Ram is Recalling 1.4 Million Trucks Because of Tailgate Problems

The automaker says the recall affects certain 2019-2022 Ram 1500, 2500 and 3500 trucks. The tailgate may not close properly and can fall open while driving.

Stellantis is recalling over 1.4 million Ram pickups because of a tailgate problem. According to the automaker the tailgates on some of the 2019-2022 Ram 1500, 2500 and 3500 trucks may not close properly allowing the tailgates to fall open while the vehicle is in motion. The fear is that items may fall out of the truck and hurt other drivers or cause accidents. So far, no injuries or accidents are reported.

What is the Tailgate Problem

Ram, and its parent company Stellantis, released a statement today saying that it is voluntarily recalling “pickup trucks to inspect and realign, as needed, certain latching components on their tailgates. A routine review of customer service records led to a Stellantis investigation that discovered tailgate striker plates on certain pickup trucks may not be sufficiently aligned to accommodate complete closure. Such a condition, if it occurs, may put unsecured cargo at risk of spilling onto a roadway.”

Ram is recalling 1.23 million trucks in the U.S. It is recalling another 120,759 vehicles in Canada, 26,613 trucks in Mexico and 27,404 trucks that were sold globally.

The recall affects certain model-year 2019-2022 Ram 1500, 2500 and 3500 pickups. Vehicles equipped with Ram’s multifunction tailgate and Ram 1500 Classic pickups are not affected. Also excluded are trucks that have sensors that alert drivers to insecure tailgates. This is NHTSA Recall Campaign Number: 22V904000. The FCA US, LLC's number for this recall is ZB8.

How Ram Will Fix the Problem

Letters to affected customers will start going out January 27, 2023. Owners will be told when service and parts will be available. Dealers will inspect the tailgate striker alignment to the box latch and adjust, if necessary. All repairs will be provided free. The company is urging customers to follow the instructions on all recall notifications.

In the meantime, drivers are reminded to secure all cargo as referenced in their owners’ manuals. Those with additional questions or concerns may call 1-800-853-1403.

Ram Photo

Mary Conway is a professional automotive journalist and has decades of experience specializing in automotive news analysis. She covered the Detroit Three for more than twenty years for the ABC affiliate, in Detroit. Her affection for the Motor City comes naturally. Her father ran a gas station while Mary was growing up, in Wisconsin.

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