Data sourced from NHTSA public database. For informational purposes only. Always consult a qualified mechanic.
2015 Ram 3500 — Known Issues & Recalls
Complaints from Jan 2017 to Dec 2022
The most reported issue is power train problems (13 complaints). 3 complaints involved crashes. 5 involved fires.
Open Safety Recalls (16)
NHTSA Campaign: 19V021000
Component: STEERING:LINKAGES:DRAG:LINK:CONNECTION
Chrysler (FCA US LLC) is recalling certain 2013-2018 Ram 3500 and 2014-2018 Ram 3500 Chassis Cab and Ram 2500 vehicles. The outboard steering linkage jam nut may loosen, allowing one end of the drag link to separate.
Risk: A drag link separation can cause a loss of steering control, increasing the risk of crash.
Fix: Chrysler will notify owners, and dealers will check the steering linkage jam nut tightness, replacing the drag link assembly or welding the nut to the adjuster sleeve, free of charge. The recall began March 22, 2019. Owners may contact Chrysler customer service at 1-800-853-1403. Chrysler's number for this recall is V06.
NHTSA Campaign: 18E096000
Component: STEERING:LINKAGES
Streetcar ORV LLC (Streetcar) is recalling certain American Expedition Vehicles (AEV) 3" Dualsport aftermarket suspension kits, part numbers N0436000 and N0436001, sold for installation on 2013-2018 RAM 2500 and 3500HD trucks. Improper installation and machining of the original equipment steering knuckle may weaken the joint between the steering drag link and knuckle.
Risk: The weakened connection may result in a fractured steering drag link, causing a loss of steering and increasing the risk of a crash.
Fix: Streetcar will notify owners and dealers will inspect and install a new steering knuckle, free of charge. The recall began December 3, 2018. Owners may contact AEV customer service at 1-248-926-0256, extension 500.
NHTSA Campaign: 19V347000
Component: LATCHES/LOCKS/LINKAGES:TAILGATE:LATCH
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.
Risk: 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.
Fix: 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.
NHTSA Campaign: 18V486000
Component: STRUCTURE:BODY:TAILGATE
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.
Risk: 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.
Fix: 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.
NHTSA Campaign: 18V332000
Component: ELECTRICAL SYSTEM:WIRING
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.
Risk: If the vehicle maintains its speed or accelerates despite attempts to deactivate the cruise control, there would be an increased risk of a crash.
Fix: 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.
NHTSA Campaign: 21V632000
Component: AIR BAGS:SIDE/WINDOW:CURTAIN:INFLATOR
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.
Risk: 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.
Fix: 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.
NHTSA Campaign: 21V398000
Component: WHEELS:LUGS/NUTS/BOLTS/STUDS
Chrysler (FCA US, LLC) is recalling certain 2012-2021 RAM 3500, 3500 Cab Chassis, 4500 Cab Chassis, and 5500 Cab Chassis vehicles. Incorrect information in the Service and Owner's Manuals may cause the flanged lug nuts to be over-tightened, which could result in a broken wheel stud and possible wheel separation.
Risk: Wheel separation can cause a vehicle crash.
Fix: Dealers will update the torque specification in the owner's manual and other published service documents. Dealers will also inspect the vehicle's wheel studs, replacing them if necessary, free of charge. Owner notification letters were mailed on November 30, 2021. Campaign Y36 owner notification letters were mailed on November 30, 2021. Campaign Y26 owner notification letters were mailed on December 1, 2021. Owners may contact FCA US customer service at 1-800-853-1403. FCA US's numbers for this recall are Y26 and Y36.
NHTSA Campaign: 17V821000
Component: POWER TRAIN:AUTOMATIC TRANSMISSION:LEVER AND LINKAGE:COLUMN SHIFT
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.
Risk: 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.
Fix: 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.
NHTSA Campaign: 17V499000
Component: WHEELS
Streetcar ORV LLC, dba American Expedition Vehicles (AEV) is recalling certain 2013-2017 RAM 2500 and 3500 heavy duty trucks, modified by AEV to be equipped with cast aluminum Katla 8.5" road wheels. The outer surface of the wheel may fracture, resulting in rapid air loss.
Risk: If the wheel fractures, a loss of vehicle control can occur, increasing the risk of a crash.
Fix: AEV will notify owners, and dealers will replace the wheels with wheels of similar value, free of charge. The recall began on August 30, 2017. Owners may contact AEV customer service at 1-248-926-0256 extension 500.
NHTSA Campaign: 17V824000
Component: EQUIPMENT
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
Risk: If the fire extinguisher does not function properly, it can increase the risk of injury in the event of a fire.
Fix: 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.
