Dodge Ram 1500 Recalls

The Dodge Ram 1500 has 11 recalls covering 2003 through 2012 model years, with the most serious recent issue affecting 2011-2012 trucks registered in certain northern and mid-Atlantic states where corroded fuel tank mounting straps can allow the tank to drop, contact the ground, and leak fuel, including during a crash.

The 2011-2012 model years also carry a column shifter recall: the transmission can be moved out of park without pressing the brake pedal or having a key in the ignition, which can allow the truck to roll away unexpectedly. On 2012 models equipped with the Electronic Vehicle Information Center option, a steering wheel wiring harness can rub against the driver airbag retainer spring, create an electrical short, and cause the airbag to deploy without a crash. A separate 2012-specific issue involves a fire extinguisher that may fail to discharge when needed. A narrow group of 2012 trucks built over two days in January of that year also has a spare tire that does not match the placard specification, which can trigger the electronic stability control system unexpectedly if the spare is installed.

Going back to 2009-2010 production, the rear axle pinion nut can loosen, causing the axle to lock up and the truck to lose control with little warning. The 2011 model year has a related rear axle bearing that can seize and stall the vehicle.

The 2004-2008 model years have two Takata-style airbag inflator recalls covering both the driver and passenger sides. In a crash, the inflators can rupture and send metal fragments into the cabin, raising the risk of serious injury to front-seat occupants. The 2003 model year has a passenger-side airbag inflator with the same rupture risk. The 2005 model year has its own rear axle pinion nut issue where the nut can loosen, the axle can seize, or the driveshaft can detach, either of which can cause a loss of vehicle control.