Affects Ram vehicles with steering column shifters
Fiat Chrysler is recalling certain Ram trucks in the U.S. because they may inadvertently shift out of the Park position.
The Problem: The recall affects models with column shifters. The Brake Transmission Shift Interlock (BTSI) on certain Ram vehicles may not work properly if exposed to high-temperature conditions for long periods of time, FCA says. In such a circumstance, the shifter may move out of Park when the driver’s foot is off the brake pedal, or when the key isn’t in the ignition.
Vehicles affected by the recall include 2010-2017 Ram 2500 and 3500 pickups; 2011-2017 Ram 3500, 4500, and 5500 chassis cabs; and 2016-2017 Ram 3500 chassis cabs with a Gross Vehicle Weight Rating of less than 10,000 pounds. FCA says certain 2009-2017 Ram 1500 pickups are also affected. However, all 2017 model-year trucks built after December 31, 2016 are excluded from the recall campaign.
FCA says it’s aware of seven injuries that are potentially related to the problem. There are also “a small number of potentially related accidents.”
The Fix: FCA will restore the BTSI function. Customers affected by the recall will be notified when they can go to dealerships and get their vehicles serviced. In the meantime, FCA urges drivers to use their parking brakes to prevent unintended vehicle movement.
Number of Vehicles Potentially Affected: The Ram recall affects an estimated 1.48 million trucks in the U.S. Another 249,520 vehicles in Canada and 42,747 in Mexico are involved.
Source: FCA