Almost 1.2M Ram Trucks Investigated Over Roll-Away Fears

Here at UTV Driver, we use a variety of Ram trucks to haul our rigs and equipment all over creation. So heads up if you own a 2013–2018 Dodge Ram 1500, 2500, 2500, 3500, 4500, or 5500 model with a classic column shifter. An investigation (not a recall yet) is underway into continuing transmission issues with the listed models. There is a risk said vehicle(s) could roll away unintentionally, as the shifter might shift without the brake pedal. Approximately 1.2 million Ram pickups are potentially affected by this issue, which comes on the heels of two recalls on 2500 and 3500 models for the same reason.

The issue is the BTSI (Brake Transmission Shift Interlock) locking pin, located in the steering column. It’s a simple solenoid switch, activated by the brake pedal. When working correctly, it prevents the shifter being used unless the brake is activated and the key is in the ignition. It’s been found to jam or get stuck, preventing unintended gearshifts when the car is parked. The classic scenario would be your dog in the cab, excited to see you and accidentally knocking the shifter into neutral and a mishap ensuing.

In any case, it’s a ubiquitous feature with automatic transmissions dating back to the early ’90s. For those who like to wrench and play doctor inside your truck, the initial recalls also included a reprogram of the body control module. The solenoid itself is obviously mechanical in nature, with moving parts with finite lifespans, but there’s no immediate word on whether the solenoid, pin mechanism, or reprogramming itself is to blame. Check the above picture for location if you take an interest in your truck’s innards.

The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) has received seven reported injuries from six incidents on trucks previously recalled for the same reason, but no fatalities. As mentioned above, this is the NHTSA investigating whether another recall is warranted, not an actual recall yet. But if you own one of the models affected, it might be worth a little driveway testing or quality control.

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