Ram 1500 trucks tend to take a bit more mistreatment than other vehicles because these pickup trucks are meant to be used. Hauling heavy loads, going off the beaten trail, and carry a lot of cargo are all everyday uses for these trucks. So what are some of the most common Ram 1500 truck problems?
What problems do Ram 1500 trucks have?
The Ram 1500 truck on a test track | JEFF KOWALSKY/AFP via Getty Images
One common complaint from Ram 1500 truck owners is related to leaks, Repair Pal says. Owners report issues with the rear window leaking, which can leave the back seat wet. In rainy areas or winter climates, this can eventually lead to bigger problems like mold. It can be caused from weather or even a bad carwash, which means this is quite an easy problem to be a victim of. Other owners noted that the brake light cover might be a culprit too, due to a bad seal.
Speaking of leaks, coolant leaks are another major issue for the Ram truck. This is a very common problem for the Ram 1500, which means it is likely to happen at some point if you plan on owning the truck for a long time.
Speaking of owning a truck for a long time, keep an eye on your transmission. While this isn’t a problem on some newer trucks, the 1994 to 2000 Ram 1500 trucks are especially susceptible to transmission failure. For some reason, most owners report this happening around 90,000 miles. The NHTSA has a variety of transmission-related issues for the 2001 Ram 1500.
The Totally Integrated Power Module (TIPM) and cam sensors plauge the Ram 1500 truck
The cam sensor failing on Ram 1500 these trucks is a pretty big problem. This means that the camshaft position sensor can fail and the truck will not start due to it. In other situations, the engine will crank but won’t turn over, or it will intermittently stall while driving. If this happens, the camshaft sensor needs to be replaced.
In other cases, the cam and lifers can fail causing the engine to fail. Some say it can happen as early as 75,000 miles. This is a hefty repair expense that can be upwards of $2,000. This isn’t reserved for older trucks, either. Modern Ram 1500’s seem to be just as susceptible to this expensive issue.
Don’t forget the Totally Integrated Power Module (TIPM), either. This module is an important part of keeping people safe and keeping the vehicle safe, so having it working is imperative. If the TIPM isn’t working properly, the airbags might not work or might go off at the wrong time. In addition, the windows, fuel pump, and doors might start to malfunction. This was a problem for many vehicles at Chrysler and Jeep back in the day.
Consumer Reports notes that almost 300,000 2019-2020 Ram 1500 trucks were recalled over a software issue a few years back. “A software error may occur when the engine is turned off, NHTSA says. If a computer module doesn’t properly reset, the airbags and seat-belt pretensioners wouldn’t work properly in a collision,” the recall notes. Dealers were instructed to reprogram or repair the module, but be sure to check that this was done.
Rust, rust, and more rust!
Ram 1500 Recalled for Software Problem That Can Disable Airbags https://t.co/97vF2vOHPi pic.twitter.com/AHIlWKwBis
— CR Cars (@CRcars) June 7, 2019
The Ram 1500 is famous for being a workhorse truck, but it is also famous for rust. While it is more common in areas with a lot of snow, the rust can appear all over. The bolts and bumpers tend to rust pretty quickly and almost universally. If you plan on buying a used Ram, be sure to take extra care and check on rust-prone areas before writing a check.
Along with the many electrical problems previously noted, the lights seem to be famous for giving drivers trouble. It can be hard to nail down a direct cause sometimes, but the lights and turn signals often fail without reason. This is often related to the previously mentioned TIPM.
As always, getting a pre-purchase inspection is always a good idea. Getting a certified pre-owned vehicle is also a good idea, but it might be hard to find a Ram 1500 available.
Keyword: The Worst Ram 1500 Truck Problems That Will Cost You Thousands