The 2010 RAM 5500 has 7 recalls, the most serious being multiple airbag inflator defects on both the driver and passenger sides where the inflator can rupture or explode, sending metal fragments into the cabin and causing serious injury or death.
Three recalls cover the frontal airbags. On the passenger side, the inflator can explode during deployment, scattering metal fragments toward the front seat occupants. A separate filing addresses the same passenger-side risk for vehicles registered in high-humidity states and territories, where heat and moisture accelerate the inflator's deterioration. On the driver side, the inflator can rupture during a crash and send fragments toward the driver. Prior repair attempts did not fully resolve the passenger-side issue, which is why multiple filings exist covering overlapping populations.
On the mechanical side, the left tie rod assembly can break without warning, stripping the driver of steering control entirely. The tie rod connects the steering gear to the front wheel, so a fracture means the wheel no longer responds to inputs from the steering wheel, which substantially raises the risk of a crash.
The electrical system carries two additional fire risks. The 220-amp alternator can fail suddenly, which may stall the truck without warning, and can also short circuit and start a fire under the hood. Separately, the electrical connectors on the diesel fuel heater can overheat and cause the heater to leak diesel fuel, which also creates a fire risk in the engine bay.
At a glance
What can fail
The driver's frontal air bag inflator may build up excessive internal pressure during deployment and rupture or explode.
What the fix does
The passenger frontal air bag inflator will be replaced at no cost.
Summarized — see the official notice for exact wording, dates, and contacts.
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At a glance
What can fail
The passenger front airbag inflator may explode during a crash due to propellant degradation from long-term exposure to humidity and temperature changes.
What the fix does
Dealers will replace the passenger frontal airbag inflator at no cost to you.
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.
At a glance
What can fail
The passenger frontal air bag inflator may fail or deploy unexpectedly, potentially injuring occupants.
What the fix does
Dealers will replace the passenger frontal air bag inflator at no cost.
Summarized — see the official notice for exact wording, dates, and contacts.
At a glance
What can fail
The driver's front air bag inflator can allow moisture inside over time, which may cause it to rupture when deployed.
What the fix does
The dealer will replace the driver's front air bag inflator at no cost to you.
Summarized — see the official notice for exact wording, dates, and contacts.
At a glance
What can fail
The electrical connectors that power the diesel fuel heater can overheat, potentially causing failure.
What the fix does
Dealers will replace the connector with an upgraded silver-plated part, inspect the fuel heater for leaks, and replace it if needed.
Summarized — see the official notice for exact wording, dates, and contacts.
At a glance
What can fail
The left tie rod assembly can break, which affects steering control.
What the fix does
Dealers will replace the tie rod assembly at no cost, or Chrysler will repurchase your vehicle or offer a purchase incentive.
Summarized — see the official notice for exact wording, dates, and contacts.