NHTSA Campaign: 17V302000
Component: AIR BAGS
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.
Risk: 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.
Fix: 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.
NHTSA Campaign: 17V562000
Component: ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING:ENGINE:DIESEL
Chrysler (FCA US LLC) is recalling certain 2013-2017 RAM 2500, 3500, 3500 Cab Chassis, 4500 Cab Chassis, and 5500 Cab Chassis vehicles, equipped with Cummins 6.7L Turbo Diesel engines that have Concentric-brand water pumps without a vent hole. These water pumps may leak coolant.
Risk: The leaking water pump can increase the risk of an engine compartment fire.
Fix: Chrysler will notify owners, and dealers will replace the water pumps, 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 T51.
NHTSA Campaign: 15V461000
Component: EQUIPMENT:ELECTRICAL:RADIO/TAPE DECK/CD ETC.
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.
Risk: Exploitation of the software vulnerability may result in unauthorized remote modification and control of certain vehicle systems, increasing the risk of a crash.
Fix: 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.
NHTSA Campaign: 16V559000
Component: STEERING
Chrysler (FCA US LLC) is recalling certain model year 2015 RAM 2500 trucks, and RAM 3500 trucks and cab chassis. The affected vehicles may have inadequate welds securing the front track bar frame brackets, possibly resulting in the bracket components separating from the frame.
Risk: If the bracket components separate from the frame, the vehicle may have a reduced response to steering input, increasing the risk of a crash.
Fix: Chrysler will notify owners, and dealers will weld on a new track bar frame bracket or replace the frame of the vehicle, free of charge. The recall began on September 14, 2016. Owners may contact Chrysler customer service at 1-800-853-1403. Chrysler's number for this recall is S58.
NHTSA Campaign: 15V460000
Component: SEAT BELTS
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.
Risk: Air bags that unexpectedly deploy increase the risk of a crash or injury.
Fix: 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.
NHTSA Campaign: 16E041000
Component: EQUIPMENT
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.
Risk: 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.
Fix: 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.
Owner-Reported Issues (20 of 135)
Service Brakes →4 issues
Your front brakes are periodically dragging and overheating, sometimes on one side and sometimes both sides, causing your truck to become difficult to drive and leaving you stranded. This has happened repeatedly over several years and created a dangerous situation when your wife and I were stuck on the highway. The calipers, pads, and brake fluid have been inspected and replaced, but the problem persists, and diagnostic codes related to the brake system are present. The issue may be related to a potential recall involving the ABS/HCU (anti-lock brake) control unit, which may need inspection or replacement by a dealership.
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Your trailer brake system isn't getting enough electrical power—only 7.5 volts instead of the full amount needed. This causes weak braking performance when towing at speeds below 30 MPH, which is especially dangerous in stop-and-go traffic. The issue appears to be in the truck's computer controlling the trailer brake controller, and other Ram 3500 owners report the same problem. Ram may have a software update available to fix this, though it could come at a significant cost.
Parts you may need:
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Your ABS (anti-lock brake) system is malfunctioning, causing the ABS warning light to stay on. The hydraulic control unit that manages the anti-lock braking is not working properly, and your truck's diagnostic system has recorded fault code C0020. While your regular brakes should still work, the anti-lock feature won't function during emergency braking. Fixing this will likely require replacing the ABS hydraulic control unit (HCU) module.
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Your ABS module has failed and is no longer detecting your rear wheel speed, which has caused your ABS braking, traction control, 4WD, and rear backup sensors to stop working. The shop identified the problem in both the ABS module and hydraulic control unit. You're currently driving without these important safety features while waiting for replacement parts to become available.
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Wheels →4 issues
While driving at 60 mph, you experienced steering shudder and heard an abnormal popping sound, then noticed your front driver's side wheel wobbling. When you inspected it, you found two wheel studs had fractured. Your vehicle had previously been taken to the dealer for a recall repair, but they said the studs didn't need replacement and later told you the recall was marked complete for your vehicle. The repair will likely involve replacing the damaged wheel studs and inspecting the wheel assembly for additional damage.
Parts you may need:
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While driving at 35-40 mph, your truck started shaking and wobbling severely. You pulled over and discovered that the outer rear wheel had completely separated from the vehicle, and the inner rear wheel had also separated and was pinching the axle, leaving it to support the truck's weight. The dealer identified that the wheel studs needed replacement under a recall (NHTSA Campaign 21V398000), but the wheel itself wasn't covered by warranty. Fixing this will require replacing the wheel studs and possibly the wheels and axle components.
