Shift Interlock (btsi) Failure
Opened Jul 3, 2025 · No close date supplied
Status: open (inferred from source dates) · Power Train:automatic Transmission; Power Train:automatic Transmission:gear Position Indication (prndl)
The Office of Defects Investigation (ODI) has received 14 Vehicle Owner Questionnaire (VOQ) reports and 6 EWR Death & Injury (D&I) reports describing post recall remedy failures of the brake transmission shift interlock (BTSI) system in certain Model Year (MY) 2013-2018 RAM pickup trucks.The subject vehicle models include 1500, 2500, 3500, 4500, and 5500 trucks equipped with a column mounted shift lever.The failures of the BTSI described in the VOQs occurred on vehicles that had all previously been repaired under recall 17V-821 or 18V-100.Both recalls address a potential condition which can cause the BTSI locking pin to become stuck allowing the transmission to be shifted out of Park without depressing the brake pedal and/or without having a key in the ignition.Shifting the transmission out of Park when not having the brake pedal depressed can result in a vehicle rollaway. ODI is opening this Recall Query (RQ) to review the effectiveness of the 17V-821 and 18V-100 recall remedies, understand the root cause of additional vehicle rollaway incidents, and identify any other possible root cause that may affect the performance of the BTSI system. To review the ODI reports cited in the Opening Resume ODI Report Identification Number document, go to NHTSA.gov.
Additional source detail variants (2)
Power Train:automatic Transmission
The Office of Defects Investigation (ODI) has received 14 Vehicle Owner Questionnaire (VOQ) reports and 6 EWR Death & Injury (D&I) reports describing post recall remedy failures of the brake transmission shift interlock (BTSI) system in certain Model Year (MY) 2013-2018 RAM pickup trucks.The subject vehicle models include 1500, 2500, 3500, 4500, and 5500 trucks equipped with a column mounted shift lever.The failures of the BTSI described in the VOQs occurred on vehicles that had all previously been repaired under recall 17V-821 or 18V-100.Both recalls address a potential condition which can cause the BTSI locking pin to become stuck allowing the transmission to be shifted out of Park without depressing the brake pedal and/or without having a key in the ignition.Shifting the transmission out of Park when not having the brake pedal depressed can result in a vehicle rollaway. ODI is opening this Recall Query (RQ) to review the effectiveness of the 17V-821 and 18V-100 recall remedies, understand the root cause of additional vehicle rollaway incidents, and identify any other possible root cause that may affect the performance of the BTSI system. To review the ODI reports cited in the Opening Resume ODI Report Identification Number document, go to NHTSA.gov.
Power Train:automatic Transmission:gear Position Indication (prndl)
The Office of Defects Investigation (ODI) has received 14 Vehicle Owner Questionnaire (VOQ) reports and 6 EWR Death & Injury (D&I) reports describing post recall remedy failures of the brake transmission shift interlock (BTSI) system in certain Model Year (MY) 2013-2018 RAM pickup trucks.The subject vehicle models include 1500, 2500, 3500, 4500, and 5500 trucks equipped with a column mounted shift lever.The failures of the BTSI described in the VOQs occurred on vehicles that had all previously been repaired under recall 17V-821 or 18V-100.Both recalls address a potential condition which can cause the BTSI locking pin to become stuck allowing the transmission to be shifted out of Park without depressing the brake pedal and/or without having a key in the ignition.Shifting the transmission out of Park when not having the brake pedal depressed can result in a vehicle rollaway. ODI is opening this Recall Query (RQ) to review the effectiveness of the 17V-821 and 18V-100 recall remedies, understand the root cause of additional vehicle rollaway incidents, and identify any other possible root cause that may affect the performance of the BTSI system. To review the ODI reports cited in the Opening Resume ODI Report Identification Number document, go to NHTSA.gov.
EA19004 · Steering Loss Due To Linkage Separation
Opened Dec 1, 2019 · Closed Nov 20, 2025
Status: closed (inferred from source dates) · Steering:linkages:drag:link:connection
On December 17, 2018, NHTSA's Office of Defects Investigation (ODI) opened Preliminary Evaluation PE18016 to investigate alleged drag link failures in the steering system on model year (MY) 2015 and 2016 Ram 2500 trucks manufactured by FCA US, LLC (FCA). The drag link failures were found to be due to a safety defect with the steering linkage where the drag link adjustable connector (used to adjust the steering system), held in position by two opposing jam nuts, can loosen. The loosening of this part can lead to wear and deterioration of the threads and eventual separation of the drag link, causing loss of steering. During the course of PE18016, it was found that two styles of drag link were used by FCA on the subject vehicles. The subject vehicles consist of two drivetrain types including four-wheel drive (4WD) and two-wheel drive (2WD). The 4WD and 2WD trucks used drag links of differing design but both incorporated the same threaded connector. In January 2019 FCA issued recall 19V-021 to address a potential loss of steering control in certain Model Year (MY) 2013-2018 4WD RAM 2500 and 3500 trucks. The trucks using the 2WD style drag link were not included in the scope of recall 19V-021. ODI upgraded PE18016 to an Engineering Analysis EA19004 on December 12, 2019. The purpose of EA19004 was to investigate if the root cause of the safety defect addressed by recall 19V-201 also affected the 2WD trucks and evaluate FCA’s rationale for not including them. ODI also monitored incoming consumer complaints regarding the remedy associated with 19V-021 and evaluated the suitability and long-term effectiveness of the prescribed repair. In the Defect Information Report submitted for recall 19V-021, FCA stated that the outboard jam nut could loosen and result in damage to the threading of the steering drag link connector. This could cause a separation in the drag link resulting in a loss of steering control. FCA determined that only the 4WD style drag link was affected and did not recall trucks with the 2WD style drag link