2012 Ram 1500
Problems, recalls and owner-reported issues
Electrical system is the leading concern among 697 owner complaints filed for this model year. This is the 7th highest complaint count among 17 1500 model years with reports.
Of the 2012 reports, 32 involved a crash and 10 involved a fire. 27 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
EquipmentDec 21, 2017
Chrysler (FCA US LLC) is recalling various Dodge, Chrysler, and RAM vehicles equipped with Kidde Plastic-Handle or Push Button 'Pindicator' Fire Extinguishers. A list of the affected trailer models is available at: https://static.nhtsa.gov/odi/rcl/2017/RMISC-17V824-0103.pdf. These extinguishers may become clogged, preventing the extinguisher from discharging as expected or requiring excessive force to activate the extinguisher. Additionally, in certain models, the nozzle may detach from the valve assembly with enough force that it could cause injury and also render the product inoperable. For a full list of the affected fire extinguisher models visit: https://static.nhtsa.gov/odi/rcl/2017/RMISC-17E062-5427.pdf
If the fire extinguisher does not function properly, it can increase the risk of injury in the event of a fire.
Chrysler will notify owners instructing them to contact Kidde for a replacement fire extinguisher, free of charge. The recall began February 14, 2018. Owners may contact Chrysler customer service at 1-800-853-1403 or Kidde customer service service toll-free at 1-855-262-3540, or online at www.kidde.com and click on "Product Safety Recall" for more information. Chrysler's number for this recall is T82.
Campaign 17V824000 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
EquipmentMay 16, 2016
Chrysler (FCA US LLC) is recalling aftermarket Mopar Canvas Seat Covers for certain 2012-2016 RAM 1500, 2500, and 3500 trucks. These Mopar canvas seat covers were sold through Chrysler dealerships beginning October 15, 2015. The seat covers can impede the deployment of the seat thorax airbags.
If the seat cover impedes the air bag deployment, the seat thorax air bags may not provide adequate protection in the event of a crash, increasing the risk of a injury.
Chrysler will notify owners to remove the front seat covers and return them for a full refund. The recall began on July 1, 2016. Owners may contact Chrysler customer service at 1-800-853-1403. Chrysler's number for this recall is S30.
Campaign 16E041000 on NHTSA.gov
Air bags, frontalJul 22, 2015
Chrysler (FCA US LLC) is recalling certain model year 2012-2014 Ram 1500, 2500, 3500, 4500, and 5500 trucks manufactured January 18, 2011, to October 7, 2014, and equipped with the Electronic Vehicle Information Center option. The affected vehicles have a steering wheel wiring harness that may rub against the driver air bag module retainer spring.
This abrasion may result in an electrical short that could cause driver's frontal air bag to unexpectedly deploy. Inadvertent deployment of the air bag may increase the risk of injury and the possibility of a vehicle crash.
Chrysler will notify owners, and dealers will inspect, repair as necessary, and secure the steering wheel wiring harness. Additionally, protective caps will be added to the air bag retainer spring ends. These repairs will be done free of charge. The recall began on September 18, 2015. Owners may contact Chrysler customer service at 1-800-853-1403. Chrysler's number for this recall is R36.
Campaign 15V459000 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
Equipment, other, labelsMay 2, 2012
CHRYSLER IS RECALLING CERTAIN MODEL YEAR 2012 RAM 1500 TRUCKS, MANUFACTURED FROM JANUARY 5, 2012 THROUGH JANUARY 6, 2012. THE AFFECTED VEHICLES HAVE A SPARE TIRE THAT DOES NOT MATCH THE SPECIFICATIONS LISTED ON THE TIRE PLACARD. THUS, THESE VEHICLES FAIL TO COMPLY WITH THE REQUIREMENTS OF FEDERAL MOTOR VEHICLE SAFETY STANDARD NO. 110, TIRE SELECTION AND RIMS.
IF INSTALLED, THE INCORRECTLY SIZED SPARE TIRE MAY UNEXPECTEDLY ACTIVATE THE ELECTRONIC STABILITY CONTROL (ESC) SYSTEM, ALTERING THE EFFECTIVENESS OF THE ESC SYSTEM, INCREASING THE RISK OF A CRASH.
CHRYSLER WILL NOTIFY OWNERS, AND DEALERS WILL INSPECT AND REPAIR VEHICLES AS NECCESSARY FREE OF CHARGE. THE SAFETY RECALL BEGAN ON MAY 21, 2012. OWNERS SHOULD CONTACT CHRYSLER AT 1-800-853-1403.
