NHTSA Complaint #11669540 — 2019 RAM 1500

The alternator failed suddenly and without warning, leaving me stranded on a road with no shoulder during 91°F heat. The vehicle lost electrical power and required a tow. This is not just a standard alternator,it’s a component of the eTorque mild hybrid system and requires both a specific part and a dealer reprogramming (flash) to function. After the incident, I learned that the part is on national backorder with more than 4,000 vehicles waiting, according to multiple dealers and service centers I’ve contacted. Ram has provided no reliable ETA, loaner, or support option. This is a critical failure that completely disables the vehicle and creates a dangerous safety situation, especially in high temperatures or in areas where pulling over safely is not an option. I was without air conditioning or any form of engine power while exposed to traffic and heat, and had to wait a prolonged time for a tow. This appears to be a widespread issue with Ram eTorque vehicles, particularly the alternator/starter-generator assembly. The required flash must be performed by a dealer, so no aftermarket or independent fix is currently viable. Ram has not issued a recall or taken accountability for this dangerous and increasingly common failure. I am filing this report to request investigation into the failure rate of these eTorque alternators, the supply chain delays that make timely repairs impossible, and the complete lack of contingency support or guidance for affected customers.