2012 Dodge Ram 1500 problems
The Ram pickup (marketed as the Dodge Ram until 2010) is a full-size pickup truck manufactured by Stellantis North America (formerly Chrysler Group LLC and FCA US LLC) and marketed from 2010 onwards under the Ram Trucks brand. The current fifth-generation Ram debuted at the 2018 North American International Auto Show in Detroit, Michigan, in January of that year.
Previously, Ram was part of the Dodge line of light trucks. The name Ram was first used in 1981 model year Dodge Trucks in October 1980, following the retiring and rebadging of the Dodge D series pickup trucks as well as B-series vans, though the company had used a ram's-head hood ornament on some trucks as early as 1933.
Ram trucks have been named Motor Trend magazine's Truck of the Year eight times; the second-generation Ram won the award in 1994, the third-generation Ram heavy-duty won the award in 2003, the fourth-generation Ram Heavy Duty won in 2010 and the fourth-generation Ram 1500 won in 2013 and 2014, and the current fifth-generation Ram pickup became the first truck in history to win the award three times, winning in 2019, 2020, and 2021.
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Common 2012 Dodge Ram 1500 problems
The 2012 Dodge Ram 1500 is a full-size truck with a price range of $10,477 to $24,394. It is known for its good long-term reliability and lower cost of ownership compared to other full-size trucks. However, there are some common problems that owners have reported.
One of the most serious problems is related to the engine, specifically the camshafts and lifters. These components can fail around 120,000 miles, which can result in a repair cost of approximately $3,600, depending on local labor rates. This issue can cause the engine to misfire or run poorly, and it may require the replacement of the entire camshaft and lifter assembly.
Another common problem with the 2012 Ram 1500 is related to the Totally Integrated Power Module (TIPM). This system controls every aspect of the truck, and when it fails, it can prevent the vehicle from starting. Replacing the TIPM can cost around $2,000. Symptoms of a failing TIPM include the vehicle's electrical systems not functioning properly, such as the windows, power locks, and radio not working.
Transmission problems are also common with the 2012 Ram 1500. Some owners have reported experiencing rough gear shifts, which can be a sign of a torque converter issue. However, in some cases, the rough gear shifts may just be part of normal operation.
There are also several recalls that affect the 2012 Ram 1500, including issues with the spare tire placard, rear axle pinion nut, air bags, seat covers, transmission rollaway, fire extinguisher, and front fuel tank strap bracket. These recalls are serious and can affect the reliability and safety of the truck.
Overall, the 2012 Dodge Ram 1500 is a good truck with a lower cost of ownership compared to other full-size trucks. However, it is important to be aware of the common problems that owners have reported, particularly those related to the engine, TIPM, and transmission. Regular maintenance and repairs can help ensure the longevity and reliability of the truck.
Is 2012 a good year for Ram 1500?
The 2012 Ram 1500's strong suit over comparably-equipped competitors can be found in the way it drives and rides. Thanks to an advanced coil-spring rear suspension and solid rear axle, the Ram 1500 seems to absorb bumps and distortions that cause other trucks to hop about.
What is the most common problem with Dodge Ram 1500?
RAM 1500 engines fail for a variety of reasons. However, the most common issue appears to be related to a defective transmission. Dodge RAM 1500 engine replacement costs can range widely, with a replacement estimate of as much as $13,000.
How many miles will a 2012 Ram 1500 last?
between 250,000 and 350,000 miles
Compared to other used trucks for sale, the Ram 1500 has an exceptional lifespan, lasting between 250,000 and 350,000 miles depending on how well it is maintained. With this being said, if you are browsing used Ram 1500s for sale near you, you should avoid anything that is close to or within the above mileage range.
Is there any recalls on a 2012 Ram 1500?
2012-'14 Ram 1500 Among 1.35 Million Trucks Recalled for Inadvertent Airbag Deployment | Edmunds.com. Fiat-Chrysler is recalling 1.35 million pickup trucks, including the 2012-'14 Ram 1500, because a short circuit in a wiring harness could cause inadvertent airbag deployment.
Is 2012 a good year for Ram 1500?
The 2012 Ram 1500's strong suit over comparably-equipped competitors can be found in the way it drives and rides. Thanks to an advanced coil-spring rear suspension and solid rear axle, the Ram 1500 seems to absorb bumps and distortions that cause other trucks to hop about.
What is the most common problem with Dodge Ram 1500?
RAM 1500 engines fail for a variety of reasons. However, the most common issue appears to be related to a defective transmission. Dodge RAM 1500 engine replacement costs can range widely, with a replacement estimate of as much as $13,000.
