We previously reported back in February about cabin exhaust fumes in 2014-2015 model year Ram 1500 EcoDiesels making drivers nauseated. Well, due to the higher-than-anticipated number of complaints about the issue, Fiat Chrysler Automobiles has issued a voluntary recall of all affected vehicles.
What's at fault is a defective exhaust coupling, according to Eric Mayne, FCA media relations manager for safety, regulatory affairs and engineering. Ram worked with the EPA to issue the recall, which will affect about 3,000 vehicles.
"This is a voluntary emissions recall initiated by FCA US LLC in full compliance with EPA regulations," Mayne says. "Tests have confirmed there is no safety issue. Affected customers will be notified when they may schedule service, which will be performed at no cost."
Because Ram initiated the recall themselves, the EPA doesn't issue one unless they determine that Ram has failed to do all it can to rectify the situation.
"The Ram recall was initiated by the manufacturer, and they have alerted EPA as required," says EPA spokeswoman Christie St. Clair. "They are following the expected practice of recalling to fix a problem they found themselves."
After identiftying the problem in the existing exhaust coupling, Ram has developed a new one and will begin shipping them to dealers shortly.
"An exhaust-system coupling may crack because of a resonance specific to Ram 1500 pickups with 4x2 drivelines," Mayne continues. "There is no issue with the powertrain, and tests have confirmed there is no safety hazard."
Affected owners will receive a letter directly from Ram outling the problem and detailing what they need to do to get it resolved. Owners must bring the vehicle in themselves, but the repair will be completed free of charge.
(Source)