Recall Alert: Ram 1500 Models May Have Exploding Shrapnel
We could make a few different puns here about the Ram 1500, 2500, and 3500 having an explosive problem, but it’s serious. The Ram 1500 and heavy-duty models are under a recall due to having rupturing airbags.
Ram 1500, 2500, and 3500 recall for exploding airbags
There is a major recall from Stellantis for more than 260,000 Ram trucks over the possibility of exploding side-curtain airbags. Some of the trucks may have airbag inflators that were contaminated by moisture during the manufacturing process.
As a result, the inflators could rupture without warning. The airbags don’t even need to deploy before potentially launching debris, including metal shrapnel inside the cab. As a result, people could become injured, and there is a more significant risk of accidents. Stellantis is aware of one explosion, but there are no related injuries.
The recall involves Ram 1500, Classic, 2500, and 3500 trucks from 2015-2020. This includes about 212,373 trucks sold in the United States, 42,532 sold in Canada, 3,802 sold in Mexico, and 4,540 units sold outside North America.
What to do if your Ram truck is at risk
If your Ram 1500, 2500, or 3500 is at risk, you will eventually be notified. Generally, automakers notify owners of vehicles about recalls with letters in the mail. It could be a few weeks before you’re informed.
If you don’t want to wait, you can visit the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration’s (NHSTA) site here to enter your 17-digit vehicle identification number (VIN). Your VIN can be found around the steering wheel or inside of the driver’s side door. Also, it might be listed on your insurance card.
The fix for this issue is straightforward. You will need to return to a Ram dealership to have the faulty airbag inflators replaced for free. You do not have to go to the same dealership where you purchased your truck. Your local dealership will be fine.
Consider making an appointment in advance to avoid long waiting times. If you have any questions, you can contact the Ram customer service department at 1-800-853-1403.
Is this issue related to Takata airbags?
No, this Ram 1500 recall is not related to Takata airbag explosion recalls. Ram’s airbags do not include ammonium nitrate, the ingredient responsible for multiple ruptures in other vehicles. Long-term exposure to high heat and humidity caused these airbags to explode, resulting in injuries and deaths.
Another Takata airbag recall involves units built with non-azide driver inflators (NADI). A faulty seal on the inflator for these airbags is the root of the problem. Without a proper seal, moisture can leak into the propellant used to inflate the bad and cause it to malfunction. As a result, the bags could deploy slowly, be underinflated, or aggressively explode with shrapnel.
But here’s the twist, the faulty inflators may have come from a supplier named Joyson Systems. This company purchased Takata’s assets after the company declared bankruptcy and is related to another recall by General Motors that involves 400,000 trucks due to a similar issue.
Please don’t hesitate to have your Ram 1500, 2500, or 3500 truck checked out. This is a potentially dangerous issue that a free maintenance appointment will correct.
RELATED: Why Buy a Ram 1500 When You Can Buy a Ram 1500 Classic?
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