RoadVitals

2016 RAM 1500 Owner Complaints

Reports submitted to NHTSA by owners and drivers, shown in full

Data refreshed

Complaints on fileComplaints are reports submitted to NHTSA by owners and drivers. NHTSA does not verify most reports before publishing them, and a complaint does not establish that a defect exists. Volume is influenced by how many of a vehicle were sold, how long it has been on the road, and how much attention an issue has received.
1,517
+14 complaints in 30 days
Crash or fire reportedComplaints whose submitter recorded that a crash or a fire occurred. These are the reporter's own answers on the NHTSA form, not verified findings.
125
Filed in the last 12 monthsReports filed with NHTSA in the trailing 365 days. Recent volume reflects attention and vehicle age as much as anything else.
197
Reports on file since Feb 26, 2016

What this page shows

Our database holds 1,517 NHTSA owner-reported complaints for the 2016 RAM 1500. Each one is a report filed by an owner or driver and published by NHTSA without most of them being verified. A complaint is not a confirmed defect, not a recall and not a manufacturer bulletin. Narratives are shown exactly as filed.

Complaints are reports submitted by owners and drivers to NHTSA. They are not verified and do not establish that a defect exists.

Complaints, most recent first

Showing 1–25 of 1,517 · page 1 of 61

Brakes
Filed Aug 11, 2026

ABS Module control unit has gone out and we are being told by multiple mech that the module is on national back order and could be 6 months or more before the part can be secured. We can not go with our our vehicle for this long. We are willing to get it fixed but this back order has made it impossible to do so.

NHTSA ID
11756178
Incident
Aug 8, 2026
Brakes
Filed Aug 10, 2026

"Service Electronic Braking System", "Service Antilock Brake System" and "Service Trailer Brake" system lights coming on - affecting antilock brakes, traction control and cruise control. Appears to be a common issue and the parts to repair are not available.

NHTSA ID
11755874
Incident
Jul 3, 2026
BrakesElectrical
Filed Aug 9, 2026

ABS module showing internal electrical failure. Service ABS, trailer brake, and electrical brake warning lights on. Traction control light on. Cruise control not working.

NHTSA ID
11755782
Incident
Aug 9, 2026
BrakesDriver assistance
Filed Aug 5, 2026

The ABS (Anti Lock Brake System) Module has failed. ABS, cruise control, and traction control are disabled. A faulty ABS can cause an inability to stop suddenly to avoid a collision. My specific issue has been confirmed by a Ram dealer. Chrysler engineering has confirmed this is a widespread problem with multiple vehicles using the same ABS Module. It is not possible to get a replacement ABS Module. Auto parts stores and dealers do not have replacement parts. There is a waiting list for a redesigned ABS Module at my local Ram dealership. The first person on the list has been on the list for 3 years. A new module, installed and programmed, will cost over $1200. A faulty ABS is a safety issue. I recommend Ram/Chrysler issue a recall when parts are available.

NHTSA ID
11755089
Incident
Jul 12, 2026
Fuel system
Filed Aug 5, 2026

I am writing to request your assistance regarding my 2016 Ram 1500 EcoDiesel and the handling of a safety-related recall repair that has not resolved the original issue. My vehicle has been experiencing the following symptoms: •Check engine light •Hard starting •Engine struggling to start •Engine stalling These symptoms prompted me to bring the vehicle to an authorized Ram dealership for diagnosis and repair. The dealership informed me that the vehicle qualified for Recall Z46, and the recall was subsequently performed. Unfortunately, after the recall was listed as completed, the vehicle continues to exhibit the exact same symptoms that existed prior to the repair. The check engine light remains, the vehicle still struggles to start, and it continues to stall. After further research I discovered that the entire recall was not completed based on the procedures listed on the NHTSA website. This is extremely concerning because these symptoms create a potential safety risk, particularly when the engine stalls unexpectedly. I have attempted to work through Ram Customer Care to resolve this matter. My experience has been disappointing. I have been unable to obtain meaningful assistance or authorization to have the vehicle evaluated by another certified Ram dealership despite my concerns that the original dealership did not successfully resolve the issue. At this point, I have lost confidence in the original servicing dealership's ability to properly diagnose and repair my vehicle. I have maintained detailed records of my repair visits and communications and am prepared to provide copies of repair orders and any additional documentation needed. My goal is simply to have my vehicle repaired correctly and safely.

