2011 Ram 1500
Problems, recalls and owner-reported issues
Electrical system is the leading concern among 689 owner complaints filed for this model year. This is the 8th highest complaint count among 17 1500 model years with reports.
Of the 2011 reports, 28 involved a crash and 7 involved a fire. 21 people were injured.
What owners report most often
Recalls and investigations
Fuel system, gasoline, storage, tank assembly, mountingMar 8, 2018
Chrysler (FCA US LLC) is recalling certain 2009-2012 Dodge Ram 1500 trucks currently, or ever registered, in Connecticut, Delaware, Illinois, Indiana, Iowa, Maine, Maryland, Massachusetts, Michigan, Minnesota, Missouri, New Hampshire, New Jersey, New York, Ohio, Pennsylvania, Rhode Island, Vermont, West Virginia, Wisconsin and the District of Columbia. Exposure to environmental conditions such as water mixed with road salt may cause the front fuel tank strap frame "T-Slot" bracket to corrode, possibly causing the fuel tank to drop and make contact with the ground.
If the fuel tank were to drop and contact the ground, a fuel leak may result. Additionally, in the event of a crash, the fuel tank may not remain secured to the vehicle, possibly causing a fuel leak. A fuel leak in the presence in an ignition source, can increase the risk of a fire.
Chrysler will notify owners and dealers will bolt a bracket reinforcement to the frame, free of charge. The recall began May 2, 2018. Owners may contact Chrysler customer service at 1-800-853-1403. Chrysler's number for this recall is U04.
Campaign 18V160000 on NHTSA.gov
Power train, automatic transmission, lever and linkage, column shiftDec 20, 2017
Chrysler (FCA US LLC) is recalling certain 2016-2017 Ram 3500 Cab Chassis with a Gross Vehicle Weight Rating (GVWR) of less than 10,000 lbs, 2011-2017 Ram 3500, 4500 and 5500 Cab Chassis vehicles, 2009-2017 Ram 1500 and 2010-2017 Ram 2500 and 3500 pickup trucks, all equipped with a column shifter. Pushing the brake pedal for prolonged periods when the vehicle is running and in PARK may cause the Brake Transmission Shift Interlock (BTSI) pin to stick in the open position. With the pin in the open position, the transmission can be shifted out of PARK into any gear without pushing the brake pedal or having the key in the ignition.
Being able to shift the transmission without pushing the brake pedal and/or without a key in the ignition can increase the risk of an unintended vehicle rollaway that may result in personal injury or a crash.
Chrysler will notify owners, and dealers will update the vehicle software, inspect the BTSI, and, as necessary, replace it, free of charge. The recall began February 26, 2018. Owners may contact Chrysler customer service at 1-800-853-1403. Chrysler's number for this recall is T79.
Campaign 17V821000 on NHTSA.gov
Power train, driveline, differential unitFeb 6, 2013
Chrysler is recalling certain model year 2009-2012 Ram 1500 trucks manufactured from February 27, 2008, through June 30, 2009, and from December 1, 2009, through October 20, 2011; model year 2009-2011 Dodge Dakota trucks manufactured from February 27, 2007, through June 30, 2009, and from December 1, 2009, through September 30, 2011; model year 2009 Chrysler Aspen trucks manufactured from January 3, 2008, through December 18, 2008; and model year 2009 Dodge Durango trucks manufactured from January 3, 2008, through December 18, 2008. The rear axle pinion nut may loosen due to an undersized pinion spline that can allow relative motion between the nut and companion flange.
If the rear axle pinion nut loosens, the axle can lock up and cause a loss of vehicle control and/or a vehicle crash with little warning.
On November 7, 2013 Chrysler notified owners that dealers would install a pinion nut retainer, free of charge. In July 2015, and under a consent order with NHTSA, the company agreed to offer owners three options for remedying their vehicles: perform the original remedy, offer to repurchase the vehicle at the fair market value plus 10%, or offer an additional incentive offer towards the purchase of a new Dodge, Jeep, Chrysler, or Fiat vehicle. Chrysler will notify owners of the new recall options in a letter expected to be mailed on August 31, 2015. Owners may contact Chrysler at 1-800-247-9753. Chrysler's recall campaign number is N08.
