1996 Dodge Ram 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 1996 Dodge Ram problems
Based on complaints from owners of the 1996 Dodge Ram 1500, common problems with this vehicle include:
- Multiple Cracks in Dashboards:
- Owners have reported sudden appearance of multiple cracks in the dashboard, with an average cost to fix of $800. This issue typically occurs around 114,000 miles.
- Blown Engine:
- Another significant problem is engine failure, with an average cost to fix of $3,700. This issue has been reported at an average mileage of 134,000 miles.
These problems highlight significant concerns faced by owners of the 1996 Dodge Ram 1500, impacting both the driving experience and maintenance costs.
Is a 1996 Dodge Ram 1500 a good truck?
Lots of power. This truck is amazing on mpg and even power the rides are also very comfortable. I would trust my Dodge Ram 1500 going anywhere I? ve drove it from Missouri to Alabama and didn?t have any trouble at all and only had to stop and get gas 3 times.
What was the worst year for the Dodge Ram?
The worst years
A few model years, in particular, have proven more problematic than others. Model years 2011 and 2012 stand out when it comes to bad years for the 5.7L HEMI, with 2012 being an especially lousy period for Ram pickups. The biggest issue with the 2012 Ram 1500 is the infamous "HEMI tick."
What years did Dodge Ram have transmission problems?
What Went Wrong with the Transmissions in the Dodge Ram Trucks? The transmissions that are related to common complaints and recalls for Dodge Ram trucks are five and six-speed automatic transmissions. These were found in the 2009 Dodge Ram and 2010 through 2017 Ram models 1500, 2500, 3500, 4500, and 5500.
What are good years for Dodge Ram?
5 of the Most Reliable Used RAM Trucks
- 2020 RAM 1500 Classic. For the 2020 model year, RAM redesigned the appearance and features of its trucks. ...
- 2016 RAM 1500. Slightly earlier into the fourth generation, we can recommend shopping for a 2016 RAM 1500 for a couple of reasons. ...
- 2021 RAM 1500. ...
- 2018 RAM 1500.
Is a 1996 Dodge Ram 1500 a good truck?
Lots of power. This truck is amazing on mpg and even power the rides are also very comfortable. I would trust my Dodge Ram 1500 going anywhere I? ve drove it from Missouri to Alabama and didn?t have any trouble at all and only had to stop and get gas 3 times.
What was the worst year for the Dodge Ram?
The worst years
A few model years, in particular, have proven more problematic than others. Model years 2011 and 2012 stand out when it comes to bad years for the 5.7L HEMI, with 2012 being an especially lousy period for Ram pickups. The biggest issue with the 2012 Ram 1500 is the infamous "HEMI tick."
What is the biggest problem with Dodge Ram?
Engine Problems
Many of the Ram truck problems we've seen involve exhaust manifold failures, compression issues, leaks, stalls, cylinder head malfunctions, and more. These Ram customer service complaints have been relatively common in recent years. If something seems off with your engine, get it inspected ASAP.
What years did Dodge Ram have transmission problems?
What Went Wrong with the Transmissions in the Dodge Ram Trucks? The transmissions that are related to common complaints and recalls for Dodge Ram trucks are five and six-speed automatic transmissions. These were found in the 2009 Dodge Ram and 2010 through 2017 Ram models 1500, 2500, 3500, 4500, and 5500.
1996 Dodge Ram car problems categorized by type of issue
After analyzing all complaints sent to the NHTSA and researching popular Dodge Ram problems, we found that the most common problems with these 2023 model year vehicles are:
- Service brakes problems
- Hydraulic problems
- Power train problems
- Engine and engine cooling problems
- Suspension problems
The graph below shows statistics for all 1996 Dodge Ram vehicle components and the number of complaints received.
Latest 25 complaints 1996 Dodge Ram
The NHTSA has received 1090 complaints about various vehicle components related to the 1996 Dodge Ram. Below are the 25 most recent complaints reported for 1996 Dodge Ram vehicles.
2024-01-18
LATCHES/LOCKS/LINKAGES PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2021-05-15
- VIN: 3B7HF13Y0TG
- Components: LATCHES/LOCKS/LINKAGES
- Summary: The contact owns a 1996 Dodge Ram 1500. The contact stated while driving 45 MPH, the hood flew open and struck the windshield. The contact immediately veered to the side of the road. The contact stated that the hood was bent, and the windshield was cracked due to the failure. The contact was able to drive to the residence at a slow speed. The vehicle was taken to the dealer, who informed the contact that the failure was related to NHTSA Campaign Number: 01V040000 (Latches/Locks/Linkages). The dealer informed the contact that he would be charged a repair fee for the replacement of the hood, the grill, the windshield, and components; however, the parts were not available. The manufacturer was notified of the failure, but no assistance was provided. The failure mileage was 152,000.
2022-06-30
FUEL SYSTEM, GASOLINE PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2020-06-13
- VIN: 3B7HC13Y0TG
- Components: FUEL SYSTEM, GASOLINE
- Summary: The contact owns a 1996 Dodge Ram 1500. The contact stated while refueling the vehicle, he noticed that fuel leaking underneath the vehicle. The vehicle was taken to an independent mechanic where it was diagnosed, and the mechanic stated that the rollover valve needed to be replaced. The vehicle was not repaired. The manufacturer was not contacted. The failure mileage was 138,000.
