Recall Issued for Ram Trucks Over Potentially Misleading Brake Warning Lights

Advertisements

Chrysler (FCA US, LLC) is initiating a voluntary safety recall for a significant number of its 2026 model year Ram 2500, 3500, 4500, and 5500 vehicles due to an issue with the instrument panel cluster (IPC). The affected vehicles may have been equipped with an incorrect 3.5-inch IPC that displays a generic ISO symbol for the brake system warning light, rather than the required “BRAKE” text. This discrepancy could lead to drivers not understanding the severity of a brake system problem, potentially increasing the risk of a crash. The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) has assigned recall number 25V530 to this campaign.

Article continues after these messages…

While other outlets focus on getting quotes from politicians who don't even live in our congressional district, we're focused on providing the hard-hitting truths and facts without political spin. We don't lock our news behind a paywall, will you help us keep it that way? If you're tired of news sweetened with confirmation bias, consider becoming a monthly supporter. But if you're not, that's fine too—we're confident in our mission and will be here if you decide you're ready for the truth. Just $5/month helps fund our local reporting, live election night coverage, and more.

Become a paid supporter for reduced ad experience!

The recall encompasses a total of 2,885 vehicles, with the defect estimated to be present in 100% of the affected population. Specifically, 352 units of the 2026 Ram 3500 are included, with production dates ranging from July 4, 2025, to July 31, 2025. Additionally, 69 units of the 2026 Ram 3500 Cab Chassis are part of this recall, with production occurring between April 3, 2025, and July 31, 2025. The largest segment of the recall involves 2,453 units of the 2026 Ram 2500, produced from May 6, 2025, to July 31, 2025. Finally, 11 units of the 2026 Ram 4500/5500 Cab Chassis, produced from April 4, 2025, to July 31, 2025, are also affected. The issue stems from the incorrect IPCs being installed during manufacturing, with the specific components supplied by Marelli North America Inc. The vehicles in question were built with instrument panel clusters that do not comply with Federal Motor Vehicle Safety Standard (FMVSS) No. 101, which mandates that brake system malfunction telltales display the word “Brake” in red.

The investigation into this issue began on August 7, 2025, when FCA US LLC’s Technical Safety and Regulatory Compliance organization initiated a review of the affected vehicles. Following meetings with engineering and manufacturing teams, it was determined on August 8, 2025, that a vehicle build issue existed. By August 11, 2025, FCA US confirmed that a potential noncompliance with FMVSS No. 101 was present in certain vehicles. The manufacturer has stated that there were no prior warnings to customers regarding this condition.

To address the problem, Chrysler will replace the incorrect instrument panel cluster in all affected vehicles. This remedy involves installing an IPC with the correct telltales as required by federal standards. While the recall is described as an assembly issue rather than a component defect, the remedy ensures that the vehicles will meet all safety regulations. Chrysler plans to notify dealers of the recall on or about August 26, 2025, and owners will begin receiving notification letters on or about September 25, 2025. Vehicle identification numbers (VINs) will be searchable for recall status starting August 26, 2025. Owners are advised to park affected vehicles outside due to the nature of the defect.

Article by Mel Anara, based upon information from Chrysler (FCA US, LLC)

Do you believe we got something wrong? Please read our publishing standards and corrections policy.