Ram 2500 and 3500 recalled for BTSI locking pin fault

A RECALL has been issued for 2014-2018 Ram 2500 (DJ) and 3500 (D2) pick-ups due to a fault with the vehicle’s Brake Transmission Shift Interlock (BTSI) locking pin.

- Click here for the VIN list of affected vehicles (MY14/15/16).

- Click here for the VIN list of affected vehicles (MY17/18).

The vehicles in question were sold nationally between January 1, 2014, and December 31, 2017, through authorised RAM dealers.

What’s the issue? There’s a chance the pin may become stuck in the open position, which “may allow the transmission to be shifted out of PARK into any gear position without depression of the brake pedal and/or without the key in the ignition, if a key is applicable”.

The recall report indicates that “the ability to shift the transmission out of PARK position without a key in the ignition or brake pedal application increases the potential for an unintended vehicle rollaway that may increase the risk of a crash and/or occupant injury”.

A letter will be sent in the mail to owners of affected MY17/18 models, where they’ll be advised to contact an authorised RAM dealer for inspection and a software fix. For owners of MY14/15/16 models, the rectification will be available in June 2018.

The report advised that “vehicle performance is not altered and [the vehicle] can be driven as normal. The rectification is a running change to make the vehicle safer overall”.

Earlier this week another recall was issued for the Ram 2500 and 3500 due to a faulty water pump.