Dodge drivers eligible for up to $3575 cash payment in ‘defect’ settlement

Drivers of Dodge Ram 1500 EcoDiesel trucks have the opportunity to receive a cash payment as part of a recent class-action settlement. FCA US, a branch of Stellantis, has agreed to compensate Dodge drivers for an undisclosed sum to address claims of a defect in some Dodge Ram 1500 EcoDiesel trucks.

The lawsuit alleges that certain models of the Dodge Ram 1500 EcoDiesel trucks were equipped with faulty exhaust gas recirculation coolers that have the potential to initiate engine fires. Although FCA US has settled this claim, they have not admitted any responsibility or wrongdoing on their part.

Qualified individuals who owned or leased a Dodge Ram 1500 EcoDiesel produced between 2014 and 2019 are entitled to participate in the settlement. The vehicles in question must have been manufactured within the dates of June 12, 2013, and October 23, 2019, to be eligible for this resolution.

The defective coolers in these trucks are reported to develop cracks and leaks, potentially leading to combustion within the intake manifold and resulting in engine fires. Under the settlement agreement, members of the class action can take advantage of a warranty extension covering all repairs necessary for a faulty cooler within a five-year period from the replacement date. Drivers who had to bear the costs of replacing a defective cooler within five years of the recall can receive reimbursements for these expenses.

Moreover, additional expenses incurred due to EGR cooler malfunctions will also be refunded to drivers. The settlement provides for up to $750,000 to cover costs related to tow trucks, rental cars, and coolant expenditures. Refunds for rental cars are limited to $500 per vehicle, while coolant refunds are capped at $75 per truck. In the case of an engine fire resulting from the cooler failure, affected drivers could receive $3,000 from this settlement fund, provided they can demonstrate ownership of the vehicle and the occurrence of the vehicle fire due to cooler malfunctions.

It is imperative for Dodge drivers who wish to avail of this settlement to ensure they meet the necessary requirements and submit a claim form by May 16 to be included in the payment distribution.

In summary, drivers of Dodge Ram 1500 EcoDiesel trucks who own or lease vehicles from the mentioned years have the opportunity to receive financial compensation for potential defects within their vehicles, with the possibility of up to $3,575 in cash payments. This settlement serves as a resolution to address reported issues with faulty exhaust gas recirculation coolers and their impact on engine performance and safety concerns.