due to design differences that made it unsusceptible to this failure mode. The repair remedy called for the steering coupler to be tightened to the proper torque prior to the jam nut being spot welded to the coupler body. If the coupler has already become detached or correct torque cannot be obtained, the drag link is to be replaced with an updated unit that went into production on the MY2019 RAM trucks.This updated unit uses a clamp to secure the coupler in place of the jam nuts used on original style components. In order to determine if the 2WD drag link was susceptible to the same defect found on the 4WD vehicles, ODI requested that our Vehicle Research and Test Center (VRTC) conduct testing on both RAM 2500 4WD and 2WD trucks. This testing was to determine operating conditions that might lead to loosened jam nuts of the recalled 4WD design and recreate these conditions on the 2WD vehicles to discover whether the 2WD design would also experience the loosening defect. Results from VRTC’s dynamic testing indicated that when the jam nuts are significantly under-torqued, they may loosen further from regular vehicle operation on the 4WD vehicles. Further, VRTC testing does not refute FCA’s assertion that the failure mechanism does not exist in the 2WD steering system. At the time of this closing resume, ODI has only received two allegations of drag link separation on 2WDvehicles.Neither could be validated as resulting from loose jam nuts. Since the release of recall 19V-021 ODI has received consumer complaints regarding the appearance of the spot weld applied to the defective drag link and the inability to have the steering properly aligned after welding of the jam nut. In September 2023, FCA provided owners with a supplemental Vehicle Alignment Clarification notification that provided information on an updated alignment procedure. Regarding the spot weld remedy used on the 4WD vehicles, ODI is concerned about the remedy in that during an alignment by a non-dealer repair facility, the spot weld might not be replaced after the alignment. To date there is no complaint trend of post alignment drag link separations, weld failures or other safety related incidents on remedied vehicles. This investigation is being closed with no further action. The closing of this investigation does not constitute a finding by NHTSA that a safety-related defect does not exist. The Agency reserves the right to take additional action if warranted by future circumstances.
PE18016 · Steering Loss Due To Linkage Separation
Opened Dec 17, 2018 · Closed Dec 12, 2019
Status: closed (inferred from source dates) · Steering:linkages:drag:link:connection
On December 17, 2018, NHTSA's Office of Defects Investigation (ODI) opened Preliminary Evaluation (PE) 18-016 to investigate the steering system on model year (MY) 2015 and 2016 Ram 2500 manufactured by FCA US, LLC (FCA). Four complaints were received alleging separation of the drag link, a steering linkage that connects between the right front steering knuckle and the pitman arm on the steering box output shaft. The failures were found to be at a threaded coupler within the drag link used for adjusting the length of the linkage during routine maintenance (alignment) of the steering system.Once separation occurs, turning the steering wheel has no effect, and there is no way for the driver to control or maintain the direction of the vehicle. During the investigation, it was determined that the same threaded coupler was used on two different drag link designs FCA manufactured on MY 2013-2018 Ram 2500 and 3500 pickups. FCA refers to the designs as either 4x2 or 4x4 style. In both designs, the coupler is prevented from turning on the drag link via two jam nuts that are tightened against the coupler. In its response to NHTSA's March 15, 2019, Information Request (IR) letter, FCA identified 48 incidents alleging separation of the steering linkage at the coupler resulting in a loss of steering control. Of those, 13 involved a crash, one of which resulted in an injury. All of the separations involved the 4x4 style drag link. Additionally, FCA's IR response refers to over 300 4x4 style equipped vehicles that experienced, or may have experienced loosening of one or more coupler jam nuts. On January 25, 2019, FCA submitted a Defect Information Report (DIR) initiating NHTSA Recall No. 19V-021. In its DIR, FCA stated that the outboard jam nut in certain MY 2013-2018 Ram 2500 and 3500 could loosen potentially resulting in damage to the coupler and/or drag link threading allowing one end of the drag link to separate. The DIR notes that drag link separation results in loss of steering control, which in turn can cause a crash without warning. FCA's DIR did not identify a root cause for the defect, however it posits that an improperly torqued outboard jam nut could loosen, and with long-term vehicle use, cause damage to the outer link bar and/or coupler threads due to relative motion between the two components. The scope of Recall 19V-021 included vehicles with the 4x4 style drag link only. Also discussed in its IR response, FCA noted that the 4x2 style drag link contains a design difference (the outboard portion of the drag link is straight while the 4x4 style contains a bend) which it suggests may result in differences in the mechanical (bending) loads presented at the coupler and jam nut interface. Moreover, the DIR states that While root cause of the 4x4 style defect has not been established, FCA US believes that bending loads on the drag link is, at least, a causal contributing factor. FCA notes it did not identify any reports alleging 4x2 style separation as well as only three reports of loosening of jam nuts, two of which resulted in loosening that provided obvious warning to the vehicle operator, indicating a different failure mode.NHTSA is upgrading this investigation to Engineering Analysis (EA) 19-004 in order to continue to monitor the subject 4x2 style vehicles for evidence of field failures. Additionally, in conjunction with NHTSA's Vehicle Research and Test Center, ODI intends to more thoroughly study potential root cause(s) of the 4x4 style defect mechanism, and if identified, will seek to determine if the 4x2 drag link is susceptible to the same mechanism(s). NHTSA will also evaluate the long-term suitability of the recall
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