Chrysler Recalls Ram 1500 Trucks Over ESC Malfunction

Chrysler (FCA US, LLC) has issued a recall for over 1.2 million Ram 1500 pickup trucks due to a malfunction in the Anti-Lock Brake System (ABS) control module, which can disable the Electronic Stability Control (ESC) system. This issue affects vehicles manufactured between 2019 and 2024 and poses a significant safety risk, as the failure of the ESC system increases the likelihood of a crash. Chrysler is addressing the problem with a software update, which will be provided free of charge to vehicle owners.

Key Highlights:

Recall Number: NHTSA Campaign Number: 24V653000
Manufacturer: Chrysler (FCA US, LLC)
Affected Vehicles: 2019, 2021-2024 Ram 1500
Potential Units Affected: 1,227,808
Component Impacted: Anti-lock Brake System (ABS), Electronic Stability Control (ESC)
Noncompliance Issue: Failure to meet Federal Motor Vehicle Safety Standard (FMVSS) 126, which ensures ESC functionality during all phases of driving.

Details of the Recall:

The malfunction stems from a software issue in the ABS control module, which can cause the ESC system to be disabled under certain conditions. This noncompliance with FMVSS 126 means that the system might not function during critical driving phases such as acceleration, coasting, and braking. Without an operational ESC system, the vehicle is at higher risk of a crash, especially in situations where the driver would rely on ESC intervention for stability.

The recall impacts Ram 1500 vehicles manufactured between October 31, 2017, and February 14, 2024. Other similar vehicles manufactured outside this window are not affected by the issue.

Remedy Plan:

Chrysler will issue a free software update for the ABS control module to all affected vehicles. Owner notification letters are expected to be sent starting October 3, 2024. Owners can contact Chrysler’s customer service for more information at 1-800-853-1403, referencing recall number 85B.

Additional Resources:

NHTSA Vehicle Safety Hotline: 1-888-327-4236 (TTY 1-800-424-9153)
Visit www.nhtsa.gov for more details.

The recall process is being coordinated by Chrysler, with dealers set to be notified on September 12, 2024, and owners receiving notification by early October.

This recall affects a large number of vehicles and addresses a critical safety feature—the Electronic Stability Control system. Chrysler is working to resolve the issue by providing a software update at no cost, ensuring compliance with federal safety standards and reducing the risk of accidents related to ESC failure.

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