NHTSA Complaint #11648306 — 2013 RAM 1500

Upon starting the RAM 1500 on or about May 1, 2024, the electric power steering rack and pinion failed to operate. There was no steering assistance at all and it was extremely difficult to turn the steering wheel. The truck was not safely drivable. I observed a check engine light illuminated so I drove it carefully to a shop very close to my residence. The code indicated a failed power steering system but I do not recall the specific code. I contacted my local dealer for assistance. They indicated that since the vehicle was older than 10 yrs old, they did not offer any replacement steering racks or offer any service to the rack. They offered no alternative solution. I did some research, shopped around, and purchased a reconditioned rack and pinion for nearly $2,000. I installed the reconditioned electric rack and pinion assembly myself and power steering control returned as before. Since May 2024, the reconditioned power steering system has been functioning normally. The original rack and pinion is not covered under the limited previous recall. It's barcode reads - P68079506AG and TIC1393C5057 if this is helpful. I have carefully inspected the boots and seals of the unit and all appear very good ruling out any likelihood of water intrusion. Given my electrical engineering background and curiosity, I removed the cover from the circuit board and it does not show any visual damage. It's clean and dry inside. I purchased the truck brand new and it has been garage kept since purchase. It only had approximately 50,000 miles on it when it failed, therefore I am confident that there's a manufacturer defect or long term reliability issue with the electronic circuit design or components used in it that needs to be addressed.