Automotive
A new federal investigation has been launched into a massive number of Ram trucks following concerns that earlier recall repairs may not have done the job. The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) is taking a closer look at nearly 1.2 million Ram 1500 through 5500 trucks after questions emerged about the effectiveness of fixes applied during two previous recalls.
The issue stems from the trucks’ brake transmission shift interlock (BTSI) system, a safety mechanism designed to prevent the vehicle from being shifted out of park without the brake being pressed or the key in the ignition. The problem? A solenoid within the system could overheat and swell, causing it to malfunction. This, in turn, could allow the vehicle to shift unintentionally — a serious safety concern that had prompted recalls back in 2017 and 2018.
Recall 17V-821 initially covered Ram models from 2013 to 2017, including everything from light-duty 1500 pickups to the heavy-duty 5500s. A follow-up, Recall 18V-100, extended that net into later model years after it became clear the issue was more widespread than originally thought. Both recalls were intended to correct the problem by replacing the affected solenoid and bracket in vehicles equipped with column shifters.
But now, NHTSA is questioning whether the solution actually worked. Either the replacement parts themselves are failing or, possibly worse, the root cause was never fully addressed in the first place. This has led to a formal investigation, with regulators hoping to determine whether these trucks still pose a risk to drivers and those around them.
To be clear, no new recall has been issued at this point. NHTSA is still in the fact-finding stage, but if the investigation confirms that the initial repairs were inadequate, nearly 1.2 million Ram trucks could be subject to a fresh round of recalls.
Stellantis, which took over from Fiat Chrysler Automobiles (FCA) and now oversees the Ram brand, has yet to release a public statement about the investigation. However, the automaker will be required to cooperate fully with NHTSA as the probe unfolds.
Owners of 2013 to 2018 Ram trucks, particularly those with column shifters, may want to pay close attention in the coming months. If a new recall is issued, Stellantis will notify affected owners and likely be on the hook for another round of repairs.
As always, it’s a good idea to check your vehicle’s recall status using the VIN lookup tool on NHTSA’s website or by contacting a local dealership. Even though this investigation hasn’t resulted in new action yet, staying informed is key — especially when the safety systems in your truck might not be functioning as intended.
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Lloyd Tobias is a seasoned automotive journalist and passionate enthusiast with over 15 years of experience immersed in the world of cars. Whether it’s exploring the latest advancements in automotive technology or keeping a close pulse on breaking industry news, Lloyd brings a sharp perspective and a deep appreciation for all things automotive. His writing blends technical insight with real-world enthusiasm, making his contributions both informative and engaging for readers who share his love for the drive. When he’s not behind the keyboard or under the hood, Lloyd enjoys test driving the newest models and staying ahead of the curve in an ever-evolving automotive landscape.