2021-02-11
STRUCTURE PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2021-02-09
- VIN: 1B7HC16X1TS
- Components: STRUCTURE
- Summary: HEADLIGHT SWITCH OVERHEATS AND THE PLASTIC START TO MELTING
2019-05-10
STEERING,POWER TRAIN,WHEELS PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2018-02-21
- Components: STEERING,POWER TRAIN,WHEELS
- Summary: MY BALL JOINTS, TIE RODS, STEERING BOX, ALL THAT HAS TO DO WITH THOSE AREAS HAVE SERIOUS ISSUES AND DODGE NEEDS TO FOX THEM FOR FREE PUT THEM UNDER THE RECALL DEPT SO THEY CAN BE. STEERING WHEEL VERY LOOSE TONS OF PLAY VERY DANGEROUS.
2018-11-04
STEERING,WHEELS PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2018-10-17
- VIN: OOOOOOOO
- Components: STEERING,WHEELS
- Summary: SIGMA TIRES STAMPEDE TIRES -265 75 16 AT SPLITTING TREAD AND COMING APART -TOLD RECALL ONLY LAST TEN* YEARS**-NOTHING TO DO AND NO REPLACEMENT-TIRE KINGDOM* TRUCK VIBRATES AND SHAKES, LOUD THUD,THUD, NOISE(IN MOTION) AFFECTS STEERING AS WOBBLES ALWAYS*HAD ISSUES AS ROUGH**RIDING OVER THE YEARS AND NEVER KNEW WHY*
2018-09-10
TIRES PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2017-12-01
- Components: TIRES
- Summary: TL* THE CONTACT OWNS A 1996 DODGE RAM 1500 EQUIPPED WITH SIGMA STAMPEDE RADIAL AT/S TIRES, SIZE 265/75R16. WHILE DRIVING 30 MPH, THE VEHICLE SHOOK FROM SIDE TO SIDE. THE CONTACT NOTICED THAT THE STEEL TREAD ON ALL FOUR TIRES WAS TORN APART. THE VEHICLE WAS NOT TAKEN TO A LOCAL DEALER TO BE DIAGNOSED OR REPAIRED. THE TIRES WERE NOT ORIGINAL EQUIPMENT. THE MANUFACTURER WAS NOTIFIED AND STATED THAT NOTHING COULD BE DONE. THE DOT NUMBER AND VIN WERE NOT AVAILABLE. THE TIRE AND VEHICLE FAILURE MILEAGE WAS APPROXIMATELY 100,000.
2018-08-12
UNKNOWN OR OTHER PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2016-09-05
- VIN: 1B7HC13YXVJ
- Components: UNKNOWN OR OTHER
- Summary: THE ENTIRE DASHBOARD IS CRUMBLING LEAVING SHARP PLASTIC FLING AROND AND OPEN WIRES IN THE DASH NET ISSUE THE DASH IS ACTUALLY DISINTEGRATING TO DUST CALLED NO HELP OUT OF WARRANTY WE HAVE OTHER CARS THAT ARE OLDER AND NO SUCH PROBLEM HAS EVER MAKE OUR DASH TURN TO DUST .
2018-01-29
STRUCTURE,UNKNOWN OR OTHER PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2018-01-27
- VIN: 3B7HC13Z1TG
- Components: STRUCTURE,UNKNOWN OR OTHER
- Summary: ON 1/27/2018 MY DASH BOARD SHATTERED WHILE I WAS ATTEMPTING TO WIPE CLEAN IT WITH MOIST TOWEL. I BOUGHT THIS VEHICLE USED FROM DODGE DEALERSHIP IN JUNE 1998 WITH 45120 MILES. AT PRESENT IT HAS ONLY 83000 APPROX. THE VEHICLE AT THE TIME WAS STATIONARY. I HAVE THE PHOTOS, UNFORTUNATELY I DO NOT KNOW HOW TO UPLOAD IT.
2017-08-08
EXTERIOR LIGHTING PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2017-07-31
- VIN: 1B7HF13Z2TJ
- Components: EXTERIOR LIGHTING
- Summary: TAKATA RECALL THE WIRING FOR HEADLIGHT SWITCH BURNT UP AND SWITCH MELTED I SAW A LOT OF THE SAME PROBLEMS ON THE INTERNET BUT NO RECALL ON THE 1500 JUST THE 3500 FOR THE SAME PROBLEM
2016-11-07
ELECTRICAL SYSTEM PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 1998-08-27
- VIN: 3B7HC13Y0TG
- Components: ELECTRICAL SYSTEM
- Summary: IGNITION WIRING FAILED
2016-01-20
ENGINE,FUEL/PROPULSION SYSTEM PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2015-01-01
- VIN: 3B7HC13Z1TG
- Components: ENGINE,FUEL/PROPULSION SYSTEM
- Summary: TL* THE CONTACT OWNS A 1996 DODGE RAM 1500. WHEN THE ENGINE WAS STARTED, THE REAR OF THE VEHICLE EMITTED A FUEL ODOR AND FUEL LEAKED FROM THE FUEL TANK. THE CONTACT STATED THAT THE VEHICLE SHOOK WHILE THE ENGINE WAS RUNNING. THE CONTACT RECEIVED A RECALL NOTICE FOR THE FUEL TANK ROLLOVER VALVE. THE CONTACT TOOK THE VEHICLE TO THE DEALER WHO STATED THAT THE VEHICLE ALREADY RECEIVED THE RECALL REPAIR; HOWEVER, THE FAILURE RECURRED. THE VEHICLE WAS NOT REPAIRED. THE MANUFACTURER WAS NOT MADE AWARE OF THE FAILURE. THE FAILURE MILEAGE AND NHTSA CAMPAIGN NUMBER WERE UNKNOWN.
