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: fuel/propulsion system
92 reports, newest first. Show all
Fuel/propulsion system, Mar 16, 2023
The component affected on my 2012 dodge ram is the front fuel tank strap frame "T slot" bracket that has corroded with water mix with road salt, making the fuel tank to dangle and possibly causing it to drop and make contact with the ground. I know other ram truck have this recall but unfortunately this recall doesn't show up on my vin. The problem has been confirmed by a dealer but unfortunately they cant not fix it unless the recall shows on my vin or i pay out of pocket.
Other or unspecified, Fuel/propulsion system, Feb 3, 2023
Gas tank sagging loosely, strap is not supporting tank.
Electrical system, Fuel/propulsion system, Sep 1, 2022
I just received this truck, 2012 RAM 1500, from my uncle. Worked great for a couple of months but then started having issues with the engine stalling and losing power while driving. Then I would have issues getting it to start again. The last time I was stranded was at a friend's house and wasn't able to get it to start again. His cousin that works on cars initially determined it was a fuel pump issue because he could get it to start by spraying ethanol in the engine but wouldn't stay started. Then another friend of his inquired about the truck and he told him the issue. He knew of the known issue with the TIPM in this year/model truck which was a fuel pump relay issue. He was able to clean some contacts and got it to start again which allowed me to get it home. I did some research and it is widely known of this issue with the TIPM. There are even bypass cables you can get for a work around. I do consider this a safety issue since at any time it will stall while driving down the road including once on a highway.
Power train, Electrical system, Fuel/propulsion system, Aug 29, 2022
While operating the vehicle at highway speed the vehicle shut off causing total loss of power. This happened on a road with speeds at 55 mph. It also occured while pulling into my driveway at a low speed, and i have had 3 occurences of the vehicle power "surging" at varied speeds. I had the fuel pump replaced, which did not remedy the problem. After hearing my fuel pump running with the vehicle shut off, i did some further research and found that the TIPM (toatally integrated power module) is the culprit and has been found to cause several other electrical system issues. Loss of power in a low speed scenario, such as turning left from one roadway to an intersecting road can cause the vehicle to be stranded in the middle of the road and place the stranded vehicle in the line of incoming traffic posing a serious risk for injury or death from a "T-Bone" motor vehicle crash.
Fuel/propulsion system, Aug 27, 2022
The fuel tank strap frame T -slot bracket corroded and the fuel tank fell upon the ground while traveling on roadway . there is a recall for this but it doesn't look like my vehicle was included .
Electrical system, Engine, Fuel/propulsion system, Aug 11, 2022
Failure of fuel pump relay on above listed 2012 Ram 1500 at 69,999 miles. Current repair requires replacement of entire TIPM module (at a cost of $1,000 to 2,000) as this relay is soldered to the circuit board deep inside the module, making it nearly impossible to cost effectively replace this critical $10.00 part. Of note, the TIPM installed in this vehicle has 10 slots (9 relays installed and 1 open slots) for "replaceable" relays under the cover. Of these replaceable relays at least 2 (blower motor and park lamp) are less critical with one empty slot available. Further a safety recall was issued in December of 2014 (Safety Recall P54/14V530 Fuel Pump Relay) for 2011 models of the Dodge Durango and Jeep Grand Cherokee, but no other models despite that the same or very similar designed TIPM's are used in virtually all Chrysler, Dodge, Ram and Jeep vehicles along with many VW models. If this was a SAFETY ISSUE for select 2011 models, why not the other vehicles using the same or similar TIPM's. Further experience has shown that the Chrysler fix tends to have a high failure rate also. Suggestion: Recall all vehicles with TIPM's which have soldered in Relays, for replacement with a re-designed part which allows for all the relays that can be readily replaced. Further consideration in the design of a new part should include the minimization or elimination of multiple points of failure (is a relay really necessary on a circuit?).
Structure, Fuel/propulsion system, Aug 4, 2022
The frame rusted at the attachment point for one of the fuel tank support straps. The fuel tank sagged as it was being supported by only one strap.
