Chrysler Issues Tie Rod Recall on Pickups

Tie Rods to Blame for Potential Loss of Control

Published July 30th, 2011

Drivers may lose control in select Ram 1500/2500/3500 pickup models due to premature failure of tie rod system. 250,000 trucks model year 2003 to 2011 possibly affected.

Chrysler is recalling between 250,000 to 286,000 Ram trucks due to potential issues with the factory tie rods. Reports on the actual number of trucks affected by the recall varies. The tie rod assemblies may wear prematurely and cause drivers to lose control of the vehicle, greatly increasing the chances of collision. The trucks affected include 2008 - 2011 Ram 4x4 2500 & 3500 trucks, 2003 - 2008 Ram 2500 & 3500 trucks (4x4 and 4x2 models), 2008 Ram 1500 4x4 trucks, and 2008 - 2011 Chassis Cab Ram 3500 4x2 model trucks.

Though Chrysler claims there have been minimal incidents regarding the problem, Dodge owners have been dealing with the dreaded "Dodge Death Wobble" as far back as 1994. Despite a prior recall ( Chrysler H46 Recall, 2003 - 2009 Ram trucks) and several steering design changes over the years, Chrysler has failed to eliminate the problems that have been characterized by owners as the Dodge Death Wobble. While the roots of the steering problems have changed over the years, the symptoms are all too familiar.

While Chrysler has been slow to respond to consumers complaints with the steering on a large percentage of Ram trucks, we're glad to see the problem is currently being addressed. Owner's whose vehicles are affected by the recall should receive a notice in the mail and are urged to contact their local dealership for additional information.

Source: Chrysler Press Release