2015-08-04
ELECTRICAL SYSTEM PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2013-06-11
- VIN: 1B7HC16Y2TS
- Components: ELECTRICAL SYSTEM
- Summary: I RECEIVED NOTIFICATION FROM NHTSA OF A RECALL FOR MY DODGE RAM TRUCK. I HAVE TRIED SINCE JUNE 11, 2015 TO MAKE AN APPOINTMENT WITH CROWNE DODGE OF VENTURA, CALIFORNIA AND HAVE RECEIVED NO RESPONSE. I SPENT 30 MINUTES STANDING IN LINE AT THE DEALERSHIP SERVICES ENTRANCE AND NO LIVE PERSON CAME TO INQUIRE ABOUT MY VISIT. I MADE AN ONLINE APPOINTMENT WITH CROWNE DODGE AND RECEIVED AN E-MAIL RESPONSE THEY HAD RECEIVED MY APPOINTMENT REQUEST. I FEEL THIS IS JUST ANOTHER ATTEMPT TO ?DODGE? THE RESPONSIBILITY OF A SAFETY RECALL. 1996 DODGE RAM 1500 2WD SLT [XXX] IGNITION SWITCH AND ELECTRICAL WIRING. RECALL INFORMATION REDACTED PURSUANT TO THE FREEDOM OF INFORMATION ACT (FOIA), 5 U.S.C. 552(B)(6). *TR UPDATE 9/15/15*CW
2015-07-23
STEERING,ELECTRICAL SYSTEM,UNKNOWN OR OTHER PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2015-07-22
- VIN: 1B7HC13Z7TJ
- Components: STEERING,ELECTRICAL SYSTEM,UNKNOWN OR OTHER
- Summary: WHEN APPLYING THE TURN SIGNAL, THE SIGNAL DOES NOT ILLUMINATE OR IS ERRATIC OR DOES ALTERNATE OF WHAT IS CHOSEN.
2015-05-06
STRUCTURE PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2010-09-01
- VIN: 3B7HF13Z6TG
- Components: STRUCTURE
- Summary: DASHBOARD STARTED CRACKING IN 2010 AND BROKE OFF INTO SHARP PIECES. I HAVE ABOUT 25% OF MY DASHBOARD LEFT. THIS WAS NOT CAUSED BY ANYTHING I DID. I KEPT A SUN REFLECTOR IN THE WINDSHIELD AND HAVE NEVER BEEN IN AN ACCIDENT. *TR
2015-03-12
AIR BAGS PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2015-02-14
- Crash: 1
- Components: AIR BAGS
- Summary: WAS DRIVING IN WHITE OUT CONDITIONS ON FEB 14, 2015 AND HAD A ACCIDENT WITH ANOTHER VEHICLE THAT TOTALED MY TRUCK AND MY AIR BAG NEVER WENT OFF. *TR
2015-02-07
ELECTRICAL SYSTEM PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2015-02-06
- Fire: 1
- VIN: 1B7HC16Y2TS
- Components: ELECTRICAL SYSTEM
- Summary: I WENT OUT ON FRIDAY THE 6TH OF FEB.2015. I GOT A COFFEE AT WAWA EVERYTHING WAS FINE I LEFT TO GO TO MY BUDDY'S HOUSE TO HANGOUT AND I STARTED DRIVING DOWN THE ROAD N I NOTICED SMOKE COMING OUT THE VENTS WHEN I WAS DRIVING SO I PULLED OVER CUZ I THOUGHT IT WAS THE HEATER CORE CUZ WHEN THEY GO BAD SMOKE COMES OUT OF THEM SO I'M LOOKING N LOOKING N ALL OF A SUDDEN THE SMOKE IS GETTING HEAVIER AND DARKER WITHIN 20-25 MINS AFTER CALLING 911 THERE IT HAPPENED MY TRUCK WENT UP IN FLAMES N A TOTAL LOSS. THEN THAT DAY AFTER I GOT HOME N CALMED DOWN I LOOKED IT UP N THE FIRST THING THAT POPPED UP RECALL FOR WIRING HARNESS IN DASHBOARD SHORTS OUT N CAUSES FIRES... I'M LIKE REALLY....*JS
2014-07-15
STRUCTURE PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2014-07-06
- VIN: 3B7HC13Z0TM
- Components: STRUCTURE
- Summary: TL-CONTACT OWNS A 1996 DODGE RAM 1500. CONTACT STATED THAT WHILE DRIVING APPROXIMATELY 40, VEHICLE HOOD INDEPENDENTLY. THIS CAUSED THE WINDSHIELD TO CRACK AND THERE WAS DAMAGE TO THE HOOD. THE VEHICLE WAS TAKEN TO A DEALER WHO REPAIRED THE LATCH ON THE HOOD UNDER THEIR INDEPENDENT RECALL. THE DAMAGE TO TO THE HOOD AND REPLACEMENT OF WINDSHIELD WAS NOT DONE BY DEALER. THE MANUFACTURER WAS NOTIFIED OF THE DEFECT. THE APPROXIMATE FAILURE MILEAGE WAS 83,458. RG.