Campaign 13V038000 on NHTSA.gov
Suspension, rear, axle, spindleDec 24, 2010
CHRYSLER IS RECALLING CERTAIN MODEL YEAR 2011 RAM 1500 TRUCKS MANUFACTURED FROM SEPTEMBER 2009 THROUGH DECEMBER 2010. SOME VEHICLES MAY HAVE EXPERIENCE A NOISE (GROWL, GRIND) COMING FROM THE REAR AXLE BEARING WHICH COULD EVENTUALLY SEIZE.
A FAILURE OF THE BEARING COULD CAUSE THE VEHICLE TO STALL INCREASING THE RISK OF A CRASH.
CHRYSLER WILL NOTIFY OWNERS AND WILL INSTALL AN OIL PORT INSERT INTO THE REAR AXLE FREE OF CHARGE. THE SAFETY RECALL BEGAN ON APRIL 4, 2011. OWNERS MAY CONTACT CHRYSLER AT 1-800-853-1403.
Campaign 10V656000 on NHTSA.gov
Representative owner complaints
689 reports, newest first.
Structure, Dec 19, 2022
Tailgate randomly unlocks and opens while vehicle is in motion. Cargo comes out. The dealer was shown the defective locking mechanism and refused to repair it.
Latches/locks/linkages, Dec 14, 2022
The contact owns a 2011 Ram 1500. The contact stated that the tailgate unlatched and opened inadvertently while driving down the driveway. The vehicle was taken to the dealer and the dealer was made aware of the failure but provided no assistance. The dealer stated that the failure was a known issue however, there was no recall associated with the VIN for the failure. The vehicle was not repaired. The manufacturer was contacted and advised the contact to contact the NHSTA hotline and file a complaint. The failure mileage was 63,000.
Engine, Dec 12, 2022
engine ticking,lifter and cam failure had it checked, engine stalled while driving in traffic almost had an accident,they used defective parts and fiat knew this and did nothing about it,this is a common problem in all these engines from 2009 to 2014
Electrical system, Vehicle speed control, Fuel/propulsion system, Nov 15, 2022
The vehicle's fuel pump continues to run even when the vehicle is turned off causing the overheating of electrical wiring and draining the battery, it's a serious issue and a fire hazard that will set the fuel tank on fire, I filed a complaint back in June and no action has been taken.
Electrical system, Fuel/propulsion system, Oct 13, 2022
Car would not start fuel pump was the root cause. The replacement of the fuel pump did not fix starting problem. The issue ended up being the fuse to the fuel pump was not getting power. The current fix is a wire jumper from the cigarette lighter fuse to fuel pump fuse.
Power train, Engine, Oct 3, 2022, crash
The timing chain and timing tensioner are loose when the economy is on. Have to drive it in tow mode for it to stop. Then the truck jumped forward an hit another vehicle. Now, I have to pay 1600 to get it fixed.. If dodge would've put good quality parts in we wouldn't be having this discussion.
Air bags, Sep 26, 2022, crash
The contact owns a 2011 Dodge Ram. The contact stated while driving at 15 MPH, the vehicle on the left side did not yield on the green light crashing into the vehicle and causing damage to the front driver's side. The contact stated that none of the air bags deployed. The contact suffered severe injuries and was taken to the hospital for an x-ray and whiplash. The contact stated that the other driver was taken to the hospital as well but was unsure of his injuries. A police report was filed, and the vehicle was towed to the contact's home. The vehicle was not diagnosed. The manufacturer was not contacted. The failure mileage was 144,793.
Power train, Sep 20, 2022
When the truck is loaded to approximately 75% - 100% GVWR and nose up on a moderate to steep incline upon releasing the brake and not depressing the accelerator immediately permitting the truck to roll back even slightly the engine will stall . Upon engine stall brake power assist is lost and brake pedal becomes very difficult to depress and is extremely difficult arrest the motion of the truck. This truck in question is equipped with a Cummins diesel engine & Asin automatic transmission.
