2013 Ram 1500
Problems, recalls and owner-reported issues
Steering is the leading concern among 1,277 owner complaints filed for this model year. This is the 5th highest complaint count among 17 1500 model years with reports.
Of the 2013 reports, 72 involved a crash and 10 involved a fire. 37 people were injured.
What owners report most often
Recalls and investigations
Latches/locks/linkages, tailgate, latchMay 9, 2019
Chrysler (FCA US LLC) is recalling certain 2015-2017 Ram 1500, 2500 and 3500 pickup trucks equipped with an 8 foot bed and a power locking tailgate. Chrysler is also recalling all 2013-2014 and 2018 Ram 1500, 2500 and 3500 pickup trucks built before April 1, 2018 with a 6 or 8 foot bed and a power locking tailgate. On August 29, 2019 Chrysler expanded the recall to include an additional 693,128 model year 2013-2014 Ram 1500, 2500 and 3500 pickup trucks. The tailgate actuator limiter tab may fracture and cause the tailgate to unlatch and open while driving.
If the tailgate opens while the vehicle is being driven, cargo may fall out the vehicle and create a road hazard, increasing the risk of crash.
Chrysler will notify owners, and dealers will repair the tailgate latch, free of charge. The recall began May 23, 2019. Chrysler is expected to notify owners of the expanded population on October 18, 2019. Owners may contact FCA US customer service at 1-800-853-1403. FCA US's number for this recall is V44. Note: 2015-2017 MY Ram 1500 pickup trucks with truck beds other than 8 foot, are currently covered under NHTSA recall 18V-486 for this issue.
Campaign 19V347000 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
Air bagsMay 9, 2017
Chrysler (FCA US LLC) is recalling certain model year 2013-2016 Ram 1500, Ram 2500, and 2014-2016 Ram 3500 vehicles. Certain driving conditions, such as driving off-road or debris striking the vehicle may cause the roll rate sensor to trigger a fault within the Occupant Restraint Controller (ORC). If this fault occurs, the rollover side curtain air bag and the seat belt pretensioner will be disabled from deploying.
If the rollover side curtain air bags and seat belt pretensioners are disabled, there is an increased risk of injury to the vehicle occupants in the event of a crash that necessitates activation of these safety systems.
Chrysler will notify owners, and dealers will update the ORC software, free of charge. The recall began June 26, 2017. Owners may contact Chrysler customer service at 1-800-853-1403. Chrysler's number for this recall is T25.
Campaign 17V302000 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
Equipment, electrical, radio/tape deck/cd etc.Jul 23, 2015
Chrysler (FCA US LLC) is recalling certain model year 2013-2015 Ram 1500, 2500, 3500, 4500, and 5500, 2015 Chrysler 200, Chrysler 300, Dodge Charger, and Dodge Challenger, 2014-2015 Jeep Grand Cherokee, Cherokee, and Dodge Durango, and 2013-2015 Dodge Viper vehicles. The affected vehicles are equipped with radios that have software vulnerabilities that can allow third-party access to certain networked vehicle control systems.
Exploitation of the software vulnerability may result in unauthorized remote modification and control of certain vehicle systems, increasing the risk of a crash.
Chrysler will notify and mail affected owners a USB drive that includes a software update that eliminates the vulnerability, free of charge. Optionally, owners may download the update to their own USB drive from http://www.driveuconnect.com/software-update/ or take their vehicle to a Chrysler dealer for immediate installation. In an effort to mitigate the effects of this security vulnerability, Chrysler has had the wireless service provider close the open cellular connection to the vehicle that provided unauthorized access to the vehicle network. This measure may not have been implemented on all vehicles and does not address access by other means that will be remedied by the software update. The recall began on August 25, 2015. Owners may contact Chrysler customer service at 1-800-853-1403. Chrysler's number for this recall is R40.
Campaign 15V461000 on NHTSA.gov
Seat beltsJul 22, 2015
Chrysler (FCA US LLC) is recalling certain model year 2013-2015 Ram 1500, 2500, and 3500 trucks manufactured June 20, 2012, to January 26, 2015. In the affected vehicles, the side impact sensor calibrations may be overly sensitive, and as a result, the side air bag inflatable curtains and seat air bags may unexpectedly deploy and the seat belt pre-tensioners may activate.
