2016 Ram 1500
Problems, recalls and owner-reported issues
Steering is the leading concern among 1,544 owner complaints filed for this model year. This is the 2nd highest complaint count among 17 1500 model years with reports.
Of the 2016 reports, 91 involved a crash and 36 involved a fire. 73 people were injured and 5 people died.
What owners report most often
Recalls and investigations
Air bags, side/window, curtain, inflatorJan 16, 2025
Chrysler (FCA US, LLC) is recalling certain 2016-2019 Ram 3500, Ram 1500, 2016-2020 Ram 2500, and 2016 Ram 3500 Cab Chassis vehicles. The right and left side curtain air bag inflators may rupture due to a manufacturing defect.
An inflator rupture may result in sharp metal fragments striking occupants, resulting in injury.
Dealers will replace one or both side curtain air bags, as necessary, free of charge. Owner notification letters were mailed February 13, 2025. Owners may contact FCA customer service at 1-800-853-1403. FCA's numbers for this recall are 05C, 09C, and 10C.
Campaign 25V010000 on NHTSA.gov
Engine and engine coolingJun 8, 2023
Chrysler (FCA US, LLC) is recalling certain 2014-2019 Ram 1500 and 2014-2020 Jeep Grand Cherokee vehicles equipped with 3.0L Diesel engines. The crankshaft position sensor tone wheel may delaminate, causing the engine to lose its ability to synchronize the fuel injector pulses and cam shaft timing, possibly resulting in an engine stall.
An engine stall can increase the risk of a crash.
Dealers will update the powertrain control module software to maintain vehicle propulsion, free of charge. Interim notification letters, notifying owners of the safety risk, were mailed August 3, 2023. Some owner notification letters were mailed October 31, 2023. The remaining owner notification letters will be mailed at a future date, anticipated July 2024. Owners may contact FCA US, LLC customer service at 1-800-853-1403. FCA US, LLC's number for this recall is 66A. This recall is an expansion of recall 20V-475.
Campaign 23V411000 on NHTSA.gov
Fuel system, diesel, delivery, fuel pumpJun 9, 2022
Chrysler (FCA US, LLC) is recalling certain 2014-2020 Jeep Grand Cherokee, and 2014-2019 Ram 1500 vehicles equipped with 3.0L diesel engines. A high pressure fuel pump (HPFP) failure may introduce internal debris into the fuel system, potentially resulting in fuel starvation.
Fuel starvation may result in an unexpected loss of drive power, increasing the risk of a crash.
Dealers will replace the HPFP, and inspect and replace, if necessary, additional fuel system components, free of charge. Interim notification letters informing owners of the safety risk were mailed July 21, 2022. Owner notification letters for were mailed for Jeep Grand Cherokee owners starting January 11, 2024. Owner notification letters for Ram 1500 owners were mailed March 7, 2024. Owners may contact FCA US, LLC customer service at 1-800-853-1403. FCA US, LLS's number for this recall is Z46.
Campaign 22V406000 on NHTSA.gov
Air bags, side/window, curtain, inflatorAug 12, 2021
Chrysler (FCA US, LLC) is recalling certain 2015-2020 Ram 1500 Classic, 2015-2016 Ram 3500, and Ram 2500 vehicles, and 2016 Ram 3500 Cab Chassis with a gross vehicle weight rating less than 10,000 lbs. The side air bag inflatable curtain (SABIC) inflator end cap may detach from the inflator, or the inflator sidewall may rupture.
A separated inflator end cap or inflator rupture can allow compressed gas to escape, resulting in the end cap or other components being propelled into the vehicle, increasing the risk of injury or crash.
Dealers will inspect and replace as necessary, the SABIC assemblies, free of charge. Interim owner notification letters were mailed on October 4, 2021. Owner notification letters were mailed on May 26, 2022. Owners may contact FCA US, LLC customer service at 1-800-853-1403. FCA US, LLC's number for this recall is Y55.
Campaign 21V632000 on NHTSA.gov
Engine and engine cooling, engine, dieselAug 13, 2020
Chrysler (FCA US LLC) is recalling certain 2014-2018 Ram 1500 and 2014-2016 Jeep Grand Cherokee vehicles equipped with 3.0L diesel engines. The crankshaft position sensor tone wheel may delaminate causing the engine to lose its ability to synchronize the fuel injector pulses and cam shaft timing, possibly resulting in an engine stall.
