Recall 21V438 affects 14,096 2021 Ram 1500 trucks because the rearview camera image does not display. Repair is free at any franchised Ram dealer.
Ram is recalling 14,096 2021 1500 pickups equipped with a trailer reverse steering module because the rearview camera image can fail to display. That reduces the driver's rear view and increases the risk of a crash or injury; Ram dealers will complete the recall repair free of charge.
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What's wrong?
The trailer reverse steering control module on the 2021 Ram 1500 supports the truck's trailer reverse steering feature and works with the rearview camera display when the truck is backing up. The camera image is part of the rear visibility system, giving the driver a view behind the truck after shifting into reverse.
On affected trucks, the module has software that does not meet the rear visibility requirement in FMVSS 111. If the module does not power down successfully, the next key cycle can start with the camera system out of step. During a backing event, the rearview image can fail to appear on the display, even though the driver has shifted into reverse.
The warning sign is visible at the time of the problem. The rear view image is not displayed when the truck is placed in reverse, and the Electronic Throttle Control warning indicator lights up in the instrument cluster.
Who's affected?
| 2021 Ram 1500 | Display function |
|---|---|
| Units affected | 14,096 |
| Field incidents | NHTSA has logged no field incidents to date. |
A matching year and model does not guarantee inclusion. Check your VIN to confirm whether this recall applies to your specific pickup truck.
What's the safety risk?
A blank rearview camera reduces the driver's view behind the truck and increases the risk of a crash or injury. If the image does not appear in reverse and the Electronic Throttle Control warning light is on, use mirrors and direct checks behind the vehicle, then schedule the software update soon. Repair is free at any franchised Ram dealer.
What should I do?
- Check your VIN to confirm your 2021 Ram 1500 is included in this recall.
- Contact a franchised Ram dealer to schedule the free TRSCM software update that fixes the rearview camera display failure.
- Bring the recall notice if you received one. If not, reference recall number 21V438 and Ram recall Y30 when you call.
- Ask the dealer whether superseding recall 21V-918 changes the repair order for your truck.
- Use extra caution when backing up until the repair is complete, and check behind the truck before moving.
What happens at the repair
At the dealer, a Ram technician updates the trailer reverse steering module software so the rearview camera display issue is corrected under the recall. The software update and labor are free. This campaign was superseded by recall 21V-918, so ask the service desk to confirm which open recall applies to your VIN before the work order is written. FCA US offers reimbursement for owners who paid out of pocket for the same problem before the recall notice. Send the original receipt or other adequate proof of payment to FCA US as directed in the owner letter.
| Reimbursement | Reimbursement available |
|---|
Timeline
| June 10, 2021 | NHTSA published the recall |
|---|---|
| June 24, 2021 | Owner notification mailed |
| July 30, 2021 | Dealer notification began |
| July 30, 2021 | Dealer notification ended |
| July 30, 2021 | VIN-searchable in NHTSA's database — Check your VIN to see whether this recall applies to your specific vehicle. |
| July 30, 2021 | Interim owner notification (was planned for this date) |
Frequently asked questions
What is recall 21V438?
Recall 21V438 covers 14,096 2021 Ram 1500 trucks equipped with a trailer reverse steering module. The rearview camera display can fail to show an image, which reduces the driver's rear view and increases crash or injury risk. Ram dealers will update the TRSCM software for free.
What should I do if my 2021 Ram 1500 is on this recall?
Check your VIN to confirm your specific truck is included in recall 21V438. If it is, contact a franchised Ram dealer to schedule the TRSCM software update. Reference recall 21V438 or FCA recall Y30 when you call. The repair is free.
Is the recall repair free?
Yes. Federal recall law requires the manufacturer to fix the safety defect at no cost. Ram dealers will update the trailer reverse steering module software free of charge, including parts and labor, for included 2021 Ram 1500 trucks.
Is it safe to drive my 2021 Ram 1500 before the repair?
Recall 21V438 does not include a do-not-drive order. The risk is that the rearview camera display can fail, reducing the driver's rear view while backing up. Until the software update is complete, use extra care when reversing and schedule the free dealer repair.
Were owners notified about recall 21V438?
Yes. Owner notification letters were mailed June 24, 2021. The remedy notice also says recall 21V438 was superseded by recall 21V-918, so check your VIN and ask the Ram dealer which campaign applies to your specific truck.
More information
| NHTSA campaign page | nhtsa.gov/vehicle-recalls/21V438000 |
|---|---|
| Ram customer service | 1-800-853-1403 |
| NHTSA recall # | 21V438 |
| NHTSA recall # (full) | 21V438000 |
Source documents
-
Download Recall Report (PDF) - Download Quarterly Report (PDF)
- Download Recall Document (PDF) (PDF)
- Download Recall Investigation Document (PDF) (PDF)
- Download Owner Notification Letter (PDF)
- Download Owner Notice (PDF)
- Download Recall Acknowledgement (PDF)
This article is generated from NHTSA's primary recall filings and reviewed against the source on May 23, 2026. RecallNotify does not paraphrase NHTSA's consequence language; that text is reproduced as written above. Editorial standards →