- RAM recalled 72,509 trucks due to an instrument cluster defect that can cause the display to go blank
- ·A blank instrument cluster prevents drivers from seeing speed, warning lights, and safety alerts
- RAM plans to release a software update or replace the instrument cluster if the update does not resolve the issue
Overview of the RAM Instrument Cluster Recall
RAM has issued a recall for several of their pickup truck models after investigating and finding a defect that causes the instrument cluster panel to deactivate.
The defect can occur without warning and may cause the instrument cluster to go completely dark while the vehicle is in motion.
1%, or about 725 of the 72,509 recalled vehicles are estimated by RAM to actually contain this defect.
For some RAM consumers an instrument cluster that goes blank may raise lemon law concerns especially if the problem continues after recall repairs or interferes with vehicle operation.
Under the California Lemon Law as well as other state lemon laws, unresolved safety defects may entitle consumers to a refund, replacement vehicle or cash compensation.
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Why RAM Issued the Instrument Cluster Recall
Short Answer: RAM issued the recall because a software error can cause the instrument cluster display to go blank during startup or while driving.
The instrument cluster panel is the area behind the steering wheel that contains the speedometer, engine RPM, and warning lights drivers use to see what is going on with their vehicle.
When this panel goes blank, the driver cannot see their speed and other critical information. This makes it much more difficult for the driver to make safe driving decisions and can obscure important warnings from the driver as well.
According to filing with the National Highway Sagety Administration (NHTSA), the defect stems from a software malfunction that can cause the instrument cluster display to deactivate during startup or while driving.
Why Instrument Cluster Failures Are a Safety Concern
The instrument cluster provides drivers with critical information needed to safely operate the vehicle, including warning indicators related to the engine, braking system, airbags, and other essential components. When the display goes blank, these warnings may not be visible to the driver.
Without access to system alerts, a driver may continue operating the vehicle while an active safety or mechanical issue is present.
This can delay necessary repairs and increase the risk of further damage or unsafe driving conditions. In some cases, warning lights are designed to instruct drivers to stop operating the vehicle altogether, guidance that may not be received if the display is not functioning.
Because instrument clusters are the primary interface for communicating vehicle status and safety alerts, failures that prevent this information from being displayed are considered a significant safety concern.
RAM’s Planned Remedy for the Instrument Cluster Defect
Short Answer: RAM will update the instrument cluster software or replace the cluster if the update does not fix the issue.
Since the instrument cluster panel is controlled primarily by software in the vehicle, the recall remedy can be administered through a software update.
Alternatively, if the update does not work, RAM will replace the panel altogether. This repair will come at no cost to the consumer, as is normal for recall remedies.
RAM Instrument Cluster Recall FAQs
1. Which RAM trucks are affected by the instrument cluster recall?
These trucks use a digital instrument cluster that may deactivate due to a software issue.
- 2025 and 2026 RAM 1500 Pickup
- 2025 and 2026 RAM 2500 Pickup
- 2025 and 2026 RAM 3500 Pickup
- 2025 and 2026 RAM 3500 Cab Chassis
- 2025 and 2026 RAM 4500 Cab Chassis
- 2025 and 2026 RAM 5500 Cab Chassis
2. What symptoms might indicate an instrument cluster failure?
Instrument cluster failures are easily detected when they take place, as the driver will not be able to see their speed or other warnings in front of them. The defect will be especially obvious on any screen that is part of the instrument cluster, since those screens will be blank.
3. What should I do if my RAM instrument cluster goes blank while driving?
Only if it is safe to do so, moving the vehicle off the road and attempting to restart it may reactivate the instrument cluster panel. Otherwise, drivers should drive very carefully and err on the side of caution where speed limits are concerned.
4. What if the instrument cluster problem continues after repair?
Vehicles that have been repaired but still contain defects may fall under the protection of your state’s lemon law. Consumers have special rights under these laws that allow them to get refunds or have their vehicle repurchased by the manufacturer.
When to Speak with a Lawyer About an Instrument Cluster Defect
The lemon law process usually starts when a vehicle develops a recurring defect that the dealership cannot successfully repair after several attempts.
When the same issue continues to affect the vehicle’s safety, performance, or everyday usability, the owner should begin saving all repair records, service receipts, and notes showing how often the vehicle was in the shop.
These records help demonstrate that the manufacturer was given reasonable chances to fix the problem.
Once the repair history is documented, a lemon law attorney can review the case to determine whether it meets the legal requirements.
If the claim is valid, the attorney will notify the manufacturer and seek a resolution such as a vehicle buyback, replacement, or financial compensation.
Many cases settle without going to court, but if the manufacturer refuses to resolve the issue, the attorney can take further legal steps to protect the consumer’s rights.
Based on prior lemon law cases involving RAM trucks with safety and software defects, some consumer may qualify for remedies depending on their repair history and jurisdiction.
| Affected Model | Average Lemon Law Settlement |
| RAM 1500 Pickup | $106,807 |
| RAM 2500 Pickup | $109,900 |
| RAM 3500 Pickup | $115,556 |
| RAM 3500 Cab Chassis | $112,901 |
| RAM 4500 Cab Chassis | $117,565 |
| RAM 5500 Cab Chassis | $135,051 |
*Please note, the figures presented in the chart are approximations based on past case results and should not be interpreted as a prediction or guarantee. Each case is unique and requires personalized legal guidance.
Questions? Get in Touch with an Expert Lawyer!
Navigating the lemon law claim process can be complex, but with the right lawyer by your side it can be a breeze. The Lemon Law Experts have worked with thousands of consumers just like you and know the law like the back of our hand.
If you are considering bringing a lemon law claim, contact us today for a free case evaluation, either by calling (877) 885-5366 or by filling out a contact form here on our website.
Citations
National Highway Traffic Safety Administration, Part 573 Safety Recall Report, U.S. Department of Transportation. https://static.nhtsa.gov/odi/rcl/2025/RCLRPT-25V826-4232.pdf. Accessed December 31, 2025.
