Ram 1500 Classic, 2500, and 3500 Pickup Recalls

Known for their quality, design, and standout features, Ram trucks are a popular brand of pickups. However, a serious safety issue has recently been identified concerning the airbag inflators in several Ram models. These defective airbags have led to a Ram recall affecting 212,373 vehicles nationwide.

If you own a truck that has been subject to a Ram recall, you may be wondering if you purchased a lemon. Although the Ram recall might be a hassle for owners, not every recalled truck is a lemon. Regardless of whether your vehicle is a lemon or not, it’s crucial to be aware that consumers have rights — and you may be legally entitled to a remedy for your defective vehicle.

What is a Vehicle Recall?

A recall can be issued by either the vehicle manufacturer or the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) when it has been determined there is a condition that creates an unreasonable safety risk to a driver and their passengers. Recalls may also occur if some aspect of the vehicle fails to meet minimum safety standards.

In the event that a vehicle has been recalled, a manufacturer must repair the defect or replace the defective part at no cost to the consumer. In some instances, they may even be required to offer a refund. Manufacturers notify registered vehicle owners by mail of any recalls affecting their cars.

What Vehicles Are Affected By the Ram Recall?

According to automaker Stellantis, the problem leading to the Ram recall concerns a defective inflator, which could cause the side curtain airbag to explode. Unlike the vehicles affected by the massive Takata airbag recall, the Ram airbags were not made with the chemical ammonium nitrate. However, the airbags were reportedly contaminated by moisture during the manufacturing process which could result in rupturing — regardless of a crash or deployment. The automaker has reported one instance of a ruptured airbag that did not result in injury.

The Ram airbag recall includes the following vehicles:

• 2015-2020 Ram 2500
• 2015-2020 Ram 3500
• 3500 Cab Chassis Trucks
• The Ram Classic

Specifically, the issue concerns inflators that were installed in the side curtain airbags between April 2015 and June 2020. The 2019-2021 Ram 1500 is not part of the Ram recall.

Does the Ram Recall Make Your Truck a Lemon?

If a recall affecting your vehicle was issued by the manufacturer — or the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration — it doesn’t always mean you have a lemon. Usually, the issue that gives rise to a vehicle recall can be repaired on the first attempt. In order for a vehicle to qualify as a lemon in California, the defect must be one that cannot be repaired after several reasonable attempts.

California’s Lemon Law allows consumers their choice of a replacement vehicle or buyback if their vehicle fails to conform to the manufacturer’s warranty. But in order to invoke the lemon law, the manufacturer must be given two to four repair opportunities, depending upon the severity of the issue — or the vehicle must have been in the repair shop for a total of 30 days or more and was not repaired.

A vehicle is presumed to be a lemon if a problem arose substantially impairing its value or safety within the first 18 months of delivery, or the initial 18,000 miles were driven. Under the lemon law, a consumer has four years from the date the defect is discovered to file a lawsuit.

What Can You Do if Your Ram Has Been Recalled?

Once you have received notice that your Ram vehicle was affected by the recall, it’s crucial to bring your truck to an authorized dealership to be remedied. The Ram recall repair is fairly straightforward and involves replacing the faulty airbags with new ones. Owners will not incur any charges for the fix.

If you did not receive a letter advising you of the Ram recall but think your truck may be among those that are affected, you can enter your VIN on the NHTSA website — the search option returns all open recalls and discloses unrepaired vehicles impacted by a safety recall within the prior 15 years. Ram owners can also contact the manufacturer for additional information at (800) 853- 1403.

Contact an Experienced Southern California Lemon Law Attorney

A vehicle that fails to conform to its warranty can significantly inconvenience owners and present serious safety risks. If you purchased a Ram truck or any other type of vehicle with a defect that cannot be repaired, it’s best to consult with a knowledgeable lemon law attorney who can advise you regarding your legal rights and remedies. The attorneys at The Ledbetter Law Firm provide dedicated counsel and effective advocacy for consumers who have bought lemon vehicles in California — and help them secure the compensation they deserve.

The Ledbetter Law Firm works with clients throughout Southern California who have purchased lemons and assists them with obtaining the refund or replacement vehicle to which they are entitled from the manufacturer. With offices conveniently located in Torrance and San Diego, California, telephone and video conferencing options are also available. Call (310) 878-0067 to schedule a consultation with a California Lemon Law attorney today.