Dodge recalls 67k Ram Trucks, over clutch problems

Chrysler is recalling about 67,000 pickups because of a problem that could allow the trucks to be started without the clutch being depressed. Chrysler said one death is associated with the problem.

The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration had opened an investigation into the trucks in May after receiving a report of a child starting a 2006 Dodge Ram 3500 pickup without using the clutch. The truck moved forward, striking and killing another child, the safety agency said.

The company said that a wire in the clutch ignition interlock switch could break in trucks with manual transmissions. That could keep the truck from starting, or if drivers don’t follow recommended starting procedures, the truck could move when the ignition key is turned.

Vehicles with manual transmissions are required to have interlock mechanisms that stop the motor from being started unless the clutch is depressed.