NHTSA ID
11754888
Incident
Jul 24, 2026
BrakesDriver assistanceElectrical
Filed Jul 29, 2026

Z

NHTSA ID
11753517
Incident
Jul 28, 2026
Brakes
Filed Jul 28, 2026

The anti lock braking system control module has been disabled for three years with the same issue as 2017 and later models but is excluded from the recall even though it's the same fix. Meanwhile I had to wait three years and pay $2600, while the other vehicles are being repaired for free causing the shortage for which i had to wait. Same problem. Same fix.

NHTSA ID
11753301
Incident
Mar 15, 2023
BrakesDriver assistanceElectrical
Filed Jul 25, 2026

ABS / Traction Control / Brake warning lights ALL illuminated. No anti lock brakes and no cruise control. ABS module failure. Replacement part on back order for at least 2 years. Unable to repair.

NHTSA ID
11752857
Incident
May 7, 2026
ElectricalSteering
Filed Jul 24, 2026

While driving, the vehicle suddenly lost power steering assist without warning. The steering wheel warning light illuminated on the instrument panel, and the steering immediately became extremely difficult to turn. The condition created a significant safety hazard because the vehicle was much harder to control while in motion. The steering remains difficult to turn after the incident. This appears to be an electric power steering (EPS) failure. I am concerned that this defect could lead to a crash or serious injury. I am requesting that NHTSA investigate this issue because similar power steering failures have been reported by other Ram 1500 owners.

NHTSA ID
11752688
Incident
Jul 14, 2026
Steering
Filed Jul 22, 2026

The contact's wife owns a 2016 Ram 1500. The contact stated that while his wife was driving at various speeds, the steering wheel became firm, and the steering wheel was difficult to turn to the left or the right. No warning light was illuminated. The local dealer was contacted; however, the vehicle was not diagnosed or repaired. The manufacturer was not made aware of the failure. The failure mileage was approximately 148,000

NHTSA ID
11752195
Incident
Jun 15, 2026
Mileage
148,000 mi
BrakesDriver assistanceElectrical
Filed Jul 22, 2026

What component or system failed or malfunctioned, and is it available for inspection upon request? - Failed ABS Module....yes, the vehicle is available for inspection. How was your safety or the safety of others put at risk? - Without a functioning ABS Module, the vehicle has no Anti-Lock brakes or Traction control...in addition to no functioning cruise control and some 4WD features. The main concern is obviously the absence of ABS and Traction Control, which can cause loss of vehicle control. Has the problem been reproduced or confirmed by a dealer or independent service center? - Yes, the vehicle has been inspected/confirmed by the dealer. The replacement part is unavailable / has been on backorder for several months. Has the vehicle or component been inspected by the manufacturer, police, insurance representatives or others? - No...only the dealer has inspected it. Were there any warning lamps, messages or other symptoms of the problem prior to the failure, and when did they first appear? - The ABS and Traction Control warning lamps are illuminated. They first appeared several months ago, when the module failed.

NHTSA ID
11752106
Incident
Sep 1, 2025
Brakes
Filed Jul 22, 2026

The contact owns a 2016 Ram 1500. The contact stated that while operating the vehicle, the ABS, traction control, and trailer brake warning lights remained illuminated, and the cruise control became inoperable. The vehicle was taken to the local dealer and diagnosed with ABS module failure. The contact was informed that the ABS module needed to be replaced. The contact was informed that the part was on back order and unavailable. The vehicle was not yet repaired. The manufacturer was not yet contacted. The failure mileage was 212,000.

NHTSA ID
11751997
Incident
Jun 23, 2026
Mileage
212,000 mi
Engine
Filed Jul 20, 2026

The contact owns a 2016 Ram 1500. The contact stated that while driving at an undisclosed speed, the vehicle intermittently went into LIMP Mode. The contact stated that the "Drive to Park" and "Pull Over and Shift Gear" messages were displayed on the instrument panel. The failure had occurred on several occasions. The vehicle was taken to a dealer, where repairs were performed, including recall repairs and the replacement of an emissions system fan; however, the failure persisted. The contact stated that the vehicle shut off and failed to restart, and the vehicle remained in LIMP Mode. The vehicle was inoperable. The vehicle was not diagnosed or repaired. The manufacturer was not notified of the failure. The failure mileage was approximately 170,000.