2013-12-31
STEERING PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2013-12-16
- Components: STEERING
- Summary: TL* THE CONTACT OWNS A 1996 DODGE RAM 1500. THE CONTACT STATED THAT WHILE TRAVELING APPROXIMATELY 55 MPH, THE STEERING WHEEL SEIZED AND THE FRONT WHEEL BECAME UNRESPONSIVE. THE VEHICLE WAS NOT DIAGNOSED OR REPAIRED. THE MANUFACTURER WAS NOT NOTIFIED. THE VIN WAS NOT AVAILABLE. THE FAILURE MILEAGE WAS 150,000.
2013-10-08
ENGINE PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2013-10-04
- Fire: 1
- Components: ENGINE
- Summary: TL* THE CONTACT OWNS A 1996 DODGE RAM 1500. THE CONTACT WAS DRIVING 65 MPH AND NOTICED A LOSS OF POWER IN THE VEHICLE. THE CONTACT THEN NOTICED SMOKE AND FLAMES SHOOTING FROM UNDER THE HOOD. THE CONTACT SAFELY MERGED OFF THE ROADWAY AND EXITED THE BURNING VEHICLE. THE VEHICLE WAS DESTROYED AND TOWED TO AN IMPOUND LOT. THE VEHICLE REMAINS WERE NOT INSPECTED TO DETERMINE THE CAUSE OF THE FIRE. THE MANUFACTURER WAS NOT NOTIFIED OF THE INCIDENT. THE VIN WAS UNAVAILABLE. THE APPROXIMATE FAILURE MILEAGE WAS 123,000.
2013-09-03
STEERING PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2011-04-06
- VIN: 3B7HF13Y1TG
- Components: STEERING
- Summary: WHEN I DRIVE MY 96 DODGE RAM 1500 4X4 PICKUP ON HIGHWAY AT MILES BETWEEN 60 AND 70 IT STARTS SHAKING AND I AM NOT ABLE TO CONTROL THE STEERING WHEEL, I SOMETIMES HAVE TO STOP OR SPEED UP TO OVER 75 MILES FOR IT TO DECREASE AS I AM AFRAID THIS WILL CAUSE AN ACCIDENT. ALSO WHEN I CROSS A SMALL BUMP IN THE ROAD IT DOES THE SAME THING BUT THIS HAPPENS AT ANY SPEED. ONE MECHANIC TOLD ME THE STABILIZER BAR NEEDED TO BE REPLACED $400.00 DID NOT FIX THE PROBLEM. I HAVE TAKEN TO THREE DIFFERENT MECHANICS AND THEY ARE NOT ABLE TO FIND THE EXACT PROBLEM. *JB
2013-05-23
AIR BAGS PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2013-04-01
- Number Of Injuries: 1
- VIN: 1B7HC16XXTS
- Components: AIR BAGS
- Summary: TL* THE CONTACT OWNS A 1996 DODGE RAM 1500. THE CONTACT STATED THAT WHILE DRIVING APPROXIMATELY 2 MPH, THE FRONT DRIVER'S SIDE AIR BAG DEPLOYED INADVERTENTLY. THE DRIVER SUSTAINED BRUISING TO BOTH OF ARMS FROM THE AIR BAG DEPLOYMENT. THE CONTACT WAS NOT INVOLVED IN A CRASH NOR WAS THERE ANY IMPACT TO THE VEHICLE. THE MANUFACTURER WAS NOT MADE AWARE OF THE FAILURE. THE VEHICLE WAS NOT REPAIRED. THE APPROXIMATE FAILURE MILEAGE WAS 150,000. *TR
2013-03-25
AIR BAGS PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2013-03-20
- VIN: 1B6MC36C2TS
- Components: AIR BAGS
- Summary: TL* THE CONTACT OWNS A 1996 DODGE RAM. THE CONTACT STATED THAT WHILE DRIVING APPROXIMATELY 3 MPH, THE AIR BAG INADVERTENTLY DEPLOYED. THE CONTACT REFERENCED NHTSA CAMPAIGN ID NUMBER: 99V023000 (AIR BAGS) THAT COULD HAVE BEEN RELATED TO THE FAILURE. THE MANUFACTURER WAS MADE AWARE OF THE FAILURE AND STATED THE VEHICLE WAS NOT INCLUDED IN THE RECALL. THE VEHICLE WAS NOT REPAIRED. THE APPROXIMATE FAILURE MILEAGE WAS 230,000. *TR
2012-10-19
STRUCTURE PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2012-09-27
- VIN: 1B7HF16Y1TS
- Components: STRUCTURE
- Summary: TL* THE CONTACT OWNS A 1996 DODGE RAM 1500. WHILE DRIVING APPROXIMATELY 45 MPH, THE HOOD LATCH DETACHED UNEXPECTEDLY WHICH CAUSED THE HOOD LID TO RELEASE AND CRASH INTO THE WINDSHIELD GLASS. AS A RESULT, THE FRONT WINDSHIELD SHATTERED UPON IMPACT. IN ADDITION, THE HOOD LID WAS SLIGHTLY BENT. THE VEHICLE WAS NOT REPAIRED. THE MANUFACTURER WAS NOTIFIED OF THE PROBLEM. THE APPROXIMATE FAILURE MILEAGE WAS 176,000.
