by Investigating a Widespread Issue
U.S. federal safety agencies have turned their attention to a potential steering issue affecting a significant number of Ram vehicles. The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration has initiated an investigation into nearly 140,000 vehicles of this brand after receiving 19 complaints about intermittent or complete failure of the power steering assist.
If the system fails, significantly more effort may be required to steer the vehicle. This increases the risk of an accident, and the preliminary investigation aims to examine the scope of the problem and its root cause.
Models Under Scrutiny
The investigation focuses on the 2022 Ram 3500 pickup truck, as well as the 2022-2023 ProMaster van. Approximately 136,666 vehicles may be involved, but no accidents or injuries have been reported so far.
Little is currently known about the problem, but several reports indicate that the power steering failure may be related to moisture intrusion. It is reportedly occurring in the Electric Power Steering (EPS) control module connectors, which would be a logical explanation.
Owner Complaints
Delving into the details, one complainant from Ohio claimed that the steering wheel on his 2023 ProMaster “locked up and began moving erratically, leading to a loss of control and reduced steerability.” An Illinois resident filed a similar complaint about his 2022 ProMaster, stating that the “steering wheel constantly locks up,” and he is unable to turn at low speeds.
A driver from Michigan reported that his 2022 ProMaster “randomly” loses power steering assist. He claimed this happens at both high and low speeds, as well as while reversing.
Problem Without Warning
In another case, a fleet van from St. Louis reportedly experienced a loss of power steering assist while driving at various speeds. No warning indicator illuminated, and the dealer reportedly could not replicate the issue.
In a separate incident, a driver reported the power steering failed without warning while driving on the highway. The van was inspected, and the owner was reportedly told that corrosion was found because “water got into the steering rack and wiring harness.”
Complaints continue to come in, but hopefully, the investigation will determine exactly what is wrong and find a resolution.
Potential steering problems in such massive vehicles as cargo vans and pickup trucks always cause serious concern due to safety implications. While no accidents have been recorded so far, the nature of the complaints—particularly the description of sudden steering lock-ups at speed—points to a critical malfunction that requires immediate clarification. The manufacturer will likely have to not only find a technical solution for the affected models but also review the processes for protecting electrical components from moisture for future generations of vehicles. For owners of the involved vehicles, it is important to be cautious and monitor official announcements regarding possible recalls or repair procedures.
