Ram recalls 1.2 million pickup trucks for stability control fail

The Ram 1500 has been recalled for a software issue that can disable the electronic stability control system, which is a key safety system that helps prevent skidding and spinning. Without it, drivers can lose control more easily.

With the flaw, the trucks can fail to meet government regulations. That prompted a sweeping recall of 1,227,808 trucks, the NHTSA disclosed on Monday.

The same recall plagued Dodge Durango SUVs and Ram heavy-duty pickup trucks in two other instances. This is the first time the Ram 1500 has been recalled for the same issue.  

The recall applies to the 2021-2024 Ram 1500 pickup truck, and also includes the 2019 model year. A software issue with the antilock braking system (ABS) can inadvertently disable the electronic stability control (ESC) system. Mandated in every new vehicle sold in the U.S. since 2012, ESC is considered to be one of the safest car technologies since the seatbelt. ESC has a control module that relies on sensors to detect a loss of control, then to pulse brake and torque inputs through the ABS to correct course and prevent the vehicle from spinning out or plowing forward. In doing so and optimizing grip on all four wheels, it reduces the frequency of roll-over crashes. 

Owners may notice the truck slipping and sliding more, or acting more squirrelly than usual. On startup, the ABS, ESC, and adaptive cruise control lights might be illuminated, which tells the driver the systems are inactive. 

In 2022, parent company Stellantis issued a recall of more than 350,000 Ram 2500 and 3500 heavy duty trucks from the 2019-2022 model years. About 20,000 Dodge Durango three-row SUVs were included in the recall. In June of this year, Stellantis expanded the recall to more than 211,000 Durango and Ram heavy-duty trucks from the 2022 model year. 

That brings the total number of vehicles affected by this recall to more than 1.8 million. A software update to the ABS module performed at dealers should cure the problem. Expect notification by mail by Oct. 3, 2024. 

For more info, call Stellantis customer service at 1-800-853-1403 or visit the collective brands’ recall site here.