Certain Ram 2500-3500 HD trucks and the Dodge Durango may have ABS software issues.
Stellantis launched a new voluntary recall campaign covering 211,581 SUVs and trucks for a problem with their ABS control module software. The issue could disable the vehicles’ stability control systems, a crucial feature to maintain traction in slippery conditions or in an emergency maneuver, which could in turn increase the likelihood of an accident.
According to what the automaker told the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA), this new recall impacts just over 50,000 Durangos, while the remaining population comprise Ram’s 2500 pickup and 3500 Chassis Cab models:
- 2022 Ram 3500 Chassis Cab (GVWR under 10,000 lbs.): 524 units
- 2022 Ram 2500 Pickup: 157,890
- 2022 Dodge Durango SUV: 53,167
The “suspect period” for when affected Ram 2500 picksups were built is between April 14, 2021 and December 27, 2022. The relatively few Ram 3500 Chassis Cab trucks were built between April 21, 2021 and November 25, 2022. As for the Dodge Durango, customers with build dates between August 23, 2021 and December 9, 2022 should take note of this latest recall. Similar vehicles outside that period have different ABS control module software, Stellantis says.
If your Durango or Ram truck has this issue, you should see an ABS malfunction indicator lamp when you start the vehicle. Stellantis first discovered the issue on March 2, 2023, and noted by April 24, 2024 that “a vehicle build issue existed on certain vehicles related to a condition that can lead to the ESC [Electronic Stability Control] being disabled…”.
Even if the issue gives a malfunction warning and may not cause a major issue in normal driving, the failure still puts affected vehicles out of compliance with Federal Motor Vehicle Safety Standards (FMVSS). The company says its Technical Safety and Regulatory Compliance organization met with engineers and manufacturing, as well as analyzed warranty data and field records. However, it did not specify how many warranty claims, field reports were received, nor did it mention any accidents, injuries or fatalities related to the problem.
What’s the fix?
To fix the problem, FCA US (Stellantis’ American division) will update the ABS control module software on the affected vehicles. Most of the vehicles should still be under warranty, though Ram 2500/3500 owners who paid out of warranty based on mileage are entitled to reimbursement, with proof of payment.
The company says it will notify owners and dealers of the software update on July 26.