Campaign 12V192000 on NHTSA.gov
Representative owner complaints: electrical system
175 reports, newest first. Show all
Electrical system, Exterior lighting, Aug 6, 2026, fire
While the vehicle was sitting in the driveway not running, the back of the headlight caught on fire. There wasn't any incedents (e.i. any collision, repairs) prior to the indecent. It is available for inspection. No dealership report yet, but have an appointment with local dealership Tuesday to get an itemized estimate for the repairs.
Electrical system, Other or unspecified, Mar 8, 2026
The truck will just shut off driving down the road at highway speeds. This has occurred multiple times.
Electrical system, Engine, Oct 31, 2025
The contact owns a 2012 Dodge Ram 1500. The contact stated that while driving at an undisclosed speed, the vehicle stalled. The contact was able to coast to the side of the road. No warning lights were illuminated. After several attempts, the vehicle restarted. The contact stated that the failure persisted. The contact stated that on a separate occasion, while starting the vehicle, after releasing the key fob, the vehicle stalled. The contact taped the key to the side of the vehicle to start. The contact stated that once the key fob was taped, the windows failed to roll up, the indicators failed to function as intended, the heater and A/C failed to operate as needed, and the hazard lights were inoperable. The vehicle was not diagnosed or repaired by an independent mechanic or dealer. The manufacturer was not made aware of the failure. The approximate failure mileage was 140,000.
Electrical system, Service brakes, Engine, May 28, 2025
Unknown this truck was not involved in an accident however it came close with steering /brakes the Engine Faulty Wiring Harness caused major issues it wasn’t until recently I saw a video of how to fix the problem you can view these videos online I will say Dodge is Responsible they did have buybacks this too I had No Knowledge of no recalls either however I recently address it to the dealership who sold me this truck the Service Manager told me it’s my issue not theirs they took care of it years ago this is the reason I am sending my complaint I was informed your department will look into this matter to get a resolution on this serious matter thank you. I have some photos the video would not download you can see it if you put 2012 Dodge Ram Engine Faulty Wire issues . Yes I spent $3000 for a mechanic to wire it this should had been fix by Dodge Chrysler not me and it still needs to be fix.
Electrical system, Exterior lighting, Air bags, May 13, 2025
The contact owns a 2012 Ram 1500. The contact stated that the check engine, air bag, and the fuel pump relay failure warning lights were illuminated. The contact stated that the exterior lights failed to operate as needed, and the vehicle occasionally failed to start. Additionally, the contact stated that the vehicle stalled while driving. The vehicle was taken to an independent mechanic who diagnosed the vehicle and determined that the TIPM was faulty and needed to be replaced. The local dealer was not contacted. The vehicle was not yet repaired. The manufacturer was notified of the failure, but no assistance was provided. The failure mileage was 160,000.
Electrical system, Fuel/propulsion system, Mar 23, 2025
Fuel pump won’t shut off when car is turned off, I had to pull out fuel pump fuse because my battery kept getting drain, I’ve had difficulty starting and it’s only been a month since I bought this car,I’ve had to buy a bypass cable to temporarily fix the issue, this has happen to so many people, there should be a recall on the timp failing
Electrical system, Fuel/propulsion system, Forward collision avoidance, Jan 16, 2025
Fuel pump randomly shuts down while driving. Or no start condition. Loss of cruise control hitting bumps in the road. Service 4x4, no tc, no cc, trailer lights disconnect. Dealer has recalls on other same year vehicles w same motor w same TIPM defective part. Not on truck. Warranty will not cover due to common problem. Since fuel relay is part of fuse box, will not cover part. Part alone is $2200. Dealer only. Can't get remanfactured, rebuilt, or part store item. Stuck with a truck that barely runs and almost $3000 to fix a non warranty issue. And very common.
Electrical system, Dec 8, 2024, fire
The truck was sitting at home in the driveway (untouched) for 3 days. Suddenly smoke began to appear from under the hood and within minutes, the engine compartment burst into flames. Because of the fire, smoke and water damage, the vehicle was considered a total loss by the insurance company. The fire marshal advised that the fire started in the vicinity of the passenger side starter battery. It is thought the fire originated from the battery or the grid heater relay that is very near the passenger side battery. The fire also damaged a nearby RV that experienced smoke and heat damage. It was a very intense fire. There were no open recalls on this vehicle and no recent maintenance work performed.
Electrical system, Fuel/propulsion system, Oct 16, 2024
TIPM failure. Vehicle fails to start ("crank, no start" or it acts likes it's out of gas) and/or fuel pump continues pumping after turning the vehicle off (draining battery).The vehicle stalls while driving which has created very unsafe conditions. There has been recalls on other dodge vehicles with same problem. This needs to be a uniform recall on all affected vehicles.
