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RAM 1500 water intrusion defect class action overview:
- Who: A Ram 1500 driver is suing automaker FCA US
- Why: She says the company concealed a defect in the vehicles that allowed water to get in, causing foul odors and mold
- Where: Michigan federal court
FCA had long standing knowledge of a defect that caused water to enter some of its vehicles causing a bad odor and mold, but never told customers, a new class action lawsuit alleges.
Plaintiff Effie Johnson Norman filed the class action lawsuit against FCA US, LLC June 22 in a Michigan federal court alleging violations of federal warranty laws.
She’s looking to represent anyone who purchased or leased a Ram 1500 vehicle sold with a defect that allegedly allows water to enter the cabin, causing foul odors, mold or mildew, electrical system disruption, and rear cabin airbag contamination.
She says the cars are not adequately sealed, leading to water intrusion in the rear cabin.
The water destroys the interior of the vehicles, leaving permanent stain marks, foul odors, mold, and mildew, and contaminates and fouls the rear-cabin airbag and propellant, Norman says.
She says the defect can even short the vehicles’ electrical system such as the push-to-start ignition system, locks, windows and lights.
FCA allegedly knew about the defect
Norman says FCA has known about the defect since at least 2016 based on a flood of complaints and warranty claims.
“Nevertheless, FCA has never disclosed the Water Intrusion Defect; rather, it actively conceals it.”
FCA is also accused of neglecting to recall the vehicles or extend their warranties, leading to major out-of-pocket expenses for customers.
She’s looking to represent a nationwide Class of Ram 1500 owners, and an Alabama Subclass.
Norman is suing for breach of warranty and fraudulent omission and seeking certification of the class action, damages, fees, costs and a jury trial.
The news comes after more than 370,000 Dodge and Ram vehicles were recalled because their electronic stability control (ESC) warning lights might not illuminate even if there is a problem.
Have you had this issue in your vehicle? Let us know in the comments!
The plaintiff is represented by The Miller Law Firm, P.C., Beasley, Allen Crow Methvin, Portis & Miles, P.C. and Dicello Levitt Gutzler LLC.
The Ram 1500 Class Action Lawsuit is Effie Johnson Norman, v. FCA US, LLC, Case No. 2:22-cv-11393-TGB-CI in the U.S. District Court Eastern District of Michigan.
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694 thoughts onRAM 1500 class action alleges vehicles have water intrusion defect
2016 same issue rear window and 3rd brake light replaced still leaks
2019 Ram 1500 Laramie Longhorn. Had to have third brake light replaced and sealed due to leakage. Dealer covered this but wouldn’t replace stained headliner.
Have a 2020 RAM 1500 Big Horn. 49,000 miles. My rear window randomly shattered into pieces a few weeks ago just by opening the front door to get in the truck.
Turns out, I have mildew and water stains in the inside of the cab, meaning water somehow was leaking in the cab either through the 3rd brake light or the antenna.
Thank goodness for glass coverage insurance for the repair, but I still have the stain on the interior. Located in MN
My 2017 Ram also has issues with the warning lights, especially when it rains or snows, like the condensation puts the electrical on a fritz. And the smell of mildew.
I had my rear window replaced in my 2021 Ram for the leak issue. I’m concerned that electrical components may have been compromised. I’m in FL. Can I be included in the suit?
Have a 2013 and I have the same problem
Had the water issue leaking in the through a busted seal and my son had a horrible reaction to the mold and mildew. Spent thousands of dollars at two different dermatologist. Had to hire an attorney to actually get the dealership we bought the truck from to completely tear out the interior floor, seats and dash to clean it all out. Dealer had the truck for almost 3 months. It was a 1500 Dodge Ram. Never could get the smell of the mold & mildew to go away,.
2014 Ram 1500, water intrusion down back glass soaked carpeting with mildew smell. Found loose screw on 3rd brake light, removed lens and caulked, reinstalled lens.
2021 my 2018 ram truck was totaled out because of mold. Dealership wouldn’t even work with me.
2014 same issues