Vehicle speed control, Fuel/propulsion system, Jul 23, 2022
While driving the Vehicle at 9:30pm on 7/22/22 the vehicle suddenly accelerated on its own at a very fast rate after I sped up to yield over into another lane coming off the highway. There was luckily no vehicles ahead of me and I was on a straight away or else I would’ve hit someone. I pressed the brakes down but they wouldn’t bring the vehicle to a stop. I placed the transmission in neutral and it slowed down but soon as I put it back in drive it accelerated again. I went through this cycle 4 times then finally I gained control of the vehicle again. I have read online the dealer says it’s user error or floor mats. That was not the case at all. My floor mats are stock and have taps keeping them secure. This situation was very dangerous and if it happens again it could cause serious injury to me or someone else.
Other or unspecified, Engine, Fuel/propulsion system, Apr 20, 2022
Engine ticking heavily and diminishes some when engine warms up. Vehicle dies randomly while driving and loss of power steering and assisted breaking. Almost had an accident while turning a corner and vehicle died.
Fuel/propulsion system, Mar 7, 2022
Middle gas tank strap frame bracket has corroded. The tank strap has fallen off and the gas tank almost detached.
Fuel/propulsion system, Dec 16, 2021
What happened to my 2012 1500 Dodge Ram Pickup truck is exactly what is stated in the U04 Ram recall. This makes me wonder why am I not also listed in the recall. While driving to work I felt a big jolt in the car. I thought initially it was something with the brakes but everything seem ok with the brakes and since I was only a block away from work I kept going and park in my assigned parking lot. Only after work did I notice what had happened. The gas tank towards the front of the car had dropped as the strap had detached. I used the tire jack to push the tank back up and then tied rope around the gas tank to hold it in place. I then drove the truck to the local Tire Discounters who said they could fix the Gas tank strap. Only the next day did I learn that they couldn't do that type of repair because where the strap needed to attach on the frame was completely corroded. Thank God the other strap had not come undone too.
Fuel/propulsion system, Dec 11, 2021
I took my vehicle in for an oil drip and the mechanic tells me that I have a strap broken and hanging down on my fuel tank. He tells me there is a recall for it. I called the dealership and they tell me there is a recall for some trucks with the same year, make and model but mine is not one of them. I don't understand why my truck is not covered under this recall when it happened to my truck. Safety recall U04/NHTSA18V-160 Frame bracket.
Electrical system, Engine, Fuel/propulsion system, Nov 28, 2021
TIPM is sending intermittent signal to fuel pump relay cause truck to stall at highway speeds.
Fuel/propulsion system, Sep 11, 2021
I was driving on the expressway and my gas tank dropped in the front, causing the front strap to make contact with my drive shaft. The front of the fuel tank was hanging one inch from the cement. I had to pull to the side of the roadway and have someone bring me a "tie down ratchet strap" to hold the tank in place so I could get off the side of the expressway. Upon inspection the strap "T" end appeared to be fine, but the part on the frame that holds it was totally rotted. My Truck had 58,982 miles on it when this happened. My truck is in excellent condition otherwise. * I had received a recall notice years ago for this issue and then I got a letter a few weeks later from FCA telling me to disregard the notice that my vehicle was not affected. I guess they were wrong!
Engine, Fuel/propulsion system, Aug 18, 2021
SEEMS LIKE THIS IS NOT NEW, OTHERS THAT OWN THE SAME 1500 MODEL HAVE ISSUES WITH LIFTS AND CAMSHAFT CAUSING A MISS FIRE, P030SOMETHING (MINES IS P0303). THE SPARK PLUS/ FUEL INJECTORS/ AND COIL PACKS HAVE BEEN CHANGED. OUT OF NOWHERE I GET A CODE WHILE DRIVING OUT OF TOWN. THE TRUCK HAS ALWAYS HAD A RUNNING TICK TO IT. I HAVE MY VECHILE SERVICED BY DODGE THEMSELVES. THEY NEVER STATED IT WAS AN ISSUE. THIS IS A BIG ISSUE IN HEMI 5.7 ENGINES MANUFACTURED AFTER THE REDESIGNED FROM THE MAGNUM PLATFORM.
