Chrysler Recalls 242,780 Ram Trucks

Just the Facts:

• Chrysler is recalling 242,780 2003-'11 Dodge Ram trucks because a fracture of the left tie rod ball stud could occur, leading to a potential loss of directional stability, according to the NHTSA.
• The recalled trucks include the 2008-'11 Dodge Ram 2500/3500 4x4, 2008-'11 Dodge Ram 3500 Cab Chassis 4x2 and the 2008 Dodge Ram 1500 Mega Cab 4x4, as well as 2003-'08 Dodge Ram 2500/3500 trucks that may have received the affected tie rod assembly as a replacement part.
• Chrysler has not yet provided NHTSA with a schedule for the recall.

WASHINGTON — Chrysler is recalling 242,780 2003-'11 Dodge Ram trucks because a fracture of the left tie rod ball stud could occur, leading to a potential loss of directional stability, according to the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration.

The recalled trucks include the 2008-'11 Dodge Ram 2500/3500 4x4, 2008-'11 Dodge Ram 3500 Cab Chassis 4x2 and the 2008 Dodge Ram 1500 Mega Cab 4x4, as well as 2003-'08 Dodge Ram 2500/3500 trucks that may have received the affected tie rod assembly as a replacement part.

"The left tie rod ball stud may fracture," said NHTSA in its recalls summary of the defect. "This condition tends to occur during low-speed parking lot-type maneuvers when the customer is making a tight turn. This condition could result in the potential loss of directional stability in the left hand front wheel, increasing the risk of a crash."

"There have been a few minor accidents and one minor injury," wrote Vince Muniga, Chrysler spokesman, in response to an e-mailed query from Inside Line on Wednesday about the recall.

In other documentation filed with the federal government, Chrysler said this recall is linked to a January 2011 recall of Dodge Ram 4500/5500 trucks to replace the left outer tie rod.

In the current recall, Chrysler's documentation said "analysis of complaints revealed an unusual increase in reports of left outer tie rod ball studs fracturing."

Dodge dealers will inspect the tie rod ends for "relative orientation," said Chrysler. They will replace the left outer tie rod as required and perform a front end toe alignment as needed. Chrysler has not yet provided NHTSA with a schedule for the recall. Owners can contact Chrysler at 1-800-853-1403.

Inside Line says: If you own one of the aforementioned Dodge Ram trucks, be aware that a recall is in the works.