2018-19 Ram 1500 Recall: Critical Driveshaft Safety Issue

Understanding the Ram 1500 Driveshaft Recall

The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) has classified this as a serious safety concern affecting a specific production batch of Ram 1500 trucks. The recall centers on a manufacturing defect in the rear driveshaft assembly that could lead to catastrophic failure while driving.

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The Technical Problem Explained

Engineering analysis revealed that certain Ram 1500 trucks left the factory with rear driveshafts that had incomplete weld fusion between the tube and tube yoke components. This manufacturing defect creates several potential failure scenarios:

• Progressive Weld Cracking: The incomplete fusion creates weak points that can develop cracks over time with normal driving stresses
• Complete Driveshaft Fracture: In severe cases, the entire driveshaft can separate into two pieces
• Road Hazard Creation: A detached driveshaft section can become a dangerous projectile on the roadway
• Loss of Motive Power: Drivers may experience sudden inability to accelerate, particularly dangerous in traffic or highway situations
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Recognizing Potential Symptoms

While some vehicles may show no warning signs before failure, many owners report these precursor symptoms that may indicate driveshaft problems:

• Unusual vibrations felt through the chassis during acceleration
• Metallic clunking or banging noises from beneath the vehicle
• Increased driveline vibration at highway speeds
• Changes in vehicle handling characteristics

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Official Recall Repair Process

FCA has authorized all Ram dealerships to perform the following repair procedure at no cost to vehicle owners:

1. Complete vehicle inspection and VIN verification
2. Removal and proper disposal of the defective driveshaft assembly
3. Installation of a new, properly manufactured rear driveshaft
4. Comprehensive post-repair driveline testing
5. Update of vehicle service records in the national recall database

The repair typically requires 2-3 hours of shop time, though owners should plan for potential wait times depending on dealership scheduling.

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What Ram 1500 Owners Should Do Now

If you own or lease a 2018-2019 Ram 1500, follow these steps immediately:

• Check Recall Status: Visit the official NHTSA recall website and enter your 17-digit VIN
• Contact FCA: Call the FCA recall hotline at 800-853-1403 for specific information about your vehicle
• Schedule Repair: Use the MotorVero dealer locator to find your nearest certified Ram service center
• Document Everything: Keep records of all recall-related communications and repairs

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Understanding Your Rights Under Recall Law

The National Traffic and Motor Vehicle Safety Act gives vehicle owners important rights regarding safety recalls:

• Manufacturers must attempt to notify all affected owners by first-class mail
• All recall repairs must be performed free of charge
• The remedy must permanently correct the safety defect
• Manufacturers must provide reimbursement for previous repairs addressing the recall issue
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Additional Safety Considerations

While waiting for your recall repair appointment, consider these safety precautions:

• Avoid towing heavy loads that place additional stress on the driveline
• Reduce high-speed highway driving when possible
• Be especially cautious in wet or icy conditions where loss of power could be more dangerous
• Inform all regular drivers of the vehicle about the potential issue
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How MotorVero Helps Ram Owners

MotorVero provides comprehensive resources for vehicle owners facing recalls:

• Direct access to certified Ram dealership service departments
• Recall repair scheduling tools
• Expert advice on recall-related questions
• Vehicle history reports that include recall information

Our dealer network ensures you receive factory-approved repairs using genuine Ram parts, maintaining your vehicle's warranty coverage.

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Frequently Asked Questions

How do I know if my Ram 1500 is affected?

The only definitive way is to check your VIN through the NHTSA website or FCA's recall portal. Not all 2018-2019 models are affected - only certain production batches.

Is it safe to drive my truck before the repair?

While FCA hasn't issued a "do not drive" order, they recommend scheduling the repair as soon as possible. If you notice any symptoms mentioned earlier, avoid driving the vehicle until inspected.

What if I already paid for driveshaft repairs?

You may be eligible for reimbursement. Contact FCA customer service with documentation of your repair expenses.

How long will the repair take?

Most dealerships complete the repair in under 4 hours, but scheduling availability may vary. Many offer loaner vehicles for recall repairs.

Will this affect my truck's resale value?

Properly completed recall repairs generally don't negatively impact resale value. In fact, documented recall completion can be a positive for potential buyers.