Stellantis Faces Lawsuit for Alleged Costly Steering Flaw in Ram 1500
The Lawsuit
Fiat Chrysler Automobiles US is currently facing a proposed class action lawsuit claiming that 2013-2024 Ram 1500 pickups are equipped with defective electric power steering (EPS) units that are prone to sudden failure. The lawsuit alleges that the automaker has been denying the widespread issue to avoid costly repairs.
The Allegations
The lawsuit argues that the EPS units in the Ram 1500 can fail unexpectedly while driving, resulting in a loss of steering control. Stellantis, the parent company of Ram, is accused of ignoring thousands of complaints about power steering issues and insisting that their vehicles are defect-free, except for a few isolated cases in 2016 and 2019 models.
NHTSA Investigation
The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration’s Office of Defects Investigation started probing power steering loss issues in 2013-2016 Ram 1500s in August of last year. The investigation highlighted a significant gap between FCA’s recalls for power steering loss and the increasing number of consumer complaints.
Potential Risks
If the EPS unit fails, the steering becomes stiff and difficult to turn, increasing the risk of accidents and loss of control. The lawsuit claims that millions of owners and lessees are unaware of the defect, putting them at risk of serious injury.
Repair Costs
Owners who have experienced an EPS unit failure in their Ram 1500s typically face repair bills ranging from $3,000 to $4,000. The EPS motor and control module are affixed to the steering rack and pinion, requiring the replacement of the entire rack and pinion if the system fails.
Plaintiffs
The lawsuit is filed by plaintiffs Nancy Ludwig and Joseph Spillane. Ludwig purchased a 2016 Ram 1500 in 2020 without being informed about the EPS issue. Her vehicle experienced power steering failure, resulting in a repair bill of $4,484. Spillane bought his 2013 Ram 1500 in 2024, and its EPS unit failed, costing him approximately $2,800 for repairs.
