A class action settlement related to a potential fire hazard in certain Ram 1500 trucks could lead to cash payments of up to $3,575, along with additional reimbursements for qualifying owners.
Ram has once again become the focus of a class action lawsuit, though this time the resolution could work in favor of vehicle owners. A recently approved settlement may allow certain Ram 1500 EcoDiesel owners to collect cash payments and seek reimbursement related to an alleged fire risk tied to a problematic engine component.
While many still casually refer to these pickups as Dodge Rams, Ram and Dodge have operated as separate brands for years. The trucks involved in this case were sold after that separation and now fall under the broader Stellantis corporate umbrella.
The settlement covers Ram 1500 EcoDiesel models from the 2014 through 2019 model years that were produced between June 12, 2013, and October 23, 2019.
According to the lawsuit, these vehicles were fitted with exhaust gas recirculation (EGR) coolers that could crack over time, allowing coolant to leak into the intake system. That issue is alleged to create conditions that may result in internal combustion events, with some incidents reportedly escalating into full engine fires.
FCA US, now part of Stellantis, has not formally acknowledged fault but agreed to the settlement in order to resolve the claims. The EcoDiesel engine was marketed as a fuel-efficient, torque-rich alternative to traditional V8-powered Ram trucks, though the lawsuit suggests the design was not as durable as buyers expected.
The situation mirrors other diesel-related controversies, including a $120 million settlement paid by Mercedes-Benz over its own diesel issues.
Payout amounts vary based on the specific circumstances experienced by each owner. Those whose trucks suffered an engine fire connected to an EGR cooler failure may qualify for a $3,000 cash payment, provided appropriate documentation is submitted.
Reimbursements for rental vehicles are capped at $500 per truck, while coolant-related reimbursements are limited to $75, bringing the maximum total compensation to $3,575.
Owners who paid out of pocket to replace a failed EGR cooler within five years of the recall may also be eligible for reimbursement. In addition, the settlement includes a warranty extension covering parts and labor for affected components.
Several important deadlines apply. Claims must be filed by May 16, 2026, while opt-out requests are due by February 8 and objections must be submitted by January 9. Despite this legal development, Ram’s broader product plans remain unchanged.
The brand is still preparing to deploy the smaller Rampage pickup to compete with the Ford Maverick and is shifting its focus back toward Hemi V8-powered trucks, particularly as interest in the electric Ram 1500 continues to wane.
Anyone who owned or leased a qualifying Ram 1500 EcoDiesel during the affected production window is eligible to submit a claim through the settlement process.
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