Nearly Half-Million Ram and Jeep Vehicles Recalled Over Dangerous Towing Risk

Owners of Ram trucks and Jeep SUVs are being warned to think twice before towing after a massive recall revealed a defect that could cause trailer brakes and lights to fail — two critical safety systems that drivers rely on when hauling heavy loads.

Federal regulators say the issue affects 456,287 vehicles, including multiple Ram heavy-duty pickups and Jeep models, because of a flaw in the trailer tow module. If the system malfunctions, trailer lights may not illuminate and trailer brakes may not engage properly — a combination that dramatically increases crash risk.

According to the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration, the recall covers certain 2024–2026 Jeep Wagoneer S, 2026 Jeep Cherokee, and a wide range of Ram trucks, including 2025–2026 Ram 1500, Ram 2500, Ram 3500, and several Ram cab-chassis work models. These are not niche vehicles — they’re workhorses used daily for towing equipment, trailers, and heavy loads across the country.

The problem stems from what regulators describe as an improperly designed trailer tow module. When the system fails, drivers may not realize their trailer lighting isn’t functioning, and braking assistance from the trailer could be compromised. That creates a dangerous scenario, especially at highway speeds or while hauling substantial weight.

In towing situations, even small delays in braking or visibility can trigger chain-reaction crashes. Drivers behind a trailer rely on brake lights to react. Without them — and without proper trailer braking — stopping distances increase sharply.

What makes this recall particularly concerning is its scope. Nearly half a million vehicles are affected, and the defect rate is estimated at 100 percent. That means every vehicle included in the recall potentially carries the same risk until the issue is fixed.

The situation underscores a broader tension in modern vehicle design. As trucks become more advanced and towing systems rely increasingly on electronic modules, failures don’t always show up as obvious mechanical problems. Instead, they appear as silent system breakdowns that drivers may not notice until it’s too late.

For owners who rely on their trucks for work, towing isn’t optional — it’s the reason they bought the vehicle. Being told a core function may fail raises serious concerns about reliability, safety, and accountability.

Automakers have leaned heavily on technology to enhance towing performance, but this recall is a reminder that when those systems fail, the consequences aren’t minor inconveniences. They’re real-world safety risks with the potential for serious crashes.

Drivers affected by the recall are expected to be notified, and repairs will focus on addressing the trailer tow module defect. Until then, the warning is clear: if your truck or SUV is on the list, towing may not be as safe as you think.