Ram Recalling 229,000 Trucks Due To Faulty Shifter Problems

If you own a 2017 or 2018 Ram pickup, you'll want to know about a recall that is affecting 229,000 vehicles.  According to news reports and a release from Fiat Chrysler, the trucks are able to be shifted out of park without a key in the ignition or a foot on the brake.

At this point there aren't any reports of actual injuries related to the defect; Fiat Chrysler is being proactive in recalling the models.

It appears that the problem can become commonplace if  the brake pedal has been held down in place for a long period of time when the truck is running and in park.  Apparently, the a pin that operates with the brake-shift interlock can become lodged into place - causing the problem.

Specifically, the recall affects the following Ram pickup models from 2017 and 2018:  1500, 2500 and 3500. Also included in the present recall are 3500, 4500 and 5500 Chassis Cab trucks. All of the pickup trucks involved in the recall have shifters on the steering column.