Stellantis, the company formerly known as Fiat Chrysler, is recalling more than 200,000 Ram pickups with faulty side airbag inflators that could explode without warning, sending shrapnel into the cabin. The company is aware of one report of an incident. It occurred in an unoccupied truck and caused no injuries.
The inflators can burst at any moment, whether the truck is running or not, in an occupied or unoccupied truck.
Recalled models include 2015-2020 Ram 2500 and Ram 3500 pickups and chassis cabs, and Ram 1500 Classic trucks. The recall does not include the current-generation Ram 1500.
The company says that moisture may have been trapped inside the inflator during the manufacturing process. A subcontractor supplied the inflators. General Motors earlier this year recalled more than 400,000 heavy-duty trucks with the same issue, which used side airbag inflators manufactured by the same supplier.
In the earlier case, GM said that heat could be a factor and noted that all reported incidents occurred in hot weather. Ram’s recall did not include the same note.
The recall is not an extension of the Takata airbag recall – history’s largest automotive recall – as these airbag inflators use a different chemical activation system. But the subcontractor responsible for building these airbag inflators is the company that emerged from Takata’s bankruptcy.
Dealers will replace the side airbags for free.
Automakers attempt to reach every owner with news of a recall, but they do not always succeed. It’s always worth checking to see whether your car has any safety recalls you haven’t addressed. Recall repairs are always free, and dealerships will always perform them even if a vehicle was recalled years ago. Check for any outstanding safety issues in your car with our easy recall center.
