The Ram pickup is one of Chrysler’s most recognizable vehicles. Recalls for the Ram are numerous, especially since this brand began production back to 1980. At that time, the Ram was manufactured by Chrysler, and they continued to produce it through 1998.
After that, Daimler Chrysler continued production of the Ram through 2007. The company changed names again back to Chrysler, which continues to produce the vehicle. It was initially marketed as a Dodge Ram full-size pickup truck. Today, it is recognized under the Ram Trucks brand.
In every respect, Ram is a prominent, well-known pickup truck. It has morphed numerous times, beginning as an initial light-duty truck into the full power, highly competitive models available today. Throughout the years, the Ram has been named a Motor Trend “Truck of the Year” seven times.
As of 2019, the vehicle is in its fifth generation. This vehicle has several body style options, including both two-door and four-door options. It also offers seven trim levels for the 2020 model year.
Recalls on the Ram Pickup Truck
Recalls on the Ram pickup truck range widely, and they are based on both mechanical and structural issues. There have been over 50 recalls for this vehicle over its decades of use. The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration provides the following recall notices for the Ram truck lineup.
EGR Cooler May Crack
One of the highest risk recalls for the Ram occurred in October of 2019. Recall number 1V757000 involves the engine and cooling system. About 108,000 vehicles were impacted by this recall, including Ram 1500 and Ram 1500 Classic pickup trucks from model years 2014 through 2019. It applies to pickup trucks with a 3.0L Eco Diesel engine.
In these vehicles, the Exhaust Gas Recirculation (EGR) cooler can develop a crack in it. This allows pre-heated vaporized coolant to escape. The coolant can enter into the EGR system, which occurs in the intake manifold of the vehicle. It can lead to a risk of combustion, which can increase the risk of fire.
For this recall, Chrysler notified each owner and then replaced the EGR cooler. In addition, an inspection of the intake manifold was conducted to ensure it had not been damaged.
Unexpected Tailgate Opening
NHTSA Recall Number19V347000 noted that the tailgate on the truck could open up unexpectedly. This recall impacted Ram 1500, Ram 2500, and Ram 3500 pickup trucks for model years 2015 through 2017.
It applied only to those with a power-locking tailgate and an 8-foot truck bed. In addition, Ram recalled the Ram 1500, Ram 2500, and the Ram 3500 pickup trucks for model years 2013, 2014 and 2018 that were built prior to April 1, 2018 with a power locking tailgate and a six- or eight-foot bed. Additional recalls were extended in August of 2019. In total, 1.1 million vehicles were called back for this concern.
The problem with these vehicles is that the tailgate actuator limiter tab can become fractured due to wear. If this happens, it can cause the tailgate to unlatch and open up while driving, creating a risk of damage. The company repaired the tailgate in each impacted vehicle.
Driveshaft Fracture Risk
Ram had to recall more than 10,000 vehicles due to a driveshaft fracture and separation risk. This was covered by the NHTSA Recall Number 19V324000 for the powertrain. The recall was issued for Ram 1500 pickup trucks in the model years 2018 and 2019.
This recall occurred because the rear driveshaft can become detached. This is a result of an incomplete weld fusion located between the tube yoke and the tube. This can cause a weld crack, or, in some cases, it can lead to a driveshaft fracture. This increases the risk of a crash as well as the creation of a road hazard. It can also cause a loss in drive power.
The recall began in June of 2019. It involved dealerships replacing the rare driveshaft without any cost to the owner. This was a high-level recall from Chrysler.
Rear Axle Failure Risk
Owners of the Ram 1500 Truck for model years 2018 and 2019 also had to deal with NHTSA Recall Number 18V55600. This recall has to do with the vehicle’s powertrain. The recall noted that the rear axle assembly can fail due to a limited amount of oil.
If this happens, it can lead to the driver losing control of the vehicle or, in some instances, the rear wheels locking up on drivers. This can increase the risk of a crash.
This recall impacted over 4,100 vehicles. It occurred as a result of the rear differential being insufficiently filled with oil. This is the likely cause of the failure in the rear axle itself.
To fix this, Chrysler reached out to all owners and had the rear axle oil level inspected, and, if there was not enough oil present, they replaced the part. This recall was issued in September of 2018.
Voltage Regulator Failures
NHTSA Recall Number 18V524000 was issued because it was found that the voltage regulator can fail. If this occurs, it can cause the vehicle to stall out. This recall was widespread in Ram trucks. However, it included the Ram 1500 2018 model year. In total, more than 12,000 vehicles were impacted by this recall.
The powertrain control module in these vehicles has a voltage regulator chip in the circuit board. The recall involved the failure of this chip. This can cause the vehicle to stall if the individual is driving it, or it can cause it not to start.
To repair this problem, Chrysler notified owners and then replaced the entire powertrain control module. This recall was issued in October of 2018.
How to Find Recalls on Your Vehicle
The Ram 1500 and other models have had numerous recalls over the years. These are some of the most recent of those recalls. If you are planning to buy a used Ram truck, it is important to check for current recalls.
You can do this in various ways, including by visiting the NHTSA website and inputting your Vehicle Identification Number (VIN) into the provided location. You can also use the site to search for the make, model and year of the car to pinpoint any specific recalls for it.
Recalls for the Ram vehicle lineup date back to 1980 and continue on through the 2020 model lineup. It is worth taking a closer look at Ram recalls before making a purchase.
Photos: Stellantis
