Dodge RAM “Death Wobble” Recalls: A Full Rundown

Danielle S
Jan 21, 2021

Have you ever heard of “death wobble” in a pickup truck? It’s a fitting name for a scary thing that has been reported to happen behind the wheel of some larger pickup trucks. Specifically, “death wobble” occurs when a truck’s steering wheel and front end begin violently shaking, usually at highway speeds.

Have there been any Dodge RAM death wobble recalls? 

While Dodge understandably doesn’t use the term “death wobble” in their recall notices, there have been several recalls related to this issue. These include recalls on:

  • Tie rods and tie rod assemblies
  • Truck ball studs

Blue 2010 Dodge Ram 1500 With White Background

If you drive a Dodge RAM truck, regardless of whether you’ve experienced the dreaded death wobble or not, you should be aware of these recalls. If your vehicle is recalled, be sure to have the necessary repairs done as soon as possible to keep yourself and other motorists safe.

2008–2011 Dodge RAM: Left Ball Stud Fracture

NHTSA Recall ID: 10V657000

This recall, which was issued in December of 2010, affects up to 15,271 Dodge RAM trucks manufactured from 2008 through 2011. This recall was issued when it was discovered that some trucks may have been manufactured with a defective left ball stud, which may be prone to fracturing.

If the ball stud fractures while driving, this can result in death wobble or a loss of steering control. This, in turn, may also increase the risk of a serious crash.

Owners of recalled vehicles can have the affected ball studs and left outer tie rods replaced at a licensed Chrysler dealership to resolve the issue.

2008–2011 Dodge RAM: Outer Tie Rod Failure

NHTSA Recall ID: 11V350000

Another tie rod-related recall was issued in July of 2011, and it affects more than 240,000 Dodge RAM trucks made from 2008 through 2011.

With this recall, it was found that both the left tie rod and ball stud may be defective and can fracture under certain driving conditions. This failure is most likely to occur at low speeds, such as while making a sharp right turn into a parking space.

Still, if ignored, a loss of directional stability could occur in the left-hand front wheel, which can increase the risk of a crash.

To remedy this issue, affected trucks will be inspected at a dealer; if needed, the outer tie rod will be replaced and a front-end alignment will be performed on the vehicle.

2006–2008 Dodge RAM: Left Tie Rod Assembly Failure

NHTSA Recall ID: 13V528000

Issued in November of 2013, this recall affects more than 700,000 RAM trucks made from 2006 through 2008. On some of these vehicles, a defective left tie rod assembly may be susceptible to breaking or fracturing.

If this occurs while driving (especially at highway speeds), this can cause the dreaded death wobble followed by a possible loss of steering control, which increases the risk of a crash.

If your truck is part of this recall, it can be repaired at a licensed dealer by having the left tie rod assembly replaced.

2008–2012 Dodge RAM: Left Tie Rod Assembly Failure

NHTSA Recall ID: 13V529000

This recall is a continuation or expansion of the previous recall on the Dodge RAM’s left tie rod assembly. Affecting more than 270,000 RAM trucks, this recall was issued in November of 2013 after it was discovered that trucks previously repaired under recall #11V350000 may still have defective left tie rods.

As a result, the same failure can occur and cause death wobble or a total loss of steering power. This, in turn, increases the risk of a crash.

Another free replacement of the truck’s left tie rod assembly is being offered as a remedy for this recall. Repairs can be made by scheduling a service appointment with a licensed dealer. Be sure to mention the recall number when you call.

What Should You Do if Your Dodge RAM is Recalled?

You can find out if your Dodge RAM truck is part of any of these death wobble recalls by entering your VIN on the NHTSA recall page. If your vehicle is recalled, contact Dodge customer service at 1-800-423-6343 for help in getting your repair scheduled as soon as possible.

If death wobble occurs while you’re driving, turn your emergency flashers on, let off on the gas pedal, and allow the vehicle to decrease speed naturally; pressing hard on the brake may make steering even more difficult. When possible, pull off safely to the side of the road and stop the vehicle.

avatar Danielle S
Danielle S. is a writer with more than 10 years of experience covering the automotive industry. She lives in Indiana ("The Crossroads of America") but enjoys road-tripping around the country whenever she gets the chance.
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