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2009 Dodge RAM 2500

Owner reports · Recalls · Investigations

Similar to other model years

Owner complaints for the 2009 Dodge RAM 2500 do not stand out strongly from the model-year median of 275.

About this comparison →

When problems were reported

Mileage at the reported incident

93 reports with mileage · 121 unknown

NHTSA’s mileage field refers to the reported incident, not necessarily the filing date. This shows report counts, not the likelihood of a failure.

What to inspect

Issues worth paying extra attention to based on owner reports.

  • Steering. Review the 155 owner reports in this category and discuss these concerns during a pre-purchase inspection. Read reports →
  • Air Bags. Review the 16 owner reports in this category and discuss these concerns during a pre-purchase inspection. Read reports →
  • Suspension. Review the 15 owner reports in this category and discuss these concerns during a pre-purchase inspection. Read reports →

NHTSA owner reports · September 18, 2026 snapshot.

6 crash reports3 fire reports4 injury reports

Steering complaints

155 reports
Clear category filter
Mileage unknown · Sep 13, 2023
Steering

The contact owns a 2009 Dodge Ram 2500. The contact stated while driving 20-60 MPH, the front end of the vehicle, the steering column, and the steering wheel were shuddering significantly. The contact stated that the vehicle had experienced the death wobble. The contact stated that the failure increased significantly while drivi…

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The contact owns a 2009 Dodge Ram 2500. The contact stated while driving 20-60 MPH, the front end of the vehicle, the steering column, and the steering wheel were shuddering significantly. The contact stated that the vehicle had experienced the death wobble. The contact stated that the failure increased significantly while driving on bumpy road surfaces. The vehicle was taken to several independent mechanics, where the vehicle was diagnosed but the cause of the failure could not be determined; however, the failure persisted. The contact stated that the tires were replaced twice by two tire facilities; however, the failure persisted. The vehicle was previously taken to an unknown dealer; however, the cause of the failure could not be determined. The manufacturer was not notified of the failure. The failure mileage was unknown.

NHTSA ODI #11544367

96,000 miles · Aug 31, 2020
Steering

VEHICLE SWAYS BACK AND FORTH DUE TO STEERING LINKAGE

NHTSA ODI #11352235

77,215 miles · May 1, 2019
Electronic Stability Control (esc)Steering

UNCONTROLLABLE STEERING OR FRONT END WOBBLING. AKA DEATH WOBBLE, ACCORDING TO MY VEHICLE HISTORY THERE ARE RECALLS THAT ARE FOR STEERING AND THE DESCRIPTION OF ALL THOSE RECALLS SAY WHAT COULD HAPPEN WHICH IS A LOSS OF STEERING CONTROL RESULTING IN A CRASH. ALL THE RECALLS THAT I KNOW OF HAVE BEEN REPLACED. BUT I STILL HAVE INCI…

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UNCONTROLLABLE STEERING OR FRONT END WOBBLING. AKA DEATH WOBBLE, ACCORDING TO MY VEHICLE HISTORY THERE ARE RECALLS THAT ARE FOR STEERING AND THE DESCRIPTION OF ALL THOSE RECALLS SAY WHAT COULD HAPPEN WHICH IS A LOSS OF STEERING CONTROL RESULTING IN A CRASH. ALL THE RECALLS THAT I KNOW OF HAVE BEEN REPLACED. BUT I STILL HAVE INCIDENTS WHERE I LOSE CONTROL OF STEERING AND IN ORDER FOR IT TO STOP, I HAVE TO STOP THE VEHICLE. I HAVE HAD MANY MANY CLOSE CALLS, AND HOPING THAT THIS DOESN'T RESULT IN A LOSS OF A VEHICLE OR EVEN DEATH. IT'S A VERY BIG CONCERN TO ME CONSIDERING THERE HAS BEEN RECALLS FOR THE STEERING AND FRONT END. IT WILL OCCUR AS SOON AS I HIT A BUMP JUST RIGHT NOT EVEN AT HIGH SPEED IT HAPPENS AT 35-70 MPH NO MATTER IF IT'S FLAT GROUND OR NOT. THE ENTIRE TRUCK SHAKES AND FEELS LIKE THE WHEELS ARE BOUNCING OFF THE GROUND. AT THAT POINT BEING ON THE FREEWAY HAVING NO CONTROL OF MY STEERING THE ONLY OPTION I HAVE IT TO SLAM ON MY BREAKS, IT'S A MATTER OF TIME BEFORE SOMETHING REALLY BAD HAPPENS

NHTSA ODI #11204944

96,000 miles · Feb 16, 2019
Steering

AFTER HITTING A BUMP IN THE ROAD AT HIGHWAY SPEED THE TRUCK BEGAN SHAKING VIOLENTLY. REFERRED TO AS A DEATH WOBBLE. NEEDED TO SLOW TRUCK TO BRING IT BACK UNDER CONTROL.

