NHTSA (USA)Critical
At a glance
This page covers 6 recalls and 40 owner complaints for the 2012 Dodge Ram 5500.
Steering complaints dominate what owners report for the 2012 Ram 5500, with frame cracking being the most frequently described issue. Owners report finding cracks in the frame on both sides near the rear wheels, often discovered during routine maintenance rather than after a specific event. Several owners describe the cracks appearing on both sides simultaneously. Powertrain complaints include engine smoke, loss of power under acceleration, and the engine cutting out while driving. Electrical system reports center on faulty ignition switches that require wiggling to start the vehicle and can cause the engine to shut off unexpectedly while underway, when that happens, owners report losing power steering and power brake assist, which significantly increases stopping distances, especially under load. A smaller number of owners also mention cracked or damaged axle components alongside the frame concerns.
40
Total Complaints
4
Fire-Related
By System
The 2012 Ram 5500 has 6 recalls, with the most serious group covering airbag, alternator, wheel, and drivetrain risks that can each lead to a crash or fire with little or no warning.
On the safety systems side, vehicles equipped with the Electronic Vehicle Information Center option have a steering wheel wiring harness that can rub against the driver airbag mounting hardware and short circuit, causing the airbag to deploy without warning. The 220-amp alternator can fail suddenly, either stalling the truck without notice or short-circuiting and starting an engine fire. These two issues share the same severity rating and represent the most immediate dangers on affected trucks.
The wheels and drivetrain carry their own serious risks. Incorrect torque specifications in the owner's and service manuals can lead to over-tightened lug nuts that crack wheel studs, and if a stud breaks, the wheel can separate from the truck entirely. On trucks manufactured between early and late 2012, a front axle carrier weld can fail, fracturing the front driveshaft. When that happens, the truck loses drive power and the spinning shaft can damage surrounding components.
The column shifter recall covers a broad range of model years: the shift lever can be moved out of park without the brake pedal pressed or even without a key in the ignition, leaving the truck free to roll away on any grade.
Finally, certain trucks were sold with Kidde fire extinguishers featuring plastic handles or push-button indicators that can fail to discharge properly, leaving the extinguisher useless if a fire breaks out
At a glance
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Complaints are owner-reported and reflect individual experiences, not confirmed defects. They are distinct from recalls. Data sourced from the national vehicle safety complaint database. See trending complaints →
What can fail
The owner's manual contains incorrect torque specifications for wheel lug nuts. Following these specs can cause over-tightening, which may break wheel studs and lead to wheel separation.
What the fix does
Dealers will correct the torque specifications in the owner's manual and service documents, and inspect and replace wheel studs as needed at no charge.
Summarized — see the official notice for exact wording, dates, and contacts.
At a glance
What can fail
The fire extinguisher may clog and fail to spray, or require excessive force to use. In some models, the nozzle may separate from the valve assembly with enough force to cause injury and make the extinguisher unusable.
What the fix does
Chrysler will provide a replacement fire extinguisher at no cost. Contact Kidde or Chrysler to arrange the replacement.
Summarized — see the official notice for exact wording, dates, and contacts.
At a glance
What can fail
Holding the brake pedal down for extended periods while parked may cause the Brake Transmission Shift Interlock pin to stick open, allowing the transmission to shift out of Park without pressing the brake or turning on the ignition.
What the fix does
Dealers will update the software, inspect the Brake Transmission Shift Interlock, and replace it if needed, at no cost.
Summarized — see the official notice for exact wording, dates, and contacts.
At a glance
What can fail
The 220 amp alternator may suddenly fail, leaving the vehicle without charging power.
What the fix does
Dealers will replace the alternator with a revised alternator at no cost.
Summarized — see the official notice for exact wording, dates, and contacts.
At a glance
What can fail
The steering wheel wiring harness may rub against the driver air bag module retainer spring, potentially causing damage.
What the fix does
Dealers will inspect and secure the wiring harness, add protective caps to the air bag retainer spring ends, at no charge.
Summarized — see the official notice for exact wording, dates, and contacts.
At a glance
What can fail
A welding defect in the front axle carrier can cause the front drive shaft to fracture, resulting in loss of power and damage to surrounding parts.
What the fix does
Dealers will replace or repair the front axle assembly at no cost.
Summarized — see the official notice for exact wording, dates, and contacts.