Steering, Suspension, Wheels, Aug 30, 2022, crash
Yesterday, the Front Right Wheel completely separated from the axel while driving 25 mph. The truck veered sharply to the right, crashing into the driver's side of a fortunately unoccupied parked car, and continued to the right into the curb. I was not seriously injured, though my neck was strained. The tire and rim were destroyed, and it appears that the metal attachment from the wheel to the car was completely sheared through. There was also extensive Front End damage. Had I made it another mile to the parkway, this would have been a fatal injury to me, as well as other drivers. The truck was just inspected 2 days prior to this occurrence by a Certified Dodge Ram Dealer (NY Facility #[XXX]) with a clean health record. It is currently at the North Star Auto Body (516-781-2200) awaiting inspection by the Allstate Insurance adjuster (Claim # [XXX]). A police report was also filed. (Case #[XXX]) There was no warning to this catastrophic event. INFORMATION Redacted PURSUANT TO THE FREEDOM OF INFORMATION ACT (FOIA), 5 U.S.C. 552(B)(6).
Power train, Aug 1, 2022
This is additional information for NHTSA tracking number 11476438. Through an online search, this issue seems to pertain to not only our vehicle class, but others equipped a HEMI engine. As this happened to me, it is very dangerous. A rapid deceleration on a highway, at highway speeds is dangerous. As the vehicle is decelerating on its own, brakes are not employed. Thus, no brake lights to warn others of the deceleration. Luckily, I had an attentive driver behind me. Should I have been trapped in the the inside lane, I cold have been over-run by a truck or worse cause a chain reaction of rear-ends potentially injuring many. Upon contacting Chrysler today, they didn't seem to have any concerns as it was beyond the warranty period. They seem to be completely absolving themselves of any accountability if the vehicle is beyond its warranty period. They appear to not be concerned of the safety of others once the warranty expires. Concerning our vehicle, all maintenance has been timely and supporting documentation is available.
Engine, Jul 28, 2022
I was driving at highway speed. The vehicle suddenly lost power and began to shutter. It was difficult to control and the vehicle behind me had to swerve to the inside lane to avoid a rear end collision. Upon receipt and diagnosis from Olathe DCJ, they indicated there is a misfire in cylinder 5. Through a Google review, I discovered this is very common know issue. It costs anywhere from $3500-$15000 to resolve let alone the risk to life. In discussion with my service advisor (Mike), they perform this repair a couple of times a month. This is in one location in the Kansas City area. I can only imagine how widespread this issue is.
Fuel/propulsion system, Forward collision avoidance, Jul 20, 2022
Fule Pump continues running even when vehicle is turned off, leaking fuel, fire hazard, cruise control not functioning properly due to the issue,
Fuel/propulsion system, Jul 16, 2022
There should be a recall on the problem I have had the same problem how can you guys cover the pump but not the electrical the most important part of the problem so stupid
Power train, Other or unspecified, Jun 19, 2022, crash
My car had suddenly and without any warning broken down in the middle of the street, putting me and 2 other passengers at extremely high risk considering we were in a busy highway, which left us stuck in the car until we managed to run for safety to the side of the road. My Vehicle is a Doge Ram 2011 5.7 Liter V8 with 80K mileage. VIN# [XXX] The crash was caused by the Driveshaft completely separating and dragging on the asphalt, while the rear axle seized and resulted in a loss of power, and the rear differential to leak all the fluid. At first, I sent the car via a tow truck to an independent service center, which has been providing all the needed maintenance to my car for the past 5 years. In the process of trying to fix the vehicle and inspecting the issues which apparently turned out to be really expensive to fix ( Rear Differential $1400 used ). We discovered that there's a recall conducted on the vehicle from the manufacturer, that I didn't have any prior knowledge to related to this malfunction. Then I immediately took the vehicle to the nearby dealership, who acknowledged the recall at first only, but before conducting the repair they changed their minds and stated that I should've brought the car and fixed the undersized pinion shaft splines only and avoided the whole crash! Obviously I would've done that if I knew. To conclude: The vehicle crashed due to a safety issue that shouldn't be blamed on the customer. and the dealership (Advanced Automotive Trading Co) is refusing to address the exact detailed issue which they addressed in the recall description. and wouldn't take responsibility. PS: I'm an American living in Jordan, and I couldn't find anyone to really report my problem to here, that's why I'm submitting a complaint to NHTSA. Thank you, [XXX] INFORMATION Redacted PURSUANT TO THE FREEDOM OF INFORMATION ACT (FOIA), 5 U.S.C. 552(B)(6).