NHTSA ODI #11180559

Mileage unknown · Apr 9, 2018
Air BagsSteering

DODGE. CONSUMER WRITES IN REGARDS TO PROBLEMS WITH THE AIRBAG CLOCKSPRING. *LD THE CONSUMER STATED THE CLOCKSPRING WAS REPLACED ON THREE SEPERATE OCCASIONS, BUT THERE IS STILL A RECURRING PROBLEM WITH THE VEHICLE. *TR

NHTSA ODI #11080528

41,000 miles · Aug 30, 2017
Steering

WHILE DRIVING AT HIGHWAY SPEED TERRIBLE FRONT END WOBBLE, VERY SCARY. HAS HAPPENED ON MULTIPLE OCCASIONS. HUSBAND NORMALLY DRIVES TRUCK THIS IS FIRST TIME THIS HAS HAPPENED TO ME WHILE DRIVING ON THE INTERSTATE.

NHTSA ODI #11020540

146,029 miles · Aug 10, 2017
Steering

TRACK BAR MOUNT CAME OFF OF THE FRAME OF THE TRUCK ......PULLING ONTO ROAD FROM DRIVEWAG

NHTSA ODI #11014222

121,000 miles · Jul 9, 2017
SteeringSuspension

2009 DODGE RAM 2500 HAS WHAT IS DESCRIBED BY MANY AS "DEATH WOBBLE". AT FREEWAY SPEEDS (70MPH HERE IN MI) IF SOME EVEN MINOR BUMPS, POT HOLES ARE RUN OVER THE FRONT END OF THE TRUCK STARTS TO SHAKE UNCONTROLLABLY. TO GET CONTROL OF THE VEHICLE AGAIN YOU MUST SLOW TO BELOW 55MPH. MANY TIMES JUST THE DRIVERS SIDE FRONT TIRE AS BOU…

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2009 DODGE RAM 2500 HAS WHAT IS DESCRIBED BY MANY AS "DEATH WOBBLE". AT FREEWAY SPEEDS (70MPH HERE IN MI) IF SOME EVEN MINOR BUMPS, POT HOLES ARE RUN OVER THE FRONT END OF THE TRUCK STARTS TO SHAKE UNCONTROLLABLY. TO GET CONTROL OF THE VEHICLE AGAIN YOU MUST SLOW TO BELOW 55MPH. MANY TIMES JUST THE DRIVERS SIDE FRONT TIRE AS BOUNCING OR WOBBLING, RECENTLY THE ENTIRE FRONT END. VEHICLE HAS HAD BOTH PRIOR RECALLS FOR TIE-ROD ENDS COMPLETED. HAD FRONT SHOCKS CHANGED IN CASE THEY WERE THE ISSUE NO CHANGE, HAD TIRES CHANGED IN CASE THERE WAS AN ISSUE WITH ANY OF THE TIRES, NO CHANGE. HAD BELLE TIRE TECHS LOOK FOR ISSUE WITH BOUNCING/WOBBLING TIRES THEY SAID EVERYTHING WAS TIGHT AND IN WORKING ORDER. ALSO HAS ANOTHER GARAGE LOOK AT IT FOR THE SAME ISSUE THEY DID NOT FIND ANY ISSUES. THIS PROBLEM THAT LOOKS TO BE PRETTY WIDESPREAD WITH OWNERS OF 2009 RAM 2500S MAKES THIS VEHICLE UNSAFE AT HIGHWAY SPEEDS UNTIL A FIX IS FOUND. I WILL ASK DEALER ABOUT BOUNCING/WOBBLING FRONT END AGAIN BUT IF THIS IS ON MANY OF THESE TRUCKS THE PROBLEM WILL END UP RESULTING IN ACCIDENTS SHOULD A DRIVER NOT BE ABLE TO SLOW DOWN QUICKLY TO REGAIN CONTROL OF THE STEERING. THIS PROBLEM HAS BEEN HAPPENING FOR OVER A YEAR ON AND OFF, I HAD AVOIDED DRIVING ON THE FREEWAY UNTIL THE LAST REPAIRS WHERE THE TIRES WERE CHANGED AND THE TECHS SAID EVERYTHING WAS GOOD WITH THE FRONT END. FIRST TIME ON THE FREEWAY AT 70MPH IT HAPPENED AGAIN WHEN A FEW SMALL BUMPS WERE RUN OVER, THE ENTIRE CAB OF THE TRUCK WAS SHAKING, OTHER DRIVERS BEHIND AND AROUND ME SLOWED AS I AM GUESSING THEY THOUGHT I WAS GOING TO LOOSE CONTROL AND CRASH. I HAD TO SLOW BELOW 50MPH BEFORE THE SHAKING WAS UNDER CONTROL AND BECAUSE THE OTHER DRIVERS SLOWED IT ALLOWED ME TO GET TO THE RIGHT AND AVOID AN ACCIDENT. SO I WILL NO LONGER USE THE TRUCK AT ANYTHING OVER 45MPH AND ONLY USE SPARINGLY UNTIL THE ISSUE IS IDENTIFIED AND REPAIRED.