2012-08-03
SUSPENSION PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2012-08-01
- VIN: 1B7HF13Y8TJ
- Components: SUSPENSION
- Summary: I HAVE A 1996 DODGE RAM 1500 4X4. MY MILEAGE IS AT 85,020. I HAVE TAKEN REAL GOOD CARE OF THIS TRUCK AND I USE IT TO DRIVE IN THE SNOW WHEN I NEED THE 4 WHEEL DRIVE. I WAS DOING A OIL CHANGE AND I NOTICED THE PASSINGER SIDE TRAILING ARMS AND COIL SPRING BRACKET WELDS ARE PULLING AWAY FROM THE AXLE. I LOOKED OVER TO DRIVER'S SIDE AND THE TRAILING ARM WELDS ON THE FRONT AXLE ARE CRACKED. I HAVE A DANA 3.5 AXLE RATIO. THE TAG UNDER THE HOOD NUMBERS ARE 3850 FRONT AXLE DANA 4. I PURCHASED THIS TRUCK THINKING THE FRAME AND AXLES WOULD LAST THE LIFE TIME OF THE TRUCK. I'AM A NAVY VETERAN AND A MECHANIC AND I CAN REPAIR MECHANICAL EQUIPMENT. I FEEL THAT THIS SHOULD NOT OF HAPPEN AND I WOULD LIKE DODGE TO HELP OUT IN THIS MATTER. I ALSO WHAT TO MAKE OTHER DODGE PEOPLE AWEAR OF THIS PROBLEM. I'M JUST GLAD THAT I NOTICED THIS BEFORE WINTER AND I WAS NOT DRIVING AT THE TIME. IF THE WELDS WOULD HAVE SEPARATED FROM THE AXLE AND TRAILING ARMS IT COULD OF BEEM FATAL. *TR
2012-07-17
ELECTRICAL SYSTEM,EXTERIOR LIGHTING,VISIBILITY/WIPER PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2012-05-25
- VIN: 1B7HF16Z7TJ
- Components: ELECTRICAL SYSTEM,EXTERIOR LIGHTING,VISIBILITY/WIPER
- Summary: IN THE 1994-2001 MODEL YEAR DODGE RAM 1500, 2500 AND 3500 TRUCKS THERE IS NO RELAY IN THE WIRING CIRCUITRY USE FOR THE HEADLIGHTS. WHEN THE RAM WAS REDESIGNED IN 1994, THE ENGINEERS DID NOT FIND IT NECESSARY TO CHANGE THE 40-YEAR OLD DESIGN FOR THE HEADLIGHT SYSTEM; FEELING ONLY THE NEED TO USE A LARGER GAUGE WIRE TO HANDLE THE EXCESSIVE HEAT OF THE HALOGEN BULBS. UNFORTUNATELY, NEITHER THE WIRES NOR THE SWITCH OR INTERNAL RHEOSTAT (FOR THE INSTRUMENT PANEL LIGHTING) COULD HANDLE THIS LOAD AND THE FOLLOWING NEAR TRAGIC EVEN HAS BEEN AN ALL TOO COMMON OCCURRENCE. A RECALL (OR AT THE VERY LEAST A TSB HAS BEEN ISSUED FOR THE 3500 MODEL DODGE RAMS, WHICH ARE COMPRISED OF THE EXACT SAME SWITCH AND WIRING, BUT NOTHING HAS BEEN NOTED ABOUT THE 1500 OR 2500 MODELS. I CANNOT UNDERSTAND THIS, AND THIS IS THE VERY REASON I FEEL COMPELLED TO BE WRITING THIS COMPLAINT IN THE FIRST PLACE. ONE NIGHT I WAS DRIVING ALONG THE FREEWAY AT ABOUT 55-MPH WHEN THE HEADLIGHT SWITCH, RELAY AND CONNECTED WIRING ALL BECAME OVERHEATED, CAUSING THEM TO MELT. BECOMING FRANTIC, I WAS ABLE TO QUICKLY WIGGLE THE DIMMER SWITCH (COMBINATION/TURN SIGNAL SWITCH), THEN THE HEADLIGHT SWITCH UNTIL I GOT THEM TO COME BACK ON. DURING THAT EPISODE I HAD THEM GO OUT ON ME ABOUT 4 TIMES THAT I RECALL. CURRENTLY THE VEHICLE REMAINS UNFIXED AND IS NOT DRIVABLE AT NIGHT. BEING A MECHANIC, MY FIRST THOUGHT WAS TO CHECK THE RELAYS AND FUSES TO SEE IF THEY WERE BLOWN OR BAD. TO MY DISMAY, I COULD NOT FIND ANY RELAYS! THIS WAS HOW I DISCOVERED, THROUGH SOME ONLINE RESEARCH, ABOUT THE RECURRING PROBLEM WITH THE HEADLIGHT SWITCH- HOW I WAS NOT ALONE IN THIS SITUATION AND THE REST OF THE AFOREMENTIONED PARAGRAPH. I WILL GLADLY BE AVAILABLE FOR PHONE CALLS, QUESTIONS, AND TO TAKE PICTURES OF THE PARTS IN QUESTION. *TR
1996 Dodge Ram recalls
The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) has issued 14 recalls for different components of the 1996 Dodge Ram.
2009-05-11
- Manufacturer: DOPE, INC.