How many miles will a 2012 Ram 1500 last?
between 250,000 and 350,000 miles
Compared to other used trucks for sale, the Ram 1500 has an exceptional lifespan, lasting between 250,000 and 350,000 miles depending on how well it is maintained. With this being said, if you are browsing used Ram 1500s for sale near you, you should avoid anything that is close to or within the above mileage range.
Do Ram 1500 have transmission problems?
Low or dirty transmission fluid. Can lead to jerky shifts. And other performance. Issues another potential cause could be a faulty sensor or a computer glitch.
2012 Dodge Ram 1500 car problems categorized by type of issue
After analyzing all complaints sent to the NHTSA and researching popular Dodge Ram 1500 problems, we found that the most common problems with these 2023 model year vehicles are:
- Electrical system problems
- Engine problems
- Fuel/propulsion system problems
- Fuel system problems
- Gasoline problems
The graph below shows statistics for all 2012 Dodge Ram 1500 vehicle components and the number of complaints received.
Latest 25 complaints 2012 Dodge Ram 1500
The NHTSA has received 46 complaints about various vehicle components related to the 2012 Dodge Ram 1500. Below are the 25 most recent complaints reported for 2012 Dodge Ram 1500 vehicles.
ELECTRICAL SYSTEM,FUEL/PROPULSION SYSTEM PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2024-10-01
- VIN: 1C6RD7FT3CS
- Components: ELECTRICAL SYSTEM,FUEL/PROPULSION SYSTEM
- Summary: TIPM failure. Vehicle fails to start ("crank, no start" or it acts likes it's out of gas) and/or fuel pump continues pumping after turning the vehicle off (draining battery).The vehicle stalls while driving which has created very unsafe conditions. There has been recalls on other dodge vehicles with same problem. This needs to be a uniform recall on all affected vehicles.
FUEL/PROPULSION SYSTEM PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2024-10-01
- VIN: 1C6RD7FP7CS
- Components: FUEL/PROPULSION SYSTEM
- Summary: Front fuel tank strap rusted off of the frame
FUEL SYSTEM, GASOLINE PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2024-09-02
- VIN: 1C6RD7FT8CS
- Components: FUEL SYSTEM, GASOLINE
- Summary: The contact owns a 2012 Ram 1500. The contact stated that the fuel tank strap "T-Slot" had detached. There were no warning lights illuminated. The contact stated that the failure was related to NHTSA Campaign Number: 18V160000 (Fuel System, Gasoline). The local dealer was contacted, but the vehicle was not diagnosed or repaired. The manufacturer was contacted, but no assistance was provided. The failure mileage was approximately 80,000.
STEERING,ELECTRICAL SYSTEM,AIR BAGS PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2024-09-08
- VIN: 1C6RD7FT6CS
- Components: STEERING,ELECTRICAL SYSTEM,AIR BAGS
- Summary: Driver warning light came for airbag, yes it could be if deployed, no dealer has confirmed (but looked up recall # 15V459000), called molar said no recall on my vehicle…., no one else looked at vehicles book says to immediately take to dealer, yes warning light on follow book info and it appeared 9/8/24
POWER TRAIN,VEHICLE SPEED CONTROL,ENGINE PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2024-07-08
- VIN: 1C6RD7PT0CS
- Components: POWER TRAIN,VEHICLE SPEED CONTROL,ENGINE
- Summary: Warning light came on suddenly. Vehicle lost power. Smoking out of the tail pipe. Very dangerous for other drivers. Took the vehicle to a mechanic, said I have problems with the lifters, and need to replace the engine. I don’t know why Chrysler doesn’t issue a recall for this issue, it seems to happen often. Thank you very much.
