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AEV lift kit on Ram trucks can break steering link

NHTSA campaign 18E096000 · Reported 2018-10-16 · Streetcar ORV LLC

critical How serious is it? About this label

This is serious — a broken steering link means you lose steering with no warning, so arrange the free repair right away even though the notice does not order owners to park the truck.

What's wrong, in plain English

This recall covers certain AEV 3-inch Dualsport suspension lift kits (part numbers N0436000 and N0436001) installed on 2013-2018 Ram 2500 and 3500HD trucks. When the kit was installed, the truck's original steering knuckle was machined and fitted incorrectly. That weakens the joint where the steering drag link attaches. The weakened joint can break apart, and you would lose the ability to steer. Dealers will inspect the truck and install a new steering knuckle, free of charge. The recall began December 3, 2018.

What you should do

1. Look up your VIN at nhtsa.gov/recalls to confirm your truck is affected. 2. Call AEV customer service at 1-248-926-0256, extension 500, to set up an inspection. 3. Have the new steering knuckle installed — parts and labor are free.

Affected vehicles (2)

2018 RAM 2500
2018 RAM 3500

Who to contact

RAM — official RAM recall lookup

Customer service: 1-800-853-1403

Any franchised dealer for the brand can do the repair. Phone numbers are taken from manufacturer sites and recent NHTSA notices; if one has changed, the number in your own recall letter is the one to use.

The bigger picture

What steering problems are Ram trucks and vans recalled for? · all 7 RAM recalls in this area

Official notice

Component: STEERING:LINKAGES
Summary: Streetcar ORV LLC (Streetcar) is recalling certain American Expedition Vehicles (AEV) 3" Dualsport aftermarket suspension kits, part numbers N0436000 and N0436001, sold for installation on 2013-2018 RAM 2500 and 3500HD trucks. Improper installation and machining of the original equipment steering knuckle may weaken the joint between the steering drag link and knuckle.
Safety risk: The weakened connection may result in a fractured steering drag link, causing a loss of steering and increasing the risk of a crash.
Remedy: Streetcar will notify owners and dealers will inspect and install a new steering knuckle, free of charge. The recall began December 3, 2018. Owners may contact AEV customer service at 1-248-926-0256, extension 500.

Verify your specific vehicle by VIN at nhtsa.gov. Recall repairs are free of charge by law.