NHTSA ODI #11003905

Mileage unknown · Jul 9, 2017
SteeringSuspension

MY 2009 DODGE RAM 2500 STARTED HOPPING AFTER I HIT A SLIGHT BUMP IN THE ROAD. I WAS GOING ABOUT 50MPH WHEN THUS HAPPENED. I COULD DO NOTHING BUT TAKE MY FOOT OFF THE GAS TO SLOW THE TRUCK DOWN. IT LITERALLY HOPPED DOWN THE ROAD , IT FELT LIKE WE WERE IN A PAINT MIXER BOUNCING DOWN THE ROAD. THIS HAS HAPPENED SEVERAL TIMES BEF…

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MY 2009 DODGE RAM 2500 STARTED HOPPING AFTER I HIT A SLIGHT BUMP IN THE ROAD. I WAS GOING ABOUT 50MPH WHEN THUS HAPPENED. I COULD DO NOTHING BUT TAKE MY FOOT OFF THE GAS TO SLOW THE TRUCK DOWN. IT LITERALLY HOPPED DOWN THE ROAD , IT FELT LIKE WE WERE IN A PAINT MIXER BOUNCING DOWN THE ROAD. THIS HAS HAPPENED SEVERAL TIMES BEFORE BUT WAS NEVER AS BAD AS THIS TIME. MY WIFE WAS WITH ME THIS TIME AND COULD NOT BELIEVE WHAT IT WAS DOING. SHE TOLD ME IF SHE HAD BEEN DRIVING SHE WOULD HAVE PANICKED AND MOST LIKELY WRECKED THE TRUCK. EVERYTHING IN THE TRUCK WAS BEING TOSSED AROUND. THIS ISSUE MUST BE CORRECTED BEFORE SOMEONE GETS HURT OR WORSE.

NHTSA ODI #11003856

89,500 miles · Dec 13, 2016
SteeringSuspensionInjury

WHILE DRIVING THE DODGE RAM 2500 2009 YEAR ON THE HIGHWAY AT 60-65 MPH THE VEHICLE STARTED SHAKING UNCONTROLLABLY AFTER HITTING A JOINT IN THE ROAD BETWEEN THE ASPHALT AND A BRIDGE. I WAS UNABLE TO STEER DURING THIS TIME AND THE VEHICLE SHOOK SO VIOLENTLY THAT THE CONNECTORS VIBRATED OFF OF THE BATTERY TERMINAL, BOTH BATTERIES,…

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WHILE DRIVING THE DODGE RAM 2500 2009 YEAR ON THE HIGHWAY AT 60-65 MPH THE VEHICLE STARTED SHAKING UNCONTROLLABLY AFTER HITTING A JOINT IN THE ROAD BETWEEN THE ASPHALT AND A BRIDGE. I WAS UNABLE TO STEER DURING THIS TIME AND THE VEHICLE SHOOK SO VIOLENTLY THAT THE CONNECTORS VIBRATED OFF OF THE BATTERY TERMINAL, BOTH BATTERIES, AT WHICH TIME I LOST ALL POWER. THIS ALMOST RESULTED IN MY DRIVING OFF OF A BRIDGE. THE SHAKING WOULD ONLY STOP UPON COMING TO A COMPLETE STOP. THIS HAPPENED 3 MORE TIMES AT SLOWER SPEEDS BETWEEN 40-50 MPH. I EVENTUALLY HAD TO GET A TOW TRUCK TO GET US TO OUR DESTINATION. THIS HAPPENED ON HIGHWAY ROADS AND ALWAYS AFTER HITTING A SMALL BUMPS. MILEAGE ON VEHICLE IS 89500. *TR