An engine stall can increase the risk of a crash.
FCA US will notify owners, and dealers will update the powertrain control module software to maintain vehicle propulsion by reading the camshaft position signal in the event that the crankshaft position signal is lost, free of charge. Owner notification letters were mailed on May 13, 2021. Owners may contact FCA US customer service at 1-800-853-2002. FCA US's number for this recall is W58.
Campaign 20V475000 on NHTSA.gov
Engine and engine cooling, exhaust system, emission control, gas recirculation valve (egr valve)Oct 24, 2019
Chrysler (FCA US LLC) is recalling certain 2014-2019 Ram 1500 and 1500 Classic Pickup trucks equipped with 3.0L Eco Diesel engines. The Exhaust Gas Recirculation (EGR) cooler may crack and allow pre-heated vaporized coolant to enter the EGR system. This mixture may combust inside the intake manifold.
Combustion in the intake manifold can increase the risk of a fire.
Chrysler will notify owners, and dealers will replace the EGR cooler, free of charge. Dealers will also inspect and, as necessary, replace the intake manifold. The recall began April 16, 2020. Owners may contact Chrysler customer service at 1-800-853-1403. Chrysler's number for this recall is VB1.
Campaign 19V757000 on NHTSA.gov
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
Structure, body, tailgateJul 27, 2018
Chrysler (FCA US LLC) is recalling certain 2015-2017 RAM 1500, 2500, and 3500 pickup trucks equipped with a power locking tailgate and either a 5 foot, 7 inch or 6 foot, 4 inch bed. The tailgate actuator limiter tab may fracture and cause the tailgate to unlatch and open while driving.
If the tailgate latch releases and the tailgate opens while driving, cargo may fall out, creating a road hazard and increasing the risk of a crash.
Chrysler will notify owners, and dealers will repair the vehicle, free of charge. The recall began September 17, 2018. Owners may contact Chrysler customer service at 1-800-853-1403. Chrysler's number for this recall is U74.
Campaign 18V486000 on NHTSA.gov
Electrical system, wiringMay 17, 2018
Chrysler (FCA US LLC) is recalling certain 2014-2018 Dodge Journey, Charger and Durango, RAM 2500, 3500, 3500 Cab Chassis (more than 10,000lb), 4500 Cab Chassis and 5500 Cab Chassis, Jeep Cherokee and Grand Cherokee and Chrysler 300, 2014-2019 RAM 1500, 2015-2018 Dodge Challenger, 2015-2017 Chrysler 200, 2016-2018 RAM 3500 Cab Chassis (less than 10,000 lb), 2017-2018 Chrysler Pacifica and 2018 Jeep Wrangler vehicles. These vehicles are being recalled to address a defect that could prevent the cruise control system from disengaging. If, when using cruise control, there is a short circuit within the vehicle's wiring, the driver may not be able to shut off the cruise control either by depressing the brake pedal or manually turning the system off once it has been engaged, resulting in either the vehicle maintaining its current speed or possibly accelerating.
If the vehicle maintains its speed or accelerates despite attempts to deactivate the cruise control, there would be an increased risk of a crash.
Chrysler will notify owners, and dealers will inspect the software, and perform a software flash on the engine or powertrain control module, free of charge. The recall began June 4, 2018. Owners may contact Chrysler customer service at 1-800-853-1403. Note: Owners are advised to stop using cruise control until the software update has been performed. In the event that cruise control cannot be disengaged while driving, owners should firmly and steadily apply the brakes and shift the transmission to neutral, placing the vehicle in park once it has stopped.
Campaign 18V332000 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
Power train, driveline, differential unitMar 23, 2017
Chrysler (FCA US LLC) is recalling certain 2016-2017 Ram 1500 trucks. The differential pin retaining screw may come loose while driving, potentially causing the differential to break or lock up.
A broken or locked up differential may result in a loss of motive power and possibly a loss of vehicle control. Either scenario increases the risk of a crash.
Chrysler will notify owners, and dealers will inspect and replace the differential retaining pin, free of charge. The recall began April 24, 2017. Owners may contact Chrysler customer service at 1-800-853-1403. Chrysler's number for this recall is T20.
