The 2025 Ram 1500 headlight recall is a minor recall with big safety implications. Stellantis, the maker of Ram trucks, has confirmed that certain latest Ram 1500 pickups were built with a headlight software glitch that could cause the lights to stop working.
The worst part is that this isn’t just a minor inconvenience. Technically speaking, it’s a direct violation of Federal Motor Vehicle Safety Standard (FMVSS) No. 108, which governs vehicle lighting for safety on the American road.
So far, only 53 trucks are known to be affected. However, it is still a huge matter of concern as even one vehicle with faulty headlights can be a serious threat on the road, especially at night or in low-visibility driving conditions.
If you are the owner of a 2025 Ram pickup or were considering buying one, in this blog, we will break down exactly what is going on amidst the latest recall. From which trucks are impacted, the risks involved, and how to check your VIN, to what the fix looks like, and what your rights are as an owner.
Let’s get started and ensure your safety behind the wheel.
Quick Facts Table: Recall at a Glance
| Detail | Information |
| Recall Date | Dec 18, 2024 |
| NHTSA Recall Number | 24V942000 |
| Manufacturer Code | D4B |
| Affected Units | 53 trucks |
| Production Dates | Sept 20 – Oct 4, 2024 |
| Defect | Headlight module software error causing inoperative headlights |
| Safety Risk | Reduced visibility and increased crash risk |
| Remedy | Free headlamp module software update |
| Owner Letters Mailed | Jan 21–28, 2025 |
What Is the 2025 Ram 1500 Headlight Recall About?
The latest Ram 1500 2025 headlight recall is about a software error. The error is in the headlamp control module of the truck, which can cause its headlights to fail entirely.
The automaker (Stellantis) discovered that a few 1500 trucks were rolled off the production line with incorrect programming. This could lead to the headlights not working properly. In the worst-case scenario, the headlights might not turn on when the driver needs them.
According to the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA), this defect violates FMVSS No. 108. This federal law requires all road vehicles in the U.S. to have functioning headlights for nighttime and low-light driving.
The good thing is that Stellantis caught the problem early in production. However, some models were already on the road and needed immediate attention. Thus, a recall was issued to provide affected owners with a free software update before the defect puts them and people around them in a dangerous situation.
Which Ram 1500 Trucks Are Affected?
One of the biggest reliefs for 2025 Ram 1500 truck owners is that only models built between September 20 and October 4, 2024, are part of this recall.
The company has accounted for 53 units affected by the headlight issue so far. Surely, this is a very small batch compared to the number of vehicles being recalled by Ford over brake issues and Kia over engine issues. However, you still need to be vigilant because small recalls can sometimes expand if more vehicles are later found to have the defect.
If you have purchased your Ram truck around this time, it may be at risk, even if your headlights are working fine. To know more, check your Vehicle Identification Number (VIN).
Safety Risks of Inoperative Headlights
Driving without functioning headlights, especially at night, is a serious safety risk. You do not just struggle to see; other drivers may also not see you at all, leading to fatal car crashes, causing injuries, and sometimes even lives.
The Insurance Institute for Highway Safety (IIHS) notes that poor or failed headlights significantly increase the risk of nighttime crashes. Even if you drive mostly in daylight, sudden weather changes like heavy rain, fog, or snow can make headlights critical for safety. This is why FMVSS lighting standards exist. They ensure visibility for everyone on the road, not just the driver.
How to Check If Your Truck Is Affected
The fastest way you can confirm if your beloved family-friendly truck is part of the Ram headlight recall is to run your Vehicle Identification Number (VIN) through an official recall database.
Here’s the step-by-step guide for you to get started:
Locate your VIN
First, you need to find the VIN for your ride. It’s usually on your dashboard (driver’s side, visible through the windshield), driver’s door frame, insurance card, or vehicle title. VIN is unique for every vehicle. Thus, through this, you can find out every recall your ride may be part of.
Check your VIN online
Once you have secured the VIN, use online tools to check the status. While there are several available, Motor Craz recommends using these official tools:
NHTSA Recall Lookup Tool
The NHTSA tool allows you to check for recalls by either selecting your state and entering your license plate number or via your VIN or year, make, and model of your vehicle.
Mopar Recall Page
On the contrary, Mopar allows you to find out if your vehicle has any current recalls or to get reimbursed for previous recall-related costs by providing just the vehicle identification number.
Both tools are easy to use, and you will have the results with you within seconds, eliminating any guesswork and waiting.
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Review the results
If the tools show that your vehicle is indeed under a recall, do not panic. Simply reach out to your dealer as soon as possible and book an appointment to get the free fix.
You don’t have to wait for an official recall letter from Stellantis. Once you have secured that your vehicle is affected by a serious issue, acting early ensures your truck stays safe to drive, road-legal, and fully compliant.
Stellantis’ Official Fix for the Headlight Glitch
The official fix for the headlight Glitch of Ram 1500 pickups is quite simple. The models need a free software update to the headlamp control module. Your dealer will connect a diagnostic tool to your truck’s OBD-II port and load the corrected programming. This repair will take less than an hour and is covered by the company. So, even if your standard warranty has expired, you will receive the fix with no cost.
Additionally, Stellantis has instructed its dealers to prioritize safety recalls, so they should be able to schedule you quickly. Book your slot now with your nearby car dealership and get your truck fixed and regain its former glory.
Recall Notification Timeline
According to early reports, Stellantis started sending out owner notification letters between January 21 and January 28, 2025. However, NHTSA lists March 6, 2025, as the official mailing date for recall notices.
This difference in dates is nothing to be worried about. It is highly common. Manufacturers often do a phased mailing so dealers are prepared for incoming repair appointments and to avoid overwhelming service departments.