Steering, Electrical system, Air bags, Sep 9, 2024
Driver warning light came for airbag, yes it could be if deployed, no dealer has confirmed (but looked up recall # 15V459000), called molar said no recall on my vehicle…., no one else looked at vehicles book says to immediately take to dealer, yes warning light on follow book info and it appeared 9/8/24
Electrical system, Fuel/propulsion system, Jul 23, 2024
Shut off vehicle and fuel pump kept running. Tapped on Totally Integrated Power Managment module and stuck relay corrected, so the fuel pump shut off. Found a safety recall (Safety Recall R09/NHTSA 15v-115) for stuck relay in TIPM on same year Dodge Durango and Jeep Grand Cherokee. A quick search of many automotive enthusiast forums indicates this issue is common in my particular year, make, and model vehicle as well. I believe this recall should be expanded to include all Dodge products using similar TIMP/Fuel Relay configurations. It is very likely this relay could have been stuck off, while driving causing an unexpected engine shutdown. In my case I was lucky it was stuck on.
Electrical system, Jun 4, 2024
Vehicle has presented multiple electrical problems which I understand is caused by the TIPM module which controls all electrical components in the vehicle. I have replaced the vehicle battery on 5 occasions over the past 5 or 6 years. One reason is the fuel pump fails to shut-off after the vehicle is turned off and continously cycles fuel until the battery is drained. Secondly, the ignition module is faulty and presents a safety risk to the vehicle occupants and the public's safety as the power to the vehicle cuts off while in operation at various level of speed to include highway speeds.The vehicle becomes disabled when it hits a road bump or while making a turn, making it hard to maneuver and may cause operator to lose control of the vehicle and crash with other vehicles, objects or people.
Electrical system, Air bags, Apr 22, 2024
The dash warning light appeared referring to a possible problem with the airbags. I took vehicle to the local dealer and I was informed after their inspection that I did have a problem the passenger airbag. They said they would need to replace passenger seat airbag and wiring harness associated with that device.
Electrical system, Mar 29, 2024
The contact owns a 2012 Ram 1500. The contact stated that while driving at various speeds, the vehicle would suddenly shut off while driving over a bump in the road. The vehicle taken to the local mechanic who diagnosed that the ignition switch was faulty and needed to be replaced. The vehicle was not yet repaired. The manufacturer and local dealer were notified of the failure, but no assistance was provided. The failure mileage was 204,000.
Electrical system, Fuel/propulsion system, Feb 18, 2024
The Totally Integrated Power Module (TIPM) system installed in 2009-2012 Ram vehicles is prone to premature failure, resulting in the sudden cessation of the fuel pump while the vehicle is in operation. This critical malfunction poses significant safety hazards, including the potential for collisions with other vehicles, pedestrians, or stationary objects. Despite the persistence of this issue over several years, no official recall has been initiated to address it. Furthermore, in an attempt to mitigate the TIPM's failure and maintain continuous fuel pump operation, some individuals have resorted to unauthorized modifications, commonly referred to as "Jerry rigging," by bypassing the system with improvised wiring to maintain a constant "hot status." However, this makeshift solution introduces additional risks, including the heightened potential for serious fires due to the bypassed safety mechanisms. Given the severity of these safety concerns and the absence of a comprehensive recall, there is a pressing need for the manufacturer to take decisive action to rectify the TIPM system's deficiencies and ensure the safety of affected vehicles and their occupants.
Electrical system, Feb 12, 2024, fire
Fuse box caught on fire while driving
Power train, Electrical system, Jan 23, 2024, fire
The contact owns a 2012 Ram 1500. The contact stated when the vehicle was turned off and in park, he accidentally bumped the gear shit lever and the vehicle slipped out of park (P) without the brake pedal being depressed. The contact researched online and related the failure to NHTSA Campaign Number: 17V821000 (Power Train). The contact stated that he had attempted to set numerous appointments with a local dealer but was unable to set an appointment for the vehicle. Additionally, while driving approximately 55 MPH the contact stated that he began to smell a burning plastic odor. The contact stated no warning light was illuminated. The contact observed that smoke was being emitted from the defroster vents on the top of the dash board. The contact stated that he pulled off of the roadway and shut the vehicle off. The contact stated as he exited the vehicle he observed pieces of burning melted plastic were dripping from under the dash and onto the vehicle floor carpets. The contact stated he called the fire department. The fire department arrived and extinguished the flames with a chemical fire extinguisher. The contact stated that the dash board and the right front passenger side were burned by the flames. There was extensive damage to the dashboard. The contact stated that the police also arrived but was not sure if a report had been written. The vehicle was towed to an impound lot. The manufacturer was not informed of the failure. The contact stated that prior to the fire the contact had been smelling a burnt plastic smell when using the heater/defroster. The failure mileage was approximately 95,700. The VIN was not available.
