RAM Truck Rear View Camera Issue

If you own a 2022-2023 Ram 1500, 2022-2023 Ram 3500 Cab Chassis with GVWR less than 10,000 lbs., or a 2022-2024 Ram 2500 truck, there's a chance that your vehicle might be affected by a recent safety recall issued by FCA US, LLC (Chrysler). This recall concerns the radio software, which could lead to a failure in displaying the rear view backup image, potentially compromising rear visibility.

In June 2022, FCA US filed a Noncompliance Information Report for FCA US Recall ID Z47 (NHTSA campaign number 22V-407). This report highlighted a noncompliance issue in certain vehicles equipped with R1 Low radios. At that time, FCA US had no information to suggest that vehicles equipped with R1 High radios might be affected. However, in April 2023, the FCA US Technical Safety and Regulatory Compliance (TSRC) organization received notifications about a potential problem related to the rear view backup camera not displaying the rear view image in some 2022-2023 Ram Trucks with R1 High radios. This discovery prompted a thorough review of vehicle records and consultations with FCA US engineering to understand the issue better and identify the affected vehicle population. Subsequently, a safety recall was issued for the vehicles in question.

The main issue at hand is that during the failure, the driver may encounter a black or blank screen instead of the actual rear view camera view. This can significantly compromise the driver's ability to maneuver the vehicle safely, particularly during parking or backing up.

Dealerships will correct the problem by updating the radio software in affected vehicles. This update should resolve the rear view backup camera display problem and ensure that your RAM truck meets the Federal Motor Vehicle Safety Standards for rear visibility.

The Lemon Law and Your Rights

Now, you might be wondering, "What if my RAM truck has been repeatedly affected by this issue, and the dealership's attempts to fix it have been unsuccessful?" This is where the Lemon Law comes into play.

The Lemon Law is a consumer protection law designed to safeguard buyers of defective vehicles. If you believe your RAM truck is a lemon due to the recurring rear view backup camera issue or any other persistent problem that substantially impairs its use, value, or safety, you may have legal recourse.

Typically, the Lemon Law requires the vehicle manufacturer or dealership to repurchase or replace the defective vehicle if certain conditions are met. These conditions often include the number of repair attempts within a specified time frame or the cumulative days that the vehicle has been in the shop for repairs.

To initiate the Lemon Law process, it is essential to keep meticulous records of all repair attempts, invoices, and communications with the dealership or manufacturer. Consult an attorney with expertise in Lemon Law cases to guide you through the legal steps and ensure that your rights are protected.