Fiat Chrysler recalls more than 1 million Ram trucks for a potentially deadly computer glitch

EPA Accuses Fiat Chrysler Of Cheating On Emissions Tests
Getty Images | Scott Olson

More than 1.25 million Ram pickup trucks are being recalled by Fiat Chrysler to fix a software issue that could cause airbags and seatbelts to fail in a rollover crash. The automotive company says the glitch may be linked to at least one death and two injuries.

The problem is with the truck’s safety system. If there is significant damage to the underbody of the vehicle, the company says the system could incorrectly believe the sensor under the truck failed, in turn suppressing the side airbags from deploying and seat belts from tightening.

This could happen for multiple reasons, including hitting rocks or debris in the road. If the sensor does fail, it means in the event of a rollover crash, the side airbags will not deploy and the seat belts will not tighten.

One million of the recalled vehicles were sold in the U.S. and about another 270,000 in foreign countries. The following trucks are included in the recall:

  • 2013-2016 Ram 1500 and 2500 models
  • 2014-2016 Ram 3500 pickup trucks

Getty Images | Scott Olson

There is good news, however—drivers will be alerted to the problem by a warning light on the instrument cluster.

To temporarily fix the system, owners can shut off the vehicle and turn it back on. If the light is off, the crash system is back to normal. To prevent it from reoccurring, Fiat Chrysler will need to reprogram the onboard sensor, which is the reason for the recall. The software update will be done at no cost to owners.

RELATED: Recent Ford Recalls Include 530,000 Cars, Trucks And SUVs

The company will alert customers in late June when they can begin scheduling appointments to have their vehicles fixed, but if you have questions, you can call their customer care center at 800-853-1403.

About the Author

Kaitlin Gates

Kaitlin is a freelance multimedia journalist with a degree in journalism and psychology. Along with Don't Waste Your Money, she also writes for Simplemost, where she covers new product and food launches and overall general news. You can email her at kaitlingateswrites@gmail.com or find her on Facebook at Facebook.com/KaitlinGatesWrites. More.

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