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Dodge Ram 2009-Present: What is the TIPM?

The TIPM is an important component in your truck, but what exactly is it used for? That's what this article is all about.

By Jared Hammond - July 14, 2015

This article applies to the Dodge Ram 4th Generation (2009-Present).

The recent generation of the Dodge Ram makes use of all kinds of advanced electronics that make it more powerful and efficient than previous generations. One component that stands out from the rest is the electrical center of the Ram. The TIPM (Totally Integrated Power Module) is essentially your truck's fuse box. Though, thinking of calling it just that would be an oversimplification. The TIPM has a computer wired into it that's responsible for all the power switching that goes on in your truck.

What this means is that nothing electrical happens in your truck without first going through the TIPM. Since everything is totally integrated, when something goes wrong it can mean the failure of this rather expensive component. Many recent Dodge owners have had to deal with a $900 repair bill for a component that on older generation models could've been easily fixed by replacing a fuse.

Most of the electronic components work through the TIPM, so if you've recently seen many electrical problems occurring all at once, it's likely that the TIPM has gone faulty. Common points of failure include the headlights, the Electronic Stability Program light, the Traction Control Light, electronic door locks, windshield wipers, horn, HVAC, and thermometer. Dodge Ram owners have reported issues with multiple components at the same time. However, it sometimes won't be necessary to replace the entire TIPM. Below is a breakdown of some of the problem areas and alternate fixes that can help you avoid the hefty repair fees.

Figure 1. The TIPM from a 2008 model.

Multiple Issues Happening at Once

Many of the components failing at once include the ESP/BAS and Traction Control lights, door locks, wipers, horn, as well as the HVAC blower not turning on.

There is a large bundle of wires going into the TIPM, and sometimes these wires can get corroded from moisture or worn down from general wear and tear. Sometimes, the electrical issues will happen when one of these wires becomes disconnected. If the issues are not fixed early on, it could lead to a problem with the TIPM itself. Simply take the wires out and clean the connections. This should help relieve some of these issues; although if the issues come back, then it will probably be necessary to replace the TIPM.

Issues Caused By Aftermarket Installations

Modifying the wiring to draw on more power than what is needed can cause issues with the TIPM. You'll sometimes see this problem whenever there are aftermarket components installed like high performance headlights. The ballasts that come in HID kits can sometimes cause electromagnetic interference. So if you do plan on installing them, be sure to keep them far away from the TIPM.

Resetting the TIPM

The computer in the TIPM is constantly checking the fuses to make sure that there is nothing wrong with the circuit. When a fuse fails a check, it will automatically shut itself off in order to prevent electrical hazards. It will repeat this a certain number of times, but eventually it will hit a set limit and permanently shut itself off. The good thing is that the TIPM isn't shorted, but the bad thing is your electronics won't properly work until you can get the truck into a dealership to have the TIPM reprogrammed. Just like with the check engine light, if you don't first fix the issue that is causing the TIPM to fault, then it will just continue to shut itself off.

Figure 2. Now we have solved another of the Ram's mysterious mysteries.

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