Issue ID | 996715 |
Internal NHTSA # | 10525871 |
Manufacurer | Chrysler Group LLC |
Brand | DODGE |
Model | RAM VAN |
Model Year | 1998 |
File date | 19/07/13 |
Component | STEERING |
Product type code | VEHICLE |
Description of the problem | Some dodge ram vans have a latent defect in the frame that is very dangerous. As far as i can tell, there is no recall even though the internet is littered with complaints, incidents and accidents due to failure of the frame in one spot. I believe that the ac runoff is vented directly into the frame which, over time results in the eventual failure of the frame at the point where the suspension and steering are located - this results in loss of control of the vehicle. There is no easy way to correct this problem short of replacing the whole frame. Dodge denies that this is a problem and blames this defect on road salt and conditions. This would be a valid assertion if the rest of the vehicle had rot problems elsewhere on the vehicle. Including the much more volatile body parts, which are in some cases, still solid and in good condition. This problem is prevalent in several years of this model truck. This problem is easy to check for and needs to be addressed by dodge simply because the vans are getting older and this problem will be occurring more frequently. |
Vehicle Mileage at Failure | 161000 |
Number of Occurences | 1 |
Source of the issue | NHTSA WEB SITE |
City and State | DUNMORE, PA |
VIN pattern | 2B6HB11X8WKXXXXXX |
Was vehicle invloved in a crash? | N |
Was vehicle involved in a fire? | N |
Was incedent reported to police? | N |
Was medical attention required? | |
Was part original equipment? | |
No. of injured persons | 0 |
No. of fatalities | 0 |
Date of purchase | 03/07/24 |
Was original owner? | N |
Anti-lock brakes | N |
Cruise control | N |
Number of cylinders | 6 |
Drive train type | |
Transmission type | |
Vehicle speed | 0 |
DoT tire identifier | |
Tire size | |
Location of tire code | |
Type of tire failure code | |
Was defective tire repaired? | |
Date of manufacture | |
Type of child seat code | |
Type of restraint | |
Dealer's name | |
Dealer's telephone number | |
Dealer's city | |
Dealer's state code | |
Dealer's ZIP code |