POWER TRAIN,ENGINE,FUEL/PROPULSION SYSTEM PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2024-01-02
- VIN: 3C6TD4CT2CG
- Components: POWER TRAIN,ENGINE,FUEL/PROPULSION SYSTEM
- Summary: Catalytic converter, sensors, knocking loss of power, bogging , hot and cold engine , was on a road trip back home passing a 18 wheeler and it starts to lose power Boggs down and then takes off , steering wheel was iffy, fumes are stong in and out of truck. Threw my suitcase and dog in floor . I have replaced sensors , knock sensor , coils, sparks plugs - no fix muffler shop said catalytic is not plugged up . Sent me to mechanic said ram / dodge designed these years messed up common problem ,one mechanic telling me new engine parts might fix won’t pass inspection so now it just sits and drys up that’s not right for what it has cost my insurance said there nothing they can help with it only has 84k miles please emission and knock common problem that is mana factory defect surely loss of power in traffic scary please help with insurance and parts , gas I have no money for deep engine problems 84 k should still run like new truck the trip there drove great then I went to start to go back home 2 days later and knocking and wouldn’t drive putting scanner said sensor . This truck was running awesome I like driving . But to malfunction no reason. The codes are not right . need my truck back on the road I live in Texas has to pass emission to get inspection sticker
FUEL/PROPULSION SYSTEM PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2024-08-22
- VIN: 1C6RD7GT7CS
- Components: FUEL/PROPULSION SYSTEM
- Summary: Looking under my truck, I found that the front Gas Tank Strap had fallen down from the vehicle frame mount. During further inspection of the vehicle it was that the gas tank strap mounting point has rusted through and that the strap has pulled thru the rusted point. The front of the gas tank has fallen down and pushed the gas tank strap into the drive shaft. Th only thing supporting the gas tank is the rear gas tank strap
ELECTRICAL SYSTEM,FUEL/PROPULSION SYSTEM PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2024-07-19
- VIN: 1C6RD7NT2CS
- Components: ELECTRICAL SYSTEM,FUEL/PROPULSION SYSTEM
- Summary: Shut off vehicle and fuel pump kept running. Tapped on Totally Integrated Power Managment module and stuck relay corrected, so the fuel pump shut off. Found a safety recall (Safety Recall R09/NHTSA 15v-115) for stuck relay in TIPM on same year Dodge Durango and Jeep Grand Cherokee. A quick search of many automotive enthusiast forums indicates this issue is common in my particular year, make, and model vehicle as well. I believe this recall should be expanded to include all Dodge products using similar TIMP/Fuel Relay configurations. It is very likely this relay could have been stuck off, while driving causing an unexpected engine shutdown. In my case I was lucky it was stuck on.
SERVICE BRAKES PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2019-06-25
- VIN: 1C6RD7GT8CS
- Components: SERVICE BRAKES
- Summary: In approximately 2019 I received multiple warning lights including "Serv 4WD", TCS disabled, and ABS warning lights. Had it looked at by the dealer who replaced wheel sensors and performed diagnostics. All lights cleared exept TCS disabled warning which is indicationg that the TCS system is not functioning and has a collateral effect of the cruise control not being able to turn on. I have paid to have this remaining indication diagnosed on two different occasions, each leading to a dealership recommendation to replace the Hydraulic Control Unit / ABS Module at a cost of approximately $1500 and a wait for backordered parts exceeding one year - all with no guarantee of this fixing the problem. My truck has been in this condition for about 5 years now. A quick Google search will show that there have been multiple instances of faults of this type affecting the HCU/ABS modules with the problem becoming particularly prevalent in the 2017-2018 model years. Thousands of complaints have been submitted and Class Action Lawsuits started, but it appears FCA has yet to adequately address this potential safety issue caused by a defective part that is known to them.
ELECTRICAL SYSTEM,AIR BAGS PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2024-04-08
- VIN: 1C6RD6KT9CS
- Components: ELECTRICAL SYSTEM,AIR BAGS
- Summary: The dash warning light appeared referring to a possible problem with the airbags. I took vehicle to the local dealer and I was informed after their inspection that I did have a problem the passenger airbag. They said they would need to replace passenger seat airbag and wiring harness associated with that device.
POWER TRAIN,ELECTRICAL SYSTEM PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2024-01-23
- Fire: 1
- Components: POWER TRAIN,ELECTRICAL SYSTEM
- Summary: The contact owns a 2012 Ram 1500. The contact stated when the vehicle was turned off and in park, he accidentally bumped the gear shit lever and the vehicle slipped out of park (P) without the brake pedal being depressed. The contact researched online and related the failure to NHTSA Campaign Number: 17V821000 (Power Train). The contact stated that he had attempted to set numerous appointments with a local dealer but was unable to set an appointment for the vehicle. Additionally, while driving approximately 55 MPH the contact stated that he began to smell a burning plastic odor. The contact stated no warning light was illuminated. The contact observed that smoke was being emitted from the defroster vents on the top of the dash board. The contact stated that he pulled off of the roadway and shut the vehicle off. The contact stated as he exited the vehicle he observed pieces of burning melted plastic were dripping from under the dash and onto the vehicle floor carpets. The contact stated he called the fire department. The fire department arrived and extinguished the flames with a chemical fire extinguisher. The contact stated that the dash board and the right front passenger side were burned by the flames. There was extensive damage to the dashboard. The contact stated that the police also arrived but was not sure if a report had been written. The vehicle was towed to an impound lot. The manufacturer was not informed of the failure. The contact stated that prior to the fire the contact had been smelling a burnt plastic smell when using the heater/defroster. The failure mileage was approximately 95,700. The VIN was not available.
