Dodge Ram Recall | What It Means for Your Safety
A Dodge Ram recall was announced in October 2021 for more than 260,000 trucks from model years 2015 to 2020. The issue? Side-curtain airbags have the potential to rupture and send shrapnel into the cabin after a crash. This problem is the result of a manufacturing error that let moisture into the inflator, making it unstable and more prone to cause injury. Staying on top of recalls is critical to your safety. If you own a Dodge Ram, you should know this. Here, Ethen Ostroff Law explains what the Dodge Ram recall entails, which models are affected, and what steps you should take if your truck is one of them.
The Dodge Ram Recall: What's the Issue?
The Dodge Ram recall is mainly about airbag problems in several truck models. The biggest concern is with the roof rail airbag, or side curtain airbag. This airbag is supposed to protect you during a side crash. However, in some Dodge Rams, it’s not working as it should, which could be dangerous for everyone inside.
The recall impacts popular models like the Dodge Ram 1500, 2500, and 3500. The issue is with the airbag inflators in the roof rail airbags. A manufacturing glitch might have let moisture into the inflators, causing them to break down over time. This could lead to the airbag coming loose or, in some cases, the inflator itself breaking apart.
If an inflator breaks, it can send metal pieces into the cabin, leading to serious injuries or worse. While airbag recalls aren’t new, this one is pretty big, affecting hundreds of thousands of trucks. The faulty inflators were made by Joyson Safety Systems in Mexico.
Dodge Ram Trucks Affected
Dodge has recalled 260,000 Ram trucks from 2015 to 2020 because of potential problems with the roof-rail airbags. This recall impacts 212,000 trucks in the US, 42,000 in Canada, and about 8,000 in Mexico and other locations. Here’s a quick look at the models involved:
- Dodge Ram 1500 (2015-2019)
- Dodge Ram 2500 (2015-2020)
- Dodge Ram 3500 (2015-2020)
- Dodge Ram Classic (2019-2020)
The recall doesn’t cover the new generation of Dodge Ram 1500 trucks made from 2019 to 2021.
Earlier Airbag Recalls in US Vehicles
The Dodge Ram airbag recall is just one piece of a bigger puzzle when it comes to airbag safety in U.S. cars and trucks. Here’s a quick rundown:
- GM Recall. Before Dodge, GM had a similar issue with about 410,000 GMC and Chevy trucks and SUVs. They had to recall them because the roof rail airbags could unexpectedly go off or rupture, creating serious risks.
- Takata Airbag Scandal. While these current recalls are important, they ‘re not as massive as the Takata airbag crisis. That one involved millions of vehicles with airbags that could explode dangerously, leading to the largest recall in automotive history, with around 63 million airbags recalled in the US alone.
Dodge's Response to the Airbag Problem
Dodge has taken several steps to address the airbag issue affecting around 260,000 Ram trucks from 2015-2020:
- Recall Issued: Dodge recalled the pickups because the roof-rail airbag inflators might malfunction and propel debris into the cabin. This affects models like the Ram 1500, 2500, 3500, and Ram Classic.
- Notifying Owners: In October 2021, Dodge let owners know about the recall, explaining the risks and advising them to get in touch for more details.
- Free Fix: Dodge is offering to inspect and replace the faulty airbag inflators for free, covering both parts and labor.
- Support Line: Owners can call 1-800-853-1403 for more information and assistance.
- Ongoing Monitoring: Dodge is monitoring the situation, especially after one incident where an airbag exploded. They encourage owners to address the recall quickly to stay safe.
Incidents of Airbag Failures and Potential Risks
So far, there haven’t been any crashes or injuries directly linked to the roof rail airbag failures in Dodge Ram and GM trucks. However, there have been some concerning incidents:
- Dodge Ram Incident: Dodge Ram has acknowledged one case where an airbag exploded, but luckily, no one was hurt. They’ve recalled 260,000 Ram pickups from 2015-2020 because of concerns that the roof rail airbags might not work properly.
- GM Reports: GM has received at least three reports of unoccupied Silverado trucks in Texas and Florida where the airbags ruptured. While these didn’t cause crashes, the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration warns that unexpected airbag deployment or flying debris could lead to serious accidents or injuries.
Symptoms of a Malfunctioning Roof Rail Airbag
Here’s what you might notice if your roof rail airbag isn’t working right:
- Ruptured Inflator: If the airbag inflator side wall breaks, it can release gases and send metal bits into the cabin. This is a serious safety concern.
- Twisted Installation: Sometimes, if the airbag is installed incorrectly, like being twisted, it might not inflate properly in a crash, increasing injury risk.
- Unexpected Deployment: An airbag could go off unexpectedly while you’re driving, which can be distracting and dangerous, possibly leading to an accident.
- Visible Damage: You might spot physical signs of damage or poor installation, like misaligned stitching or twists in the airbag.
- Warning Lights: If you see airbag-related warning lights on your dashboard, it could mean there’s a problem with the airbag system.
Risks of Ignoring a Faulty Roof Rail Airbag
Fixing a faulty roof rail airbag is really important for your safety. If you ignore it, you could face some serious risks:
- Debris Hazard: A malfunctioning airbag inflator could rupture, sending metal fragments into the cabin, which can hurt passengers.
- Financial Hit: Your vehicle’s value might drop because of safety concerns. And if the airbag fails in an accident, you could be stuck with expensive repairs or even face legal liabilities.
- Increased Injury Risk: If the airbag doesn’t work properly during a crash, it could leave passengers unprotected, especially in side impacts or rollovers, leading to serious injuries or worse.
