Chrysler Recalls 2015-17 Ram Pickup Trucks Because of Tailgate Latching Failure

Laguna Hills, CA – May 18, 2019 – Chrysler is recalling certain 2015-2017 Ram 1500, 2500 and 3500 pickup trucks that have an 8-foot truck bed and a power-locking tailgate, as well as 2018 Ram 1500, 2500 and 3500 pickup trucks built before April 1, 2018 that are equipped with the latter of those two attributes. The tailgate actuator limiter tab in these vehicles may be subject to fracturing, which could lead to the tailgate unexpectedly unlatching and opening while driving. As many as 410,351 vehicles may be affected by the failure of this tailgate latching mechanism. 

The Defect

According to the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration report on this issue, the affected vehicles have an actuator limiter tab that may fracture and cause the tailgate to pop open while driving. If this were to happen, cargo could unexpectedly fall out of the vehicle, creating a road hazard and potentially causing an accident or crash, leading to injuries.

Timeline of Events

Chrysler, through its Vehicle Regulations Committee, decided July 19, 2018 to conduct a voluntary safety recall of certain 2015-2017 Ram pickup trucks equipped with a power-locking tailgate – except for vehicles that also had an 8-foot truck bed.

From July 2018 to April 2019, the automaker monitored trucks that hadn’t been included in this first recall, looking for field incidents involving tailgates unexpectedly falling open while the vehicles were in motion or standing still. By April 29, Chrysler had received numerous complaints, warranty claims, repair orders and vehicle owner questionnaires potentially related to this issue, although it was not aware of any injuries or accidents resulting from the tailgate latch failure.

As a result, Chrysler decided May 2 to launch a voluntary safety recall for all affected vehicles.   

The Solution

The recall is expected to start June 28, 2019. Chrysler will notify owners to bring their vehicles to the nearest dealership. Dealers will repair the tailgate latch at no cost to the owners. The remedy for this item is designed to put a limit on the locking actuator’s travel, not permitting the pivot arm to over-travel and pull on the locking/unlocking rods.

Owners may contact FCA US customer service at 1-800-853-1403. Chrysler’s number for this recall is V44. Owners may also contact the NHTSA Vehicle Safety Hotline at 1-888-327-4236 (TTY 1-800-424-9153). The NHTSA Campaign Number for this recall is 19V347000.

Sean ReyesChrysler Recalls 2015-17 Ram Pickup Trucks Because of Tailgate Latching Failure