Fiat Chrysler Recalls More Than 850,000 Dodge Ram Trucks for Steering Failure and Faulty Brakes
Fiat Chrysler is issuing a vehicle defect recall for more than 660,000 heavy-duty pickup trucks worldwide because of a loose nut that could cause loss of steering control. According to a report in the Detroit Free Press, the company says it is aware of eight car accidents and one injury that could be related. Fiat Chrysler does not have a date yet for owners to be notified.
When the recall begins, dealers will inspect a steering linkage nut. If it is properly tightened, it will be welded to a sleeve to keep it in place. If it is loose, the steering assembly will be replaced. A majority of the recalled trucks were sold in the United States and Canada. The company says an internal investigation found the problem. Owners with questions can call (800) 853-1403 to find out if their vehicles are part of the recall.
Brakes Could Fall Off
In addition to the recall involving steering issues, the Ram brand is also recalling nearly 194,000 additional light-duty trucks because the brake pedals can fall off. This recall includes 2019 Ram pickups with adjustable brake pedals. More than one third are still at dealers and will be fixed before they are delivered. The 2019 Ram Classic will not be affected. Adjustable brake pedals are activated by a switch in the cab and powered by an electric motor.
Fiat Chrysler said an investigation found that if drivers move the pedals to their rear-most position, the brake pedal could detach. The company says it is not aware of any crashes or injuries relating to this recall. But, it is warning people not to adjust the pedals until the trucks have been fixed and to never adjust the pedals while driving. When the recall begins, dealers will install a fastener and spacer to restrict travel of the pedals and fix the issue.
Auto Product Liability Issues
If you have been injured by these or other auto defects, you may be able to seek compensation from the automaker and/or the manufacturer of the faulty auto part for damages such as medical expenses, lost income, hospitalization, rehabilitation, pain and suffering and emotional distress. An experienced auto defect lawyer will be able to utilize experts to analyze vehicles for design flaws, malfunctions and manufacturing defects and hold the at-fault automaker liable for the injuries, damages and losses caused.