Air bags that unexpectedly deploy increase the risk of a crash or injury.
Chrysler will notify owners, and dealers will update the Occupant Restraint Control module calibration, free of charge. The recall began on September 8, 2015. Owners may contact Chrysler customer service at 1-800-853-1403. Chrysler's number for this recall is R23.
Campaign 15V460000 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, automatic transmissionDec 6, 2013
Chrysler Group LLC (Chrysler) is recalling certain model year 2013 Chrysler 300 AWD, Dodge Charger AWD, and Dodge Ram 1500 4x4 vehicles equipped with ZF all wheel drive ("AWD") 8HP45 transmissions. In the affected vehicles, the transmission output shaft may fracture.
The transmission output shaft fracture could result in a loss of power, increasing the risk of a crash. Additionally, if the parking brake is not applied before exiting the vehicle, the vehicle may roll away despite the transmission being placed in 'Park'.
Chrysler will notify owners, and dealers will inspect and replace the transmissions, as necessary, free of charge. The recall began on March 31, 2014. Customers may contact Chrysler at 1-800-853-1403. Chrysler's recall number is N65.
Campaign 13V610000 on NHTSA.gov
Electronic stability control (ESC)Jul 2, 2013
Chrysler is recalling certain model year 2013 RAM 1500 4x4 trucks manufactured June 26, 2012, through February 5, 2013. Due to a software issue with the Electronic Stability Control (ESC) module, the ESC system may be disabled when the vehicle is started.
A disabled ESC system may result in loss of directional control, increasing the risk of a crash.
Chrysler will notify owners, and dealers will update the ESC module software, free of charge. The recall began on September 11, 2013. Owners may contact Chrysler at 1-800-247-9753. Chrysler's recall campaign number is N37.
Campaign 13V287000 on NHTSA.gov
Exterior lighting, turn signalJun 4, 2013
Chrysler is recalling certain model year 2013 Ram 1500, 2500, and 3500 trucks manufactured September 9, 2012, through March 5, 2013 and equipped with optional premium tail lamps. In the affected vehicles, the turn signal indicator may not flash at a double rate to give a notification to the driver of a turn signal malfunction. Thus, these vehicles fail to conform to the requirements of Federal Motor Vehicle Safety Standard (FMVSS) No. 108, "Lamps, reflective devices, and associated equipment."
Without a warning that the turn signal is malfunctioning, the driver would continue to use the vehicle, unaware that other drivers on the road are not being notified that the vehicle is turning, increasing the risk of a crash.
Chrysler will notify owners, and dealers will reprogram the Central Body Controller software, free of charge. The recall began June 27, 2013. Owners may contact Chrysler at 1-800-853-1403. Chrysler's recall campaign number is N35.
Campaign 13V237000 on NHTSA.gov
Engine and engine coolingMay 7, 2013
Chrysler Group LLC (Chrysler) is recalling certain model year 2013 RAM 1500 trucks manufactured manufactured June 25, 2012, through December 12, 2012. In the affected vehicles, the coolant bypass valve may stick in a position that does not allow coolant to flow into the heater core. Thus, these vehicles fail to conform to the requirements of Federal Vehicle Motor Safety Standard (FMVSS) No. 103, "Windshield Defrosting and Defogging Systems."
Without a properly working windshield defrosting system, a buildup of mositure or ice could limit the driver's ability to see, increasing the risk of a crash.
Chrysler will notify owners, and dealers will replace replace the suspect coolant valves along with an updated calibration, free of charge. The recall began on June 25, 2013. Owners may contact Chrysler at 1-800-247-9753. Chrysler's recall campaign number is N25.
