2019-2020 RAM 3500, 4500 and 5500 Engine Compartment Fires

In March 2021, the FCA Vehicle Safety and Regulatory Compliance received reports of certain RAM 3500, 4500 and 5500 trucks built with Cummins 6.7L high output engines experiencing engine compartment fires. An investigation revealed 4 customer assistance records, 56 warranty claims, and 56 field reports potentially related to this problem. The FCA has decided to issue a recall affecting approximately 32,000 2019-2020 RAM 3500, 4500 and 5500 Cab Chassis trucks.

According to the defect report, the suspect period began when Cummins 6.7L High Output engines were manufactured with an inadequate oil life monitoring system. (The suspect population was determined using engine manufacturing and vehicle production records.) If the oil monitoring does not give adequate warning of oil consumption, the level could fall below acceptable levels. If this happens the main bearings will not get lubrication and will eventually deteriorate until the engine is damaged. The problem could lead to a punctured block and an engine fire.

Drivers may notice an abnormal engine noise immediately after a connecting rod failure before a fire can occur.

Owners receiving notices will be asked to return to their dealerships to update the engine calibration software to include enhanced oil life monitoring. The new engine calibration includes oil life monitoring based on fuel consumption in addition to mileage and/or hours in service and will notify the customer when applicable.

FCA US LLC's number for this recall is Y21 and the NHTSA campaign number is 21V-439.