Steering Tie Rod Assembly problems of the 2005 Dodge Ram 1500

The contact owns a 2005 Dodge Ram 1500. While driving approximately 45 mph over a pothole, the steering column and front end of the vehicle began to vibrate violently. The vehicle was taken to an independent mechanic where both the front passenger and driver side tie rods and shocks were replaced. The failure recurred two weeks after the vehicle was serviced. The mechanic stated that the steering column assembly and other related components would need to be replaced. The vehicle was not repaired. The manufacturer was notified of the failure. The approximate failure mileage was 100,000.

The contact owns a 2005 Dodge Ram 1500. While driving approximately 2 mph and making a turn, the steering wheel seized. The engine was turned off and resumed normal operation after it was restarted. The vehicle was taken to an independent mechanic, where the tie rod was replaced. The contact was uncertain of the location of the faulty tie rod. The failure persisted after the repair was performed. The vehicle was not repaired for the most recent failure. In 2011, the vehicle was also serviced for a steering failure; however, the replacement part was unknown. The manufacturer was not notified of the failure. The failure mileage was unavailable.

The contact owns a 2005 Dodge Ram 1500. The contact stated that she would hear a rumbling noise coming from the front driver side tire when driving at various speeds. The vehicle was taken to an independent repair shop where the contact was informed that the front driver side tie rod needed to be replaced. The vehicle was repaired. The failure recurred approximately three months later. The vehicle was taken back to the independent repair shop where the front driver's side tie rod was again replaced. The failure recurred approximately two years later. The vehicle was not yet taken to be repaired. The manufacturer was made aware of the failure but offered no assistance. The contact was also informed of a recall but the recall only pertained to later model year vehicles. The failure mileage was 40,883 and the current mileage was 80,000.

At 37,000 miles I lost control of my 2005 Dodge Ram 1500 truck and went off the road. I could not readily explain the reason but I assumed I had dropped off onto a low shoulder. After getting the body repaired I was told that the tie rods on my 2005 Dodge truck were "severely" warn and needed to be replaced. It was a condition that was not noticed by the dealers at the 30k or 34k service. There is a service notice on a improperly tightened nut but I am not sure if it is related. Steering is a safety system on a car. The change to permanently lubricated linkages is creating premature wear resulting in unexpected unsafe situations. Dodge should be required to cover steering in their warranty and extended warranty and/or return to a serviceable party. I believe these tie rods are inappropriately designed for this application and pose a serious safety risk to the occupants.