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
697 reports, newest first.
Power train, Engine, Fuel/propulsion system, Aug 28, 2024
Catalytic converter, sensors, knocking loss of power, bogging , hot and cold engine , was on a road trip back home passing a 18 wheeler and it starts to lose power Boggs down and then takes off , steering wheel was iffy, fumes are stong in and out of truck. Threw my suitcase and dog in floor . I have replaced sensors , knock sensor , coils, sparks plugs - no fix muffler shop said catalytic is not plugged up . Sent me to mechanic said ram / dodge designed these years messed up common problem ,one mechanic telling me new engine parts might fix won’t pass inspection so now it just sits and drys up that’s not right for what it has cost my insurance said there nothing they can help with it only has 84k miles please emission and knock common problem that is mana factory defect surely loss of power in traffic scary please help with insurance and parts , gas I have no money for deep engine problems 84 k should still run like new truck the trip there drove great then I went to start to go back home 2 days later and knocking and wouldn’t drive putting scanner said sensor . This truck was running awesome I like driving . But to malfunction no reason. The codes are not right . need my truck back on the road I live in Texas has to pass emission to get inspection sticker
Fuel/propulsion system, Aug 25, 2024
Looking under my truck, I found that the front Gas Tank Strap had fallen down from the vehicle frame mount. During further inspection of the vehicle it was that the gas tank strap mounting point has rusted through and that the strap has pulled thru the rusted point. The front of the gas tank has fallen down and pushed the gas tank strap into the drive shaft. Th only thing supporting the gas tank is the rear gas tank strap
Fuel system, Gasoline, Aug 6, 2024
The contact owns a 2012 Ram 1500. The contact stated while driving 50 MPH, an abnormal scraping sound was coming from the vehicle. The contact pulled over and discovered that the front fuel tank strap bracket had detached due to corrosion. Due to failure, the front end of the fuel tank began to hang down from the vehicle. The contact cautiously drove the vehicle home and attached a cable to the fuel tank strap bracket as a temporary fix. Upon investigation, the contact discovered NHTSA Campaign Number: 18V160000 (Fuel System, Gasoline) which was linked to the failure. The dealer was notified of the failure and informed the contact that the vehicle was not included in the recall. The manufacturer was notified of the failure but offered no assistance. The vehicle was not repaired. The failure mileage was approximately 66,000.
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.
Fuel system, Gasoline, Jul 9, 2024
The contact owns a 2012 Ram 1500. The contact stated while performing maintenance on the vehicle and checking underneath the vehicle near the fuel tank, the contact became aware that there was a metal strap hanging down. The contact determined that one of the strap supports had rusted and fractured. The contact drove the vehicle to an independent mechanic and was informed that the fuel tank straps, and bracket were extremely corroded and could not be repaired. The contact was informed that the bracket and straps needed to be replaced. The mechanic referred the contact to a dealer The vehicle was not repaired. The contact researched online and related the failure to NHTSA Campaign Number: 18V160000 (Fuel System, Gasoline). The manufacturer was informed of the failure. The failure mileage was approximately 170,000.
Fuel system, Gasoline, Jul 2, 2024
The contact owns a 2012 Ram 1500. The contact received notification of NHTSA Campaign Number: 18V160000 (Fuel System, Gasoline); however, the part to do the recall repair was not yet available. The local dealer was contacted. The contact stated that the manufacturer had exceeded a reasonable amount of time for the recall repair. The manufacturer was not made aware of the issue. The contact had not experienced a failure. Parts distribution disconnect.
Service brakes, Jun 25, 2024
In approximately 2019 I received multiple warning lights including "Serv 4WD", TCS disabled, and ABS warning lights. Had it looked at by the dealer who replaced wheel sensors and performed diagnostics. All lights cleared exept TCS disabled warning which is indicationg that the TCS system is not functioning and has a collateral effect of the cruise control not being able to turn on. I have paid to have this remaining indication diagnosed on two different occasions, each leading to a dealership recommendation to replace the Hydraulic Control Unit / ABS Module at a cost of approximately $1500 and a wait for backordered parts exceeding one year - all with no guarantee of this fixing the problem. My truck has been in this condition for about 5 years now. A quick Google search will show that there have been multiple instances of faults of this type affecting the HCU/ABS modules with the problem becoming particularly prevalent in the 2017-2018 model years. Thousands of complaints have been submitted and Class Action Lawsuits started, but it appears FCA has yet to adequately address this potential safety issue caused by a defective part that is known to them.
Fuel system, Gasoline, Jun 17, 2024
The contact owns a 2012 Ram 1500. The contact stated while his wife was driving at approximately 65 MPH, a loud sound was noticed coming from underneath the vehicle. The contact stated that when the wife arrived home, he inspected the vehicle and became aware that the fuel tank was hanging on the ground. The contact also stated that the frame that held the bracket was rusted. The vehicle was not diagnosed or repaired by an independent mechanic or local dealer. The contact related the failure to NHTSA Campaign Number: 18V160000 (Fuel System, Gasoline); however, the VIN was not included. The manufacturer was made aware of the failure; however, no assistance was provided. The failure mileage was unknown.
