Major Chrysler Recall Issued Over Brake and Taillight Malfunctions Affecting 450,000 Vehicles

Chrysler is facing renewed scrutiny after federal regulators announced a large-scale vehicle recall tied to towing equipment failures that could affect everyday driving conditions. The recall covers more than 450,000 vehicles and centers on trailer tow modules linked to brake and taillight malfunctions. As details continue to surface, the notice places attention on how modern towing systems integrate with basic safety functions.

According to federal safety officials, the issue traces back to an improperly designed trailer tow module that may prevent trailer lights from working while also interfering with trailer braking systems. That finding brings a broad range of recent Jeep and Ram models into focus, particularly vehicles commonly used for hauling and work-related travel. Owners may not notice the defect during routine driving, which has prompted regulators to move forward with a formal recall process.

Chrysler dealerships will handle repairs at no cost, with replacement modules scheduled once owner notifications begin mailing later this month. The company, operating as FCA US, LLC, will also address defective Mopar trailer modules sold separately, extending the recall beyond factory-installed equipment.

Affected Jeep and Ram Models Included in the Recall

The recall spans a broad mix of Jeep and Ram vehicles that rely on factory-installed trailer tow modules, which brings attention to how widely the issue may reach. Federal regulators identified the 2024 through 2026 Jeep Wagoneer S and the 2026 Jeep Cherokee among the affected models, which places newer Jeep buyers squarely within the recall scope. That range reflects how recently the faulty components entered production.

Ram trucks account for a significant share of the vehicles involved, particularly models often used for hauling, towing, and commercial work. The list includes the 2025 and 2026 Ram 1500 along with the Ram 2500 and Ram 3500 pickups, followed closely by the Ram 3500, 4500, and 5500 cab chassis configurations. Each of these models can come equipped with the same trailer tow module design flagged by safety officials.

NHTSA linked the defect to trailer lights that may fail to illuminate and trailer brakes that may not function as intended, which places attention on towing conditions rather than everyday driving. As a result, owners who regularly tow trailers may face risks that only appear once a trailer connects to the vehicle, making the recall especially relevant for work and utility-focused drivers.

Dealer Repair Process and Mopar Module Buybacks

Dealers will handle repairs for affected vehicles directly, which gives owners a clear path once notification letters arrive. According to the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration, dealers will replace the trailer tow module at no cost, addressing issues tied to trailer lights and braking performance. Notification letters are expected to begin mailing on March 24, which sets the timeline for owners to schedule service.

The recall also extends beyond factory-installed equipment, reaching certain Mopar trailer tow modules sold separately. Federal regulators explained that these modules carry the same defect and can create the same lighting and brake failures when installed. In guidance posted by NHTSA, the agency said, “If installed in a vehicle, dealers will replace the trailer tow module, free of charge.”

Mopar modules that remain unused will follow a different path, according to regulators. NHTSA said dealers will repurchase those modules if they were never installed, with owner notification letters for those parts expected to be mailed on March 24, 2026. Chrysler, operating as FCA US, LLC, will oversee the process through its dealer network.

What The Recall Signals for Vehicle Owners and Regulators

As the recall process moves forward, attention is also turning to how owners can stay informed and avoid confusion during the repair window. NHTSA encourages drivers to monitor official recall notices and check their vehicle identification numbers through federal recall databases, which helps confirm whether a specific vehicle falls under the repair campaign. That approach allows owners to act quickly once dealer appointments become available.

At the same time, the recall highlights how modern vehicle systems rely heavily on electronic modules that connect safety features across multiple functions. Trailer tow modules now manage lighting, braking signals, and communication between vehicles and trailers, which means a single design flaw can surface across many model lines. Regulators often flag these cases as examples of how shared components affect large production runs.

Looking ahead, Chrysler’s response may draw further regulatory attention toward supplier oversight and module testing standards. As vehicles continue to integrate advanced towing and assistance systems, federal agencies are likely to scrutinize how manufacturers validate these components before they reach consumers, shaping how future recalls and safety reviews unfold.