Dodge Ram Recall: Your Next Steps

Fiat Chrysler Automobiles (FCA) has issued a recall, affecting 63,753 Dodge Ram vehicles in Canada from model years 2015-18. The automaker issued a statement identifying a problem with the tailgate locking mechanism.

On May 10, 2019, FCA issued a recall for 2015-18 Dodge Ram 1500, 2500 and 3500 vehicles.

The brand confirmed that a small internal component in the power-locking tailgate could weaken and break over time. If it were to happen while driving, it could potentially lead to items in the truck bed falling out onto the road, thereby causing a safety hazard. Though FCA already suggests drivers secure cargo by tying it down or using dividers, it is asking them to be extra careful in doing so until they get the problem fixed.

Who’s Affected?

FCA hasn’t reported any crashes or injuries related to the defect, but with the danger it presents, is trying to expedite repairs.

The recall affects 410,351 Dodge Ram 1500, 2500 and 3500 vehicles in North America, which includes the approximately 63,753 confirmed by Transport Canada.

It applies to all 2015-17 models, along with 2018 models manufactured up to March 31, 2018. Those built afterward are not part of the recall. Nor are any 2019 models, which were built with a different locking mechanism. Ram trucks coming with manual tailgate locks appear to be unaffected as well.

What Should You Do?

FCA is contacting all affected vehicle owners by mail to encourage them to visit an authorized Dodge dealer to repair the defect free of charge. Dealers will repair the locking mechanism with new parts that are reinforced to negate the possibility of randomly breaking loose. However, those repairs look to begin later in June, which is why the automaker is urging drivers to secure cargo more carefully by not leaving loose items in the truck bed.

Enter your VIN on Mopar’s Recall Information Site to learn more about this recall and find out if there are other Service Actions related to your vehicle.