NHTSA ID
11751651
Incident
May 20, 2025
Mileage
170,000 mi
Fuel system
Filed Jul 17, 2026

The contact owns a 2016 Ram 1500. The contact stated that while driving approximately 70-75 MPH, the vehicle stalled. The vehicle was coasted to the side of the road. The contact stated that the vehicle restarted; however, the failure reoccurred while driving, and the vehicle was coasted to the side of the road. No warning light was illuminated. The vehicle was first towed to a dealer, who denied service. The vehicle was then towed to another dealer, where metal shavings were found throughout the fuel system. The dealer cleaned the fuel tank and replaced the remaining fuel system components under NHTSA Campaign Number: 22V406000 (Fuel System, Diesel); however, the vehicle failed to start. The dealer stated that the Diesel Particulate Filter (DPF) was full and needed to be replaced. The contact stated that the instrument panel displayed that the DPF was 70 percent full, which contradicted the statement from the dealer. The vehicle was not repaired. The contact stated that the manufacturer had exceeded a reasonable amount of time for the recall repair. The manufacturer was contacted, but no assistance was provided. The failure mileage was approximately 240,000.

NHTSA ID
11751045
Incident
Jun 26, 2026
Mileage
240,000 mi
BrakesDriver assistance
Filed Jul 13, 2026

Failed abs module prevents use of abs braking system causing wheels to lock up under hard braking. Collision almost occurred as result of wheels locking due to failed abs module and Stellantid does not have a replacement part available. Also prevent proper use of cruise control, stability/traction control and braking. Have been advised by dealerships in DeLand fl and Daytona beach fl that the part is on indefinite back order.

NHTSA ID
11750074
Incident
Jan 1, 2026
Brakes
Filed Jul 10, 2026

The ABS light on my dashboard came on approximately one year ago. After researching the issue, I discovered there are numerous complaints about the ABS module failing on my 2016 Ram 1500 and similar models. The replacement part is unavailable (on long-term backorder or discontinued), leaving me without functional anti-lock brakes, traction control, and electronic stability control. This makes the vehicle unsafe to drive, especially on wet roads. I have been avoiding driving in bad weather as much as possible, but the truck needs immediate attention to repair this safety issue. I have already checked for open recalls using my VIN, and none apply. Please investigate this widespread defect for a potential recall or remedy.

NHTSA ID
11749674
Incident
Feb 1, 2025
BrakesPowertrain (other)
Filed Jul 8, 2026

The contact owns a 2016 RAM 1500. The contact stated that while driving at an undisclosed speed, the ABS, traction control, and several unknown warning lights illuminated, and the failure was persistent. Additionally, while attempting to shift into drive(D), the gear shifter failed to shift into drive(D) as intended. The vehicle was towed to the residence. The dealer was made aware of the failure, and the contact was informed that the parts were unavailable. The vehicle was not diagnosed or repaired. The contact stated that the failure was common. The manufacturer was made aware of the failure, and a case was filed. The failure mileage was 96,000.

NHTSA ID
11749158
Incident
Feb 18, 2026
Mileage
96,000 mi
Brakes
Filed Jul 8, 2026

Dodge Ram has know about issues with Antilock Braking System (ABS) for 2016-2018 RAM 1500's for several years, going back to as far as 2022 and RAM (Stellantis) has acknowledged wide spread issues by 2023. Ram (Stellantis) has pulled the original OEM ABS module from the marktet entirely and have basically done nothing to provide a solution to the customer. There proprietary does not allow the vehicle to go into gear and the vehicle basically becomes a $30,000 boat anchor. There are approximately 2,409 RAM dealerships in the US and approximately 2,364 Dodge dealerships in the US. I have call dealerships in NC, VA, NY, and even FL and all have told me that the part is on back order and that each dealership has any where from 20 to 30 back orders for this part. Based on that, there could be 95,000+ to 143,000+ vehicles on the road with unsafe ABS systems and RAM is doing nothing about it. RAM has had a had a few other issues with ABS module with a recall of over 1.2 Million RAM 1500's from 2019, 2021-2024 and a second for 317,000 RAM 2500, 3500, 4500 and 5500 for ABS issues. With that said, how is the state of North Carolina or even the United States allowing RAM trucks to even be on the road if that many are unsafe and RAM, after knowing about issues for years still allowed to sell RAM trucks.

