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Dodge Ram 2009-Present: Common Problems

If you have a 2009 or newer Dodge Ram, you may have experienced certain problems with the truck. Some issues are covered under warranty or through recalls. However, other issues are not. Keep reading to learn about some common problems.

By Kate Halse - July 15, 2015
Contributors: nathants

This article applies to the Dodge Ram (2009-present).

From recalls to common complaints, it's important to know what you might expect if you purchase a certain vehicle. While the Dodge Ram is generally a solid choice for most work needs, there are problem spots. Depending on the exact year, model, and even trim level, some Dodge Rams are more prone to certain issues than others. While there are some recalls and service bulletins out for the Dodge Ram, other issues have just been mentioned frequently among Dodge Ram owners.

Common Problems

Check Engine Light

The check engine light (CEL) can illuminate for a number of reasons. On newer diesel Ram trucks, the issues are often due to sensors that become dirty or clogged, or trouble with the catalytic converter. If the catalytic converter is the issue and it's not addressed soon enough, it may lead to additional problems with the particulate filter.

Figure 1. Illuminated check engine light.

Tie Rod Ends

This recall primarily affects year 2008-2011 Dodge Ram 4500 and 5500 vehicles. If the tie rod ends are bad, one of the main symptoms is that the left ball stud on the tie rod can become weak and may fracture over time. This issue can possibly result in a loss of steering.

Figure 2. Tie rods may go bad.

Rear Wheels Can Lock Up

This recall involves certain 2009-2012 Ram 1500 trucks manufactured between 2/27/08 and 6/30/09 as well as 12/1/09 through 10/20/11. The main complaint is that the rear wheels can lock up. This is because the rear axle pinion can become loose, which then causes the axle to lock up. The result may be loss of control over the vehicle or a crash that occurs because the wheels are locked.

Figure 3. Rear wheels can lock up.

Faulty Temperature Control Software

Over 37,000 2009 Dodge Ram 1500 trucks with manual temperature controls have been recalled due to potentially faulty software. The software that controls that heating ventilation and air conditioning module may fail, which prevents the defrosting and defogging functions for the windshield. To resolve the issue, dealers will reprogram the module for free.

Figure 4. Faulty AC/heating software can cause visibility issues.

Hydraulic Brake Booster Problems

Some 2009-2010 Dodge Ram trucks might have been assembled with a missing or improperly formed brake booster input rod retaining clip. The result could be sudden brake failure, which may lead to a crash.

Figure 5. Power brake booster location.

Faulty Windshield Wiper Motor

This recall affects the 2009 Dodge Ram 1500. In certain vehicles, the windshield wiper module motor assembly is susceptible to water intrusion. This could result in partial or full loss of windshield wiping capability. Drivers will experience reduced visibility, which could lead to a crash.

Figure 6. The windshield wiper motor may become faulty.

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