EXTERIOR LIGHTING PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2023-04-01
- VIN: 1C6RD7MTXCS
- Components: EXTERIOR LIGHTING
- Summary: My headlights (specifically on the driver side) keeps going out randomly. I have replaced the high and low beam bults 3 times and the wiring harness twice. I can be driving down the road and they it will go out and 10 minutes later it will just come back on all on it's on. I looked on all of the Dodge discussion forums and this seems to be a very common issue with this make/model of the Dodge Ram 1500 I recieve no error messages on my dash console telling me that this has occurred. However, every other bulb that has ever went out gave an error on the dash.
FUEL SYSTEM, GASOLINE PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2023-08-12
- VIN: 1C6RD7GT6CS
- Components: FUEL SYSTEM, GASOLINE
- Summary: The contact owns a 2012 Ram 1500. The contact stated that upon inspection the vehicle, it was discovered that the fuel tank was hanging low and not properly secured to the vehicle, due to a faulty front fuel tank strap which had failed. The local dealer was notified of the failure but informed the contact that the VIN was not included in NHTSA Campaign Number: 18V160000 (Fuel System, Gasoline). The contact stated that the vehicle had experienced the failure listed in the recall. The manufacturer was notified of the failure but no assistance was offered. The failure mileage was 170,000.
ELECTRICAL SYSTEM PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2022-05-15
- VIN: 1C6RD6NT8CS
- Components: ELECTRICAL SYSTEM
- Summary: The contact owns a 2012 RAM 1500. The contact stated that while driving at 15 MPH, the electronics in the vehicle behaved erratically and the vehicle lost all motive power. After restarting the vehicle, it seemed to return to normal functionality but has since become a regular occurrence. The battery warning light was illuminated. The vehicle was taken to an independent mechanic, who diagnosed a failure with the TIPM. The contact stated that the TIPM had been replaced three weeks prior. The vehicle was not repaired. After investigating the failure, the contact related it to NHTSA Campaign Number 14V530000 (Electrical System), but the VIN was not included. The manufacturer was not notified of the failure. The failure mileage was 140,000.
POWER TRAIN PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2023-01-06
- VIN: 1C6RD7FP1CS
- Components: POWER TRAIN
- Summary: The contact owns a 2012 Ram 1500. The contact stated while driving 80 MPH, the vehicle lost motive power and stalled without warning. The contact stated he depressed the brake pedal desperately and shifted the vehicle into park and then restarted the vehicle and the vehicle operated normally. The vehicle was taken to the dealer and the fuse box was replaced, but the failure reoccurred. The vehicle was taken to the dealer and the dealer stated that the ignition module needed to be replaced. The manufacturer was not contacted. The failure mileage was 115,000.
ELECTRICAL SYSTEM,UNKNOWN OR OTHER,ENGINE PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2023-01-13
- VIN: 1C6RD7FT2CS
- Components: ELECTRICAL SYSTEM,UNKNOWN OR OTHER,ENGINE
- Summary: My 2012 Dodge Ram shuts off or stalls for no apparent reason. Sometimes upon starting, while going down the freeway (at freeway speeds), as well as speeds in between, This has happened with my family in the vehicle and even when we are towing our stock trailer with animals inside. This is very scary for all of us and dangerous for all those on the round around us. While we have not been involved in any accidents, its just a matter of time. There is never any warning when this happens and it not only shuts off it looses power to everything. So times it catches its self and restarts, other times we have to manually restart the engine.
FUEL SYSTEM, GASOLINE PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2022-12-02
- VIN: 1C6RD7JT1CS
- Components: FUEL SYSTEM, GASOLINE
- Summary: The contact owns a 2012 Ram 1500. The contact stated that the fuel tank strap brackets rusted and detached from the vehicle. Additionally, the fuel tank was also rusted. The contact received notification of NHTSA Campaign Number: 18V160000 (Fuel System Gasoline) however, the part to do the recall repair was not yet available. The local dealer was contacted. The contact stated that the manufacturer had exceeded a reasonable amount of time for the recall repair. The manufacturer was not made aware of the failure. The failure mileage was approximately 170,000. Parts distribution disconnect.
