NHTSA Opens Investigation Into Practically 1.2 Million Ram Vans Over Defective Recall Repairs : Automotive Addicts

Automotive

A brand new federal investigation has been launched into a large variety of Ram vans following considerations that earlier recall repairs could not have finished the job. The Nationwide Freeway Site visitors Security Administration (NHTSA) is taking a better have a look at almost 1.2 million Ram 1500 by way of 5500 vans after questions emerged concerning the effectiveness of fixes utilized throughout two earlier recollects.

The difficulty stems from the vans’ 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 might overheat and swell, inflicting it to malfunction. This, in flip, might enable the automobile to shift unintentionally — a critical security concern that had prompted recollects again in 2017 and 2018.

Recall 17V-821 initially lined Ram fashions from 2013 to 2017, together with every part from light-duty 1500 pickups to the heavy-duty 5500s. A follow-up, Recall 18V-100, prolonged that web into later mannequin years after it turned clear the problem was extra widespread than initially thought. Each recollects have been supposed to right the issue by changing the affected solenoid and bracket in autos geared up with column shifters.

However now, NHTSA is questioning whether or not the answer really labored. Both the substitute components themselves are failing or, presumably worse, the basis trigger was by no means absolutely addressed within the first place. This has led to a proper investigation, with regulators hoping to find out whether or not these vans 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, almost 1.2 million Ram vans may very well be topic to a recent spherical of recollects.

Stellantis, which took over from Fiat Chrysler Cars (FCA) and now oversees the Ram model, has but to launch a public assertion concerning the investigation. Nonetheless, the automaker might be required to cooperate absolutely with NHTSA because the probe unfolds.

House owners of 2013 to 2018 Ram vans, notably 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 homeowners and sure be on the hook for one more 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 an area dealership. Although this investigation hasn’t resulted in new motion but, staying knowledgeable is essential — particularly when the security programs in your truck won’t be functioning as supposed.

Lloyd Tobias is a seasoned automotive journalist and passionate fanatic with over 15 years of expertise immersed on the earth of automobiles. Whether or not it’s exploring the newest developments in automotive know-how or maintaining a detailed pulse on breaking business information, Lloyd brings a pointy perspective and a deep appreciation for all issues automotive. His writing blends technical perception with real-world enthusiasm, making his contributions each informative and fascinating for readers who share his love for the drive. When he’s not behind the keyboard or below the hood, Lloyd enjoys check driving the most recent fashions and staying forward of the curve in an ever-evolving automotive panorama.