For owners of heavy-duty Ram trucks, a spongy brake pedal is a serious safety hazard. After years of complaints about defective braking systems, Stellantis has finally agreed to a settlement. This covers select 2017 and 2018 models. Headlines are flashing numbers as high as $3,000, but the reality is more complex. You need to pay attention now to avoid missing out on reimbursements.
As reported by The Auto Wire and Carscoops, Stellantis has settled a class-action lawsuit regarding defective braking systems in hundreds of thousands of Ram trucks.
“Under the terms of the Ram settlement, class members can receive repair reimbursements, rental vehicle reimbursements and benefits from a voluntary safety recall. … Class members can also receive up to $100 per day and a total of $1,000 per vehicle for rental vehicle reimbursement.”
The automotive industry is facing a wave of quality control issues with complex electronic components. This specific defect in 2017-2018 Ram heavy-duty trucks caused the ABS and traction control to fail. This often lit up the dashboard warning lights unexpectedly. This class-action settlement highlights the financial burden placed on owners who paid for repairs early. The settlement offers reimbursement rather than a flat payout for most, differing from the large sums awarded to the named plaintiffs.
Expect this settlement to trigger stricter scrutiny of ABS module suppliers in the truck segment. Manufacturers will likely tighten warranty terms to avoid costly full-unit replacements in the future. For Ram, this closes a painful chapter regarding reliability. However, the brand must demonstrate improved quality in upcoming models to retain customer loyalty. They cannot afford to lose trust in such a competitive market.
Don’t bank on a $3,000 check, but do take action immediately. First, check your VIN to see if your truck is included in the settlement or NHTSA Recall. Next, locate your invoices if you already paid to replace your HCU or ABS module. You must file by the March 20, 2025 deadline to get your money back. Finally, document any rental car expenses if your truck is currently being repaired.
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