NHTSA ODI #10934953

Official recalls

5

16V352000 · Air Bags:frontal:passenger Side:inflator Module

May 24, 2016

Chrysler (FCA US LLC) expanded the affected population to include 73,712 2005-2009 RAM 2500 trucks produced at the St. Louis North Assembly Plant. With this change, Chrysler is recalling certain model year 2004-2008 RAM 1500, 2005-2009 RAM 2500, 2006-2009 RAM 3500, 2007-2010 RAM 3500 Cab Chassis, 2008-2010 RAM 4500 and 5500 Cab Chassis, 2004-2009 Dodge Durango, 2007-2009 Chrysler Aspen, 2007-2012 Jeep Wrangler, 2008-2012 Dodge Challenger, 2005-2008 Dodge Magnum, 2005-2012 Chrysler 300, 2006-2012 Dodge Charger, 2005-2011 Dodge Dakota, and 2006-2009 Mitsubishi Raider vehicles originally sold, or ever registered, in AL, CA, FL, GA, HI, LA, MS, SC, TX, Puerto Rico, American Samoa, Guam, the Northern Mariana Islands (Saipan), and the U.S. Virgin Islands, or "Zone A." Additionally, unless included in "Zone A" above, Chrysler is also recalling 2004-2008 RAM 1500, 2005-2009 RAM 2500, 2006-2009 RAM 3500, 2007-2009 RAM 3500 Cab Chassis, 2008-2009 RAM 4500 and 5500 Cab Chassis, 2004-2009 Dodge Durango, 2007-2009 Chrysler Aspen, 2007-2009 Jeep Wrangler, 2008-2009 Dodge Challenger, 2005-2008 Dodge Magnum, 2005-2009 Chrysler 300, 2006-2009 Dodge Charger, 2005-2009 Dodge Dakota and 2006-2009 Mitsubishi Raider vehicles originally sold, or ever registered, in AZ, AR, DE, Washington D.C., IL, IN, KS, KY, MD, MO, NE, NV, NJ, NM, NC, OH, OK, PA, TN, VA, and WV, or "Zone B." Lastly, unless included in "Zone A" or "Zone B" above, Chrysler is recalling certain 2005-2008 RAM 2500, 2006-2008 RAM 3500, 2007-2008 RAM 3500 Cab Chassis, 2008 RAM 4500 and 5500 Cab Chassis, 2004-2008 Dodge Durango, 2007-2008 Chrysler Aspen, 2007-2008 Jeep Wrangler, 2008 Dodge Challenger, 2005-2008 Dodge Magnum, 2005-2008 Chrysler 300, 2006-2008 Dodge Charger, 2005-2008 Dodge Dakota, and 2006-2008 Mitsubishi Raider vehicles originally sold, or registered, in AK, CO, CT, ID, IA, ME, MA, MI, MN, MT, NH, NY, ND, OR, RI, SD, UT, VT, WA, WI, and WY.

Consequence & remedy

Consequence: These vehicles are equipped with certain air bag inflators assembled as part of the passenger frontal air bag modules, and used as original equipment or replacement equipment. These inflators may rupture due to propellant degradation occurring after long-term exposure to absolute humidity and temperature cycling. An inflator rupture may result in metal fragments striking the vehicle occupants resulting in serious injury or death.

Remedy: Owners are advised not to drive their vehicle until the recall repair is complete. Chrysler will notify the Chrysler, Dodge, Jeep and RAM owners. Mitsubishi owners will be notified by their company. Dealers will replace the passenger frontal air bag inflator, free of charge. The recall began on March 27, 2017. Owners may contact Chrysler customer service at 1-800-853-1403. Chrysler's number for this recall is S43. Note: This recall supersedes recall 14V-7700.

15V313000 · Air Bags:frontal:driver Side:inflator Module

May 26, 2015

Chrysler (FCA US LLC) is recalling certain model year 2005-2009 Dodge Ram 2500, 2004-2008 Dodge Ram 1500 and Durango, 2006-2009 Dodge Ram 3500, 2008-2010 Dodge Ram 4500 and 5500, 2007-2008 Chrysler Aspen, 2005-2010 Chrysler 300, 300C, 300S, and SRT8, 2006-2010 Dodge Charger, 2005-2008 Magnum, 2005-2011 Dodge Dakota, and 2006-2009 Mitsubishi Raider vehicles. The affected vehicles are equipped with a dual-stage driver frontal air bag that may be susceptible to moisture intrusion which, over time, could cause the inflator to rupture.

Consequence & remedy

Consequence: In the event of a crash necessitating deployment of the driver's frontal air bag, the inflator could rupture with metal fragments striking the driver or other occupants resulting in serious injury or death.

