Earlier this month, Chrysler refused the request of U.S. regulators to recall 2.7 million older-model Jeep SUVs due to an alleged design flaw with the vehicles’ fuel tanks that are mounted behind the rear axle. Although the NHTSA claims that this alleged defect in the older Jeep models has caused approximately 51 deaths, Chrysler challenged the recall request and argued that the design is common in other vehicles.
A few days after Chrysler refused the recall request, the company announced the recall of 630,000 Jeep SUVs worldwide for two separate problems affecting the 2010 and 2012 Jeep Patriot and Compass vehicles, in addition to the Jeep Wrangler from the 2012 and 2013 model years.
Now Chrysler has announced a recall of approximately 30,000 Ram trucks due to two separate issues. The recall affects the 2013 Ram 1500, 2500, and 3500 trucks that were manufactured between September 9, 2012 and March 5, 2013 and are equipped with optional premium tail lamps. About 17,400 affected vehicles are in the United States, with an additional 11,500 in Canada, 470 in Mexico, and the rest outside of North America.
According to the recall notice on the NHTSA website, “the turn signal indicator may not flash at a double rate to give a notification to the driver of a turn signal malfunction.” If the driver continues to use the vehicle, he or she may be at an increased risk for a crash since other drivers may not be properly informed that the vehicle is turning. Chrysler will notify owners of affected vehicles, and the company will reprogram the software to reactivate the warning light on the trucks at no charge.
Chrysler is also recalling 6,900 Ram heavy duty 4500 and 5500 trucks from the 2012 model year due to an issue that can cause front axle damage. According to a company statement, after an investigation, Chrysler “discovered some trucks were subject to a condition that may cause the front prop shaft to bind or fracture, resulting in power loss.” Owners can take their affected vehicles to a dealership, which will replace or repair the front axle at no charge.
Owners of recalled vehicles can contact Chrysler at 1-800-853-1403 if they have any questions or concerns.