- Components: EXTERIOR LIGHTING:HEADLIGHTS
- Summary: DOPE, INC. IS RECALLING 42,540 COMBINATION CORNER AND BUMPER LAMP ASSEMBLIES OF VARIOUS PART NUMBERS SOLD FOR USE AS AFTERMARKET EQUIPMENT FOR VARIOUS PASSENGER VEHICLES. THESE HEADLAMPS FAIL TO CONFORM TO THE REQUIREMENTS OF FEDERAL MOTOR VEHICLE SAFETY STANDARD NO. 108, "LAMPS, REFLECTIVE DEVICES, AND ASSOCIATED EQUIPMENT." THESE LAMPS DO NOT CONTAIN THE REQUIRED AMBER SIDE REFLECTORS.
- Consequence: DECREASED LIGHTING VISIBILITY MAY RESULT IN A VEHICLE CRASH.
- Remedy: DOPE, INC. WILL NOTIFY OWNERS AND OFFER A FULL REFUND FOR THE NONCOMPLIANT COMBINATION LAMPS. THE SAFETY RECALL BEGAN ON JULY 28, 2009. OWNERS MAY CONTACT DOPE, INC. AT 1-626-272-1798.
2009-04-07
- Manufacturer: SABERSPORT
- Components: EXTERIOR LIGHTING
- Summary: SABERSPORT IS RECALLING 16,270 COMBINATION CORNER AND BUMPER LAMP ASSEMBLIES OF VARIOUS PART NUMBERS SOLD FOR USE AS AFTERMARKET EQUIPMENT FOR VARIOUS PASSENGER VEHICLES. THESE HEADLAMPS FAIL TO CONFORM TO THE REQUIREMENTS OF FEDERAL MOTOR VEHICLE SAFETY STANDARD NO. 108, "LAMPS, REFLECTIVE DEVICES, AND ASSOCIATED EQUIPMENT." THESE LAMPS DO NOT CONTAIN THE REQUIRED AMBER SIDE REFLECTORS.
- Consequence: DECREASED LIGHTING VISIBILITY MAY RESULT IN A VEHICLE CRASH.
- Remedy: SABERSPORT WILL NOTIFY OWNERS AND OFFER A FULL REFUND FOR THE NONCOMPLIANT COMBINATION LAMPS. THE SAFETY RECALL BEGAN ON MAY 11, 2009. OWNERS MAY CONTACT SABERSPORT AT 1-909-598-7589.
2008-08-11
- Manufacturer: K2 MOTOR CORPORATION
- Components: EXTERIOR LIGHTING:HEADLIGHTS
- Summary: K2 MOTOR IS RECALLING 1,921 AFTERMARKET HEADLAMPS OF VARIOUS MODELS SOLD FOR USE ON THE ABOVE LISTED VEHICLES. THESE HEADLAMPS ARE MISSING THE AMBER SIDE REFLEX REFLECTOR WHICH FAILS TO CONFORM WITH THE REQUIREMENTS OF FEDERAL MOTOR VEHICLE SAFETY STANDARD NO. 108, "LAMPS, REFLECTIVE DEVICES, AND ASSOCIATED EQUIPMENT."
- Consequence: WITHOUT THE AMBER SIDE REFLEX REFLECTORS, THE LIGHTING VISIBILITY MAY BE AFFECTED, POSSIBLY RESULTING IN A VEHICLE CRASH.
- Remedy: K2 MOTOR WILL NOTIFY OWNERS AND OFFER A FULL REFUND. THE RECALL BEGAN ON DECEMEBER 17, 2008. OWNERS MAY CONTACT K2 MOTOR AT 1-909-839-2992.
2006-06-29
- Manufacturer: AAI MOTORSPORTS USA, LLC
- Components: EXTERIOR LIGHTING
- Summary: CERTAIN AAI MOTORSPORTS COMBINATION LAMPS SOLD AS REPLACEMENT LAMPS FOR USE ON THE ABOVE LIST PASSENGER VEHICLES. COMBINATION LAMPS NOT EQUIPPED WITH AMBER SIDE REFLECTORS FAIL TO CONFORM WITH THE REQUIREMENTS OF FEDERAL MOTOR VEHICLE SAFETY STANDARD NO. 108, "LAMPS, REFLECTIVE DEVICES, AND ASSOCIATED EQUIPMENT."
- Consequence: LACK OF AMBER SIDE REFLECTORS IN THE LAMPS WILL DECREASE LIGHTING VISIBILITY TO OTHER DRIVERS AND MAY POSSIBLY RESULT IN A VEHICLE CRASH
- Remedy: AAI MOTORSPORTS WILL NOTIFY OWNERS AND REPLACE THE LAMPS FREE OF CHARGE. THE RECALL BEGAN ON AUGUST 1, 2006. OWNERS MAY CONTACT AAI MOTORSPORTS AT 909-923-9188.
2001-02-12
- Manufacturer: DAIMLERCHRYSLER CORPORATION
- Components: VEHICLE SPEED CONTROL
- Summary: VEHICLE DESCRIPTION: PICKUP TRUCKS EQUIPPED WITH DIESEL ENGINES. THE THROTTLE CABLE COULD UNRAVEL (FRAY) OR BREAK RESULTING IN LOSS OF THROTTLE CONTROL.
- Consequence: A THROTTLE THAT DOES NOT RETURN TO IDLE COULD RESULT IN UNEXPECTED ACCELERATION, INCREASING THE RISK OF A CRASH.
