NHTSA Investigates 1.1M Dodge Ram 1500 Trucks for Steering Issues

What: Dodge Ram 1500 Pick-up Trucks

Who: Chrysler (FCA US, LLC) (Stellantis)

Why: Investigations have opened after the NHTSA received 380 reports of drivers intermittently or completely losing power steering assistance in multiple year models of the Dodge Ram pick-up truck. The issue may result in extra steering effort or loss of vehicle directional control, increasing the risk of a crash.

When: The investigation was announced on August 1, 2023.

Where: The investigation is currently taking place on Dodge Ram 1500 pick-up trucks in the United States.

How customers can identify the recalled product: Currently, the investigation includes certain 2013-2016 Ram 1500. 

Earlier this month, the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) announced they opened investigations into 1.1 million older Dodge Ram 1500 pick-up trucks after receiving hundreds of reports from drivers alleging intermittent or complete loss of power steering assistance in certain year models of the Dodge Ram, three of which included reports of crashes. According to the report from the Office of Defects Investigation (ODI), they received 380 reports from consumers alleging the loss of power steering assistance at various speeds, with limited detectability in certain 2013-2016 Ram 1500. 

This isn't the first time Stellantis has had an issue with powering its steering units. On March 23, 2016, the auto company, previously known as Fiat Chrysler Automotive (FCA), recalled 440 vehicles to address a possible contamination of the electrical power steering unit to certain model year 2015-2016 RAM 1500. Like the complaints recently filed, the 2016 recall had complaints filed from consumers indicating similar steering failures occurring in their vehicles. As of August 4, the NHTSA is opening a recall query "to determine if the scope of the recall mentioned above is correct or if another defect might exist." If an issue is found, an estimated 1,106,211 vehicles will be affected. 

Drivers Should Take Precautions While on the Road

Of the many reports listed on the NHTSA's website, one owner of a 2014 Dodge Ram 1500 claims they were navigating a busy California highway at around 55 miles per hour when their steering wheel suddenly became immobile. Another claimed to have driven into a ditch after they lost power to avoid further injuries, causing minor damages to the front end of the vehicle. Drivers of the Dodge vehicles have reported being forced to deal with serious safety issues and having been quoted $2,000 out of pocket for parts to repair. In some cases, drivers have been made to wait extended periods of time to receive proper repairs.

Until the NHTSA can confirm whether or not the steering issue is considered a hazard on the road, drivers who own certain Dodge Ram 1500 pick-up trucks should take precautions while operating their vehicles. While on the road, drivers should take note of any changes or issues they may experience and file a complaint/safety report to the NHTSA. Drivers who have experienced a crash or have suffered injuries while operating the Dodge Ram 1500 pick-up trucks should contact a Morgan & Morgan attorney to learn more about their potential case.

Dodge Ram Drivers Who Have Suffered Injuries Can Contact a Morgan & Morgan Attorney Today

Vehicle owners place their trust in vehicle designers and manufacturers to ensure their lives are never on the line when they get behind the wheel of the car. Unfortunately, when design flaws, faulty products, or general manufacturing happens, and those vehicles are allowed into the market, millions of drivers suddenly become an unknown risk on the road. However, not only are they a danger to other drivers, but to themselves, with only one vehicle error away from potentially risking severe injuries or even death.

For over 35 years, our law firm has helped thousands of drivers get the compensation they deserve after they've suffered an injury on the road due to a recalled vehicle. With over 800 specialized attorneys and the largest resources in America, our law firm has been able to recover over $20 billion earned for our clients. When you decide to work with us, we'll make it our mission to ensure you'll have the best chance at recovering not only the compensation but the justice you deserve for your injuries. 

Dodge Ram 1500 pick-up drivers who have experienced intermittent or complete loss of power steering assistance when driving do not wait to contact an attorney, as you may be eligible for financial compensation. For more information behind the NHTSA's investigation into the pick-up trucks or if you or a loved one have suffered an injury due to one of the vehicles currently under investigation, contact a Morgan & Morgan attorney by completing our free, no-obligation case evaluation form today.