Stellantis Recalls Ram Trucks and Jeep Models Over Trailer Tow Module Defect

Stellantis has issued a major safety recall on 456,287 Ram trucks and Jeep SUVs after discovering a fault with the Trailer Brake & Towing Control module. Registered on 2 February 2026 and numbered 26V059, the defect can cause trailer turn signals and stop lamps to malfunction and stop working. If a trailer brake system is installed on the vehicle it can also cause the trailer brake system to malfunction and stop working. This presents a potentially deadly on-road safety risk when pulling caravans, work trailers and large caravans, especially over long distances or up hills. The recall applies to eight different models including the Jeep Wagoneer S, 2026 Jeep Cherokee and various Ram models.

This recall underscores that vehicles with general performance, safety, or comfort features still rely on accurate towing devices. Stellantis will replace the malfunctioning module with an improved one at no cost to the owner, a solution which allows the basic trailer light and brake functions to be recovered. Owners should determine if their vehicle is impacted by entering their 17-digit vehicle identification number on the NHTSA website and then scheduling a repair appointment with a local authorised dealer. All impacted vehicle owners should refrain from towing trailers until the module replacement has been performed.

1. Stellantis Announces a Major Recall Affecting Ram and Jeep Vehicles

Truck and SUV drivers rely on their electronic and mechanical vehicles to be in top shape when hauling cargo. Chrysler issued a recall of certain vehicles with a defective trailer tow module affecting trailer braking and lighting capability. The recall, filed with the NHTSA as 26V059 on 2 February 2026, affects 456,287 vehicles across eight model lines, and according to federal records, has a 100% failure rate. The defective part is the Trailer Brake & Towing Control unit, and could be installed in certain vehicles as early as 27 September 2023. Drivers are recommended to have their vehicles checked for the recall defect and to refrain from towing until their vehicle is repaired.

Key Facts Behind the Major Recall:

• Recall filed on 2 February 2026
• Official recall number 26V059
• Total of 456,287 vehicles affected
• Eight Ram and Jeep model lines
• Reported defect rate reaches 100%

The recall underscores the necessity of reliable workhorse vehicles when towing. Should the trailer tow module malfunction, it can result in drivers losing vital lighting and braking capabilities to maneuver and telegraph other drivers about the company’s status. The issue covers both beloved Ram trucks and select vehicles from Jeep, including a model from the automotive company’s fledgling electric lineup, as well as one of Jeep’s newest offerings, a Cherokee. While a significant number of vehicles from both OEMs are affected, the problem stems from a specific component rather than all systems throughout the impacted vehicles. Owners can verify whether their vehicle’s VINs fall under the recall by speaking to a dealership and, after ensuring they do, following the outlined repair process.

2. How the Faulty Trailer Tow Module Creates Serious Safety Risks

The fault impacts a number of vital trailer functions needed to ensure safe towing. The official recall notice states that the trailer turn signals may not flash when the driver actuates the vehicle’s turn indicator lever. The trailer stop lamps may not light up when the vehicle’s service brakes are applied. Vehicles fitted with trailer brakes may also experience a total loss of trailer braking capability. Any of these faults could be dangerous when towing a caravan, work gear or other heavy load. Other drivers may also have difficulty telling whether a trailer is turning or stopping and the ultimate likelihood of a crash without warning is also specified in the official recall notice.

Critical Trailer Safety Risks to Know:

• Trailer turn signals may stop flashing
• Trailer stop lamps may fail
• Auxiliary trailer brakes may become inoperative
• Other motorists may misjudge movements
• Collision risks increase without warning

The risk goes beyond mere inconvenience, because both the trailer’s lighting and brake systems are crucial to ensure the vehicle remains predictable while moving in traffic. The absence of turn signals can deprive approaching drivers of a warning that the towed vehicle is about to change course. And the lack of stop lamps can deprive the drivers behind of a cue that the vehicle and trailer are reducing speed. The original manufacturer’s loss of trailer brake action can impose additional loads on the towing vehicle and impair control by the operator of the combination. Consequently, the federal safety authority urges owners of vehicles equipped with the faulty module to take the defect seriously rather than to ignore what you watch for your trailering need until an authorized dealer replaces the part.