Campaign 17V198000 on NHTSA.gov
Power train, axle assembly, axle shaftMay 16, 2016
Chrysler (FCA US LLC) is recalling certain 2016 RAM 1500 trucks manufactured February 19, 2016, to March 3, 2016. The front halfshafts may have been incorrectly manufactured causing them to fracture without warning.
A fractured halfshaft may damage underbody components and create road debris, increasing the risk of a crash.
Chrysler will notify owners, and dealers will replace both front halfshafts, free of charge. The recall began on July 5, 2016. Owners may contact Chrysler customer service at 1-800-853-1403. Chrysler's number for this recall is S32.
Campaign 16V301000 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
Steering, electric power assist systemMar 23, 2016
Chrysler (FCA US LLC) is recalling certain model year 2015-2016 Ram 1500 trucks manufactured January 22, 2015, to September 13, 2015. Contamination on the Electric Power Steering (EPS) control circuit board may cause a short and result in the loss of power steering assist.
If the vehicle experiences a loss of power steering assist, extra steering effort will be required, especially at lower speeds, increasing the risk of a vehicle crash.
Chrysler will notify owners, and dealers will replace the EPS unit, free of charge. The recall is expected to begin on May 16, 2016. Owners may contact Chrysler customer service at 1-800-853-1403. Chrysler's number for this recall is S19.
Campaign 16V167000 on NHTSA.gov
Tires, temporary/emergency spare tireOct 16, 2015
Chrysler (FCA US LLC) is recalling certain model year 2016 Ram 1500 trucks with a 5.7L engine and dual exhaust manufactured August 3, 2015, to August 10, 2015. The affected vehicles may be missing a heat shield for the spare tire.
Without a heat shield, heat from the exhaust system may damage the spare tire. When used, the damaged tire may have a tread separation or side wall rupture, resulting in a loss of control and an increased risk of a crash.
Chrysler will notify owners, and dealers will install a spare tire heat shield if the vehicle is missing one. Vehicles that have already been sold with an excess of 50 miles will also have their spare tires replaced. These repairs will be performed free of charge. The recall began on December 2, 2015. Owners may contact Chrysler customer service at 1-800-853-1403. Chrysler's number for this recall is R58.
Campaign 15V663000 on NHTSA.gov
Power train, axle assembly, axle shaftOct 15, 2015
Chrysler (FCA US LLC) is recalling certain model year 2015-2016 Ram 1500 trucks manufactured June 17, 2015, to September 28, 2015. The affected vehicles may have been built with rear axles that were incorrectly heat treated.
If the rear axle shaft was not properly heated treated, it may fracture and a wheel separation could occur, increasing the risk of a crash.
Chrysler will notify owners, and dealers will inspect the vehicles and replace the axle assemblies, as necessary, free of charge. The recall began on November 23, 2015. Owners may contact Chrysler customer service at 1-800-853-1403. Chrysler's number for this recall is R59.
Campaign 15V661000 on NHTSA.gov
Representative owner complaints
1,544 reports, newest first.
Fuel system, Diesel, Feb 5, 2024
The contact owns a 2016 Ram 1500. The contact received notification of NHTSA Campaign Number: 22V4060000 (Fuel System, Diesel) however, the part to do the recall repair was not yet available. The contact stated that the manufacturer had exceeded a reasonable amount of time for the recall repair. The dealer was made aware of the issue and confirmed that parts were not yet available. The manufacturer was made aware of the issue and confirmed that parts were not yet available. The contact had not experienced a failure. VIN tool confirms parts not available.
Vehicle speed control, Service brakes, Feb 4, 2024
Vehicle ABS system, brake, and towing problem warning lights are on as well as loss of cruise control. I started noticing my cruise control not functioning properly about a month or two prior to total failure. The local RAM dealer in Live Oak, FL. verified problem and admitted this has been an ongoing issue. Replacement parts are not available with a tentative availability date in March. In my research I have found these estimates of part availability to be hopeful guesses. In the meantime I am not able to tow my travel trailer or utility trailer due to this unsafe condition. My vehicle has approximately 82,000 miles on it and for this to be happening to so many of these similar vehicles is unacceptable and Chrysler be held liable for this issue. I cannot safely take my family on vacation with our travel trailer without having use of the trailer braking system. I cannot sell the vehicle like this nor can I afford to buy another vehicle to replace this RAM 1500. Thank you.
