Ram Recalls 2500, 3500, 4500, and 5500 Heavy-Duty Trucks Due to Fire Risk

Overview of the Ram Truck Recall

Ram has once again issued a recall for its heavy-duty pickup trucks, including the 2021-2023 Ram 2500, 3500, 4500, and 5500 models. The issue stems from an electrical connector related to the heater-grid relay in trucks equipped with a Cummins 6.7-liter turbo-diesel engine. Stellantis, the parent company of Ram, has determined that the affected component may overheat, potentially leading to a fire.

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Details of the Issue and Potential Hazards

The heater-grid relay is responsible for warming the air entering the engine for smoother cold-weather starts. However, in affected models, this component may exhibit excessive overheating, increasing the risk of fire. This recall is particularly concerning because the issue can persist even when the vehicle is turned off, meaning a fire can occur whether the truck is in use or parked.

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History of Recalls Related to This Issue

Ram has faced similar issues in the past. In October 2021, the automaker recalled more than 131,000 trucks due to a similar problem. The initial discovery was made in March 2021, affecting over 19,000 vehicles. Despite previous efforts, the issue persists, leading to this latest recall expansion.

Stellantis has confirmed at least six fires potentially linked to the defect but has not reported any injuries or accidents as a result of these incidents.

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Which Ram Trucks Are Affected?

The latest recall covers the following models:

• 2021-2023 Ram 2500
• 2021-2023 Ram 3500
• 2021-2023 Ram 4500 chassis cab
• 2021-2023 Ram 5500 chassis cab

Only vehicles equipped with the Cummins 6.7L turbo-diesel engine and previous-generation heater-grid relays are included in the recall.

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What Should Ram Truck Owners Do?

Owners of affected vehicles should take the following precautions:

• Avoid parking indoors: Since fires could occur even when the truck is off, parking in an open area away from structures is recommended.
• Check your VIN: Owners can verify whether their truck is part of the recall by entering their Vehicle Identification Number (VIN) on the NHTSA recall website.
• Wait for official notification: Stellantis will begin mailing recall notices in March 2025 with details on free repairs.
• Contact dealerships: Ram dealerships will replace the faulty electrical connector at no cost to owners.
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How to Get More Information

For additional details, affected owners can reach out through the following channels:

• Stellantis Recall Support: 800-853-1403
• NHTSA Vehicle Safety Hotline: 888-327-4236
• NHTSA Recall Lookup

Potential Impact on Ram's Reputation

This recall poses a significant challenge for Ram, which has been striving to maintain its reputation for durable and reliable heavy-duty trucks. Repeated recalls may cause concerns among truck buyers, especially those who depend on their vehicles for commercial use. However, Stellantis' swift action in addressing the problem demonstrates its commitment to safety.

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How Does This Compare to Other Truck Recalls?

Truck manufacturers, including Ford and General Motors, have also faced recalls related to fire risks. For example, in 2022, Ford recalled over 100,000 F-150 models due to an engine compartment fire risk. Similarly, GM recalled Chevrolet Silverado and GMC Sierra models in 2021 for potential brake fluid leaks that could cause fires. The recurrence of such issues highlights the complexities of modern diesel engines and electrical components.

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What This Means for Current and Future Ram Owners

For current Ram truck owners, this recall underscores the importance of staying informed about vehicle safety issues. Regular maintenance and responding promptly to recall notices can prevent potential hazards.

For prospective buyers, it's crucial to research the reliability and recall history of any vehicle before purchasing. While recalls may seem alarming, they are also a sign that automakers are actively working to improve safety.