Massive Ram ProMaster Recall for Fire Risk: Nearly 292,000 Vans Affected (2018–2026 Models)

Massive Ram ProMaster Recall for Fire Risk Could Impact Fleets Nationwide: Nearly 292,000 Vans Affected

Chrysler’s Ram division is issuing a massive safety recall for nearly 292,000 ProMaster vans built between 2018 and 2026, due to a critical fire hazard linked to a faulty cooling fan module. The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) warns that the defect is believed to be present across every van produced during the affected period, primarily impacting commercial and delivery fleets nationwide. This incident follows a pattern of recent reliability concerns and comes just one month after FCA recalled another 141,000 ProMaster vans for rearview camera failures.

Cooling Fan Defect Poses Critical Fire Hazard

The defect originates from a supplier component and is exacerbated by inadequate protection within the fan’s electrical circuit.

• NHTSA Recall: The issue is logged under NHTSA Safety Recall Report 25V720.
• The Defect: Certain Ram ProMaster models were fitted with a cooling fan module susceptible to premature bearing wear.
• The Risk: This wear causes the fan motor to draw excessive electrical current. Because the 400-watt fan circuit lacks adequate fuse protection, the result can be overheating and even a vehicle fire.
• Investigation: FCA’s technical team opened an investigation in July 2025 after detecting a trend in fires traced to the cooling fan module area. Component testing confirmed early bearing failure in parts supplied by MAHLE Thermal and Fluid Systems GmbH.
• Affected Population: The recall covers 291,664 Ram ProMaster vans built from July 20, 2017, to October 7, 2025, covering virtually every 2018–2026 model.
• Warning: The NHTSA warns that affected vehicles may fail suddenly with no prior warning or dashboard alert.

Implications for Commercial Fleets and Owners

Given the ProMaster’s use as a staple in commercial and delivery operations, the recall could have wide-ranging logistical impacts.

• Fleet Disruption: With nearly 300,000 vans potentially involved, the recall could have ripple effects across logistics and small-business operations nationwide.
• Owner Reports: Chrysler has logged 39 customer assistance and field reports tied to the defect since early 2020, though no injuries or accidents have been reported so far.
• Remedy Status: A remedy is currently under development.
• Notification Timeline:
  • Dealers will be notified by October 30, 2025.
  • Customer notifications will be mailed between November 20 and November 26, 2025.
  • Owners can check if their VIN is included on the NHTSA website starting October 30, 2025.

Final Thoughts

The Ram ProMaster fire risk recall is a critical safety issue that significantly affects commercial vehicle dependability. The defect, linked to premature bearing wear and a lack of fuse protection, necessitates a prompt and effective remedy. The sheer scale of the recall, affecting nearly 300,000 vans essential for daily commerce, highlights the importance of quality control in components sourced by major manufacturers. For Ram, this latest issue adds to a challenging period regarding vehicle quality and reliability.

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