NHTSA Complaint #11697878 — 2017 RAM 1500

The contact owns a 2017 Ram 1500. The contact stated that while driving at 65 MPH, the contact became aware that the transmission was shuddering. No warning lights were illuminated. The contact stated that while attempting to drive the vehicle to the shoulder of the road, the contact noticed a large piece of detached metal flying, which was part of the drive shaft. The contact stated that the transmission was severely shuddering. The contact proceeded to drive the vehicle to the shoulder of the road and saw another large piece of metal flying, which was another part of the drive shaft that had detached from the vehicle. The contact stated that the rear wheels locked up, and the shuddering was persistent. The vehicle was driven to the shoulder of the road. The contact and the passenger, who was seated in the front passenger's seat, exited the vehicle. The passenger noticed smoke coming from the vehicle ,but there was no fire. AAA was contacted, and the vehicle was towed to an independent mechanic where a diagnostic test was performed. The contact was informed that the rear differential, rear axle, transfer case, and other unknown parts needed to be replaced. The contact referenced NHTSA Campaign Number: 17V198000 (Power Train); however, the VIN was not included in the recall. The dealer was made aware of the failure. The contact was advised to contact the manufacturer to report the failure. The manufacturer was made aware of the failure, and a case was filed. The contact was informed that an inspector would be inspecting the vehicle, however the contact stated that the inspection was not performed. The failure mileage was approximately 53,300.