The EcoDiesel Defeat Device
The government alleged that Fiat Chrysler (now part of Stellantis) equipped 2014-2016 Ram 1500 and Jeep Grand Cherokee vehicles with the 3.0-liter EcoDiesel V6 with illegal, undisclosed software — a “defeat device” — that turned emission controls up during official testing and down during ordinary driving, so the trucks polluted far more on the road than on paper. It echoed the Volkswagen diesel scandal.
Defeat-device cases combine environmental violations with consumer deception: buyers thought they were getting a clean diesel.
The Settlements
Fiat Chrysler agreed to recall and repair more than 100,000 vehicles and paid a $305 million civil penalty, with total costs of the civil resolution reported around $800 million. Affected owners could receive class-action payments reported up to about $3,075. Separately, litigation continues over 2013-2019 Ram 2500 and 3500 heavy-duty trucks with the 6.7-liter Cummins turbodiesel — a distinct case involving roughly 630,000 trucks where a court has allowed key defeat-device claims to proceed.
So “Ram diesel lawsuit” actually spans two engines: the resolved 3.0L EcoDiesel matter and the ongoing 6.7L Cummins matter.
What Owners Should Know
EcoDiesel owners should confirm the emissions recall/repair was completed for their VIN. Cummins heavy-duty owners should watch the ongoing litigation and keep purchase and repair records. As always, verify any settlement claim through the court-approved administrator rather than a third-party site.
Before You Act
Thinking About Filing a Claim?
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Ram EcoDiesel Lawsuit: The Diesel Emissions Settlements: Frequently Asked Questions
Answers to the most common questions about this case and your legal options.
What is the Ram EcoDiesel lawsuit about?
That Fiat Chrysler used illegal defeat-device software on 2014-2016 Ram 1500 and Jeep Grand Cherokee 3.0L EcoDiesel vehicles to cheat emissions tests. It led to a $305 million penalty and owner payouts.
How much did owners get?
Class-action payments were reported up to about $3,075 per eligible owner, alongside the recall/repair and the $305 million civil penalty.
Is the Cummins diesel case the same?
No. That is a separate, ongoing case over 2013-2019 Ram 2500/3500 heavy-duty trucks with the 6.7L Cummins diesel, involving roughly 630,000 trucks.
Legal Disclaimer
This article is general legal information, not legal advice, and does not create an attorney-client relationship. Case status, eligibility criteria, and any amounts described are as reported at the date shown and may change. Consult a licensed attorney in your jurisdiction about your own situation.