The 2011 Dodge Ram 4500 has two recalls, both rated at the same severity level: a failing alternator that can stall the truck without warning or short circuit and start a fire, and a column shifter that can be moved out of park without pressing the brake pedal or having a key in the ignition.
The shifter issue means the transmission can be shifted freely under the wrong conditions, raising the risk of the truck rolling away unexpectedly and injuring someone nearby. The alternator concern covers the 220-amp unit fitted to these trucks, which can fail suddenly, cutting electrical power to the vehicle while driving, or in a worse case, create a short circuit that leads to a fire.
At a glance
What can fail
Holding the brake pedal down for extended periods while parked may cause the Brake Transmission Shift Interlock pin to stick open, allowing the transmission to shift out of Park without pressing the brake or turning on the ignition.
What the fix does
Dealers will update the software, inspect the Brake Transmission Shift Interlock, and replace it if needed, at no cost.
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Summarized — see the official notice for exact wording, dates, and contacts.
At a glance
What can fail
The 220 amp alternator may suddenly fail, leaving the vehicle without charging power.
What the fix does
Dealers will replace the alternator with a revised alternator at no cost.
Summarized — see the official notice for exact wording, dates, and contacts.