Campaign 13V177000 on NHTSA.gov
Parking brakeApr 3, 2013
Chrysler Group LLC (Chrysler) is recalling certain model year 2013 Dodge Ram 1500 vehicles manufactured December 17, 2012, through January 22, 2013. The parking brake cable equalizer was set incorrectly and may not hold the vehicle on a 20% grade. Thus, these vehicles fail to conform to the parking brake performance requirements of Federal Motor Vehicle Safety Standard (FMVSS) No. 135, "Light Vehicle Brake Systems."
If the parking brake fails to operate as designed, the vehicle could roll when parked, increasing the risk of a crash.
Chrysler will notify owners, and dealers will reset the parking brake cable equalizer if required, free of charge. The recall began on April 22, 2013. Owners may contact Chrysler at 1-800-247-9753. Chrysler's recall campaign number is N22.
Campaign 13V128000 on NHTSA.gov
Representative owner complaints: steering
638 reports, newest first. Show all
Steering, Dec 20, 2023
- Received a low voltage warning light on vehicle and a day later as I was driving the vehicle, the steering wheel seemed to be moving around on its on at times kind of locking up. As I was leaving a car wash exit, the power steering completely locked out and then eventually I was able to move steer the vehicle but the power assist was no longer in there. This was on 12/14/2023 - As I was driving home 12/14/2023, the vehicle eventually locked up on the steering wheel and and all the lights in the vehicle started to dim down and shutting down; radio, parking assist sensor, heat and a/c ,acceleration and then it came to a stop as I could keep driving the vehicle as there was no more power and the brakes seemed to not be working. Had to call a tow truck company to get home. Tow truck driver stated my vehicle could not be placed in neutral and the rear brakes were locked up. This was on the highway and could have been terrible to crash to a vehicle or medium and in rush hour. - The vehicle currently sits in my driveway, have not taken to dealership yet. The alternator was replaced, a battery sensor (negative) was replaced and now the vehicle turns on but the steering wheel column service light is on and it is semi locked - low voltage a day before, then steering column service light and then when driving home on 12/14/23 all the lights came on it.
Steering, Dec 20, 2023
The contact owns a 2013 Ram 1500. The contact stated that while driving at 30 MPH, the steering wheel seized. The contact stated that the power steering became inoperable. The contact pulled into a parking lot, turned off the vehicle, and the steering wheel was released. After restarting the vehicle, the steering wheel was difficult to turn to the left or the right. The steering symbol was illuminated. The vehicle was taken to an independent mechanic, and the contact was informed that the rack and pinion had malfunctioned. The local dealer was not contacted. The vehicle was not diagnosed or repaired. The manufacturer was not notified of the failure. The approximate failure mileage was 100,000.
Steering, Dec 15, 2023
Power steering malfunctioned. Wouldn't work when first started vehicle. Now doesn't work at all. Hard to change lanes or when turning off freeway and when tried to turn around a corner vehicle behind me didn't know what I was doing as too hard to turn the wheel. He almost slammed into me. Brought to dealer who said part is discontinued. Warning light comes on that says, ! Service power steering!
Steering, Service brakes, Hydraulic, Dec 15, 2023
The contact owns a 2013 Ram 1500. The contact stated while starting the vehicle, the ABS warning light was illuminated, and the cruise control feature disengaged. The vehicle was taken to the dealer, where it was diagnosed that the ABS module had failed and needed to be replaced. The dealer informed the contact that the part was not available and was under engineering review until April 2024. The contact related the failure to TSB Number: S200500000. Additionally, the contact stated while starting the vehicle, the power steering warning light was illuminated, and the steering wheel was difficult to turn. The contact stated that the failure occurred on two occasions. The contact turned off and restarted the vehicle on each occasion, and the warning light was no longer illuminated. Additionally, the steering wheel became inoperable. The vehicle was taken to the dealer, where it was diagnosed that the power steering control module (PSCM) had failed and needed to be replaced; however, the part was not yet available. The vehicle was not repaired. The contact related the failure to NHTSA Action Number: RQ23003 (Steering). The manufacturer was not notified of the failure. The failure mileage was approximately 43,000.
Steering, Dec 14, 2023
The electric power steering failed on the truck. It is almost impossible to turn. Sometimes it will work again after cranking the vehicle only to have it fail again in few minutes. This makes the truck undrivable and unsafe.
