Multinational automotive manufacturer Stellantis North America (formerly Chrysler) announced that it had recalled nearly 1.3 million Ram pickup trucks due to faulty tailgates.
The car manufacturer, a subsidiary of the Netherlands-based Stellantis NV, said it is recalling a number of 2019-2022 Ram 1500, 2500, and 3500 pickup trucks in the U.S. (roughly 1.23 million), Canada (120,000), Mexico (26,000), and locations outside North America (about 27,000).
The December 7 safety recall was initiated following reports of a faulty tailgate that may not latch properly due to misaligned tailgate strikers. The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) explained that this could result in the tailgate opening while driving.
When a recalled vehicle is returned to the dealer, a technician will inspect the tailgate striker alignment to the box latch and adjust, if necessary, free of charge. Consumer notification letters are expected to be mailed to owners around January 27, 2023.
Owners may contact FCA US, LLC customer service at 1-800-853-1403. The NHTSA campaign number is 22V904000, and the recall number is ZB8.
Until all affected vehicles are repaired, Stellantis encourages owners to secure their cargo, following directions in the owner’s manual. No injuries or crashes have been reported due to the faulty tailgate latch, but more than 800 warranty claims related to the issue have been reported.
Stellantis ranked No. 4 in the U.S. for recalling more than 3 million vehicles in 2022 across 38 total callbacks. The Ford Motor Company was ranked No. 1 in terms of 2022 automobile recalls, followed by Volkswagen Group of America, Inc. at No 2. and Daimler Trucks North America, LLC at No. 3, according to NHTSA recall data.
Those questioning whether or not their vehicles are a part of the recall can search the NHTSA database using the vehicle identification number (VIN).