1.5 million Ram trucks recalled to fix shifter problem

Per Consumer Reports, Chrysler is recalling 1.5 million mostly heavy-duty RAM pickups to fix a part that could allow the truck to shift out of park and roll without depressing the brake pedal.

Chrysler says tests revealed that the interlock, which is supposed to keep the transmission from shifting out of park without the driver's foot on the brake and without a key in the ignition, may malfunction if subjected to high temperatures for long periods. The recall is limited to vehicles equipped with shifters mounted on the steering columns; those with rotary-dial shifters or floor-mounted shifters aren't affected, and model-year 2017 trucks built after Dec. 31, 2016, are excluded.

Trucks covered by the recall are certain

  • 2010-2017 Ram 2500 and 3500 pickups
  • 2011-2017 Ram 3500, 4500 and 5500 chassis cabs
  • 2016 and 2017 Ram 3500 chassis cabs of less than 10,000 pounds gross vehicle weight.

Some 2009 through 2017 Ram 1500 pickups are also included in the recall. 

Chrysler says it’s “aware of seven potentially related injuries and a small number of potentially related accidents.” Chrysler recommends that customers always use parking brakes and not leave children unattended in parked cars.

Lemon LawJoshua ValeroFCA, Chrysler, Dodge, Dodge RAM