The problem
Vehicle description: pickup trucks equipped with diesel engines. The engine driven vacuum pump can allow engine oil into the vacuum hoses due to the absence of an internal check valve. The oil can cause the hose to deteriorate and partially collapse, reducing the vacuum supply to the brake booster.
The risk
Reduced power brake assist can result increasing the risk of a vehicle crash.
The fix
Dealers will add a vacuum pump check valve to the vacuum pump. In addition, the vacuum hose connected to the vacuum pump will be replaced with a hose that is engine oil resistant.
Recall details
| NHTSA campaign | 97V-068 (97V068000) |
|---|---|
| Manufacturer | Chrysler (FCA US, LLC) |
| Component | Service brakes, hydraulic › Power assist › Vacuum › Hoses, lines/piping, and fittings |
| Report date | April 28, 1997 |
| Owners notified | May 19, 1997 |
| Vehicles affected | 58,000 |
| Initiated by | Manufacturer |
Vehicles covered
Owner complaints about the brakes
Frequently asked questions
Is the recall 97V-068 repair free?
Yes. Dodge dealers will fix the problem at no cost: Dealers will add a vacuum pump check valve to the vacuum pump. In addition, the vacuum hose connected to the vacuum pump will be replaced with a hose that is engine oil resistant.
How do I know if my car is included?
Not every vehicle of the listed model years is affected — the recall covers 58,000 vehicles built in a certain window. Check your 17-character VIN with our VIN recall check or at nhtsa.gov/recalls.
Source: U.S. National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) — owner complaints through October 20, 2026, recalls and defect investigations; fuel economy from the EPA. Complaints are unverified reports and are not proof of a defect. How we rate model years.