NHTSA ID
11749155
Incident
Feb 20, 2026
Fuel system
Filed Jul 2, 2026

The vehicle was previously repaired under Recall Z46, but the replacement remedy pump suffered the exact same catastrophic internal failure. The vehicle has now been stranded at Orange Coast Ram for over 30 days under Work Order 156725. RAM Corporate Case Management (Case 96867451) is actively refusing to authorize the subsequent recall repair, explicitly stating in writing that corporate has 'no internal channels to obtain approvals,' effectively denying the legally mandated federal safety remedy.

NHTSA ID
11748022
Incident
May 26, 2026
Brakes
Filed Jul 1, 2026

The contact owns a 2016 Ram 1500. The contact stated that the brake, ABS, and the traction control warning lights were illuminated, and the cruise control was inoperable. The vehicle was taken to an independent mechanic, where it was diagnosed and it was determined that the ABS module had failed and needed to be replaced. The dealer was contacted for parts and informed that the part was on back order. The vehicle was not yet repaired. The manufacturer was not notified of the failure. The failure mileage was approximately 82,000.

NHTSA ID
11747666
Incident
Jun 1, 2026
Mileage
82,000 mi
Brakes
Filed Jun 29, 2026

The contact owns a 2016 Ram 1500. The contact stated that the vehicle was experiencing ABS module failure for approximately two years. The contact stated that the failure could cause the wheels to lock up while driving. The dealer was contacted, and the contact was informed that the parts needed to repair the vehicle had been on back order for 4 years. The vehicle was not repaired. The manufacturer was made aware of failure, and the contact was referred to the dealer for assistance. The failure mileage was approximately 97,200.

NHTSA ID
11747223
Incident
Jul 15, 2025
Mileage
97,200 mi
Airbags
Filed Jun 25, 2026
Crash reported

Vehicle was in a front end collision and the air bags never deployed. Approximate speed 40-45 mph

NHTSA ID
11746444
Incident
Jun 24, 2026
BrakesElectrical
Filed Jun 18, 2026

The contact owns a 2016 Ram 1500. The contact stated that the speedometer remained at 0 MPH and failed to accurately display the speed of the vehicle. The ABS, traction control, and cruise control features were disabled. The vehicle was taken to the dealer to be diagnosed, and it was determined that the ABS module had failed and needed to be replaced. The parts were on back order and the dealer estimated that it might take 10 months to a year for parts to become available. The vehicle was taken to another dealer, JTs Chrysler Dodge Jeep RAM of Lexington (4838 Sunset Blvd, Lexington, SC 29072); and confirmed that parts were still on backorder. The manufacturer was notified of the issue, and confirmed that parts were not yet available, and further assistance could not be provided. The failure mileage was approximately 115,000.

NHTSA ID
11745034
Incident
Jan 18, 2026
Mileage
115,000 mi
BrakesElectrical
Filed Jun 12, 2026

ABS Module failure causing multiple warning lights on my dashboard. My truck no longer has working ABS or cruise control because of it. Took it to a Ram dealer and they said they do not have the part available to fix it because it is being “re-engineered.” That was almost 2 years ago. They had to recall this part in the newer generation Rams and I’m assuming it’s probably the same part that is in my truck. The answer I got from the dealer was “don’t follow to closely now” basically saying I’m shit out of luck. I know many others who have this issue and have had no support from Ram whatsoever. This is a known widespread issue in my generation of RAM trucks and this is absolutely a safety issue. My brakes have locked up twice in braking situations since this went bad. They need to acknowledge that this is a problem like they did in their newer trucks and fix it. I know many would even pay to fix it at this point but there are not even parts available to get it done.

NHTSA ID
11743701
Incident
Jun 11, 2024
Brakes
Filed Jun 11, 2026

ABS light has come one. There are no anti lock brakes or cruise control. This is a safety concern. There needs to be a recall and parts available to repair. I've been waiting for over 4 months and no part or timing for a part

NHTSA ID
11743396
Incident
Aug 1, 2025

Higher-selling and older vehicles accumulate more reports. Counts are not failure rates and are not directly comparable between vehicles that sold in very different numbers.

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