3. Eight Ram and Jeep Model Lines Are Included in the Recall

The recall involves a broad range of Ram pickups including heavy duty trucks, commercial chassis cabs and Jeep SUVs. In the largest single batch, 2025-2026 Ram 1500 pickup trucks manufactured between 27 September 2023 and 8 November 2025, totaling 312,365 vehicles, are implicated. 96,890 2025-2026 Ram 2500 pickups, 30,142 2025-2026 Ram 3500 pickups, 8,482 Ram 5500 Chassis Cabs, 5,711 Ram 3500 Chassis Cabs and 2,319 Ram 4500 Chassis Cabs are also included. These heavy-duty vehicles were produced from late July to late November 2024, and from late August to late October 2025.

Affected Ram Models and Vehicle Numbers:

• Ram 1500: 312,365 vehicles
• Ram 2500: 96,890 vehicles
• Ram 3500 pickup: 30,142 vehicles
• Ram 5500 Chassis Cab: 8,482 vehicles
• Ram 3500 and 4500 Chassis Cabs: 8,030 vehicles

The Wagoneer also shows up in the recall, and the number of affected vehicles also shows that the problem isn’t unique to regular pickup trucks. The Jeep Wagoneer S (2024-2026) electric SUV adds 321 vehicles (built from 21 March to 9 September 2025), and another 57 vehicles (from the 2026 Cherokee, built from 30 May to 17 September 2025). Those ranges encompass the entire eight-model lineup addressed by the recall (six Ram, two Jeep), and the Wagoneer is a BEV built on the STLA Large platform but don’t just use the model name and production year to judge if you need to get to your mechanic. Just look for your VIN.

4. Faulty Module Part Numbers and the Investigation Behind the Recall

The safety documents from Chrysler listed six part numbers that were connected to the faulty Trailer Brake & Towing Control module. 68602158AE, 68602158AF, 68602158AG, 68602159AE, 68602159AF and 68602159AG. If a dealer or technician can identify the modules by these numbers then they will be able to easily identify what needs to be replaced. The investigation was formally opened on 28 August 2025 by FCA US LLC’s Technical Safety and Regulatory Compliance organisation after trailer lighting and braking failures were discovered. The investigation looked at the 2025-2026 Ram truck and chassis cab range as well as the Jeep Wagoneer S and Jeep Cherokee. Over the months, the engineering teams looked at the field data and component designs to determine what could be causing the problems.

Important Details About the Defective Module:

• Six affected module part numbers identified
• Investigation opened on 28 August 2025
• Trailer lighting losses prompted the inquiry
• Trailer braking failures also investigated
• Engineering teams reviewed designs and field data

As of 15 January 2026, FCA US had received a significant number of potential defect reports. Its records contained 108 customer assistance records, 107 warranty claims, 101 field reports and 285 repair orders. These records recorded reports from 20 November 2023 to 12 January 2026. FCA US had determined that it had not identified any crashes or injuries that might be connected to the towing defect as of 15 January 2026. On 26 January 2026, after reviewing the information the company had collected and reviewed, the FCA US Vehicle Regulations Committee found that the issue constituted a safety defect. Chrysler filed a recall for the issue on 2 February 2026, effectively turning that determination into a formal defect report and remedy.

5. Free Repairs, Owner Notifications and How to Check Your VIN

FCA US will install an improved trailer tow module at no cost to owners of the vehicles involved. The repair restores trailer towing functions, such as trailer lighting and braking, which may be compromised by the defective part. Remedial owner notification mailings will commence on or around 24 March 2026. Owners seeking additional information may call FCA US customer service at 1-800-853-1403 and mention recall number 03D. The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration’s website, nhtsa.gov, offers another way to determine whether a specific vehicle is subject to recall.

Essential Steps for Affected Vehicle Owners:

• Check your vehicle identification number
• Visit the official NHTSA website
• Contact FCA US on 1-800-853-1403
• Quote recall reference code 03D
• Arrange the free dealer replacement

The VINs which are subject to the recall will be available to search for on the NHTSA website from 10 February 2026. Not all owners of any vehicle of the listed model and year will be in scope of the recall, so do make sure of the VIN before heading to a dealership. The owners can call up a local dealership to get the remedy performed free of charge and get the process validated once they have the confirmation. As per safety regulators and automotive experts, the remedy will be offered free of charge and if the vehicle has the impacted trailer signals, stop lamps or auxiliary brakes, it should not be towed till the technicians at the dealership have completed the remedy.