- Remedy: DEALERS WILL INSPECT AND REPLACE THE THROTTLE CABLE AND UPPER BELL CRANK LEVER. OWNER NOTIFICATION BEGAN AUGUST 3, 2001. OWNERS WHO TAKE THEIR VEHICLES TO AN AUTHORIZED DEALER ON AN AGREED UPON SERVICE DATE AND DO NOT RECEIVE THE FREE REMEDY WITHIN A REASONABLE TIME SHOULD CONTACT DAIMLERCHRYSLER AT 1-800-853-1403.
2001-02-12
- Manufacturer: DAIMLERCHRYSLER CORPORATION
- Components: LATCHES/LOCKS/LINKAGES:HOOD:LATCH
- Summary: ON CERTAIN PICKUP TRUCKS ORIGINALLY SOLD IN OR CURRENTLY REGISTERED IN THE FOLLOWING "SALT BELT" STATES: MAINE, NEW HAMPSHIRE, VERMONT, MASSACHUSETTS, RHODE ISLAND, CONNECTICUT, NEW YORK, NEW JERSEY, PENNSYLVANIA, DELAWARE, MARYLAND, THE DISTRICT OF COLUMBIA, WEST VIRGINIA, OHIO, INDIANA, MICHIGAN, ILLINOIS, WISCONSIN, MINNESOTA, IOWA, AND MISSOURI. CORROSION OF THE RETURN SPRING ON THE HOOD SECONDARY LATCH COULD CAUSE THE MECHANISM TO BIND IN THE "RELEASE POSITION."
- Consequence: IF THE PRIMARY LATCH IS NOT ENGAGED, THE HOOD COULD OPEN UNEXPECTEDLY.
- Remedy: DEALERS WILL REPLACE THE SECONDARY HOOD LATCH. OWNER NOTIFICATION BEGAN SEPTEMBER 17, 2001. OWNERS WHO TAKE THEIR VEHICLES TO AN AUTHORIZED DEALER ON AN AGREED UPON SERVICE DATE AND DO NOT RECEIVE THE FREE REMEDY WITHIN A REASONABLE TIME SHOULD CONTACT DAIMLERCHRYSLER AT 1-800-853-1403.
2000-05-10
- Manufacturer: DAIMLERCHRYSLER CORPORATION
- Components: ELECTRICAL SYSTEM:IGNITION:SWITCH
- Summary: VEHICLE DESCRIPTION: LIGHT DUTY PICKUP TRUCKS. THE AFFECTED VEHICLES WERE BUILT WITH AN IGNITION SWITCH AND WIRING THAT COULD OVERHEAT. HIGH ELECTRICAL CURRENT LOADS PASS THROUGH THE SWITCH WHEN THE BLOWER MOTOR IS OPERATED ON HIGH FOR AN EXTENDED PERIODS OF TIME.
- Consequence: THIS COULD CAUSE THE IGNITION SWITCH AND WIRING TO OVERHEAT.
- Remedy: DEALERS WILL INSTALL A RELAY AND OVERLAY HARNESS.
1999-05-06
- Manufacturer: DAIMLERCHRYSLER CORPORATION
- Components: POWER TRAIN:CLUTCH ASSEMBLY
- Summary: VEHICLE DESCRIPTION: PICKUP TRUCKS EQUIPPED WITH MANUAL TRANSMISSION, V10 ENGINES AND FOUR-WHEEL-DRIVE TRANSFER CASES. UNDER SUSTAINED MAXIMUM RATED VEHICLE LOAD, WHILE DRIVING UP A STEEP GRADE IN FOUR-WHEEL-DRIVE LOW RANGE IN HOT AMBIENT CONDITIONS, THE LOCAL EXHAUST TEMPERATURE PROXIMATE TO THE HYDRAULIC CLUTCH LINE CAN GENERATE LINE TEMPERATURES THAT EXCEED THE TEMPERATURE LIMIT OF THE CLUTCH LINE MATERIAL. IF THIS CONDITION OCCURS AND THE CLUTCH IS DEPRESSED, THE LINE COULD RUPTURE.
- Consequence: THE FLUID COULD IGNITE ON THE HOT EXHAUST POSSIBLY RESULTING IN A VEHICLE FIRE.
- Remedy: DEALERS WILL REPLACE THE HYDRAULIC CLUTCH ASSEMBLY.
1999-02-05
- Manufacturer: DAIMLERCHRYSLER CORPORATION
- Components: AIR BAGS:FRONTAL
- Summary: VEHICLE DESCRIPTION: VAN AND WAGON MODEL PASSENGER VEHICLES. IF WATER/ROAD SALT GETS ON THE INTERIOR FLOOR OF THE VEHICLE IN THE PROXIMITY OF THE AIR BAG ELECTRONIC CONTROL MODULE (AECM), THE AECM CAN CORRODE. THE RESULTING CORROSION CAN CAUSE THE DRIVER SIDE AIR BAG TO DEPLOY INADVERTENTLY.
- Consequence: DEPLOYMENT OF THE AIR BAG WITHOUT WARNING COULD CAUSE A DRIVER TO LOSE VEHICLE CONTROL, INCREASING THE RISK OF A CRASH AND PERSONAL INJURY.
- Remedy: DEALERS WIL REPLACE THE AECM WITH AN AECM THAT IS SEALED FROM MOISTURE INTRUSION.