Steering, Feb 3, 2024
POWER STEERING FAILURE THIS TRUCK I BELIEVE WAS MANUFACTURED 12/2015 AND I DO NOT BELIEVE IT WAS RECALLED ORIGINALLY FOR THIS PROBLEM BUT IT HAS FAILED
Steering, Feb 2, 2024
Several days ago, I started to notice on my 2016 Dodge Ram 1500 (Outdoorsman edition - 5.7L Hemi V8 Engine) that my power steering is working intermittently. At first I thought I was hitting potholes or bumps in the road when turning, but the problem is getting progressively worse. My wife was very scared last night 2/1/2024 when driving the truck because she stated she was having a hard time steering. Driving the truck this morning, I noticed again and more frequently, that the power steering on the truck is working intermittently. Of course, I did what we all do, I Google searched this issue, and saw the NHTSA was doing an investigation on these issues for the 2016 series of Ram trucks, so I thought I would report this issue with my truck to the agency. The truck routinely visits automotive shops and service stations, and nobody has stated there are any issues with the electric power steering system.
Steering, Feb 1, 2024
Power Steering suddenly partially went out while driving.
Fuel system, Diesel, Jan 30, 2024
The contact owns a 2016 Ram 1500. The contact received notification of NHTSA Campaign Number: 22V406000 (Fuel system, Diesel) 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 made aware of the issue. The contact had not experienced a failure. VIN tool confirms parts not available.
Fuel system, Diesel, Jan 29, 2024
The contact owns a 2016 Ram 1500. The contact received notification of NHTSA Campaign Number: 22V406000 (Fuel System, Diesel) however, the part to do the recall repair was not yet available. The local dealer was contacted, and it was confirmed that the part was not yet available. The contact stated that the manufacturer had exceeded a reasonable amount of time for the recall repair. The manufacturer was made aware of the issue. The contact had experienced reduced acceleration caused by the failure listed in the recall. The failure mileage was 103,000. VIN tool confirms parts not available.
Fuel system, Diesel, Jan 26, 2024
The contact owns a 2016 Ram 1500. The contact received notification of NHTSA Campaign Number: 22V406000 (Fuel System, Diesel) however, the part to do the recall repair was not yet available. The local dealer was made aware of the issue. The contact stated that the manufacturer had exceeded a reasonable amount of time for the recall repair. The manufacturer was made aware of the issue. The contact had not experienced a failure. VIN tool confirms parts not available.
Steering, Jan 25, 2024
Power steering went out at highway speeds. Truck was almost impossible to steer. Not yet currently at shop as of 1/25/24 Message said to service power steering immediately.
Electrical system, Other or unspecified, Jan 25, 2024
While listening to radio, radio station would change on its own a couple times. Also, while listening to pandora, songs would skip out of no where.
Engine and engine cooling, Fuel system, Diesel, Jan 23, 2024
The contact owns a 2016 Ram 1500. The contact received notification of NHTSA Campaign Numbers: 22V406000 (Fuel System, Diesel) and 23V411000 (Engine and Engine Cooling) however, the part to do the recall repairs were not yet available. The contact stated that the manufacturer had exceeded a reasonable amount of time for the recall repair. The contact stated that while driving at an undisclosed speed, the check engine warning light illuminated. In addition, the contact stated there was a loud whining sound coming from the vehicle. The vehicle was taken to the dealer where it was diagnosed with a failed fuel pump. The contact was informed that the software needed to be updated and the fuel pump needed to be replaced. The vehicle was not repaired. The dealer was made aware of the failure but confirmed that parts were not yet available. The vehicle was not repaired. The manufacturer was made aware of the failure. The failure mileage was approximately 150,000.
Suspension, Jan 20, 2024
My truck is equipped with an air suspension system. During winter weather when temperatures dropped in the low 20's and lower, the air system blows a fuse and drops the suspension to an unsafe position for driving. It has occurred several times including while driving. A warning message sometimes (but not always) a warning is flashed on the screen to have the truck serviced immediately. I have had to cancel important trips to the hospital for my disabled wife because the truck is not reliable during Wisconsin winter weather. My local dealer has inspected and assessed he problem. He has given me an estimate to replace the system but cannot assure me that it will not fail. I called RAM customer service to get a technical explanation of the air suspension problem and solution from the manufacturer who designed and manufactured the product. I called RAM customer service seeking an answer. I cannot justify spending $4000 on something than will not solve the problem. I was not told by the original dealer that I couldn’t drive the truck in Wisconsin winters. There are many people complaining about this on RAM forums and other internet sites. This is obviously a problem and I need a truck that will be reliable to drive safely during winter.
