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The Office of Defects Investigation (ODI), part of the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA), has launched a Recall Query (RQ25003) to examine post-recall failures of the Brake Transmission Shift Interlock (BTSI) system in certain 2013-2018 RAM pickup trucks.
This investigation focuses on vehicle rollaway incidents reported in RAM 1500, 2500, 3500, 4500, and 5500 models equipped with a column-mounted shift lever, despite prior repairs under recalls 17V-821 and 18V-100. These recalls addressed a condition where the BTSI locking pin could become stuck, allowing the transmission to shift out of Park without pressing the brake pedal or having a key in the ignition, posing a rollaway risk.
Key Highlights
- ODI received 14 Vehicle Owner Questionnaire (VOQ) reports and 6 Early Warning Reporting (EWR) Death & Injury reports detailing BTSI failures.
- Affected vehicles include 2013-2018 RAM 1500, 2500, 3500, 4500, and 5500 trucks with column-mounted shift levers.
- Prior recalls (17V-821 and 18V-100) aimed to fix the BTSI issue but have not fully prevented rollaways.
- The investigation seeks to evaluate recall remedy effectiveness and identify root causes of ongoing BTSI failures.
Investigation Scope and Purpose
The ODI opened this Recall Query on July 3, 2025, to assess why BTSI failures persist after recall repairs. The agency is reviewing 14 VOQ reports and 6 EWR Death & Injury reports to determine if the remedies for recalls 17V-821 and 18V-100 adequately addressed the issue. The investigation will also explore other potential root causes affecting the BTSI system’s performance, which is critical for preventing unintended vehicle movement. Owners of affected RAM trucks are encouraged to monitor updates and review detailed reports on NHTSA.gov.
Potential Risks and Implications
A malfunctioning BTSI system can lead to serious safety hazards, as it allows the vehicle to shift out of Park without the brake pedal being pressed, increasing the risk of vehicle rollaways. Such incidents can result in property damage, injuries, or fatalities, as highlighted by the EWR reports. The ODI’s goal is to ensure the recall remedies are effective and to mitigate any further risks to drivers and the public.
Next Steps for RAM Owners
RAM truck owners with 2013-2018 models should verify if their vehicles were subject to recalls 17V-821 or 18V-100 and confirm whether repairs were completed. If BTSI-related issues are experienced, such as unintended shifting, owners should report them to NHTSA and contact their dealership for inspections. The ongoing Recall Query underscores the importance of addressing BTSI system defects promptly to enhance vehicle safety.
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