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2018-2019 Ram 1500 Recall: Critical Safety Issues & Fixes
2018-19 Ram 1500 Recall: Critical Driveshaft Weld Defect
Recall Overview
Fiat Chrysler Automobiles (FCA), now part of Stellantis, has issued a critical safety recall affecting certain Ram 1500 pickup trucks manufactured between 2018 and 2019. The recall addresses a serious manufacturing defect in the rear driveshaft assembly that could compromise vehicle safety and performance.
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Affected Vehicles
- Models: Ram 1500 4x4 pickup trucks
- Model Years: 2018-2019
- Production Dates: Specific vehicles built within certain date ranges
- Total Vehicles: Approximately 10,100 in the U.S. market
Note: Not all Ram 1500 trucks from these model years are affected. The recall specifically targets vehicles with potentially defective driveshaft welds.
The Safety Defect
The recall stems from an incomplete weld fusion between the rear driveshaft tube and tube yoke. This manufacturing flaw can lead to:
- Cracking or fracturing of the driveshaft weld
- Complete driveshaft separation from the vehicle
- Sudden loss of propulsion power
- Creation of dangerous road hazards
These conditions significantly increase the risk of accidents, potentially leading to collisions, property damage, or personal injury.
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Repair Solution
FCA has authorized dealerships to perform the following corrective action:
- Complete replacement of the rear driveshaft assembly
- Inspection of related components
- Verification of proper installation
Cost: The repair will be performed at no charge to vehicle owners as part of the recall campaign.
Time Estimate: Most replacements can be completed within 2-3 hours, though wait times may vary by dealership.
What Ram 1500 Owners Should Do
If you own a 2018 or 2019 Ram 1500, follow these steps immediately:
1. Check Your Vehicle Identification Number (VIN)
Confirm whether your specific vehicle is included in this recall by:
- Using MotorVero's recall lookup tool
- Visiting the official NHTSA recall website
- Checking your Ram owner's portal account
- Reviewing any recall notices mailed to you
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2. Contact Authorized Service Centers
If your vehicle is affected:
- Call FCA's recall hotline at 800-853-1403
- Contact your local Ram dealership to schedule service
- Use MotorVero's dealership locator to find certified repair centers
3. Understand the Risks
While waiting for repair:
- Be alert for unusual vibrations or noises from beneath the vehicle
- Monitor for changes in drivetrain performance
- Avoid heavy towing or payloads if possible
- Park in open areas away from other vehicles when possible
Frequently Asked Questions
How serious is this driveshaft defect?
This is considered a high-priority safety recall. A failing driveshaft can separate from the vehicle while driving, creating multiple hazardous scenarios including sudden loss of power and potential road debris hazards.
Will my truck be safe to drive until repaired?
While the risk is present, the probability of sudden failure is relatively low. However, FCA recommends scheduling the repair as soon as possible and being vigilant for any signs of driveshaft issues.
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How long will the repair take?
Most driveshaft replacements can be completed in a few hours, though you should account for potential wait times at your dealership. Many service centers offer loaner vehicles or shuttle services for recall work.
What if I already paid for this repair?
You may be eligible for reimbursement. Contact FCA customer service with your repair receipts and documentation to inquire about refund procedures.
Additional Resources
For more information about this recall:
- NHTSA Vehicle Safety Hotline: 888-327-4236
- MotorVero Recall Center: Complete Recall Database
- Ram Truck Customer Service: 866-932-3878
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Last Updated On Jul, 16-2025