Summary
The Dodge Ram has 127 recalls spanning 1981 through 2011, with the most serious recent issue affecting 2008-2011 Ram 4500 and 5500 trucks, where the left outer tie rod ball stud can fracture and cause sudden, complete loss of steering control.
The late production years from 2008 through 2011 also include a brake booster input rod on 2009 models that may lack its retaining clip and can separate from the assembly, eliminating all brake assist. Also on 2009 models, the clutch pedal connecting rod on manual-transmission heavy-duty cab chassis trucks with the power adjustable pedal option can separate from the master cylinder, preventing clutch disengagement and leading to unintended movement. The windshield wiper motor on 2008-2009 trucks can fail from water intrusion, cutting visibility in rain, and the defroster software on 2009 manual-temperature-control trucks can stop working entirely. On 2010-2011 diesel models equipped with the hydroboost brake system, a power steering reservoir cap can allow brake pedals to return slowly, causing brake lights to stay on longer than expected.
The mid-2000s era carries several severe issues. On 2007 Ram 2500 and 3500 two-wheel-drive manual-transmission trucks, the front driveshaft yoke can break without warning and cause loss of control. Also on 2007 trucks, improperly manufactured fuel tank straps can separate and cause the tank to leak fuel near ignition sources. The 2006 model has three notable issues: the anti-lock brake system electronic control unit can cause rear brake lockup under normal braking; the transfer case on 1500 4x4 models can default to neutral unexpectedly due to a module calibration error, risking rollaway; and front wheel bearings can fail from insufficient grease, leading to hub separation. On 2005 models, the rear axle pinion nut can loosen, allowing the driveshaft to detach or rear wheels to lock up suddenly. A Takata airbag inflator recall covers 2003 trucks, where the passenger frontal inflator can rupture and send metal fragments into the cabin.
The early-to-mid 2000s also saw multiple fire and brake risks. On 2004 trucks, the alternator wiring harness can contact a valve cover stud, short-circuit, and start an engine fire. On 2003 diesel models with manual transmissions, extended cruise control use can cause an elevated idle that persists until the key is cycled, reducing braking effectiveness. The 2003 Ram 2500 and 3500 with diesel engines and automatic transmissions can show "R" in the shift indicator until the parking pawl fully engages, creating a rollaway risk. Also on 2002 Ram 1500 4x4 trucks, the rear axle flange weld can fatigue, allowing the brake caliper to rotate and sever the brake line. On 2001 trucks, upper control arm fasteners on Quad Cab models can break and allow the axle to rotate under braking, potentially twisting steering linkage and separating brake lines; loose wheel lug nuts on vans; and rear axle u-bolt loss of clamp load on camper-package models that can shift the axle.
The 2000 model year has two related issues: inadequate clearance between the front tire and brake hose during full-lock turns can punch a hole in the brake line, and lower control arm bracket we