Remedy: Owners are advised not to drive their vehicle until the recall repair is complete. Chrysler will notify the affected Chrysler and Dodge owners and Mitsubishi will notify the affected Raider owners. Dealers will replace the driver's frontal air bag inflator, free of charge. The recall began for Chrylser on June 8, 2015. The recall for Mitsubishi started on June 24, 2015. Chrysler and Dodge owners may contact Chrysler customer service at 1-800-853-1403. Mitsubishi owners may call 1-888-648-7820. Chrysler's number for this recall is R25. Note: This recall supersedes recall 14V817 in its entirety. Vehicles that have had their driver side frontal air bag replaced previously need to have their air bag replaced under this recall as well.

13V529000 · Steering:linkages:tie Rod Assembly

Nov 6, 2013

Chrysler Group LLC (Chrysler) is recalling certain model year 2008-2012 RAM 2500 4X4 and 3500 4X4 trucks, 2008-2012 Dodge RAM 3500 4x2 Cab Chassis, and model year 2008 Dodge RAM 1500 Mega Cab 4x4. The left tie rod assembly may break.

Consequence & remedy

Consequence: A failure of the tie rod assembly may result in a loss of steering control, increasing the risk of a crash.

Remedy: Chrysler notified owners on January 16, 2014 that dealers would inspect vehicles and replace the steering linkage assembly, if necessary. On or about February 27, 2014, Chrysler ceased its recall remedy program due to parts quality concerns, and then re-initiated it on or about April 14, 2014. In July 2015, and under a consent order with NHTSA, the company agreed to offer owners three options for remedying their vehicles: perform the original remedy, offer to repurchase the vehicle at the fair market value plus 10%, or offer an additional incentive offer towards the purchase of a new Dodge, Jeep, Chrysler, or Fiat vehicle. Chrysler will notify owners of the new recall options in a letter expected to be mailed on August 31, 2015. Owners may contact Chrysler at 1-800-247-9753. Chrysler's recall campaign number is N49.

11V350000 · Steering:linkages:tie Rod Assembly

Jul 6, 2011

CHRYSLER IS RECALLING CERTAIN MODEL YEAR 2008-2011 DODGE RAM 2500/3500 4X4, MANUFACTURED FROM FEBRUARY 14, 2008, THROUGH MARCH 28, 2011; MODEL YEAR 2008-2011 DODGE RAM 3500 CAB CHASSIS 4X2, MANUFACTURED FROM FEBRUARY 14, 2008, THROUGH MARCH 28, 2011; AND MODEL YEAR 2008 DODGE RAM 1500 MEGA CAB 4X4, MANUFACTURED FROM FEBRUARY 14, 2008, THROUGH AUGUST 15, 2008, BECAUSE THE LEFT TIE ROD BALL STUD MAY FRACTURE. THIS CONDITION TENDS TO OCCUR DURING LOW SPEED PARKING LOT TYPE MANEUVERS WHEN THE CUSTOMER IS MAKING A TIGHT TURN. ADDITIONALLY, MODEL YEAR 2003-2008 DODGE RAM 2500/3500 VEHICLES MAY HAVE RECEIVED THE AFFECTED TIE ROD ASSEMBLY AS A REPLACEMENT PART DURING NORMAL SERVICE.

Consequence & remedy

Consequence: THIS CONDITION COULD RESULT IN THE POTENTIAL LOSS OF DIRECTIONAL STABILITY IN THE LEFT HAND FRONT WHEEL, INCREASING THE RISK OF A CRASH.

Remedy: DEALERS WILL INSPECT THE TIE ROD ENDS FOR RELATIVE ORIENTATION AND REPLACE THE LEFT OUTER TIE ROD AS REQUIRED AND PERFORM A FRONT END TOE ALIGNMENT AS NEEDED. THIS SERVICE WILL BE PERFORMED FREE OF CHARGE. THE SAFETY RECALL BEGAN ON OCTOBER 3, 2011. OWNERS MAY CONTACT CHRYSLER AT 1-800-853-1403.

09V005000 · Steering:linkages:tie Rod Assembly

Jan 9, 2009

CHRYSLER IS RECALLING 32,782 MY 2008-2009 DODGE RAM 2500, 3500 AND 3500 CAB CHASSIS PICKUP TRUCKS EQUIPPED WITH POWERS AND SONS STEERING LINKAGE. THE STEERING LINKAGE DRAG LINK INNER TIE ROD TO PITMAN ARM BALL STUD MAY FRACTURE. ALSO THE STEERING LINKAGE DAMPER ATTACHING THE BRACKET MAY YIELD AND SHIFT ON THE LINKAGE.

