Sunita Somvanshi
Federal safety regulators have opened a new investigation into nearly 1.2 million Ram trucks that could roll away despite previous recall fixes. The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) is examining Ram 1500, 2500, 3500, 4500, and 5500 pickup trucks from model years 2013 through 2018.
The issue involves the Brake Transmission Shift Interlock (BTSI) system in trucks with column-mounted shifters. According to NHTSA, the BTSI locking pin can get stuck in the “open” position, allowing drivers to shift out of park without pressing the brake pedal or even without a key in the ignition.
These trucks were previously recalled in 2017 and 2018 under campaigns 17V-821 and 18V-100 for the same problem. However, NHTSA has received 14 vehicle owner complaints and 6 injury reports resulting in 7 injuries following those repairs. Additionally, 12 incidents involving crashes or fires have been reported.
“We’re cooperating with NHTSA,” a spokesperson for Stellantis, Ram’s parent company, said in response to the investigation.
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The current probe is called a “recall query,” which is a formal step taken to evaluate whether previous recall remedies were effective. NHTSA’s Office of Defects Investigation will review why rollaway incidents continue despite prior fixes.
Safety experts advise affected Ram owners to always use their parking brake when parking their vehicle. This simple step can prevent unintended movement while the investigation continues.
The investigation could potentially lead to a new recall if NHTSA determines the previous fixes were inadequate. Owners can check if their vehicle is affected by entering their Vehicle Identification Number (VIN) on NHTSA’s website or by contacting Ram customer service at 1-800-853-1403.