Fuel/propulsion system, Mar 22, 2021
2012 DODGE RAM 1500 HEMI STALLS WHILE DRIVING, STOPPING AT RED LIGHT, OR TURNING. VERY DANGEROUS. THEN WON'T START, WHEN IT DOES START IT DIES INSTANTLY. FUEL PUMP ISSUE. TIPM ISSUE. DEALERSHIP EXTERNAL FUEL PUMP RELAY KIT REQUIRES CUTTING WIRES UNDER THE TIPM. DEALERSHIP WILL REPLACE TIPM FOR ABOUT $1500 IT IS A DODGE ISSUE SHOULD HAVE A RECALL. TRUCK SITTING IN DRIVEWAY, PAYING INSURANCE ON A TRUCK THAT WON'T START. ONLY 80,000 MILES, CHRYSLER DODGE VEHICLES FREQUENTLY HAVE THIS ISSUE. PLEASE RECALL THEM. THANKS CAN NOT EVER IMAGINE BUYING A DODGE AGAIN.
Electrical system, Fuel/propulsion system, Mar 4, 2021
THE FUEL PUMP REMAINS RUNNING AFTER VEHICLE IS TURNED OFF.
Electrical system, Engine, Fuel/propulsion system, Feb 14, 2021
POWER WINDOWS WORKED WEN THEY WANTED TO . WHILE DRIVING ALL WARNING LIGHTS WOULD FLASH ON IN THE CLUSTER LIKE I TURNED THE KEY OFF THEN ON . TRUCK KEPT RUNNING . STARTED GETTING HARD TO START . ONCE LOST POWER WHILE DRIVING LIKE IT WAS RUNNING OUT OF GAS . NOW IT DOESN'T START AT ALL . HAD IT TOWED TO DEALER THEY TOLD ME IT WAS THE TIPM . I UNDERSTAND THIS IS A COMMON PROBLEM WITH THE RAM TRUCKS .
Electrical system, Engine, Fuel/propulsion system, Feb 1, 2021
WITH THE COLD WEATHER, IT'S NOT CRANKING. I HAD A NEW BATTERY AND STARTER INSTALLED AND IT STILL DOESN'T CRANK UNLESS IT'S IN NEUTRAL AND I PRESS THE FUEL PEDDLE. IF IT SETS FOR TOO LONG IN COLD, I HAVE TO REPEAT THE PROCESS AND NO LONGER AM ABLE TO USE REMOTE START AND SOMETIMES HAVE TO BE JUMPED OFF.
Other or unspecified, Engine, Fuel/propulsion system, Dec 21, 2020
EXHAUSTED MANIFOLD ON DRIVER SIDE MAKING LOUD NOISE, TOTALLY DEFECTIVE COMPONENT
Fuel/propulsion system, Sep 19, 2020
I AM CURIOUS ABOUT RECALL U04. IT HAS TO DO WITH THE SLOT CORRODING THAT HOLDS THE FROM OF THE GAS TANK. MINE HAS CORRODED AND DROPPED THE GAS TANK, I CALLED CHRYSLER AND THEY SAID MY VIN WAS NOT INCLUDED. THE RECALL CLEARLY STATES IF THE VEHICLE WAS REGISTERED IN MARYLAND AT ANYTIME THAT THE RECALL APPLIES. THIS IS DEFINITELY THE PROBLEM WITH MY TRUCK AS THE SLOT HAS CORRODED AND THE STRAP CAME DOWN DROPPING MY TANK. I WOULD SOMEHOW LIKE TO GET MY TRUCK ON THE RECALL SINCE IT CLEARLY FITS THE RECALL DESCRIPTION. THE CHRYSLER RECALL REFERENCE IS U04. WHEN I PUT IN MY VIN THIS RECALL COMES UP BUT I WAS TOLD BY CHRYSLER RECALL SERVICE MY VIN IS NOT LISTED. THE NUMBER I CALLED WAS 1-800-853-1403. I WAS DRIVING ON THE HIGHWAY AT 70MPH WHEN MY GAS TANK DROPPED. I BOUGHT MY VEHICLE AT CARMAX IN MARYLAND