- Legal Problems: If the airbag fails in an accident, you could face lawsuits or claims, either against you or the car manufacturer.
- Sudden Deployment: The airbag could deploy unexpectedly while you’re driving, which might distract you or cause you to lose control, increasing the chance of a crash.
Quick Steps to Check If Your Dodge Ram Is Under Recall
Here’s a simple way to see if your Dodge Ram is part of the roof rail airbag recall:
- Find Your VIN: Your Dodge Ram’s VIN (Vehicle Identification Number) is a 17-digit code on the driver’s side dashboard or inside the driver’s door.
- Go Online: Visit the NHTSA recall lookup tool at NHTSA Recalls Lookup.
- Enter Your VIN: Input your VIN to see if your vehicle is part of the recall.
- Contact Your Dealer: If your truck is included, call your local Dodge dealer. Provide your VIN, and they’ll confirm if you need the recall repair.
- Get It Fixed: If your Ram is affected, Dodge will send you instructions on scheduling a free repair at an authorized dealer.
Taking these steps ensures your Dodge Ram is safe and ready to go.
What to Do If Your Dodge Ram Is Affected by the Airbag Recall
If your Dodge Ram is recalled for airbag issues, here’s what to do:
- Stop Driving If Needed: If your truck is affected, it’s safest to stop driving it until the issue is fixed.
- Schedule a Repair: Contact your local Dodge dealer to set up a free repair for the airbag inflators.
- Get Reimbursed: If you’ve already paid for this repair, you can request a refund. Go to fcarecallreimbursement.com to submit your request. Refunds usually take up to 60 days.
- If You Sold the Truck: If you no longer own the vehicle, call the FCA Recall Assistance Center at 1-800-853-1403 to update your info.
- Report Problems: If the dealer doesn’t fix the issue quickly or for free, you can file a complaint with the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration:
Address: 1200 New Jersey Avenue SE, Washington, DC 20590
Hotline: 1-888-327-4236
Website: safercar.gov
- Stay Informed: Watch for updates or further recalls. Dodge will notify you when the repair parts are available.
Addressing this recall promptly ensures your safety on the road.
What to Do If Your Dodge Ram Is Affected by the Recall
If your Dodge Ram is part of the airbag recall, here’s what you can do:
- Check for Trade-In Offers: Sometimes, manufacturers offer deals if you trade in a recalled vehicle. Ask Dodge or your dealer if there are any offers.
- Consider a Buyback: Dodge might buy back your truck, but this usually depends on your specific situation.
- Get a Refund: Dodge will fix the airbag issue for free. If you’ve already paid for it, you can ask for a refund through the FCA Recall Assistance Center or your Dodge dealer.
- Get It Fixed ASAP: It’s really important to get the recall repair done. Ignoring it could put you at risk and might lead to legal trouble later on.
- Think About a Lawsuit: If the faulty airbag caused an injury, you might be able to file a lawsuit. It’s a good idea to talk to a lawyer to see what your options are.
Filing a Lawsuit Over Faulty Dodge Ram Airbags
If you’re thinking about a lawsuit, here’s what to consider:
- When to Sue: If the faulty airbags led to an injury or accident, you might have a case against Dodge or the airbag manufacturer. Even if Dodge fixes the problem for free, you could still be owed compensation for things like medical bills or lost wages.
- Gather Your Evidence: To strengthen your case, keep anything that shows the airbags caused harm—like medical records, repair bills, or accident reports. The more proof you have, the better.
- Talk to a Lawyer: Consult a personal injury lawyer who knows about product defects. They can help you understand your rights and whether it’s worth filing a lawsuit.
- What You Could Get: If you win the lawsuit, you’ll get compensation for medical costs, car repairs, lost income, and the stress this situation has caused. Sometimes, courts award extra damages to hold the manufacturer accountable.
- Act Fast: There are deadlines for filing lawsuits. So, act quickly to make sure you don’t miss your chance.
Understanding Dodge Ram Recalls
If you’re looking at recalls for 2014 Ram 1500 or other Dodge Ram models, here’s what you should know:
For any Dodge Ram recalls, including those for specific years like the 2013 Dodge Ram recall, 2016 Dodge Ram recall, and 2017 Dodge Ram recall, it’s essential to stay updated. Each model and year can have its own set of recalls addressing different issues. To check the status of your truck, use the Dodge Ram recall check tool on the NHTSA website. This tool will show you if your vehicle is on the Dodge Ram recall list. Check for any updates regularly, including potential recalls for newer models like the 2021 Dodge Ram recall. Keeping track of these recalls ensures your vehicle stays safe and reliable.
Stay Safe and Know Your Options
Vehicle recalls, like the Dodge Ram airbag issue, are serious and should not be ignored. If you own a Dodge Ram, you must maintain it properly. Check for recalls, contact your dealer, and explore your legal rights to keep yourself and your vehicle safe. At Ethen Ostroff Law, we’ll guide you through this. With our experience handling instances like this, you can trust us to get you the compensation you deserve. Call us for a free case review.
FAQs on Dodge Ram Recall
What Dodge Rams are recalled?
The recall covers these models:
- Dodge Ram 1500 (2015-2019)
- Dodge Ram 2500 (2015-2020)
- Dodge Ram 3500 (2015-2020)
- Dodge Ram Classic (2019-2020)
How do I check if my Ram has a recall?
To see if your Dodge Ram is recalled, visit the NHTSA website and enter your VIN. It will tell you if your vehicle has any recalls.
What is the recall on the Dodge Ram 2024?
There’s no recall for the Dodge Ram 2024 right now. However, stay tuned for any future updates.
