| Subject: | Rear differential failure |
| Components covered: |
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| Investigations Summary: |
Note: this investigation has resulted in
a vehicle safety recall. The office of defects investigation has received 12 complaints alleging rear differential failures resulting in rear wheel lock-up in model year (my) 2009 through 2010 Dodge ram 1500 pickup trucks. The complaints allege failures at various speeds with eight of the incidents reporting failures at speeds of 35 mph or greater. Four of the complaints involving higher speed incidents allege that the failure resulted in a loss of control (e. G. , vehicle spin, skid or yaw), including one resulting in a crash into a concrete barrier. One complaint reports that the failure was caused by loosening of the rear differential pinion nut. Most of the complaints allege that the failure resulted in drive shaft failure including one that reported the detached shaft end punctured the fuel tank. A preliminary evaluation has been opened to assess the scope, frequency and potential safety consequences of the alleged defect. |
| Vehicles Affected by this investigation: |
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