Here is the link to the USAToday breaking story....
Chrysler is recalling more than 242,000 Ram pickup trucks because of a problem that could cause a loss of steering control.
The recall affects 2008-2011 Ram
1500, 2500 and 3500 pickups. The Ram pickup is Chrysler's best-selling vehicle. Sine were sold as Dodges before the Ram truck brand was split off.
The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration says that a bad tie rod ball stud in the front steering system near the left wheel can fracture and cause loss of steering. It said the problem happens mainly at low speeds in tight turns "such as in parking lot type maneuvers," according to the NHTSA posting. Chrysler says it knows of only a few minor crashes and one minor injury.
The problem also can affect 2003-2008 Ram 2500 and 3500 heavy-duty models in which the same part was replaced by mechanics. Chrysler dealers will inspect the trucks and replace the left tie rod if needed.
Here are the specific models and build dates affected:
- 2008 Dodge Ram 1500 Mega Cab 4x4 built Feb. 14, 2008 to Aug. 15, 2008.
- 2008-2011 Dodge Ram 2500/3500 4x4 built Feb. 14, 2008 to March 28, 2011.
- 2008-2011 Dodge Ram 3500 Cab Chassis 4x2 built Feb. 14, 2008 to March 28, 2011.
- 2003-2008 Dodge Ram 2500/3500 that may have received the part during routine service.