6. Why the Ram 1500 Remains a Popular Full-Size Pickup

The Ram 1500 has fought hard in the fiercely competitive half-ton segment by being a good workhorse and a smoother on-road hauler. Its trim level lineup spans the simple Tradesman work truck to the more upmarket Tungsten and offers consumers a multitude of options with a range of starting prices. One of the Ram 1500’s most notable features is its use of standard rear coil-spring suspension instead of the leaf-spring suspension used on the Ford F-150 and Chevrolet Silverado. An air suspension is an option and can raise the load bed for improved off-road ground clearance or lower it to conserve fuel. The Ram 1500’s array of comfort, utility and features has won over both business and private users alike.

Features That Define the Ram 1500:

• Broad range of available trim levels
• Standard rear coil-spring suspension system
• Optional adjustable air suspension available
• Two four-door cab styles offered
• Multiple cargo bed lengths available

The Ram 1500 is available in Quad Cab and Crew Cab configurations, in a variety of sizes. While all of Ram’s Quad Cab models are only available with 6-foot-4-inch cargo beds, the Crew Cab models can be ordered with either a 6-foot-4-inch cargo bed or the shorter 5-foot-7-inch bed. All configurations have ample room inside, but the Crew Cab has more spacious rear seating and optional reclining second-row seats. These configurations provide buyers with options to either focus more on comfort for the passengers, optimal cargo area, or a combination thereof. Production of the Ram truck began in October 1980 for the 1981 model year (as a Dodge) and the Ram brand separated from Dodge in 2010.8 The Ram truck has won the Motor Trend Truck of the Year award a record-breaking eight times.

7. Ram 1500 Engines, Hurricane Power and Performance Variants

Cab bodies are available in a variety of lengths. Ram Quad Cab models are offered with only 6 ft 4 in (1.93 m) beds, but Ram Crew Cab models have a choice between a 6 ft 4 in (1.93 m) and a 5 ft 7 in (1.70 m) bed. Both have plenty of interior space but the Crew Cab has larger back seats with available reclining second row seats; the crew cabs have a greater emphasis on passenger comfort, while the quadruple cab is designed more for those who want the maximum amount of cargo capacity. Ram vehicles were introduced as a separate make in October 1980 for the 1981 model year,8 when Ram division separated from Dodge. The Ram was awarded the Motor Trend Truck of the Year award a record eight times.

Ram Performance Options Worth Knowing:

• 305-horsepower mild-hybrid V6 engine
• 395-horsepower Hemi V8 powertrain
• 420-horsepower Hurricane inline-six engine
• 540-horsepower high-output Hurricane engine
• Eight-speed automatic transmission across the range

It also details the performance-orientated Ram 1500 Rumble Bee line-up that follows street-truck cues and quick acceleration. The trucks are fitted with flared wheel arches, a TRX-style bodykit and a shorter wheelbase. All models are based around Quad Cab versions with a 5ft 7in bed, while a 395-horsepower 5.7-litre Hemi V8, a Rumble Bee 392 model with a 470-horsepower 6.4-litre V8 and a Rumble Bee SRT with a supercharged 6.2-litre V8 (creating 777 horsepower) are all available. The SRT has adaptive Bilstein dampers, 6-piston Brembo front brakes and wide 325-section all-season tyres, and Ram says it can hit 60 mph in 3.4 seconds and cover the quarter-mile in 11.6 seconds.

8. Acceleration, Towing Capacity and Fuel Economy Compared

Driving Performance Ram 1500 engine/configuration combinations provide predictable performance gains. Ram estimates the 8.4-inch touchscreen-powered 395-horsepower Rumble Bee crew cab 4×4 will accelerate from 0-60 mph in 6.1 seconds, and the 470-horsepower Rumble Bee 392 crew cab 4×4 in 5.2 seconds. An instrumented test of a Ram 1500 Limited Crew Cab 4×4 found a 4.2 second 0-60 mph time, with a quarter-mile run in 12.8 seconds at 106 mph, a 70 mph braking distance of 194 feet, and a 0.75-g maximum lateral acceleration score on a 300-foot skidpad. The 2025 Ram 1500 Rebel crew cab 4×4 with the 420-horsepower Hurricane engine accelerated from 0-60 mph in 4.9 seconds.

