Auburn Hills, MI – May 7, 2023 – Stellantis (NYSE:STLA), which owns the Chrysler, Dodge and RAM brands, is issuing a recall for 131,700 2021 RAM 1500 trucks that may stall, which ups the risk of a crash. This is at least the fourth RAM 1500 recall in less than a year because of stalling. The latest edition comes on the back of multiple customer complaints and at least one accident.
Recall summary
The powertrain control module (PCM) is a car computer that regulates how much fuel and air should be injected into the engine to ensure its optimum efficiency.
In the affected vehicles, faulty PCM software may result in a mixture that has too much fuel. This can lead to the engine shutting down during use.
The problem has been reported on models equipped with the 5.7L eTorque mild-hybrid powertrain.
Recall risks
The defect can lead to the car stalling without prior warning, dramatically upping the risk of a crash and a subsequent injury for the occupants of the car and other motorists.
Background of the recall
The recall is the result of “206 customer records, 636 warranty claims, and 53 field reports,” according to the information provided by the manufacturer to the National Highway Transportation Safety Administration (NHTSA), the U.S. government auto safety regulator in charge of the recall. In addition, at least one accident was caused by this defect. Luckily, no injuries have been reported.
Other RAM recalls
This is at least the fourth recall in less than a year for RAM 1500 trucks due to stalling.
In June 2022, the RAM 1500 was one of two vehicles recalled over an issue with the high-pressure fuel pump (HPFP), which could lead to the engine stalling.
In November 2022, Stellantis issued a second recall also involving the RAM 1500 over the premature failure of the HPFP. That recall was expanded in late April, as reported.
The repair
Dealers will update the PCM calibration software free of charge. Stellantis will reimburse owners who paid for their own repairs before the recall was issued.
Owners of the affected vehicles will be notified by June 2, 2023.
Is your vehicle part of this recall?
More than 31,000 vehicles are affected by this RAM PCM software recall. To run a RAM 1500 recall check or check for more Chrysler recalls, please use MotorSafety’s free vehicle lookup tool.