September 5, 2024
Chrysler (FCA US, LLC) has issued a major safety recall affecting 1,227,808 Ram 1500 pickup trucks manufactured between October 31, 2017, and February 14, 2024. The recall (NHTSA Recall No. 24V-653, Chrysler Recall No. 75B) addresses a defective Antilock Braking System (ABS) control module software that can disable the Electronic Stability Control (ESC) system.
Affected Vehicles
Ram 1500 Pickup Trucks
- Model Years: 2019-2024
- Manufacturing Period: October 31, 2017 – February 14, 2024
- Defect Rate: 100% of vehicles within this production period
- Note: Similar models built outside this period are not affected, as they contain updated software
Understanding the Safety Defect and Risks
The ABS software malfunction disables the ESC system under specific driving conditions, violating Federal Motor Vehicle Safety Standard (FMVSS) 126, which mandates operational ESC systems during all driving conditions. This defect is particularly concerning for pickup trucks due to their higher center of gravity.
Key safety risks include:
- Compromised vehicle stability during emergency maneuvers
- Increased rollover risk, especially during sharp turns or sudden lane changes
- Reduced braking efficiency and longer stopping distances
- Decreased control in adverse weather conditions (rain, ice, snow)
Warning Signs and Indicators
Owners should watch for these dashboard warning lights at vehicle startup:
- ABS Warning Light
- Electronic Stability Control (ESC) Light
- Adaptive Cruise Control (ACC) Light
- Forward Collision Warning (FCW) Light
If any of these warning lights remain illuminated after startup, immediate service is required.
Required Actions for Vehicle Owners
- Verify Your Vehicle’s Status
- Get Free Repairs
- Schedule service at an authorized Chrysler or Ram dealership
- The ABS software update is provided at no cost
- Complete the repair as soon as possible
- Safety Precautions Until Repaired
- Avoid hazardous driving conditions
- Minimize high-speed driving
- Maintain increased following distance
- Exercise extra caution during turns and lane changes
Legal Resources
If you’ve experienced an accident related to this defect, you may be entitled to compensation for:
- Medical expenses and rehabilitation
- Lost wages
- Pain and suffering
- Property damage
Contact qualified legal counsel to understand your rights and options.
Contact The Ammons Law Firm for Legal Help Involving Defective Vehicles
If you or a loved one has been injured or killed in an accident involving a Chrysler Ram 1500 affected by the ABS software defect, The Ammons Law Firm is here to help. Our legal team has extensive experience handling auto defect cases, and we understand the devastating impact these failures can have on families. We are committed to holding automotive manufacturers accountable when their negligence puts drivers and passengers at risk.
Contact The Ammons Law Firm for Legal Help Involving Defective Products
Contact The Ammons Law Firm today for a free consultation to discuss your case and learn more about your legal options. You may be entitled to compensation for medical expenses, lost wages, pain and suffering, and other damages caused by this dangerous defect.
The Ammons Law Firm represents clients nationwide in personal injury and wrongful death litigation.
Disclaimer: This post is not legal advice. Information contained in this blog was compiled from third-party sources or is the opinion of the author. Please inform us immediately if false or misleading information is contained in this post.
