Recall 26V288 affects 12,736 2023-2026 Ram 2500 trucks for powertrain software that permits excessive speed. Free repair at any franchised Ram dealer once available.
Ram is recalling 12,736 2023-2026 2500 pickups because a powertrain control module software error lets vehicle speed exceed the tire speed rating. The defect can result in loss of vehicle control and increase crash risk; Ram dealers will complete the repair free of charge once the remedy is available.
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What's wrong?
The PCM software on 2023-2026 Ram 2500 trucks is the programming inside the powertrain control module. That module helps manage engine and transmission behavior, including the calibration that limits how fast the truck is allowed to travel. The calibration needs to match the tires installed on the truck.
On affected trucks, the speed calibration was set incorrectly. The software allows the truck to exceed the maximum speed rating of its tires. Driving beyond that tire rating reduces tire integrity, and loss of tire integrity can compromise vehicle control.
There is no warning sign before failure. An owner should not expect a dashboard light, message, sound, or change in how the truck feels before the speed limit calibration becomes a safety issue.
Who's affected?
VINs became searchable on May 14, 2026.
| 2023 Ram 2500 | automatic transmission |
|---|---|
| 2024 Ram 2500 | automatic transmission |
| 2025 Ram 2500 | automatic transmission |
| 2026 Ram 2500 | automatic transmission |
| Units affected | 12,736 |
| Field incidents | NHTSA has logged no field incidents to date. |
The year and model narrow the scope, but the VIN decides. Check your VIN to confirm whether your specific truck is included.
What's the safety risk?
Loss of vehicle control increases the risk of a crash. There is no warning sign before the failure, so an affected truck can feel normal until the problem occurs. If your VIN is included, drive cautiously and contact a Ram dealer for interim guidance while the software remedy is being prepared. Repair will be free at any franchised Ram dealer once available.
What should I do?
- Check your VIN to confirm your 2023-2026 Ram 2500 is included in this recall.
- Watch for Ram's owner letter expected June 4, 2026, while the software remedy is still under development.
- Contact a franchised Ram dealer once scheduling opens for the free powertrain control module software update that corrects the tire-speed-rating error.
- Bring the recall notice if Ram has mailed one. If not, reference recall number 26V288 when you call.
- Drive cautiously until the software update is complete. Avoid high-speed driving.
What happens at the repair
At the dealer, a Ram technician will update the powertrain control module software so the truck no longer permits speeds above the tire speed rating. The final dealer repair will be free once Ram opens it. Parts and labor are covered under the recall. FCA used its general reimbursement plan on file, so documented out-of-pocket repairs tied to this condition are handled through the manufacturer's standard reimbursement plan. Keep prior repair paperwork and ask Ram customer service or the service desk how to submit it.
| Reimbursement | Reimbursement available |
|---|
Timeline
| May 7, 2026 | NHTSA published the recall |
|---|---|
| May 14, 2026 | Dealer notification began |
| May 14, 2026 | Dealer notification ended |
| May 14, 2026 | VIN-searchable in NHTSA's database — Check your VIN to see whether this recall applies to your specific vehicle. |
Frequently asked questions
What is recall 26V288?
Recall 26V288 covers 12,736 2023-2026 Ram 2500 pickups with a powertrain control module software error. The error can allow vehicle speed to exceed the tire speed rating, which can lead to loss of control and a higher crash risk. Ram dealers will update the software for free.
What should I do if my 2023-2026 Ram 2500 is on this recall?
Check your VIN to confirm your specific truck is included in recall 26V288. If it is, contact a franchised Ram dealer and ask when the powertrain control module software update opens. Reference recall number 26V288 or FCA recall number 43D when you call.
Is the recall repair free?
Yes. Federal recall law requires the manufacturer to repair the defect at no cost. Ram dealers will update the powertrain control module software free of charge once the remedy is available.
What is the safety risk?
The safety risk is loss of vehicle control. In affected trucks, a powertrain control module software error can allow vehicle speed to exceed the tire speed rating. Loss of vehicle control increases the risk of a crash.
When will Ram notify owners?
Ram expects to mail owner notification letters on June 4, 2026. VINs became searchable on May 14, 2026, so you can check your VIN before the letter arrives and contact a Ram dealer with recall number 26V288.
More information
| NHTSA campaign page | nhtsa.gov/vehicle-recalls/26V288000 |
|---|---|
| Ram customer service | 1-800-853-1403 |
| NHTSA recall # | 26V288 |
| NHTSA recall # (full) | 26V288000 |
This article is generated from NHTSA's primary recall filings and reviewed against the source on May 19, 2026. RecallNotify does not paraphrase NHTSA's consequence language; that text is reproduced as written above. Editorial standards →