Parts you may need:
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Your wheels detached from your truck while driving at 30 mph, and you discovered nine broken wheel studs. There was no warning light to alert you before this happened. Even though a recall exists for this issue, your vehicle's VIN wasn't included in it. The fix will involve replacing the broken wheel studs and lug nuts.
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After having a wheel recall repair performed at the dealer, your vehicle started vibrating at various speeds about 6,600 miles later, and you noticed the brake pedal also vibrating when pressed. Upon inspection, you found that all the lug nuts on every wheel were loose and not properly tightened. The dealer and manufacturer were notified but the vehicle hasn't been repaired yet.
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Electrical System →2 issues
While driving at 70 mph, your check engine light came on and your truck suddenly went into limp mode, limiting you to 5 mph. A scan revealed your turbocharger actuator had failed. You repaired it yourself with an aftermarket part, but Chrysler denied your warranty reimbursement request because you didn't use a dealer. The issue occurred at about 50,000 miles.
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Your instrument cluster display has gone completely black, leaving you without access to important information like speed, tire pressure, engine oil temperature, coolant temperature, cruise control, and parking sensor alerts. You've already tried rebooting and checking for loose connections without success. The fix will likely involve diagnosing the cluster's electrical connection or replacing the instrument cluster unit itself.
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Power Train →2 issues
Your gear shifter became loose and prevented the transmission from shifting into gear properly. The dealer tightened the shifter bolt, but it detached again while you were shifting. This happened even though the vehicle was previously repaired under a recall for a similar power train issue. The problem may require replacing or securing the gear shifter assembly and its mounting hardware.
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Your 2015 Ram 3500 was subject to a recall (Campaign 17V821000) for a powertrain issue. You paid for the repair yourself before receiving the recall notice, then brought your vehicle, the notice, and your repair receipt to the dealer in January 2024 requesting reimbursement. The manufacturer was aware of the issue, but you were not reimbursed for the repair you had already paid for.
Parts you may need:
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Electrical System,air Bags,structure →1 issue
Your truck caught fire while driving on the turnpike. Mopar sent an investigator to examine the burned vehicle at the dealership, but they were unable to determine the cause of the fire due to the extent of the damage. You were notified by email rather than receiving a detailed report.
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Steering,service Brakes →1 issue
Your steering system is making a humming noise from the hydroboost pump. The problem is a nylon tube inside the high-pressure steering line that breaks apart and circulates through the system. This issue has persisted despite Dodge revising the hose on earlier models, and you're concerned it could eventually cause your brakes or power steering to fail. The fix will likely involve replacing the high-pressure steering hose with an updated version.
Parts you may need:
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Steering,suspension →1 issue
Your truck had a recall fix where the dealer welded the track bar adjustment nut to prevent it from coming loose and causing steering loss. However, welding the nut permanently locked it in place, so now your vehicle can't be properly aligned because there's no way to adjust it anymore. The permanent fix would require replacing the entire track bar with a new one that allows for proper adjustment.
Parts you may need:
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Unknown Or Other,engine →1 issue
Your 2015 Ram 3500 has been inoperable for 148 days since a January 2024 emissions recall and has required six service visits to fix defects, with the most recent in October 2024. You're reporting that the manufacturer hasn't effectively communicated or resolved the underlying engine issues despite warranty obligations, leaving your vehicle unable to function and affecting your ability to tow and haul cargo. The fix will likely require the dealership to diagnose and repair the emissions-related engine defects that the recall was meant to address.
Parts you may need:
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Electrical System,vehicle Speed Control,service Brakes →1 issue
Your ABS and traction control warning lights are staying on, which is preventing your cruise control and 4-wheel drive from working. This is also causing problems when you're towing a trailer. The issue likely stems from a sensor or electrical problem in the brake or traction control system that needs to be diagnosed with a scan tool.
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Trailer Hitches →1 issue
Your gooseneck ball hitch came loose and wasn't staying secured properly. The dealer confirmed this was the same issue covered by a recall (NHTSA Campaign 18E028000), but your vehicle's VIN wasn't included in that recall, so they didn't replace it. The manufacturer has been notified of the problem.
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Unknown Or Other,service Brakes →1 issue
After your truck was serviced for a recall that checks wheel studs, the dealer re-torqued your wheels. Shortly after, you noticed brake problems and found that both your brake pads and rotors were damaged, and the wheel studs were now stretched — even though they were fine before the service. The dealer will replace the studs but not the brakes, though your brakes were working properly before the recall work was done.
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Unknown Or Other →1 issue
Your tailgate unexpectedly dropped while backing up in your driveway on November 20, 2023. The tailgate fell a total of three times before you could park the truck. The latch or hinge mechanism holding the tailgate closed may need inspection and repair or replacement.
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