Consequence & remedy

Consequence: THIS COULD RESULT IN A LOSS OF STEERING CONTROL AND THE RESTRICTED ABILITY TO TURN THE VEHICLE IN ONE DIRECTION INCREASING THE RISK OF A CRASH WITHOUT WARNING.

Remedy: DEALERS WILL REPLACE THE STEERING LINKAGE DRAG LINK INNER TIE ROD END ASSEMBLY, AND INSPECT THE STEERING LINKAGE DAMPER BRACKET FREE OF CHARGE. THE RECALL IS EXPECTED TO BEGIN ON OR BEFORE FEBRUARY 16, 2009. OWNERS MAY CONTACT CHRYSLER AT 1-800-853-1403.

Model-level recall history does not show whether a particular VIN is affected or has received a repair. Check a VIN with NHTSA ↗

NHTSA investigations

3

EA21002 · Desiccated Air Bag Inflator Rupture

Opened Sep 17, 2021 · No close date supplied

Status: open (inferred from source dates) · Air Bags:frontal:driver Side:inflator Module; Air Bags:frontal:passenger Side:inflator Module

From 2000 through 2017, Takata produced millions of air bag inflators using two types of phase-stabilized ammonium nitrate ("PSAN") propellant -- propellant 2004 and propellant 2004L. After prolonged exposure to high temperature cycles and humidity, inflators using propellant 2004 can degrade, causing the propellant to burn too quickly when ignited. The rapid burning can cause the inflator to rupture during deployment, potentially causing serious or even fatal injury to vehicle occupants. See 2016 Blomquist Report at www.nhtsa.gov/sites/nhtsa.gov/files/documents/expert_report-hrblomquist.pdf.Consequently, all frontal inflators using propellant 2004 that do not contain a "desiccant" (a substance that traps and holds moisture) in US vehicles are under recall. These "non-desiccated" inflators either have been or are required to be replaced.In some cases, the remedy part for these recalled inflators was, or will be, an inflator using either propellant 2004 or 2004L that does contain a desiccant. None of these "desiccated" remedy parts (which were installed in older model year vehicles) are currently under recall for a degradation concern. Certain subsets of desiccated PSAN inflators using propellant 2004 for use as original equipment, however, have been recalled for a degradation concern. All Takata inflators produced with propellant 2004L contain desiccant, and none of these desiccated inflators using propellant 2004L are under recall for a degradation concern. There have been no reported field ruptures in any non-recalled desiccated PSAN inflators.It is understood that desiccants fully saturate at some threshold, at which point any additional moisture will not be captured. This means the degradation process observed in non-desiccated inflators using propellant 2004 may also occur in non-recalled desiccated inflators using propellant 2004, assuming additional moisture enters the inflator and high temperature cycling occurs. Based on available information, desiccant saturation can occur within the first five years in the worst environments, and the time required for full saturation is affected by multiple factors. While no present safety risk has been identified, further work is needed to evaluate the future risk of non-recalled desiccated inflators using propellant 2004.Three entities -- Takata (now known as TK Global), the Independent Testing Coalition, and Exponent -- have been studying the long-term behavior of Takata desiccated PSAN inflators using propellant 2004L (as well as 2004) in the presence of moisture and temperature cycling. The research efforts, which include development of predictive modeling techniques and field sample analysis, are ongoing. To date, none of the researchers have identified field evidence showing that propellant 2004L is undergoing a degradation process that leads to aggressive deployment and potential rupture. However, the time in service of such inflators remains short compared to that of the inflators using propellant 2004. Further study is needed to assess the long-term safety of desiccated inflators using propellant 2004L.The Office of Defects Investigation is opening this investigation to examine whether a safety defect related to propellant degradation exists in non-recalled desiccated PSAN frontal inflators manufactured by Takata. This investigation will require extensive information on Takata production processes and surveys of inflators in the field. Lists of recall actions that may have used desiccated PSAN inflators as remedy parts, as well as the makes and models originally manufactured with them, is available with the downloadable version of this document (see nhtsa.gov/recalls?nhtsaId=EA21002 -- note this information is subject to change/revision as the investigation proceeds). This investigation does not supersede EA15-001, which remains open.

