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Following an investigation by the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA), Fiat Chrysler Automobiles (FCA) has issued a safety recall for certain 2017-2018 Ram 2500 and 3500 pickup trucks due to a defect that can impair critical braking functions. Launched on November 28, 2022, the investigation uncovered over 2,500 consumer complaints about issues linked to a faulty ABS pump motor, which could disable features like anti-lock braking, stability control, and traction control. Drivers often noticed intermittent warning lights, adding to the confusion. FCA’s recall addresses this safety concern to protect vehicle owners.
Key Highlights
- Investigation Started: NHTSA’s Office of Defects Investigation (ODI) began probing after 134 initial complaints about braking issues in Ram trucks.
- Widespread Reports: Over 2,500 complaints piled up, with drivers citing intermittent ABS warning lights and problems with cruise control and stability systems.
- Core Problem: Swelling brushes in the ABS pump motor were found to disable vital safety features.
- Testing Results: NHTSA’s Vehicle Research and Test Center confirmed the pump failed even when the warning light was off.
- Recall Issued: FCA launched safety recalls 24V-896 and 24E-100 on November 27, 2024, to fix the defect.
- Case Closed: ODI ended its evaluation but may reopen it if needed.
Investigation Details
The NHTSA’s ODI kicked off its investigation on November 28, 2022, after receiving 134 reports of braking performance loss in Ram 2500 and 3500 models. Consumers reported that failures happened at all speeds, often with little warning. Many saw the ABS warning light turn on, pointing to trouble with the system that manages emergency braking through the Hydraulic Control Unit (HCU).
Consumer Experiences
As the investigation progressed, ODI collected over 2,500 complaints. More than half noted the intermittent warning light, which confused drivers about their truck’s safety status. Issues extended beyond braking to include cruise control, traction control, and electronic stability control, amplifying the problem’s impact.
FCA’s Early Awareness
FCA knew about the ABS pump motor issues since January 2021, working with supplier ZF to tackle the swelling brushes problem. ZF explained that a faulty motor would disable ABS, electronic stability control (ESC), and traction control system (TSC), though base braking would still work and meet federal safety standards.
Testing Confirms Risks
NHTSA’s Vehicle Research and Test Center tested a truck with a defective pump motor. They found that swelling brushes caused the warning lamp to flash intermittently, misleading drivers. Even when the light was off, the pump wasn’t working properly, leaving key safety features offline.
Recall and Resolution
After reviewing test results with ODI, FCA issued safety recalls 24V-896 and 24E-100 on November 27, 2024. These recalls target the defective ABS pump motors in affected Ram trucks. With this action underway, ODI closed its preliminary evaluation on March 3, 2025, but could step in again if new issues arise.
This recall ensures that Ram truck owners can drive with confidence, addressing a defect that threatened essential safety systems. For more details, visit www.NHTSA.gov.
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