Wirtz Law Blog

This year, the Japanese Ministry of Land, Infrastructure, Transport, and Tourism began an investigation into more than 600,000 large Ram diesel trucks. According to a report, the investigative bureau has received more than 22 complaints about the 2019 and 2020 models of these trucks.

Reportedly, the problem comes down to a loss of power that happens when the vehicles reach speeds of 25 mph or greater. In some cases, the loss of power is permanent. Naturally, this poses a significant safety risk to the public if the claims are true.

Up until recently, this investigation was unknown to the public, although the investigation started on October 14th. The primary goals of the investigation are:

• To discover how widespread the issue is
• To determine what is causing the alleged defect
• To identify any potential safety issues resulting from the defect

In the coming weeks and months, we can expect to learn more about the alleged defect and how this investigation will affect the owners of large Ram trucks. For now, here is a guide to the things that are currently known about the issue.

The Defect Affects the Trucks’ Fuel Pumps

According to a corresponding lawsuit made by eight owners of the affected trucks, the defect comes down to the trucks’ fuel pumps. In fact, in 2019, Fiat Chrysler Automobiles issued a warranty bulletin to dealerships that were selling certain Ram trucks. 

According to this bulletin, the affected trucks were supplied with a fuel pump from an unknown manufacturer. Here is a list of the trucks that are purported to be affected:

• Ram 2500
• Ram 3500
• Ram 4500
• Ram 5500

All trucks are categorized as heavy-duty vehicles and were manufactured between 2018 and 2020.

Here’s Why Your Fuel Pump Matters

The fuel pump is a relatively small piece of equipment, and it’s not one you hear about often. Still, it plays a very important role and can even affect your vehicle’s ability to start and run. 

The fuel pump moves a vehicle’s fuel from the tank to the engine. Along the way, it ensures that the proper pressure and volume are maintained for optimum efficiency. It even filters the fuel before it reaches the engine.

Apparently, the problem with the fuel pumps in the trucks listed above comes down to their compatibility with American diesel fuel. Because this fuel is thinner, the fuel pumps are unable to filter out small metal shavings. As a result, the fuel injectors and engines were damaged catastrophically. 

Reportedly, the damages are estimated to be around $10,000 or more per vehicle. 

Know When to Call an Attorney About Manufacturer Defects

When you purchase a new vehicle, you assume that it will get you to your destination safely and reliably. As the Ram truck investigation indicates, this is not always the case.

While no harmful injuries have been reported yet as a result of the fuel pump defect, the use, value and safety of your vehicle can be substantially impaired by this defect.  If you find yourself in this kind of situation, you may be entitled to a repurchase or replacement of your RAM truck under California’s Lemon Law.  You may also be entitled to civil penalties which are additional damages above the buyback amount for returning your truck.

Under California’s Lemon Law, if a manufacturer can not fix a defect after a reasonable number of attempts, which can be as few as two, then you may have a claim for a buyback.  The defects in your RAM truck do not appear to have a fix.  If you are tired of repeatedly bringing in your RAM truck without a fix, you may have a lemon.  

Call Us When You Need Legal Guidance

Our attorneys are happy to discuss California lemon laws, the Ram investigation, or any other law-related topic. If you believe that your vehicle has a defective part, get in touch right away. 

For more information call the experienced trial attorneys at (858) 259-5009 for a free case evaluation.