Electrical system, Electronic stability control (ESC), Fuel/propulsion system, Jul 30, 2020
THE FUEL PUMP RUNS CONTINUOUSLY WHILE THE VEHICLE IS TURNED OFF WITH NO KEY IN THE IGNITION. THIS CAUSES THE BATTERY TO DIE AND USUALLY LEAVES ME STRANDED. THERE IS ALSO AN ISSUE WITH THE TRACTION CONTROL. THIS FEATURE IS DESIGNED TO NOT LET THE VEHICLES REAR WHEELS SPIN OUT OF RATIO, WHICH BASICALLY STOPS THE REAR TIRES FROM SPINNING OUT. HOWEVER, IT SENDS FALSE SIGNALS THAT THEY ARE IT STALLS THE VEHICLE IN THE MIDDLE OF INTERSECTIONS. I HAVE ALMOST BEEN TBONED SEVERAL TIMES TO DUE THE TRUCK STALLING AND LEAVING ME A SITTING DUCK TO INCOMING TRAFFIC. LASTLY, THE AIR BAG WARNING LIGHT STAYS ON, LEAVING ME TO BELIEVE IT'S ALSO RECEIVING FALSE SIGNALS. HOPEFULLY THEY DO NOT DEPLOY WHILE I'M DRIVING. IF THEY DO AND I LIVE, I'LL BE BACK TO TELL YOU ABOUT IT. AFTER DOING A LOT OF RESEARCH, ALL OF THESE ISSUES SEEM TO BE RELATED TO A BAD TIPM. THIS IS OBVIOUSLY A MAJOR ISSUE ON THOUSANDS UPON THOUSANDS OF VEHICLES PRODUCED BY CHRYSLER AND SOME MODELS HAVE ALREADY BEEN RECALLED AFTER A LAWSUIT. IN MY OPINION THESE ISSUES COULD RESULT IN BODILY INJURY OR DEATH, AND A SAFETY RECALL SHOULD NOT BE DENIED.
Fuel/propulsion system, Jun 27, 2020
WILL LOOKING UNDER THE BOTTOM OF MY TRUCK I NOTICED THE FUEL TANK SAGGING. FURTHER INSPECTION SHOWED THAT THE FRONT BRACKET THAT HOLDS THE FUEL TANK UP IS HANGING DOWN. THE T SLOT THAT HOLDS THE BRAVE IS RUSTED AND WILL NOT HOLD THE BRACKET IN. AFTER FURTHER INVESTIGATION FOUND U04 RECALL. CONTACTED DEALER AND WAS TOLD THAT THE TRUCK DOES NOT MEET THE RECALL. EVEN THOUGH IT IS A 2012 DODGE RAM 1500 BUILT AT THE SALTILLO PLANT IN MEXICO ON 9/10/2011 AND WAS REGISTERED AND DRIVEN IN WEST VIRGINIA (SALT BELT STATE).*DT*JB
Engine, Fuel/propulsion system, Apr 24, 2020
Y'ALL MANIFOLDS ARE FAULTY. I JUST REPLACED MY MANIFOLD AND SCREW TWO YEARS AGO AND AGIN THE SAME ISSUE THIS COST 800-900 DOLLARS. THIS IS FAULTY ON MANUFACTURER PART.
Fuel/propulsion system, Mar 4, 2020
WHILE DRIVING AT 30 TO 35 MPH, TRUCK LOSES POWER AND GOES TO IDLE FOR 5 TO 15 SECONDS THEN RESUMES POWER. VERY SCARY IN TRAFFIC.