What is the recall on the RAM steering module?
The RAM steering module recall is a significant issue affecting certain models of Dodge and Ram trucks. This article provides a detailed overview of the recall, including the affected vehicles, the potential safety risks, and the steps being taken by the manufacturer to address the problem.
What is the RAM Steering Module Recall?
The RAM steering module recall was initiated by Fiat Chrysler Automobiles (FCA), the parent company of the Dodge and Ram brands, in response to a potential safety issue with the steering system in certain models of their trucks. The recall affects approximately 1.1 million vehicles in the United States, Canada, and certain other markets, including the following models:
- 2013-2018 Ram 1500 pickup trucks
- 2014-2018 Ram 2500 pickup trucks
- 2014-2018 Ram 3500 pickup trucks
- 2014-2018 Ram 3500 Cab Chassis
- 2014-2018 Ram 4500/5500 Cab Chassis
The issue with the steering module is related to a potential electrical connection problem that could cause the power steering to fail, leading to a loss of steering control and increased risk of a crash. This defect has been linked to at least 16 crashes and 2 injuries, according to the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA).
What is the Recall Process?
FCA has initiated a recall to address the steering module issue. The company is instructing owners of the affected vehicles to take their trucks to an authorized dealer, where the steering module will be inspected and, if necessary, replaced free of charge. The recall process is expected to take several months to complete, as the company works to ensure that sufficient replacement parts are available.
In the meantime, FCA is advising owners of the affected vehicles to exercise caution when driving and to be aware of any changes in the steering responsiveness or feel. If any issues are detected, owners should immediately contact their dealer or the manufacturer for further assistance.
Preventing Future Recalls
To prevent similar issues from occurring in the future, FCA has stated that it is working to improve its quality control and testing processes for critical vehicle components, such as the steering system. The company has also pledged to enhance its communication with customers and regulatory agencies to ensure that any potential safety issues are identified and addressed in a timely manner.
By taking these steps, FCA hopes to regain the trust of its customers and demonstrate its commitment to safety and quality in the design and manufacture of its vehicles.
What RAM models are being recalled?
Latest Ram Recalls
- 2022-2025 Ram Promaster Recall. Potential Number of Units Affected 235,640.
- 2025 Ram 1500 Recall.
- 2017-2018 Ram 2500 and 3500 Recall.
- 2025 Ram 1500 Recall.
- 2020-2023 Ram 1500 Classic Recall.
- 2023-2024 Ram 1500 Recall.
- Ram Recalls 2019 and 2021-2024 1500 over Stability Control.
- Chrysler Rearview Camera Recall.
What is the recall on the Dodge Ram power steering system?
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 are the symptoms of a steering column control module?
Common symptoms include unusual noises when turning the steering wheel, dashboard warning lights related to the steering system, changes in vehicle handling or steering wheel position, and vibrations or looseness in the steering wheel.
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.