Steering, Electrical system, Engine, Jan 13, 2024
2012 Dodge Ram 1500 5.7 liter HEMI Completely shut down turned off losing ALL power I was 9n the freeway with my kids that was the first time my power steering doesn't work at all when this happens happens about 8 to 12 times a week and to make things better if I hit a bump truck shuts down also I t'' can be driving along and all my indicator light come on everything starts beeping and my wipers go crazy it's like my truck is possessed it's unbelievably dangerous and a major inconvenience I'm late for work kids late for school
Electrical system, Fuel/propulsion system, Dec 14, 2023
The TIPM is failing in several areas... Starter, fuel pump and passenger compartment heater. This seems to be a common problem and Ram has never been held accountable... This plastic box and wires that should cost under a hundred dollars to replace is being sold on line between $500 and $1500 The manufacturer also has a built in design flaw where the electrical auto start function is disabled if the consumer has to replace the battery. They must pay a dealer to reprogram the truck to auto start... Seems like Dodge new they would be robbing the public on both of these items...
Steering, Electrical system, Service brakes, Sep 14, 2023
The brakes don’t work well. The steering sucks And had death wobble.
Electrical system, Fuel/propulsion system, Sep 7, 2023
Van shuts off while driving on the highway When attempting to restart no fuel is provided to the fuel rail Engine cranks but remains with a no start condition Negative battery terminal must be disconnected to reset the PCM. After reconnection and reset of PCM vehicle will start. No diagnostic trouble codes are provided through OBD port. No check engine light eliminates Issue has happened numerous times and is documented on the internet through various chat boards
Electrical system, Aug 11, 2023
The contact owns a 2012 RAM 1500. The contact stated that while driving at 15 MPH, the electronics in the vehicle behaved erratically and the vehicle lost all motive power. After restarting the vehicle, it seemed to return to normal functionality but has since become a regular occurrence. The battery warning light was illuminated. The vehicle was taken to an independent mechanic, who diagnosed a failure with the TIPM. The contact stated that the TIPM had been replaced three weeks prior. The vehicle was not repaired. After investigating the failure, the contact related it to NHTSA Campaign Number 14V530000 (Electrical System), but the VIN was not included. The manufacturer was not notified of the failure. The failure mileage was 140,000.
Electrical system, Engine, Aug 4, 2023
-Wireless Ignition Node (WIN) malfunctioned while driving and randomly shut the engine off. The component is available for inspection. -The vehicle immediately loses power and power steering. At high speeds or an intersection could cause a crash. -Research online has indicated that these are known to cause issues after a period of time where the contacts wear out. -The vehicle or component has not been inspected by the manufacturer, police, insurance representatives or others. -There were no warning lamps or messages. The only other symptoms of the problem prior was an immediate shutdown of the engine after starting at random instances.
Electrical system, Apr 12, 2023
The contact owns a 2012 Ram 1500. The contact stated the vehicle failed to start after multiple attempts. Additionally, the vehicle had lost motive power and stalled several times while driving at various speeds. The electronic throttle control system warning light was illuminated. The contact had replaced the fuel pump and TIPM (Totally Integrated Power Module) himself; however, the failure persisted. The dealer was notified of the failure and the contact was informed that the VIN was not under recall. The manufacturer was not notified of the failure. The vehicle was not repaired. The failure mileage was 125,000.
Electrical system, Feb 8, 2023
I have found on lots of other dodge vehicles made this same year have a recall on the TIPM Totally Integrated Power Module which controls the electrical system in your car. It is the black box that has power board and fuses inside. I found through internet research THAT MANY PEOPLE have said they have the same problem with their 2012 dodge ram Laramies 1500. The truck will not run. Sometimes it clicks on but I read that you CAN NOT DRIVE until it is fixed because that one piece basically controls the entire truck and it could cut off while driving and make you lose all control of vehicle. This particular year make and model SHOULD HAVE BEEN INCLUDED WITH THE OTHER DODGE RECALLS FOR THIS SAME PART. PLEASE I'M BEGGING YOU RECALL THE TIPM SO I CAN GET MY TRUCK FIXED AND BE ABLE TO safely drive it again. I don't have several hundred dollars to replace this part when it should not be defective to begin with. Thanks so much please call me with any questions.