Steering, Dec 9, 2023
Loss of Power Steering. I had my vehicle towed to "Conway Chrysler Dodge Jeep Ram 2385 Church Street, Conway, SC 29526. (843) 365-7331. It has been there for approximately two (2) months. I was told that they are waiting on parts. I found out that there are hundreds other, same type complaints, reported to this agency. Please advise what steps should I take to resolve this issue. Thanks.
Steering, Dec 8, 2023
After picking up some supplies from the store, I was about to make a left turn onto main road from the parking lot area when the electric power steering went out, so I had to turn the steering with tremendous force to get into a safe spot. So I contacted two shops and one quoted me for like $3900 and would take months to get replacement parts. Also, contacted another shop as well and still haven't heard from them.
Steering, Wheels, Service brakes, Dec 7, 2023
My ABS module is defective. My power steering goes, my ABS system lights come on and off. My braking comes and goes. I brought it to the dodge dealership and they said that dodge is remanufactifing the parts as it’s a huge issue they are having and said just to drive it or don’t but with no other help.
Steering, Dec 4, 2023
Power Steering. Yes it is available for inspection. Yes my safety along with passengers and other drivers were / are at risk. The power steering will sometimes work and suddenly stop working while making a maneuver. Rendering the steering wheel useless. This makes it difficult / impossible to avoid obstacles. And makes it hard to make a common maneuver such as making a turn. It has been diagnosed by the Dodge dealer of a failed steering rack. Vehicle has not been inspected by manufacturer, just dealer. Warning message appears after steering wheel locks up. No advanced warning.
Steering, Dec 3, 2023
The power steering completely went out. I could not turn my truck safely. Manual steering was wat too hard to turn. Had my truck towed. Now the dealer tells me I can't get a new electric steering rack for 3 months or more. The vehicle is unsafe to drive!
Steering, Nov 27, 2023
We were driving and lost power steering. Was hard to turn wheel.
Steering, Nov 27, 2023
Sudden and complete loss of power steering Was able to get safely off the road using extreme force on the steering wheel. Had vehicle towed to dodge dealership where they now are informing me that the electric power steering unit has failed. This is the same issue they had a recall for on newer models! Luckily nobody was hurt this time!
Steering, Nov 27, 2023
Traveling at highway speed and power steering completely went out making it difficult to steer. Putting my family at risk of an accident. Incident was inspected but a dealership and was found that the power steering module had an internal fault. Power steering light came on in the truck.
Steering, Nov 21, 2023
Started truck, steering was extremely difficult to turn. Took to dealer, said other years of this truck experienced similar issue. Dealer diagnosis - Internal failure in steering rack module. Replaced. Cost - $2942.46
Steering, Nov 16, 2023
The contact owns a 2013 Ram 1500. The contact stated while driving approximately 65 MPH, the contact heard a chime and the “Steering Maintenance" warning light was illuminated. The contact continued driving and exited the highway and stopped at an auto parts store where the contact was advised that the power steering was electrically assisted and was referred to a dealer. The contact was able to drive the vehicle to a dealer who diagnosed the vehicle and determined that the power steering assist system needed to be replaced; however, the parts to repair the vehicle were on a national backorder. The vehicle was not repaired. The loss of power steering functionality was constant, and the vehicle was no longer drivable. The manufacturer was informed of the failure. The contact researched online and related the failure to NHTSA Action Number: RQ23003 (Steering). The failure mileage was approximately 100,000.
Steering, Nov 7, 2023
Electronic Power Steering system unexpectedly failed on my 2013 Dodge Ram 1500 with 40k miles on it. Mechanic quoted cost to repair $3600.00. I have noticed several other owners to report thidls same problem yet no recall.
Steering, Nov 7, 2023
I went out and started my 2013 Ram 1500 on Monday morning, Nov 6 to take my son to school. While preparing to leave, I noticed that my steering wheel was extremely hard to turn (more difficult than a car with manual steering) and the "Service Power Steering" warning came on the dash. I am glad this failure did not occur the day before with my entire family in the truck driving a highway speeds. Steering when this failure occurs is so difficult, this situation could be deadly to someone on the road. The truck is currently at the dealer being looked at. There are many others with this issue yet there is no recall from Ram despite the severity of this issue.