Engine, Jan 18, 2024
2016 ram ecodiesel engine failure, low oil pressure Vehicle died in heavy traffic Reproduced by dealer, excessive amounts of metal in oil, no one else inspected. Tried to file complaint with manufacturer however they denied my claim case #[XXX]. No support by manufacturer too many miles. This is a known defect with this engine with many warranty claims. No repair parts available back ordered for up to a year. INFORMATION REDACTED PURSUANT TO THE FREEDOM OF INFORMATION ACT (FOIA), 5 U.S.C. 552(B)(6)
Suspension, Jan 17, 2024
The ram air suspension keeps failing causing the car to drop to bump stops and mounts around out of control. The suspension on my vehicle has been repaired multiple times throughout the years. And has failed once again during normal driving operations. It has once again been fixed just to fail within days. Then brought back to the dealership just to fail within hours of it being repaired again. There are also multiple complaints on forums and Facebook pages and websites about the failure.
Service brakes, Jan 12, 2024
The ABS light and traction control light came on and the cruise control stopped working. Brakes are spongy and require increased peddle pressure to stop. According to dealership the problem is the ABS module. A new ABS module will not be available until May 24.
Fuel system, Diesel, Jan 12, 2024
The contact owns a 2016 Ram 1500. The contact received notification of NHTSA Campaign Number: 22V406000 (Fuel System, Diesel) however, the part to do the recall repair was not yet available. The local dealer was made aware of the issue and confirmed that parts were not yet available. The contact stated that the manufacturer had exceeded a reasonable amount of time for the recall repair. The manufacturer was made aware of the issue. The contact had not experienced a failure. VIN tool confirms parts not available.
Steering, Suspension, Jan 10, 2024
The below issue is my 2016’s problem, only thing is my truck has a build date of 5/2016. I’ve replaced this two times already, “it’s very expensive” to which I now have a fractured one yet again. I NEED A PERMANENT FIX FOR THIS ISSUE PLEASE. It’s my daily driver, hwy driven. ********Below recall noted******** ***16V-301 / S32 Recall Summary The front axle half shafts may fracture and separate from the vehicle. Dealers will replace both front half shafts free of charge to resolve the concern. Chrysler (FCA US LLC) is recalling certain 2016 RAM 1500 trucks manufactured February 19, 2016, to March 3, 2016.
Fuel system, Diesel, Jan 9, 2024
The contact owns a 2016 Ram 1500. The contact stated while driving at an undisclosed speed, the vehicle lost motive power. The fuel warning light was illuminated. Additionally, a fuel odor was detected while driving. The vehicle was able to be restarted. The contact later received notification of NHTSA Campaign Number: 22V406000 (Fuel System, Diesel) however, the part to do the recall repair was not yet available. The contact stated that the manufacturer had exceeded a reasonable amount of time for the recall repair. The dealer and several other unknown dealers were made aware of the failure but confirmed that parts were not yet available. The vehicle was not repaired. The manufacturer was not made aware of the failure. The failure mileage was approximately 110,000. VIN tool confirms parts not available. The contact made an appt for Feb 14 to assess the recall. The contact stated she had to cancel the appt. due to unforeseen circumstances, but the dealership wants to charge rental fees.
Steering, Jan 8, 2024
I have had 3 incidents with lose of power steering in the last two months
Service brakes, Forward collision avoidance, Jan 7, 2024
ABS CONTROL MODULE FAILED. LOSE OF TRACTION CONTROL, CRUUSE CONTROL, AND ABS. DEALER CONFIRMED BY DIAGNOSTIC TEST. DEALER STATED THE CONTROL MODULE HAS BEEN PULLED FROM MARKET BY ENGINEER FOR DESIGN REVIEW. PART IS UNAVAILABLE.
