The 2013 RAM 4500 has 8 recalls, the most serious including a suspension track bar that can break free on 4WD models, a coolant leak that can ignite an engine fire, and an alternator that can fail without warning or short-circuit and catch fire.
The column shifter can be moved out of park without the brake pedal depressed or without a key in the ignition, which can allow the vehicle to roll away unexpectedly. On vehicles equipped with the Electronic Vehicle Information Center option, a steering wheel wiring harness can rub against the driver airbag module and cause an electrical short that deploys the airbag without warning. The infotainment system carries a software vulnerability that can allow unauthorized remote access to certain vehicle controls. On the chassis side, incorrect torque specifications in the owner's and service manuals can lead to over-tightened lug nuts, breaking wheel studs and potentially causing a wheel to separate from the vehicle while driving. There is also a recall covering Kidde-brand fire extinguishers installed in certain vehicles, where the extinguisher may fail to discharge when needed.
At a glance
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
We may earn a commission for purchases made through these links.
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 water pump may leak coolant because it lacks a vent hole, potentially causing engine overheating.
What the fix does
Dealers will replace the water pump at no cost to restore proper cooling system function.
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 radio software has security weaknesses that could let unauthorized people access some vehicle control systems through a network connection.
What the fix does
A software update will be installed via USB drive (mailed free, downloadable, or installed at a dealer) to close the security vulnerability.
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
The bolts securing the rear suspension track bar to the frame may be incorrect and could break or come loose while driving, causing loss of control.
What the fix does
Dealers will check the track bar fasteners at the frame and replace them if needed.
Summarized — see the official notice for exact wording, dates, and contacts.
