A brand new federal investigation has been launched into an enormous variety of Ram vehicles following issues that earlier recall repairs could not have finished the job. The Nationwide Freeway Visitors Security Administration (NHTSA) is taking a more in-depth take a look at practically 1.2 million Ram 1500 by means of 5500 vehicles after questions emerged in regards to the effectiveness of fixes utilized throughout two earlier remembers.
The problem stems from the vehicles’ brake transmission shift interlock (BTSI) system, a security mechanism designed to forestall the automobile from being shifted out of park with out the brake being pressed or the important thing within the ignition. The issue? A solenoid throughout the system may overheat and swell, inflicting it to malfunction. This, in flip, may enable the automobile to shift unintentionally — a severe security concern that had prompted remembers again in 2017 and 2018.
Recall 17V-821 initially lined Ram fashions from 2013 to 2017, together with every little thing from light-duty 1500 pickups to the heavy-duty 5500s. A follow-up, Recall 18V-100, prolonged that internet into later mannequin years after it grew to become clear the difficulty was extra widespread than initially thought. Each remembers have been meant to appropriate the issue by changing the affected solenoid and bracket in automobiles outfitted with column shifters.
However now, NHTSA is questioning whether or not the answer really labored. Both the substitute elements themselves are failing or, presumably worse, the foundation trigger was by no means totally addressed within the first place. This has led to a proper investigation, with regulators hoping to find out whether or not these vehicles nonetheless pose a danger to drivers and people round them.
To be clear, no new recall has been issued at this level. NHTSA continues to be within the fact-finding stage, but when the investigation confirms that the preliminary repairs have been insufficient, practically 1.2 million Ram vehicles may very well be topic to a contemporary spherical of remembers.
Stellantis, which took over from Fiat Chrysler Vehicles (FCA) and now oversees the Ram model, has but to launch a public assertion in regards to the investigation. Nevertheless, the automaker can be required to cooperate totally with NHTSA because the probe unfolds.
Homeowners of 2013 to 2018 Ram vehicles, significantly these with column shifters, could wish to pay shut consideration within the coming months. If a brand new recall is issued, Stellantis will notify affected house owners and certain be on the hook for an additional spherical of repairs.
As at all times, it’s a good suggestion to test your automobile’s recall standing utilizing the VIN lookup device on NHTSA’s web site or by contacting a neighborhood dealership. Though this investigation hasn’t resulted in new motion but, staying knowledgeable is vital — particularly when the protection programs in your truck won’t be functioning as meant.