Performance and Capability Figures to Remember:

• Rumble Bee SRT produces 777 horsepower
• Limited Hurricane reaches 60 mph in 4.2 seconds
• Standard Ram 1500 tows up to 11,610 pounds
• Ramcharger towing capacity reaches 14,000 pounds
• Heavy-duty Ram HD tows up to 37,090 pounds

A standard Ram 1500 has a maximum payload capacity of 2,360 pounds. Its maximum towing capability is less than that of certain Ford and Chevrolet competitors, which can exceed 13,000 pounds. You might consider the Ramcharger plug-in hybrid, which has a tow rating of 14,000 pounds, or the Ram HD, which can tow up to 37,090 pounds. The Ramcharger pairs a V6 petrol engine with an electric generator and can reportedly travel 690 miles on a single tank and charge, and it can provide backup power to a home if the power grid goes down. Range depends on the engine and drivetrain the RWD V6 achieves 20 mpg city and 25 mpg highway (20 mpg combined), while the Hurricane puts out 18 mpg city and 25 mpg highway (21 mpg combined).

9. Interior Comfort, Technology and Everyday Practicality

Inside the Ram 1500 The Ram 1500 has comfortable seating and convenient storage inside, with front passengers able to opt for wide bucket seats or a available flip-down console for a bench seat. In upper trims, the Ram 1500 gets down to business with real woodgrain, premium leather, heated and cooled front and rear seats and a panoramic sunroof. Storage is another big selling point, as testers have reported being able to hold 25 carry-on size bags inside the Ram 1500 Crew Cab while the back seats were folded down. There is cubby space all around the cabin, two 12-volt power outlets, two household AC outlets and a handful of USB charging ports.

Interior Features That Improve Everyday Use:

• Premium leather and genuine wood trim
• Heated and ventilated seating available
• Panoramic sunroof offered on higher trims
• Storage space for 25 carry-on suitcases
• Multiple power outlets and USB ports

Available on all trims is a lengthy list of infotainment and connectivity features designed to make your drive easier. The standard base models has a 12-inch display, and upper trim levels can be equipped with an even larger 14.5-inch portrait display, along with an optional 10.3-inch passenger display. Ram offers several upgraded speaker options, including a Klipsch system with up to 23 speakers. Standard safety and driver’s assistance features include automated emergency braking with pedestrian detection, blind spot monitoring, and rear cross traffic alert. Optional systems include adaptive cruise control with a hands-free driving feature. Warranty coverage includes a limited three-year, 36,000-mile warranty, along with a five-year, 60,000-mile powertrain warranty; Ram doesn’t offer free scheduled maintenance on its trucks, a benefit found on some General Motors and Toyota trucks.

10. What the Recall Means for Ram and Jeep Owners

The Stellantis recall illustrates why the most capable, feature-rich vehicles, even if they have lots of power or towing capacity, need equally capable safety systems. The automaker’s trucks affected by the trailer tow module defect may not only lose trailer signals, but trailer brakes, too. FCA US believes there have been no accidents or injuries during the relevant time frame, as of 15 January 2026, but the trailer signals and brakes may quit without any warning, making the fault worth fixing. Owners can run their VINs on the NHTSA website, call FCA US for further guidance and get the new module installed for free at a service centre. Until then, don’t tow trailers.

Important Recall Actions for Vehicle Owners:

• Verify your VIN against recall records
• Contact an authorised dealership for repairs
• Request the updated towing control module
• Avoid towing before replacement is completed
• Follow official safety guidance and notifications

The recall for Ram 1500s is important for owners who are still driving the trucks in the wake of the test-truck-ness of the vehicle, the optional motor choices, tech in the cabin, and punchy cargo capacity. Towing numbers, motion, and all of the other good stuff can’t hide behind a faulty piece of equipment that is meant to inform the driver whether the trailer’s lighting and braking are working properly. The same logic applies to owners of Jeep vehicles, especially the Wagoneer S and Cherokee that are cited in the recall process documents. Just be sure the vehicle needs the attention and that the fix is being performed before you drive it into the ground, as you are not likely to be able to tell if it is working correctly.