Additional source detail variants (2)

Air Bags:frontal:driver Side:inflator Module

From 2000 through 2017, Takata produced millions of air bag inflators using two types of phase-stabilized ammonium nitrate ("PSAN") propellant -- propellant 2004 and propellant 2004L. After prolonged exposure to high temperature cycles and humidity, inflators using propellant 2004 can degrade, causing the propellant to burn too quickly when ignited. The rapid burning can cause the inflator to rupture during deployment, potentially causing serious or even fatal injury to vehicle occupants. See 2016 Blomquist Report at www.nhtsa.gov/sites/nhtsa.gov/files/documents/expert_report-hrblomquist.pdf.Consequently, all frontal inflators using propellant 2004 that do not contain a "desiccant" (a substance that traps and holds moisture) in US vehicles are under recall. These "non-desiccated" inflators either have been or are required to be replaced.In some cases, the remedy part for these recalled inflators was, or will be, an inflator using either propellant 2004 or 2004L that does contain a desiccant. None of these "desiccated" remedy parts (which were installed in older model year vehicles) are currently under recall for a degradation concern. Certain subsets of desiccated PSAN inflators using propellant 2004 for use as original equipment, however, have been recalled for a degradation concern. All Takata inflators produced with propellant 2004L contain desiccant, and none of these desiccated inflators using propellant 2004L are under recall for a degradation concern. There have been no reported field ruptures in any non-recalled desiccated PSAN inflators.It is understood that desiccants fully saturate at some threshold, at which point any additional moisture will not be captured. This means the degradation process observed in non-desiccated inflators using propellant 2004 may also occur in non-recalled desiccated inflators using propellant 2004, assuming additional moisture enters the inflator and high temperature cycling occurs. Based on available information, desiccant saturation can occur within the first five years in the worst environments, and the time required for full saturation is affected by multiple factors. While no present safety risk has been identified, further work is needed to evaluate the future risk of non-recalled desiccated inflators using propellant 2004.Three entities -- Takata (now known as TK Global), the Independent Testing Coalition, and Exponent -- have been studying the long-term behavior of Takata desiccated PSAN inflators using propellant 2004L (as well as 2004) in the presence of moisture and temperature cycling. The research efforts, which include development of predictive modeling techniques and field sample analysis, are ongoing. To date, none of the researchers have identified field evidence showing that propellant 2004L is undergoing a degradation process that leads to aggressive deployment and potential rupture. However, the time in service of such inflators remains short compared to that of the inflators using propellant 2004. Further study is needed to assess the long-term safety of desiccated inflators using propellant 2004L.The Office of Defects Investigation is opening this investigation to examine whether a safety defect related to propellant degradation exists in non-recalled desiccated PSAN frontal inflators manufactured by Takata. This investigation will require extensive information on Takata production processes and surveys of inflators in the field. Lists of recall actions that may have used desiccated PSAN inflators as remedy parts, as well as the makes and models originally manufactured with them, is available with the downloadable version of this document (see nhtsa.gov/recalls?nhtsaId=EA21002 -- note this information is subject to change/revision as the investigation proceeds). This investigation does not supersede EA15-001, which remains open.

Air Bags:frontal:passenger Side:inflator Module

From 2000 through 2017, Takata produced millions of air bag inflators using two types of phase-stabilized ammonium nitrate ("PSAN") propellant -- propellant 2004 and propellant 2004L. After prolonged exposure to high temperature cycles and humidity, inflators using propellant 2004 can degrade, causing the propellant to burn too quickly when ignited. The rapid burning can cause the inflator to rupture during deployment, potentially causing serious or even fatal injury to vehicle occupants. See 2016 Blomquist Report at www.nhtsa.gov/sites/nhtsa.gov/files/documents/expert_report-hrblomquist.pdf.Consequently, all frontal inflators using propellant 2004 that do not contain a "desiccant" (a substance that traps and holds moisture) in US vehicles are under recall. These "non-desiccated" inflators either have been or are required to be replaced.In some cases, the remedy part for these recalled inflators was, or will be, an inflator using either propellant 2004 or 2004L that does contain a desiccant. None of these "desiccated" remedy parts (which were installed in older model year vehicles) are currently under recall for a degradation concern. Certain subsets of desiccated PSAN inflators using propellant 2004 for use as original equipment, however, have been recalled for a degradation concern. All Takata inflators produced with propellant 2004L contain desiccant, and none of these desiccated inflators using propellant 2004L are under recall for a degradation concern. There have been no reported field ruptures in any non-recalled desiccated PSAN inflators.It is understood that desiccants fully saturate at some threshold, at which point any additional moisture will not be captured. This means the degradation process observed in non-desiccated inflators using propellant 2004 may also occur in non-recalled desiccated inflators using propellant 2004, assuming additional moisture enters the inflator and high temperature cycling occurs. Based on available information, desiccant saturation can occur within the first five years in the worst environments, and the time required for full saturation is affected by multiple factors. While no present safety risk has been identified, further work is needed to evaluate the future risk of non-recalled desiccated inflators using propellant 2004.Three entities -- Takata (now known as TK Global), the Independent Testing Coalition, and Exponent -- have been studying the long-term behavior of Takata desiccated PSAN inflators using propellant 2004L (as well as 2004) in the presence of moisture and temperature cycling. The research efforts, which include development of predictive modeling techniques and field sample analysis, are ongoing. To date, none of the researchers have identified field evidence showing that propellant 2004L is undergoing a degradation process that leads to aggressive deployment and potential rupture. However, the time in service of such inflators remains short compared to that of the inflators using propellant 2004. Further study is needed to assess the long-term safety of desiccated inflators using propellant 2004L.The Office of Defects Investigation is opening this investigation to examine whether a safety defect related to propellant degradation exists in non-recalled desiccated PSAN frontal inflators manufactured by Takata. This investigation will require extensive information on Takata production processes and surveys of inflators in the field. Lists of recall actions that may have used desiccated PSAN inflators as remedy parts, as well as the makes and models originally manufactured with them, is available with the downloadable version of this document (see nhtsa.gov/recalls?nhtsaId=EA21002 -- note this information is subject to change/revision as the investigation proceeds). This investigation does not supersede EA15-001, which remains open.