ENGINE PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2022-10-24
- VIN: 1C6RD7MT4CS
- Components: ENGINE
- Summary: Exhaust manifold failed (warped and broke bolts) for second time since owning my 2012 Ram 1500 causing dangerous exhaust leak that then enters the cabin of the vehicle causing dangerous conditions for the occupants.
FUEL SYSTEM, GASOLINE PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2022-07-29
- VIN: 3C6JD7DT0CG
- Components: FUEL SYSTEM, GASOLINE
- Summary: The contact owns a 2012 Ram 1500. The contact stated that the fuel tank had detached from the vehicle and was left hanging approximately 6 inches from the ground. The contact had taken the vehicle to the dealer who stated that the fuel tank straps needed to be replaced. The vehicle was not repaired. The manufacturer was not made aware of the failure. The approximate failure mileage was 67,000.
FUEL SYSTEM, GASOLINE PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2022-04-29
- VIN: 1C6RD7JT4CS
- Components: FUEL SYSTEM, GASOLINE
- Summary: The contact owns a 2012 Ram 1500. The contact stated while driving approximately 15 MPH, there was a fuel strap failure. There were no warning lights. The vehicle was taken to the local dealer who confirmed the failure with the fuel strap. The vehicle was repaired. The manufacturer was notified of the failure. The contact related the failure to NHTSA Campaign Number 18V160000 (Fuel System, Gasoline). The approximate failure mileage was 135,000.
ENGINE PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2022-04-01
- VIN: 1C6RD7MT2CS
- Components: ENGINE
- Summary: 2012 DODGE RAM. CONSUMER WRITES IN REGARDS TO ENGINE FAILURE. THE CONSUMER STATED THE VEHICLE SHUT OFF WHILE BEING DRIVEN. THE CONSUMER STATED WHEN THE FAILURE OCCURS THE STEERING WHEEL LOCKS.
STRUCTURE PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2022-03-13
- Number Of Injuries: 1
- Components: STRUCTURE
- Summary: The contact owns a 2012 Dodge Ram 1500. The side step detached from the vehicle's driver side of the vehicle while the contact was attempting to enter the vehicle. The bolts that were attaching the component had completely rusted through causing the failure. As a result, the contact sustained a injured knee during their fall. Medical attention was not sought. The dealer was contacted but had not inspected the vehicle. The vehicle was not repaired. The manufacturer was made aware of the failure and informed that there was no recall. There was a warranty related repair however the vehicle was not included. The approximate failure mileage was 148,000.
EQUIPMENT PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2021-11-01
- VIN: 1C6RD6NT7CS
- Components: EQUIPMENT
- Summary: The contact owns a 2012 Dodge Ram 1500. The contact stated that the radio was hacked. The safety features became inoperable and the vehicle attempted to crash. The contact called the local dealer but the vehicle was not diagnosed or repaired. The contact stated the failure was related to NHTSA Campaign Number: 15V461000 (Equipment). The manufacturer was notified, but no further assistance was provided. The approximate failure mileage was 125,000.
ELECTRICAL SYSTEM PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2022-02-09
- VIN: 3C7WDNAL5CG
- Components: ELECTRICAL SYSTEM
- Summary: The contact owns a 2012 Dodge Ram 5500. The contact stated that the service light was illuminated. The contact stated that the vehicle was inoperable. The vehicle was taken to the local dealer but parts were not ordered. The vehicle was not diagnosed or repaired. The manufacturer was contacted and referred the contact to another local dealer for assistance. The approximate failure mileage was 44,000.
FUEL SYSTEM, GASOLINE PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2022-01-02
- VIN: 1C6RD7FP7CS
- Components: FUEL SYSTEM, GASOLINE
- Summary: The contact owns a 2012 RAM 1500. The contact stated while the vehicle was stationed at the traffic light and when depressing on the accelerator pedal and the vehicle seized. The contact stated no warning light was illuminated. The contact was able to restart the ignition and drove to his residence, but was able to start the ignition. The vehicle was not drivable. The contact towed the vehicle to a local dealer, where it was diagnosed with needing the fuel pump relay was needing to be removed. The vehicle was not repaired but was pending repairs. Upon investigation, the contact associated the failure with NHTSA Campaign Number: 18V160000 (Fuel System, Gasoline), however, the VIN was not included. The manufacturer had been informed of the failure. The failure mileage was approximately 116,000.
Additional sources
More sources of information about 2012 Dodge Ram 1500 problems:
Top 5 Problems Ram Truck 1500 4th Generation 2009-17 - YouTube
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