Power train, Other or unspecified, Jun 16, 2022
I have read there is a rear differential recall and it is not listed on the recall list. I am worried my carrier bearing will fail possible causing severe damage possibly death.
Engine and engine cooling, Fuel system, Diesel, Jun 2, 2022
The contact owns a 2011 Dodge Ram 2500. The contact initially received notification of NHTSA Campaign Number: 14V635000 (Engine and Engine Cooling, Fuel System, Diesel). The contact took the vehicle to the dealer and the recall was serviced. Recently, the contact stated that he noticed a fuel leak coming from the fuel heater. The vehicle was taken to an independent mechanic where it was discovered that a plug on the connector had melted due to a defective O-ring. The mechanic linked the failure to the recall. The dealer was contacted by both the mechanic and the contact and both were informed that the recall was a one-time free repair. The manufacturer was not notified of the failure. The vehicle was not repaired. The failure mileage was approximately 183,000.
Electrical system, Other or unspecified, Engine, Feb 21, 2022
Wireless ignition node and key . Cave in will not work ,can not move truck stuck in park gear
Power train, Service brakes, Feb 20, 2022
In January 2021 I had to replace the driver's side caliper and CV axle, due to caliper malfunction. In February 2022 I had the same problem and had to replace the CV axle and caliper again due to caliper malfunctioning a second time.
Electrical system, Jan 27, 2022
The contact owns a 2011 Ram 1500. The contact stated that the vehicle failed to start up after multiple attempts without warning. Due to the failure, the contact had the vehicle towed to a dealer to be diagnosed. The contact was informed that the TIPM (Totally Integrated Power Module) was defective. The contact stated that a relay switch bypass was performed to correct the failure. The contact then notified the manufacturer of the failure and the manufacturer acknowledged that the failure was common; however, there were no recalls on his vehicle. The manufacturer then referred him to the NHTSA for assistance. The vehicle had been repaired. The failure mileage was approximately 76,108.
Steering, Electrical system, Fuel/propulsion system, Dec 9, 2021
WIN IGNITION UNIT CAN Turn off BY KEY FOB MOVEMENT WHEN DRIVING CAUSING ENGINE TO SHUT OFF WITH LOSS OF STEERING AND BRAKING Control *** Fuel pump remains on when vehicle is off and key fob is removed. Risk of fuel pump fire and electrial FIRE. **TIPM SHORTS AT FUEL PUMP RELAY CAUSING FUEL pump to continually operate and drain battery and risk of fire FUEL pUMP TO CONTINUALLY RUN AND operate RISK OF FIRE DAMAGE TO Surroundings. fuel pump runs WITH VEHICLE IGNITION OFF AND KEY REMOVeD CAUSING A DRAIN ON THE VEHICLE battery until battery is fully discharged.
Electrical system, Oct 21, 2021
The contact owns a 2011 Ram 1500. The contact stated while attempting to start the vehicle, the vehicle failed to start. The contact stated no warning light was illuminated. The contact stated on the fourth attempt the vehicle started. The contact took the vehicle to the used car dealer where the vehicle was purchased however, the failure was not duplicated. The contact stated that the failure recurred when the temperature was cooler. The contact stated he has also experienced the vehicle stalling and seizing. The contact stated that the fuel pump remained operational after the key was removed from the ignition. The battery was also discharged, and the contact was hearing abnormal sounds. The contact called Lithia Chrysler Dodge Jeep RAM Fiat of Spokane (10701 N Newport Hwy, Spokane, WA 99218:(509) 321-7300) and Findlay Chrysler Jeep Dodge Ram Post Falls (550 N Alberta St, Post Falls, ID 83854: (208) 457-1900) and made them aware of the failure. The vehicle was not diagnosed or repaired. The manufacturer had not been informed of the failure. The failure mileage was approximately 90,000.
