NHTSA complaint #11511620

Owner complaint summary

Dodge Ram Rear Backup Camera Failure. Experienced multiple instances of backup camera failure. Problem was at first intermittent, as it became more regular truck was serviced at dealership. Wiring harness to camera replaced. Roughly 1 month later, problem returned. Returned to dealership for service, camera replaced. Roughly 1 month later problem returned. Performed online search of forums / message boards and discovered this is a common issue with 4th generation Ram pickups. Recommended online fixes are disconnecting camera from wiring harness in tailgate and re-connecting, or even simply jiggling the connection. A friend who also owns a 4th generation Ram suggested slamming the tailgate to fix. This (ironically) works and is less invasive than removing the tailgate inspection cover, and far better than leaving truck with dealer for a week. Still, the problem continues, frequently during change of temperature between seasons. I have small children, and am often driving locations where small children toddle about (daycare, parks, etc). Losing the rear view camera means I have no rearward visibility to see a small child behind this tall truck. If it fails in one of these locations I return the vehicle to park, get out, and slam the tailgate. I hope others who own these trucks take the time to do the same. This is a known problem identified on youtube and many message boards / forums. After the dealer repairs, when the problem occurred again I contacted Chrysler Cares and questioned if there was a recall or technical service bulletin related to the issue. I was told 'no'. I asked if some type of internal ticket or work order for engineering to investigate could be created and was told only dealerships could initiate investigations.