Steering, Nov 1, 2023
Was backing up in reverse, steering wheel locked up and I cannot turn it at all. I was able to stop and saw the steering wheel notification light come on flashing with an exclamation. I was able to put in drive but still can't turn the steering wheel. Boniface Heirs Dodge was contacted, they advised they don't have any recalls on my truck, but they had some on other years, but it is the same issue. I have had several people look at it and they advised it is the electric power steering system. Also, I am unable to obtain a new one seeing the part is discounted or a nationwide shortage. Very disturbed about this. I could have been on the highway with my grandkids in my truck. Also, I see that I am not the only person wth a 2013 Dodge Ram 1500 4x4 who has the same problem!
Steering, Oct 28, 2023
Electronic Power Steering failure, and has been confirmed by the dealer. It always fails during the first start up, but will SOMETIMES activate on 3 or more start ups. Dealer has noted the internal power steering fault during diagnostics.
Steering, Oct 26, 2023
The contact owns a 2013 Ram 1500. The contact stated while driving approximately 10 MPH and making a left turn, the steering suddenly became firm and would not turn as needed. The contact stated that he drove the vehicle to his destination and later drove the vehicle to a tire dealer. The contact stated no warning light was illuminated. The contact stated that he purchased four new tires and had the wheels aligned and the loss of power steering reoccurred. The contact stated that the failure had become constant and no longer drove the vehicle. The contact had not taken the vehicle to a local dealer or independent mechanic. The vehicle was not diagnosed or repaired. The manufacturer was not informed of the failure. The contact researched online and related the failure to NHTSA Campaign Number: 16V167000 (Steering). The failure mileage was approximately 75,000.
Steering, Oct 24, 2023
Leaving for work this morning and the power steering went completely out. Was unable to steer without great effort. No warning lights or messages prior to failure.
Steering, Oct 23, 2023
Total power steering failure, no steering at all. Happened while turning into driveway without prior warning. Vehicle now un-operational. I have read this is a ongoing problem with these vehicle's and there is no recall as of now. Extremely dangerous as you loose all steering. Vehicle has less than 40,000 miles on it. Thankfully I was at a low speed and there was no damage involved, have not yet sent vehicle in for repair as it is a $3500 min. repair
Steering, Oct 22, 2023, crash
Electronic steering locked up while driving. Now says to service steering and is un-driveable
Steering, Oct 22, 2023
While driving home from work one day last week (10/12/23) I unexpectedly heard a tone and the message “Check Power Steering System “ appeared on my dash along with a light that is a steering wheel and an exclamation mark. My steering was VERY stiff. So stiff that I almost couldn’t turn the wheel enough to pull over into a parking lot. I had absolutely no warning or previous problems with my steering before this. The steering is still this way and I am unable to drive the truck. This is very dangerous! If for some reason you had to turn the wheel suddenly you would not be able to. As I previously stated I could barely turn the wheel enough to get off the road.
Steering, Electrical system, Oct 20, 2023
I purchased the truck used June 2023. Odometer currently 47,700 miles. The service power steering light flashes on the evic screen. The steering will be extremely difficult because it is electrical power steering. The problem started October 9th 2023 and has been intermittent. A mechanic did hook up the scan tool and there were no codes. So, it has gotten to where I will do 3 start cycles, idle foe a few minutes and after the 3rd cycle, no codes and the steering works as it should. Thankfully, it happens before I drive out onto the road. I will drive up and down my street before I venture out onto major highways and expressways. However, what's not to say it will have this issue while I'm driving, especially winter around the corner. I researched 2013 Ram 1500, and apparently other owners have had the same problem or worse. This is my daily driver and only vehicle I have. Quite frankly, I get scared driving my truck now. I stay in the lane closest to the shoulder just in case. Ram/Stellantis need to do a recall on these 2013 Ram 1500. I have owned early model rams and a 2016 challenger, not one problem.