Automakers generally send these initial letters to the owners whose vehicles are most likely affected by the issue behind the recall, based on their sales records and registration data. So, if you have received one, you need to take action immediately.
However, if you still haven’t received a letter by mid-March but you know your Ram 1500 was built between September 20 and October 4, 2024, don’t go on assuming you’re in the clear. There is a chance that your address could be outdated in the registration system, or your truck might have been a later addition to the 2025 Ram 1500 headlight recall list.
Instead of waiting, take charge. Either use the VIN check tools or call your local Ram dealer to confirm your status and schedule your update. Acting fast can save you weeks of waiting and ensure your truck stays safe and road-compliant.
Owner Notification Process
Jan 21–28, 2025 → Early notification letters sent to high-likelihood owners
Feb 2025 → Dealers begin processing early appointments
Mar 6, 2025 → NHTSA official recall mailing to all affected owners
Mid-March 2025 → If no letter, check VIN online & contact dealer immediately
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Your Rights as a Vehicle Owner In the US
Under federal law, automakers like Stellantis must fix safety recalls for free, no matter if your truck is under warranty or not. This is guaranteed by the National Traffic and Motor Vehicle Safety Act. The repair must restore your truck to a safe, compliant condition.
If your dealer refuses service, gives you a repair date months away, or you’ve had multiple failed attempts to fix the same defect, you’re not powerless. Here’s what you can do:
Contact Stellantis Customer Care
You can contact the Stellantis customer care and provide your VIN, recall number, and the dealer’s response. This often speeds up scheduling.
File a Complaint with NHTSA
If you are refused repair or the dealership is delaying the repair, you can file a complaint with NHTSA. Use their online form to report the issue and see the action being taken.
Check Your State’s Lemon Law
We also recommend checking your state’s lemon law. If you are not aware, let me tell you that many U.S. states allow buybacks or replacements of the vehicle if a safety defect or issue isn’t resolved after multiple attempts.
Document Everything
Always document everything related to your vehicle. Keep a paper trail of service appointments, repair attempts, and correspondence. This strengthens your case if you need legal help.
Remember that consumer protection lawsSandy Utah Car Dealership Crash: Causes and Investigation Update exist so you’re never stuck driving an unsafe or noncompliant vehicle. Acting quickly, keeping records, and knowing your rights can make the difference between a quick fix and months of frustration.
Other 2025 Ram 1500 Recalls You Should Know About
The 2025 Ram 1500 headlight recall isn’t the only safety issue this truck is facing. There are a few other ongoing recalls that, as an owner of this pickup truck, you should know about.
TPMS/Tire Pressure Display Error (Recall ID: 30C / NHTSA 25V231000)
A software glitch can cause the instrument panel of the truck to display an incorrect tire inflation recommendation. For example, suggesting inflating to 50 PSI, which may exceed safe limits depending on tire specifications. Overinflation increases the risk of tire failure or blowouts.
Approximately 10,396 units built between October 3, 2023, and March 6, 2025, are affected by this recall. The fix comprises dealers updating the instrument panel software at no cost. Owners have started receiving the mail notices from May 8, 2025.
Front Wheel Hub Encoder Ring Defect (Recall ID: 97B / NHTSA 24V794000)
This recall is issued because the front wheel parts that help track the speed of your truck may be damaged, which can turn off the truck’s stability control, a key safety system that helps prevent skids and keeps the vehicle steady.
An estimated 33,777 trucks built between October 13, 2023, and August 11, 2024, are affected. To fix this, dealers will inspect and replace the front wheel hub and bearing assembly as needed, free of charge.
For this recall, the owner’s notices began mailing on December 19, 2024.
Why These Other Recalls Matter
Driving with faulty headlight software, incorrect tire pressure warnings, or disabled stability control can dramatically increase the risk of a crash or accident. Each of these recalls, along with the headlight software glitch, addresses a distinct safety-critical component, and each has a free, dealer-performed fix.
The best way to stay clear of all of these problems is to run your VIN via an online recall tool or a car dealership and verify your status. Staying ahead of these fixes ensures your truck is safe and roadworthy.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is it safe to drive my Ram 1500 with the headlight software defect?
No, it is not safe for you to keep driving your pickup with a headlight software defect. You are not only putting your safety at risk but also that of fellow drivers and on-walkers. Stellantis is offering free software updates through its dealerships. So, book an appointment with your nearby dealership now and restore your truck’s safety compliance.
How long does the 2025 Ram 1500 headlight recall repair take?
Most dealers can complete the headlight recall repair in less than one hour. It is mostly because it’s just a software update to the headlamp control module via the OBD-II port. However, the wait time can be long. But you can avoid that by scheduling ahead, especially if your truck needs fixing for multiple recalls at once.
Are there other recalls on the 2025 Ram 1500 I should know about?
Yes. In addition to the headlight recall, there is a TPMS software issue that can show incorrect tire pressure alerts and a wheel hub encoder defect that can disable stability control. To ensure your latest 2025 vehicle is safe in every manner, run your VIN through recall lookup tools. If any recall comes up, take your ride to the nearby dealership as soon as possible.
Do I have to pay for the 2025 Ram 1500 headlight recall repair?
No, safety recalls are always free in the U.S. under federal law. You also didn’t have to worry about your truck’s warranty status. Your Ram dealer will update the headlight software at no charge, and you can request documentation of the completed repair for your records.
Conclusion
The 2025 Ram 1500 headlight recall involves just 53 trucks, but the risk it poses is real. Losing your headlights while driving can put you and others in danger. The great news is that the fix is quick, free, and available now. Run your VIN through the NHTSA or Mopar recall lookup today, schedule your update, and keep your truck safe and compliant. With safety recalls, acting early is always the smart move.