1997-11-13
- Manufacturer: CHRYSLER CORPORATION
- Components: FUEL SYSTEM, GASOLINE:DELIVERY:HOSES, LINES/PIPING, AND FITTINGS
- Summary: VEHICLE DESCRIPTION: LIGHT DUTY PICKUP TRUCKS EQUIPPED WITH GASOLINE ENGINES. THE FUEL TANK MOUNTED ROLLOVER VALVE CAN ALLOW LIQUID FUEL TO LEAK ONTO THE GROUND UNDER CERTAIN VEHICLE OPERATING CONDITIONS.
- Consequence: FUEL LEAKAGE COULD RESULT IN A FIRE IF AN IGNITION SOURCE WAS PRESENT.
- Remedy: DEALERS WILL REPLACE THE FUEL TANK ROLLOVER VALVE WITH A FLOAT TYPE ROLLOVER VALVE.
1997-05-05
- Manufacturer: CHRYSLER CORPORATION
- Components: POWER TRAIN:AUTOMATIC TRANSMISSION:COOLING UNIT AND LINES
- Summary: UNDER CERTAIN HIGH LOAD OPERATING CONDITIONS, THE TRANSMISSION FLUID TEMPERATURE CAN EXCEED THE MELTING POINT OF THE MATERIAL USED IN THE CONNECTOR TO RETAIN THE FLUID LINE TO THE TRANSMISSION.
- Consequence: WHEN THESE TEMPERATURES OCCUR, THE FLUID LINE WILL NOT STAY CONNECTED WITH THE TRANSMISSION AND FLUID CAN SPRAY ONTO THE EXHAUST MANIFOLD, RESULTING IN SMOKE OR FIRE.
- Remedy: DEALERS WILL REPLACE THE HIGH TEMPERATURE SIDE OF THE TRANSMISSION FLUID COOLER LINE CONNECTOR FITTINGS WITH CONNECTORS THAT INCORPORATE A STAINLESS STEEL RETAINER.
1997-04-28
- Manufacturer: CHRYSLER CORPORATION
- Components: SERVICE BRAKES, HYDRAULIC:POWER ASSIST:VACUUM:HOSES, LINES/PIPING, AND FITTINGS
- Summary: VEHICLE DESCRIPTION: PICKUP TRUCKS EQUIPPED WITH DIESEL ENGINES. THE ENGINE DRIVEN VACUUM PUMP CAN ALLOW ENGINE OIL INTO THE VACUUM HOSES DUE TO THE ABSENCE OF AN INTERNAL CHECK VALVE. THE OIL CAN CAUSE THE HOSE TO DETERIORATE AND PARTIALLY COLLAPSE, REDUCING THE VACUUM SUPPLY TO THE BRAKE BOOSTER.
- Consequence: REDUCED POWER BRAKE ASSIST CAN RESULT INCREASING THE RISK OF A VEHICLE CRASH.
- Remedy: DEALERS WILL ADD A VACUUM PUMP CHECK VALVE TO THE VACUUM PUMP. IN ADDITION, THE VACUUM HOSE CONNECTED TO THE VACUUM PUMP WILL BE REPLACED WITH A HOSE THAT IS ENGINE OIL RESISTANT.
1996-02-05
- Manufacturer: CHRYSLER CORPORATION
- Components: EQUIPMENT:OTHER:LABELS
- Summary: THE INVOLVED VEHICLES HAVE TIRE/WHEEL SPECIFICATION INFORMATION ON THE VEHICLE CERTIFICATION LABEL WHICH INDICATES A SMALLER SIZE TIRE THAN REQUIRED. THIS DOES NOT COMPLY WITH LABEL REQUIREMENTS OF FMVSS NO. 120, "TIRE SELECTION AND RIMS FOR MOTOR VEHICLES OTHER THAN PASSENGER CARS."
- Consequence: CONSEQUENCE OF NON-COMPLIANCE: THE SMALLER TIRES WOULD NOT HAVE SUFFICIENT LOAD CAPACITY FOR THE VEHICLES SPECIFIED GROSS WEIGHT RATING, INCREASING THE POTENTIAL FOR A PREMATURE TIRE FAILURE AND AN ACCIDENT.
- Remedy: OWNERS WILL BE MAILED AN OVERLAY LABEL WITH THE CORRECT TIRE/WHEEL CERTIFICATION INFORMATION AND INSTRUCTIONS FOR INSTALLING THE LABEL ON THEIR VEHICLES. IF OWNERS PREFER, THEIR DEALER CAN INSTALL THE LABEL FOR THEM.
1995-12-12
- Manufacturer: CHRYSLER CORPORATION
- Components: ELECTRICAL SYSTEM:ALTERNATOR/GENERATOR/REGULATOR
- Summary: THE FASTENERS WHICH SECURE THE GENERATOR CARTRIDGE FUSE TO THE POWER DISTRIBUTION CENTER MAY HAVE AN IMPROPER CLAMP LOAD. IMPROPER CLAMPING CAN RESULT IN ARCING AT THE CONNECTION.
- Consequence: THIS CONDITION CAN POTENTIALLY CAUSE A FIRE IN THE ENGINE COMPARTMENT.
- Remedy: DEALERS WILL TIGHTEN THE GENERATOR CARTRIDGE FUSE FASTENERS PROPERLY.
Additional sources
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