Service brakes, Jan 5, 2024
ABS control module failure. Chrysler advised they are not producing replacement parts. Have been unavailable for over a year. Advised part may be available in 4 months but no assurance it will be. No aftermarket option not rebuilt parts. Dealer advised to just drive vehicle. Failure has disabled ABS, traction control, stability control, cruise control and electric trailer brakes making vehicle less safe to operate and incapable of towing. Failure occurred while towing travel trailer in rainy, mountainous conditions.
Steering, Jan 4, 2024
Power steering has become very stiff when turning while in motion, almost impossible to turn steering wheel when parked. Vehicle is parked due to safety and long wait for repair from Dodge dealer. Pickup is sole vehicle for household, rental not covered by dealership or insurance until deemed undrivable by dealer (per both dealer and insurance company).
Power train, Jan 1, 2024
While driving at 70 MPH down I-90 in upstate New York, during rush hour traffic, my 2016 Ram 1500 eco diesel lost power (engine stopped). The truck lost power, including a loss in power steering. I was able to navigate the truck to the side of the road and a state trooper pull behind me while waiting for the tow truck. The truck would not start after this. There was no advanced warning for this failure. There were no warning lights, and before the engine stall, the truck was driving and behaving as it should. The truck was towed to a mechanic off the highway and later towed to Castilone Dodge in Batavia NY. The dealer found the magnetic perimeter of the tone wheel was flaking, which caused an issue with the driveshaft sensor, causing the truck to stall. Castilone found there is an existing recall on this for 2014-2019 RAM eco diesel trucks. The recall is for "Risk of delamination of crankshaft position sensor tone wheels". However, upon looking into this and calling RAM directly, RAM stated the recall only affects some VINs, and mine was not included. I spoke to two different people at RAM, who reiterated this. RAM claims that my truck received a good tone wheel, which was not included in the recall, and because of this, they refused to cover the repair and towing bill. The truck was taken to West Herr RAM in Lockport, NY, where they replaced the tone wheel for $1,760.65. I find it curious, that my truck experienced the same issue that was covered under recall warranty for other 2014-2018 RAM EcoDiesels. But my truck VIN was not captured in the recall. I asked RAM to investigate whether there are additional VINs that should be captured under the recall. They refused to escalate my request or do any additional research. I'm asking for help form the NHTSA to hold RAM accountable to at least determine if this issue impacts additional trucks.
Other or unspecified, Dec 31, 2023
Approximately five times over six years, my 2016 Ram pickup engine will shut off on its own with no warning. It has always happened on the highway at high speed. This puts others at risk as I must put on hazard lights and coast to a stop with minimal control of the vehicle while other motorists try to avoid hitting me. The instrument lights remain on and once stopped, I can put transmission into park and restart the vehicle. I would allow an inspection at any time, but one has not been done by others yet as it is so random.
Electrical system, Service brakes, Dec 29, 2023
In February 2022 while driving my ABS light came on and stayed illuminated. I pulled over emergently on the freeway worried that my brakes were out. That was not the case, but the light was on and I was not sure if the vehicle could be driven. I got home and called Cutter Pearl City asap and was told that appointments were months away for service/diagnostic (I can only assume that this was due to COVID). I then took it to Capital Auto Repair in Waipio and had them read the code. I was told my ABS module was faulty and needed to be changed, at this point my 2016 truck only had 45000 miles on it and is well cared for-I disappointed but accept that a repair is necessary to drive my car safely. I called back Dodge to discuss my concerns and that I wanted the repair asap for the part. I was then told that the part was on National back order, no other information was available to me but I was again told that repairs were also being booked out a few months even with a diagnostic but that because it was on national back order it was not worth bringing it in at that time. I reached out to Honolulu Autoworks who is known to repair Dodge and Jeep and was told that if the part is on National Back Order he would not be able to get an OEM replacement. We have since placed this problem on the back burner but began having new code stating electronic throttle issues so finally took it into Autoworks-he is unable to repair anything without first repairing ABS issue because it is a "hard" code and per Dodge parts the parts are still on back order under "engineer review until 3/2024". The ABS module is $552 and the pump is recommended to be repaired at the same time is $1545 plus the labor. I am dumbfounded that this is not a recall a tthis point. I have been on forums and there are so many complaints. I have owned Ram/Dodge/Chrysler vehicles all of my adult life. I am questioning buying one in the future and am upset that this repair on a truck with 51000 miles is impossible!