Is there a recall on 2014 Ram 2500 drag links?
Yes—some 2014 Ram 2500 pickups have been involved in recalls that affect the steering linkage, including components that function as a drag link. Not every truck is affected, and the only definitive way to know is to check your vehicle’s VIN against official recall databases.
What a drag link is and why it matters
The drag link is part of the front steering system in some heavy‑duty trucks. It connects the steering gear to the steering arms and helps translate the driver’s input into the wheels turning. If a drag link is worn, damaged, or corroded, steering could feel loose, imprecise, or even fail, which can create a safety risk. Because recalls are VIN‑specific, even within the same model year, not every 2014 Ram 2500 will be affected.
How recalls apply to the 2014 Ram 2500
Recall campaigns involving steering components—potentially including drag links—have affected certain 2014 Ram 2500 vehicles. The applicability depends on the exact VIN and production date. The safest path is to verify with official sources for your specific truck.
To verify whether your Ram 2500 is affected, use these official sources and steps.
- For a VIN‑specific check, search NHTSA’s recall database (SaferCar.gov) by entering your Vehicle Identification Number (VIN). The results will show any active or completed recalls for your exact vehicle.
- Visit Ram’s official recall information page or contact an authorized Ram/Chrysler dealer with your VIN to confirm recall status and arrange repairs if needed.
- Review any recall notices you may have received by mail or email; recalls are typically processed at no cost to the vehicle owner.
Conclusion: If a recall exists for your VIN, a dealer will perform the approved remedy free of charge, which may involve inspection and replacement of the drag link or related steering components.
Signs of potential steering or drag‑link problems
Be alert for symptoms that could indicate issues with the steering system or drag link. Do not drive aggressively if you notice any of these warning signs, and have the vehicle inspected promptly.
- Excessive play or looseness in the steering wheel, especially when turning.
- Steering feels to wander or pull to one side, or the wheel doesn’t return smoothly to center after a turn.
- Unusual noises such as clunks, pops, or grinding coming from the front suspension/steering area.
- Visible damage, rust, or wear on the drag link, tie rods, or other front‑end components when inspected by a professional.
If you experience any of these symptoms, stop driving the vehicle if it’s safe to do so and arrange a diagnostic check with a qualified technician. If a recall covers your truck, the service should be performed at no cost.
Summary
Additional note
For the most current information, rely on official sources such as the NHTSA recall database and Ram’s own recall notices. Recall statuses can change, and only VIN‑specific checks provide a definitive answer.
What is the recall on the 2014 Ram 2500?
Major recalls for the 2014 Ram 2500 include issues with the tailgate, steering, diesel fuel heater, and airbag deployment. The tailgate recall involves the power locking mechanism, while the steering recall addresses a potential separation of the linkage. The diesel fuel heater recall is for overheating electrical connectors, and airbag recalls are due to potential unexpected deployment caused by a wiring harness short.
This video explains the steering recall for Ram 2500 trucks: 55sMarion BlairYouTube · Feb 7, 2019
Major recalls
- Tailgate: The power locking mechanism may break, causing the tailgate to unlatch and open while driving. This affects certain 2013-2014 Ram pickup trucks with a power locking tailgate.
- Steering Linkage: A specific steering linkage configuration could separate over time, leading to a loss of steering control. This recall affects 2014-2017 Ram 2500 trucks.
- Diesel Fuel Heater: Electrical connectors in the diesel fuel heater may overheat, posing a fire risk. This affects certain 2010-2014 Ram 2500 diesel trucks.
- Airbags: The steering wheel wiring harness may rub against the air bag module retainer spring, causing an electrical short and potentially leading to unexpected airbag deployment. This affects certain 2012-2014 Ram trucks with the Electronic Vehicle Information Center option.
- Steering Column Control Module: A software error can cause high beams to activate when using the turn signal, or the turn signal to activate when the high beams are on. The turn signal self-canceling feature may also not work properly.
