ODI #11772722
Filed 10/21/2026 · Incident 10/12/2026
STEERING
1. The electronic power steering system on my 2018 Dodge Ram began malfunctioning intermittently, with the power steering going in and out, before eventually failing completely. I was informed that due to the design of the system, the entire rack-and-pinion assembly must be replaced because of the design. 2. The intermittent steering failure progressed to a complete loss of power steering assistance, creating a serious safety concern. Difficulty steering can affect the driver's ability to maneuver, respond quickly to traffic, and maintain control in emergency situations. Driving under these conditions puts me and other motorists at risk. I depend on this vehicle to get to work, but I cannot safely drive it with the steering system malfunctioning. Being unable to use my vehicle also creates a significant hardship because I must maintain my employment and daily responsibilities. 3. The problem has been identified as a failure of the electronic power steering system. I have been informed that the entire rack-and-pinion assembly must be replaced because of the way the system is designed. I have also been told that the required replacement part is on national backorder and is unavailable in Oklahoma with no delivery date in sight. The vehicle was inspected by Kasterke of Shawnee, OK and Kevin's Automotive. 4. To my knowledge, the manufacturer, police, and insurance representatives have not independently inspected the vehicle. 5. Before the complete failure, the electronic power steering system began working intermittently, repeatedly going in and out. The problem continued until the power steering failed completely. There was no warning. The vehicle just became unable to steer and handle. Once the system failed, the message "Power Steering Unavailable" appeared.
