What the Dodge Ram emissions lawsuit is about

Dodge Ram trucks sold between 2014 and 2018 are at the center of a lawsuit over emissions control systems. The case alleges that Ram 1500 and Ram 2500 diesel trucks were equipped with software designed to detect when the vehicle was being tested for emissions compliance, and that this software allowed the trucks to produce fewer emissions during testing than they did during normal driving. This practice is sometimes called "defeat device" technology.

The lawsuit involves both owners of these trucks and the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA). Multiple cases have been consolidated, and settlements have been reached that affect current and former owners. Understanding what happened, who is affected, and what options exist can help you figure out whether this lawsuit applies to your situation.

Key Takeaways

  • The lawsuit covers Dodge Ram 1500 and Ram 2500 diesel trucks from model years 2014 through 2018 that may have had emissions control software that performed differently during testing than during regular driving.
  • Settlements have been reached that may provide owners with repairs, reimbursement for repairs already made, or cash payments, depending on the specific terms and your truck's status.
  • To find out whether your truck is covered, you need to check the vehicle identification number (VIN) against the settlement administrator's database, which is the official way to determine coverage.
  • Owners who have already paid for emissions-related repairs may be able to recover those costs through the settlement process.
  • The remedies available vary by settlement agreement and may include a software update, engine repairs, or a buyback option in some cases.

Which Dodge Ram trucks are covered

The lawsuit primarily covers Ram 1500 and Ram 2500 diesel models from 2014 to 2018. Not every truck from those years is necessarily included — the coverage depends on the specific engine type and other technical specifications. The most reliable way to determine whether your truck is covered is to use the settlement administrator's VIN lookup tool, which cross-references your vehicle's identification number against the list of affected vehicles.

You can find the VIN on your vehicle registration, insurance documents, or on the driver's side of the dashboard where it meets the windshield. The settlement administrator's website will have a search function where you enter this number. This step is important because it gives you a definitive answer about whether your particular truck is part of the lawsuit.

What settlements have been reached

Multiple settlements have been negotiated in the Dodge Ram emissions cases. The terms vary depending on which settlement your truck falls under, but they generally include one or more of the following: a software update to change how the emissions control system operates, repairs to the emissions control system itself, reimbursement for repairs you have already paid for out of pocket, or in some cases a buyback or trade-in option where the manufacturer repurchases the vehicle.

The specific remedy your truck is may have access to to depends on factors like the model year, engine type, and the particular settlement agreement that covers your vehicle. Some settlements prioritize software updates, while others may offer cash payments or repair coverage. The settlement administrator's website will detail which remedy applies to your truck once you have verified it is covered.

How to check if your truck is affected

Start by locating your vehicle identification number (VIN). This 17-character code appears on your registration, insurance card, and on the dashboard. Write it down or have it ready on your phone.

Go to the settlement administrator's website — the specific URL will depend on which settlement covers your truck, as there have been multiple cases. A search engine query for "Dodge Ram emissions settlement VIN lookup" will direct you to the correct administrator. Enter your VIN into their search tool. The system will tell you when ready whether your truck is covered and, if it is, what remedy you are may have access to to under the settlement.

If the lookup shows your truck is covered, the website will also provide instructions for the next step, whether that is scheduling a repair appointment, submitting a reimbursement claim, or another process specific to your settlement.

Reimbursement for repairs you have already paid for

If you have already paid to repair emissions-related problems on your truck before the settlement was finalized, you may be able to recover those costs. The settlement typically allows owners to submit claims for repairs that were performed on the affected emissions control systems.

To file a reimbursement claim, you will need documentation of the repair work — usually an invoice or receipt from the repair shop that shows what was repaired and how much you paid. The settlement administrator will have a claims process, often available online or by mail, where you submit this documentation. Keep in mind that not all repairs may be covered; the settlement typically reimburses only repairs directly related to the emissions control system that was at issue in the lawsuit.

What happens after you report your truck

Once you have confirmed your truck is covered and identified which remedy applies, the next steps depend on what that remedy is. If it is a software update, you will typically schedule an appointment at a Dodge dealership or authorized repair facility. The update is usually performed at no cost to you and takes a few hours. If it is a repair to the emissions control system, the dealership will handle the work under the settlement terms, again at no cost.

If your remedy is a cash payment or reimbursement, the settlement administrator will provide a claims form and instructions on how to submit it. Processing times vary, but you should expect several weeks to several months from submission to payment. Keep copies of everything you submit and note the claim number or confirmation you receive.

Buyback and trade-in options

Some Dodge Ram emissions settlements have included buyback or trade-in options, though not all settlements offer this remedy. A buyback means the manufacturer repurchases the truck from you at a price set by the settlement agreement, usually based on the vehicle's market value at the time of the settlement. A trade-in option allows you to trade the truck toward the purchase of a new vehicle, often with a credit applied toward the purchase price.

These options are typically available only to owners who choose them — you are not required to participate. If your settlement includes a buyback or trade-in option and you are interested, the settlement administrator's website will explain the process, the timeline, and the valuation method used to determine the offer price. This is a significant decision, so review the terms carefully before committing.

Frequently Asked Questions

Do I have to do anything if my truck is covered by the settlement?

It depends on the remedy. If your truck needs a software update or repair, you will need to schedule an appointment at a dealership. If your remedy is a cash payment or reimbursement, you will need to submit a claim with documentation. If you do nothing, you may lose the opportunity to receive the remedy you are may have access to to, so it is worth checking your truck's status and understanding what is required.

Will the software update or repair affect my truck's performance or fuel economy?

The software update is designed to bring the emissions control system into compliance with EPA standards during all driving conditions, not just during testing. Some owners report that fuel economy or performance may change slightly after the update, but the extent varies by truck and driving habits. The settlement administrator or dealership can discuss what to expect for your specific vehicle.

What if I no longer own the truck I bought during the covered years?

If you sold or traded in the truck, you may still be able to file a claim if you were the original owner and have documentation of the sale. Some settlements allow previous owners to recover reimbursement for repairs. Contact the settlement administrator to ask about your specific situation and what documentation you will need to provide.

How long do I have to take action on the settlement?

Settlement important date vary by case. Some settlements have claim important date that have already passed, while others remain open. Check the settlement administrator's website for the current important date that applies to your truck. If a important date has passed, you may still be able to pursue the remedy through the dealership, but it is important to verify the timeline.

Can I sue Dodge separately if I am part of the settlement?

Once you accept a settlement remedy, you typically give up the right to sue the manufacturer separately over the same issue. This is a standard part of settlement agreements. If you have concerns about whether the settlement is fair or whether you should participate, you may want to review the settlement terms carefully or consult with a lawyer before proceeding.