Fiat-Chrysler announced a voluntary recall on Friday for certain 2014-2019 Ram 1500 pickup trucks due to a potential fire risk linked to a defective Exhaust Gas Recirculation (EGR) cooler. This recall affects 107,898 half-ton models that have the company’s 3.0-liter V6 EcoDiesel engine, but it does not extend to the newer Ram 1500 models; it specifically includes the previous-generation Ram 1500 Classics from the 2019 model year.
The issue arises from microscopic cracks found in some EGR coolers from these trucks, which could lead to coolant leaks and increase the likelihood of fires. In its press release announcing the recall, FCA revealed that there have been a small number of fire incidents and acknowledged four minor injuries that occurred when owners attempted to put out the fires themselves instead of calling for professional help.
The EGR cooler is a key component of the truck’s emissions system, designed to minimize NOx emissions.
Customers affected by this recall will be able to receive free repairs at their local dealerships, and FCA is in the process of contacting those impacted. In the meantime, the company advises 2014-2019 Ram 1500 EcoDiesel owners to keep an eye on their coolant levels and reach out to their dealerships if they notice consistent low levels.
It’s important to note that this recall does not include gasoline-powered pickups or 2020 Ram 1500 models equipped with the third-generation EcoDiesel engine.
Data from the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration indicates that the new-generation 2019 Ram 1500 has experienced more recalls than any other half-ton truck, totaling 13 recalls..