Fuel system, Gasoline, Jun 17, 2024
The contact owns a 2012 Ram 1500. The contact stated that while driving at approximately 20 MPH, the fuel tank detached and fell from the vehicle. No warning lights were illuminated. The vehicle was not diagnosed or repaired by an independent mechanic or local dealer. The contact related the failure with NHTSA Campaign Number: 18V160000 (Fuel System, Gasoline); however, the VIN was not included. The manufacturer was made aware of the failure and confirmed the VIN was not included in the recall. The failure mileage was approximately 90,000.
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.
Engine, Jun 3, 2024
The exhaust manifold bolts Broken causing it to leak ,tick.
Air bags, Seat belts, May 25, 2024
The seat belt and air bag warning light has stayed on. I have had multiple Mechanics, look at it and even try to inspect it. So the lights will go off and they cannot find a problem. I am just worried that if I getting an accident my seatbelt wont-work correctly and the airbags wont-work correctly. I have tried to do a hard reset and so has the mechanics but the lights stay on.
Fuel/propulsion system, May 10, 2024
Happen to notice something hanging under my truck while in a parking lot. Looked under and the front of my fuel tank was almost touching the ground. After further inspection the front strap had pulled out of the frame that was suppose to be holding it. The frame was completely rusted out and can no longer hold the fuel tank strap. I never received a letter regarding the extended warranty so was unaware of that this issues could occur. Now not covered because the extended warranty expired 20 days ago. First time while owning any vehicle where I though the vehicle was putting me in danger because of a failed component. This should be a safety recall not a extended warranty. I had over 22 gallons of fuel in the tank when it failed.
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.
Fuel system, Gasoline, Apr 17, 2024
The contact owns a 2012 Ram 1500. The contact stated while driving at an undisclosed speed, he heard an abnormal sound emanating from underneath the vehicle, prompting him to pull to the shoulder of the roadway. After a visual inspection, the contact observed that the fuel tank had become partially detached. No warning lights were illuminated. The vehicle was not taken to the dealer or an independent mechanic. The vehicle was not repaired. After investigating the failure, the contact related the failure to NHTSA Campaign Number: 18V160000 (Fuel System, Gasoline) but the VIN was not included. The manufacturer was notified of the failure but provided no assistance. The failure mileage was 114,000.
Service brakes, Apr 13, 2024
As I was driving and started to come to a stop, my brakes lost all pressure. I was able to safely stop on the side of the road. When I checked the vehicle, I found that the rear driver side brake line had been severed due to it rubbing against the wheel. I checked the passenger side and saw the same mark, but the line has not been severed yet.
Fuel system, Gasoline, Engine and engine cooling, Apr 5, 2024
The contact owns a 2012 Ram 1500. The contact stated that the engine was previously replaced due to camshaft failure. Additionally, the contact stated while checking the tire with the vehicle parked and turned off, the contact became aware that the fuel pump was still running. The contact stated that the car key was in the basement during the failure. The dealer and the manufacturer were not notified of the failure. The vehicle was not diagnosed or repaired. The failure mileage was approximately 124,000.
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.
Fuel/propulsion system, Mar 24, 2024
Went to drive my truck to the store this morning and heard metal scraping against pavement. I immediately pulled over and looked under truck and noticed my fuel tank was hanging down and the front bracket came undone. Luckily was only a couple blocks from the house slowly drove back home so I could more in depth diagnose the issue. I noticed the strap to hold fuel tank up seemed fine but the bracket it sits in, in the frame rusted out causing the strap to come out and the tank to drop. Now no options to fix and without a vehicle until I can get it figured out… I did some research and noticed that there was a recall for this and the year of my truck was included so typed my vin on NHTSA and showed my truck has 0 unrepaired recalls but this is a recall and unsafe if I would not have noticed so soon could have been very bad.
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
Fuel system, Gasoline, Feb 7, 2024
The contact owns a 2012 Ram 1500. The contact stated that upon taking the vehicle to an independent mechanic for an oil change, he was made aware that the fuel tank strap bracket was corroded and had detached from the fuel tank. No warning lights were illuminated. The vehicle was not repaired. After investigating the failure, the contact related the failure to NHTSA Campaign Number: 18V160000 (Fuel System, Gasoline) but the VIN was not included. The manufacturer was notified of the failure but provided no assistance. The failure mileage was 145,000.
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
Fuel/propulsion system, Dec 18, 2023
GAS TANK STRAP IS NOT CONNECTED I SEE A RECALL ON THE YEAR OF MY TRUCK BUT WHEN I LOOK UP MY VIN # IT DONT SHOW MY TRUCK HAVING THE PROBLEM BUT IT SAYS IN THE RECALL MY TRUCK ON IT WHAT IS THE DEAL WITH THAT