NHTSA (USA)Critical
At a glance
What can fail
The 2015 RAM 4500 has 9 recalls, the most serious including an unintended rollaway risk, front suspension welds that can break without warning, and a software vulnerability that allows remote takeover of vehicle systems.
Two recalls address the front upper control arm welds: if those welds fail, the front suspension can lose stability suddenly, reducing the driver's ability to control the vehicle. The column shifter can be moved out of park without the brake pedal depressed or a key in the ignition, which can allow the truck to roll away. On the software side, a vulnerability in the infotainment system can allow unauthorized remote access to certain vehicle controls, and a separate software issue affects cruise control, which may maintain speed or accelerate even when the driver tries to turn it off.
On the engine side, certain trucks with the 6.7L Cummins diesel and a specific brand of water pump can leak coolant into the engine compartment, raising the risk of a fire. Incorrect torque specifications in the owner's manual can lead to over-tightened lug nuts, broken wheel studs, and potential wheel separation while driving. Trucks with the 6.4L Hemi engine and a top speed above the tire speed rating face a tire failure risk at high speeds. There is also a recall covering a fire extinguisher that may not discharge properly when needed.
At a glance
What can fail
We may earn a commission for purchases made through these links.
The owner's manual contains incorrect torque specifications for wheel lug nuts. Following these specs can cause over-tightening, which may break wheel studs and lead to wheel separation.
What the fix does
Dealers will correct the torque specifications in the owner's manual and service documents, and inspect and replace wheel studs as needed at no charge.
Summarized — see the official notice for exact wording, dates, and contacts.
At a glance
What can fail
A wiring short circuit can prevent cruise control from disengaging. When engaged, you may not be able to turn it off by braking or using manual controls, causing the vehicle to maintain speed or accelerate unexpectedly.
What the fix does
Dealers will update the engine or powertrain control module software at no cost to fix the cruise control disengagement issue.
Summarized — see the official notice for exact wording, dates, and contacts.
At a glance
What can fail
The fire extinguisher may clog and fail to spray, or require excessive force to use. In some models, the nozzle may separate from the valve assembly with enough force to cause injury and make the extinguisher unusable.
What the fix does
Chrysler will provide a replacement fire extinguisher at no cost. Contact Kidde or Chrysler to arrange the replacement.
Summarized — see the official notice for exact wording, dates, and contacts.
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.
Summarized — see the official notice for exact wording, dates, and contacts.
At a glance
What can fail
The water pump may leak coolant because it lacks a vent hole, potentially causing engine overheating.
What the fix does
Dealers will replace the water pump at no cost to restore proper cooling system function.
Summarized — see the official notice for exact wording, dates, and contacts.
At a glance
What can fail
The front upper control arm may not be properly welded to the spacer, which could reduce front suspension stability.
What the fix does
Dealers will inspect and replace affected upper control arms at no charge.
Summarized — see the official notice for exact wording, dates, and contacts.
At a glance
What can fail
The radio software has security weaknesses that could let unauthorized people access some vehicle control systems through a network connection.
What the fix does
A software update will be installed via USB drive (mailed free, downloadable, or installed at a dealer) to close the security vulnerability.
Summarized — see the official notice for exact wording, dates, and contacts.
At a glance
What can fail
The front suspension upper control arms may have a broken weld where the bushing loop connects to the arm due to improper welding during manufacturing. This can cause loss of vehicle stability.
What the fix does
Dealers will inspect the front suspension upper control arms and replace any that are defective.
Summarized — see the official notice for exact wording, dates, and contacts.
At a glance
What can fail
The truck's engine is programmed to reach 106 mph, but the tires are only rated for 87 mph, creating a mismatch between vehicle capability and tire safety limits.
What the fix does
Dealers will reprogram the engine control software to limit the truck's maximum speed to 87 mph to match the tire rating.
Summarized — see the official notice for exact wording, dates, and contacts.