AQ14003 · Chrysler's Execution Of 13V-528 & 529

Opened Oct 20, 2014 · Closed May 16, 2016

Status: closed (inferred from source dates) · Steering:linkages:tie Rod Assembly

RMD opened this audit query (AQ) investigation in order to better understand and evaluate Chrysler's process(es) for timely and efficient execution of its safety recall campaigns, including its oversight and management of its parts division Mopar.Prior to opening this investigation, RMD had raised concerns with the company related to its execution of two safety recalls, 13V-528 and 13V-529, both of which involved safety defects that could cause the involved vehicles, FCA?s heavier Dodge Ram trucks, to lose steering control suddenly and without warning.Specifically, RMD inquired about the availability of parts for recall repairs, by email and phone on January 15, 2014 and February 19, 2014, due to the volume of complaints it was receiving from owners alleging parts scarcity and parts restrictions. FCA steadfastly denied it had placed parts restrictions on its dealers to manage issues of parts scarcity.FCA shared material showing it had uncommitted stock of parts available for its dealers. Nevertheless, consumer complaints of lack of parts continued.RMD made independent inquiries tosome dealers tobetter understand the conflicting claims between owners alleging lack of ability to repair their defective vehicles due to lack of parts, and FCA?s information showing availability of parts.Dealers informed and provided documentation to RMD on February 21, 2014 and February 25, 2014 showing FCA had, in fact, put into place parts restrictions and, further, had in some instances canceled dealerships? back orders for parts.In addition, during the course of its dialogue with dealers, RMD discovered that FCA had notified their dealerships on February 27, 2014 to return the recall remedy parts over quality concerns, and had therefore effectively canceled its safety recall program without notification to NHTSA. RMD issued a request for information (IR) on October 21, 2014.The company failed to respond to a number of the questions RMD asked that required it to produce specifics surrounding the repairs and parts ordering process with the recalls, including a question about whether a dealer order for recall parts could be canceled and under what circumstances.

PE11009 · Outer Tie Rod Failure

Opened Apr 4, 2011 · Closed Feb 6, 2012

Status: closed (inferred from source dates) · Steering:linkages:tie Rod Assembly

ODI received complaints regarding failing tie rod ball studs on Model Year 2008-2011 Dodge Ram 2500 and 3500 vehicles resulting in loss of steering control.Chrysler concluded that misalignment of the left (driver side) ball stud on vehicles built with the Cross Car steering linkage system could allow contact between the bull stud and the ball housing which could weaken the stud and result in fracture.Chrysler submitted a recall notice on August 15, 2011 involving certain MY 2003-2011 Ram 2500 and Ram 3500 pickup trucks built or repaired with the Cross Car steering linkage.Chrysler will inspect, repair or realign the front end of the subject vehicles as needed.Chrysler's announcement of a safety recall on this matter addresses ODI's concerns.The ODI reports cited above can be reviewed at www-odi.nhtsa.dot.gov/owners/SearchNHTSAID under the following identification (ODI) numbers:10332525, 10357937, 10366591, 10303744, 10377166, 10373240, 10343969, 10375403, 10324831, 10373546, 10370771.