How to check for recalls
- Use the Vehicle Identification Number (VIN) to check for open recalls on the Mopar website or the RepairPal Safety Recall Checker.
- The VIN can be found at the base of your windshield or on your vehicle's registration card.
- Contact a Ram dealer to have the necessary repairs performed for free if you have an open recall.
What happens when a drag link goes bad?
When a drag link goes bad, you will experience a range of steering and handling problems, such as a loose and unresponsive steering wheel, vehicle pulling to one side, uneven tire wear, and clunking or rattling noises. These symptoms are caused by the drag link's role in connecting the steering gear to the tie rods, and its failure leads to poor alignment and a loss of control. A compromised drag link can make the vehicle unstable and is a serious safety hazard if not addressed.
This video demonstrates how a bad drag link can cause clunking noises: 1mJamie Jones TheCarManYouTube · Jul 9, 2015
Signs of a bad drag link
- Loose or unresponsive steering: The steering wheel may feel "sloppy" or have a lot of play before the vehicle's direction changes.
- Vehicle pulls to one side: The car may drift to the left or right even when you are holding the steering wheel straight.
- Steering wheel does not center: The steering wheel may not return to the center position on its own after a turn, or it may feel crooked when driving straight.
- Uneven tire wear: Because the drag link affects wheel alignment, a failing one can cause tires to wear out unevenly or prematurely.
- Excessive vibration: You may notice vibrations in the steering wheel or the vehicle itself, especially at higher speeds.
- Clunking or rattling noises: Unusual sounds from the front of the vehicle, particularly when turning or going over bumps, can indicate a worn-out drag link.
Why this is a safety hazard
- Difficulty controlling the vehicle: A bad drag link can make it difficult to keep the vehicle stable, particularly at higher speeds or when evasive maneuvers are needed.
- Driver fatigue: You may have to constantly make small corrections to keep the vehicle driving straight, which can be tiring.
- Risk of component failure: A failing drag link can put additional stress on other steering and suspension components, leading to more expensive repairs down the line. In severe cases, a drag link can break, leading to a complete loss of steering control.
What are common problems with the 2014 Ram 2500?
The 2014 Ram 2500 Diesel faces notable issues such as exhaust gas recirculation (EGR) cooler failures, fuel system challenges, and turbocharger problems. Additionally, High-Pressure Fuel Pump Failures may lead to engine issues, while Transmission Troubles manifest as shifting problems.
What is the drag link recall on RAM trucks?
The Ram drag link recall, designated as V06 or NHTSA campaign 19V-021, affects 2013-2018 Ram 2500 and 3500 trucks due to the potential for the steering linkage jam nut to loosen and cause a loss of steering control. The fix involves a dealer inspection to check jam nut torque and alignment; if the torque is not met or the drag link needs replacement, dealers will weld the jam nuts to the adjuster sleeve to prevent loosening. If the drag link is replaced, an alignment is also performed.
This video explains the V06 drag link recall for Ram trucks and shows how to check for a loose drag link: 58sPm TipsYouTube · Feb 10, 2019
What the recall is for
- Problem: A steering linkage jam nut can loosen over time, which can cause the drag link to separate from the adjuster sleeve. This could lead to a sudden loss of steering control and increase the risk of a crash.
- Affected vehicles: Primarily 2013-2018 Ram 2500 and 3500 pickup trucks.
The recall fix
- Dealers will inspect the drag link's jam nut for proper torque and check the vehicle's alignment.
- If torque is incorrect or a replacement is needed: The drag link assembly will be replaced and an alignment will be performed.
- If torque is correct (or after replacement): The jam nuts will be welded to the adjuster sleeve to permanently secure them and prevent future loosening.
What you should do
- Check for a recall notice in the mail from Ram or the NHTSA.
- Contact a local Ram dealership to schedule an appointment for the free recall service.
- If your vehicle is affected, there may be some inconvenience involved, especially if the drag link needs to be replaced overnight.