Service brakes, Sep 16, 2021, crash
Hydraulic control unit, anti-lock brake system failed which resulted in "no brakes". Truck went through garage door. Could have happened on the road or stopping for pedestrian's. Problems reported to and confirmed by an independent service. The hydraulic control unit has not been inspected. No warning lamps, messages or other symptoms of the problem prior to failure. The hydraulic control unit was kept by the independent service and can be inspected. Parts have been replaced.*JB
Steering, Electrical system, Fuel/propulsion system, Sep 14, 2021
In march/ 2020 my truck shut off 3xs going down the hwy with me and my kids in it . all without any warning. Upon the third event it caused my truck to began losing power to my headlights and tail lights and no hazards as well ? Which i thought was a very concerning matter especially at night... Very dangerous and it could have had one of us hurt or even killed . i payed 150 for a wrecker and hauled it to a mechanic that night . over the course of the next few days they checked it and no signs of the same thing recurring while at the shop . payed another 75 dollars amd drove truck for another couple months and then the same thing happening again . yet this time i was lucky enough to be just pulling out of my driveway . took to mechanic again paying a friend 75 to carry by tow dolly . only to be told nothing was wrong . its like my truck is possessed . later on the truck ended up shorting my fuel pump and my tipm costing me alot of money 1400 to replace the tipm. And 535 to replace the fuel pump . then 1 yr later again the security light on dash came on and bam it burnt my fuel pump up again , thus causing me to fork out another 535 plus a by pass relay harmess for 135. Luckily i have had no more issues out of the fuel pump . knock on wood ... But the truck still shoots the security light on and causes all my lights to stop working and puts me in harms way whenever the truck feels like acting up . this is ridiculous and dangerous bc might i add me and my family were in the vehicle in almost every instance that occured. And thats not safe . i thought highly of dodge but now im starting to wonder if its even safe to have me and my family. In this truck again . luckily the last two time the incident occured i was leaving my house so i was able to have help getting it back in my drive way when it unlocked from its lock down mode. But there has 5o be some type of issue that can be resolved after the amount of money payed for the repairs and the cost of truck as well
Service brakes, Aug 27, 2021, crash
Driving up to closed garage door going approximately 2 mph. Catastrophic brake failure and vehicle went through garage door. 1. Total brake failure due to failure of "hydraulic control unit, Anti-lock brake system. A. Unit was replaced by PTL Tire & Auto in Ham Lake because of safety issue. B. Part available for inspection - unknown (PTL Tire & Auto is looking to see if they still have the part.. C. PTL can write a letter regarding the failure. 2. Total brake failure while driving up to garage door. 3. Confirmed by independent service (PTL Tire & Auto) 4. Vehicle was not inspected except for independent service. 5. There were no warning lamps, messages or other symptoms of the problem prior to the failure, and when did they first appear?
Other or unspecified, Aug 12, 2021
CONCERNED THAT THE AIR BAGS COULD DEPLOY UNEXPECTEDLY DUE TO THE TIPM DEFECT REPORTED ON MANY CHRYSLER VEHICLES INCLUDING MY DODGE RAM 1500. IT HAS ALREADY CAUSED MY FUEL PUMP TO FAIL AND ALSO LIGHTS COME ON AND GO OFF RANDOMLY. AS EVERY ELECTRICAL FUNCTION OF THE VEHICLE MUST FIRST GO THROUGH THE TIPM, INCLUDING ALL SAFETY SYSTEMS, THIS IS EXTREMELY DISCONCERTING1