RAM 5500, 4500: Powertrain

Affects RAM 5500, 4500 · 2012 — about 1K vehicles.

The hazard

On certain four-wheel drive vehicles, due to insufficient welding of the front differential housing to the axle tubes, the housing may rotate relative to the axle tubes while the vehicle is operated in four wheel drive. This could allow the front driveshaft to bind up and fracture, causing a loss of motive power and damage to surrounding components if the driveshaft continues to spin. This could increase the risk of a crash causing personal injury and/or damage to property. Correction: dealers will repair or replace the front axle assembly on affected vehicles.

What to do

Contact your dealer; the remedy details were not included in the filing.

Critical — crash/injury risk now High — injury risk; see remedy Moderate — fix at next service Low — minor / informational