Recall 11V350000: L/H Tie Rod Ball Stud Fracturing

VEHICLE MAKE/MODEL: MODEL YEAR(S):

Dodge/RAM 1500 2008

Dodge/RAM 2500 2003-2011

Dodge/RAM 3500 2003-2011

MANUFACTURER: Chrysler Group LLC.

MFR'S REPORT DATE: July 06, 2011

NHTSA CAMPAIGN ID NUMBER: 11V350000

NHTSA ACTION NUMBER: PE11009

COMPONENT: Steering: Linkages: Tie Rod Assembly

POTENTIAL NUMBER OF UNITS AFFECTED: 242,780

SUMMARY:
Chrysler is recalling certain model year 2008-2011 Dodge RAM 2500/3500 4X4, manufactured from February 14, 2008, through March 28, 2011; model year 2008-2011 Dodge RAM 3500 Cab Chassis 4X2, manufactured from February 14, 2008, through March 28, 2011; and model year 2008 Dodge RAM 1500 Mega Cab 4X4, manufactured from February 14, 2008, through August 15, 2008. Because the left tie rod ball stud may fracture.. This condition tends to occur during low speed parking lot type maneuvers when the customer is making a tight turn. Additionally, model year 2003-2008 Dodge RAM 2500/3500 vehicles may have received the affected tie rod assembly as a replacement part during normal service.

CONSEQUENCE:
This condition could result in the potential loss of directional stability in the left hand front wheel, increasing the risk of a crash.

REMEDY:
Dealers will inspect the tie rod ends for relative orientation and replace the left outer tie rod as required and perform a front end toe alignment as needed. This service will be performed free of charge. The manufacturer has not yet provided an owner notification schedule. Owners may contact Chrysler at 1-800-853-1403.

NOTES:
Chrysler safety recall No. L16. Owners may also contact The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration's Vehicle Safety Hotline at 1-888-327-4236 (TTY 1-800-424-9153), or go to http://www.safercar.gov.