What is the recall on Ram 1500 power steering?
There isn't one universal recall for Ram 1500 power steering. Several recall campaigns have affected specific model years; to know if your truck is affected, check your VIN against official recall records from NHTSA or Stellantis.
Understanding the recall landscape
Over the years, multiple safety campaigns have targeted power steering systems in Ram 1500 trucks. These recalls typically involve the electric power steering assist system, wiring, or control modules. When a campaign is active, affected vehicles are notified and dealers perform the required repairs at no cost to the owner. The exact remedy and the vehicles covered vary by year and specific VIN range.
How to check if your Ram 1500 is affected
The following steps help you verify whether your vehicle is included in an active or past recall related to power steering.
- Visit the official recall database and enter your 17-character VIN to search for any power steering-related campaigns.
- Contact your local Ram dealership or Stellantis customer care with your VIN to confirm recall status and schedule service if needed.
- Keep an eye on recall notices and sign up for alerts; recalls can be issued after a vehicle is sold, and new VINs may be added over time.
- If you notice steering concerns (stiff steering, unusual resistance, or a sudden loss of assist), stop driving safely and seek immediate service, as delays can increase risk.
These steps help ensure you have the latest information tied to your specific vehicle. The exact remedy, parts, and service time depend on the particular recall campaign associated with your VIN.
What to expect if your vehicle is recalled
If your Ram 1500 is found to be affected, dealers will perform the recall repair at no charge. Common elements of power steering recalls can include software updates to the power steering control module, inspections or replacements of wiring harnesses, or components within the steering system. The duration of service varies by the campaign and the work required, but many recalls are completed within a few hours. Always rely on your dealer for an accurate estimate based on your VIN.
Staying informed and safe
To stay informed about recalls that could affect your Ram 1500, use these trusted sources and practices:
- NHTSA SaferCar.gov recall lookup with your VIN for official campaign details and status.
- Stellantis(NOW Stellantis North America) official recall portal for manufacturer notices and guidance.
- Your local Ram dealer’s service department for personalized confirmation and scheduling.
- Register your contact information with the manufacturer or dealer so you receive direct recall notices.
Regularly checking these sources helps ensure you aren’t driving with an unresolved safety issue. If in doubt, schedule a service appointment and have the vehicle inspected against the relevant recall campaigns.
Summary
Ram 1500 power steering recalls are not centralized into a single, universal campaign; they arise from multiple independent recalls affecting specific years and VIN ranges. To protect yourself and others on the road, promptly verify your VIN against official recall databases, contact your dealer, and follow through with any required repair free of charge. By staying proactive, you can ensure your Ram 1500’s steering system remains safe and reliable.
Is there a recall on Dodge Ram power steering?
There have been multiple Ram power steering recalls and investigations. A 2019 recall (VB9) addressed a potential short circuit in the electric power steering (EPS) gear on certain 2013-2019 Ram 1500s, which could cause intermittent loss of power steering assist. Separately, a 2016 recall (S19) covered a smaller group of 2015-2016 Ram 1500s with contaminated EPS units, while a 2023 NHTSA investigation looked into power steering issues in 2013-2016 models beyond the scope of the earlier recalls. Additionally, there is a different recall for steering linkage on 2013-2017 Ram 2500 and 3500 trucks.
Key recalls and investigations
This video explains the power steering recall for certain Ram trucks: 55sPm TipsYouTube · Feb 10, 2019
- Recall VB9 / NHTSA 19E-077:
- Affected vehicles: 2013–2019 Model Year (DS) Ram 1500 trucks.
- Issue: A contaminated circuit card in the Electric Power Steering (EPS) gear could cause a short circuit and intermittent loss of power steering assist, especially at low speeds.
- Action: Dealers must inspect the EPS gear serial number and replace involved EPS gears.
- Recall S19 / NHTSA 16V-167:
- Affected vehicles: Certain 2015–2016 Ram 1500s built between January 22, 2015, and September 12, 2015.
- Issue: Contamination on the EPS unit circuit board could lead to a short circuit and a loss of power steering assist.
- Action: Ram dealerships will perform the recall repair free of charge.
- NHTSA Investigation (2023):
- Affected vehicles: 2013–2016 Ram 1500 trucks.
- Issue: The investigation was launched in response to hundreds of consumer complaints about a loss of power steering assistance that was not fully covered by the previous recalls.
- 2013-2017 Ram 2500/3500 Steering Linkage Recall:
- Affected vehicles: 2014-2017 Ram 2500s, 2013-2017 Ram 3500s, and 2014-2017 Ram 3500 chassis cabs.
- Issue: A specific steering linkage configuration could separate over time.
What to do
- To check for recalls on your specific vehicle, contact a Ram dealership with your Vehicle Identification Number (VIN).
- Your VIN can be found on your registration card, insurance policy, or on the driver's side dashboard or door frame.
What is the lawsuit for the power steering system on the Ram 1500?
A recent class action lawsuit against Fiat Chrysler states that a RAM 1500 recall missed the mark in its fix of faulty power steering systems. The news follows a 2023 NHTSA investigation into the power steering units in over one million RAM 1500 trucks and multiple recalls.
What is the steering problem with the Dodge Ram 1500?
What You Need to Know. Certain 2015–2022 Dodge Ram 1500 models have been reported to experience an alleged power steering defect, causing intermittent or complete loss of steering control while driving. This issue poses serious safety risks for both drivers and others on the road.
How do I reset my electric power steering?
To reset electric power steering, turn off the engine, then turn it on and center the steering wheel before turning the wheel lock-to-lock (fully right, then fully left). After returning the wheel to the center, turn the car off and on again to complete the initialization. This procedure, often called a lock-to-lock reset, can correct issues that occur after a battery disconnection or power disruption.
Lock-to-lock steering wheel reset
This video demonstrates the lock-to-lock steering wheel reset procedure: 54sMoparYouTube · Jan 8, 2025
- Turn off the engine. Make sure the ignition is off.
- Start the engine: and let it idle.
- Center the steering wheel. Ensure the wheels are pointing straight ahead.
- Turn the steering wheel fully to the right. Hold it there for about 5 seconds.
- Turn the steering wheel fully to the left. Hold it there for about 5 seconds.
- Return the steering wheel to the center. Make sure it is straight again.
- Turn the ignition off. Wait for all the dashboard lights to turn off.
- Restart the engine. The steering wheel should now be initialized.
Other potential causes and solutions
- Check the battery: A weak or failing battery can trigger the power steering warning light. Check the battery's charge and ensure the terminals are clean and tight.
- Use an OBD-II scanner: If the reset doesn't work, a scanner can help identify specific diagnostic trouble codes (DTCs) related to the steering angle sensor or other components.
- Consult a professional: If the light persists or you suspect a more serious issue, such as a faulty sensor or wiring problem, a professional mechanic can provide a more thorough diagnosis and repair.
