Stellantis, the parent company of Ram, has issued a significant recall affecting over 300,000 Ram Heavy Duty pickup trucks from the 2017-2018 model years. The recall stems from a potential failure in the hydraulic control unit, a critical component impacting essential braking and stability systems. This article will delve into the details of the recall, the affected models, and the potential risks associated with the faulty part.
Table Content:
Hydraulic Control Unit Failure Prompts Recall
The core issue lies within the hydraulic control unit, which is susceptible to malfunction. This failure can disrupt the proper functioning of crucial safety systems, including the anti-lock braking system (ABS), electronic stability control (ESC), and traction control. While Stellantis assures that the primary braking system remains unaffected and no injuries have been reported, the malfunctioning safety features pose a potential safety hazard.
Affected Models and Geographic Scope
The recall encompasses Ram 2500, 3500, 4500, and 5500 models manufactured between 2017 and 2018. A total of 317,630 trucks are impacted, with a small percentage located in Canada, Mexico, and other regions outside the United States. Stellantis plans to notify affected owners about the recall and provide instructions for scheduling free repairs at authorized dealerships.
Stellantis’ Recent Recall History and Challenges
This recall follows a series of recent recalls by Stellantis for various issues across its brands. Last month, approximately 207,000 Jeep and Dodge SUVs were recalled due to a computer problem potentially disabling ABS and ESC. In September, nearly 1.5 million Ram pickup trucks worldwide were recalled to address a software glitch impacting the electronic stability control system.
Beyond recalls, Stellantis has faced challenges with declining sales, leading to layoffs and increased inventory levels. The company reported a significant drop in net revenues in the last quarter compared to the previous year. Stellantis, formed in 2021 through the merger of PSA Peugeot and Fiat Chrysler Automobiles, currently ranks as the world’s fourth-largest automaker. The recent resignation of CEO Carlos Tavares after nearly four years further adds to the company’s challenges.
Conclusion: Addressing Safety and Navigating Challenges
The recall of over 300,000 Ram Heavy Duty trucks underscores the importance of proactive safety measures in the automotive industry. While Stellantis has committed to providing free repairs, the recurring recalls and broader business challenges highlight the complexities the company faces. Moving forward, Stellantis must prioritize addressing these issues to maintain consumer trust and navigate the evolving automotive landscape. Owners of affected Ram trucks are urged to contact Stellantis customer service at 1-800-853-1403 for further information and to schedule necessary repairs.
