2020 RAM 1500 Powertrain (other) Problems

MGU Failed, 48v code P0DAF had early signs of premature failure. when on the highway, vehicle shut off completely, no power what so ever. Couldn't steer correctly and vehicle was going highway speeds (approximately 70mph) dealer has confirmed the issue being there MGU gone bad, but I have records of water intrusion multiple times on the rear seats, headliner & back glass (XL1) and water intrusion can cause BPCM to go bad along with the MGU to go bad. they first appeared on or around December 2025, most likely way before that but just never noticed it. check engine light came on and showed a code for the BPCM going bad and then I had the CHMSL replaced 3 times under warranty & then the 4th visit they did they urethane warranty superseded the XL1 and even after that fix, there water leak still occurred and dealership wouldn't fix it they stated Stellantis denied the back glass replacement and further repairs because im out of warranty but the warranty expires 8 Years/150,000 miles and my vehicle is only 6 years old and sitting at 118,350 miles. but the entire problem with water intrusion most likely started anywhere from 60-70,000 miles ago. even when I purchased the vehicle at 39,801 miles I noticed the water stains on the headliner but was advised the CHMSL caused that so it was fixed so technically the CHMSL was replaced roughly 4 times along with the original making it a total of 5 CHSML. so my issue is that its highly possible that the water intrusion that was never fixed for thousands of miles and many months leaked into the rear seats near the 48V Battery pack and eventually started shorting and lead to the MGU going bad. so this all could've been avoided if dealership fixed the water leak many many visits ago. along with the MGU could've been replaced under the major emissions comp warranty way. before that ever expired when it showed signs of premature wear like DTC codes popping up at 100,000 miles and even many more visits prior to December.

NHTSA ID

11755103

Incident

Jul 26, 2026

I PCSd from Springfield, MO to Fort Bliss Texas. I bought the truck [XXX]. I make it to TX. Driving the first Saturday in TX on [XXX] it just shuts down and put me in a very scary situation. I was stuck in the middle of the high way. It does not drive. The Etorque/generator is bad and is now on order from my local Dodge dealership. It literally shut down my truck and will not start, run, nothing. It’s been in the shop for 40 days with a no ETA on the part ordered. This should definitely be a safety recall as it just stalled me on the highway. INFORMATION REDACTED PURSUANT TO THE FREEDOM OF INFORMATION ACT (FOIA), 5 U.S.C. 552(B)(6)

NHTSA ID

11746568

Incident

May 16, 2026

At 60mph the vehie suddenly did a 180 and went backwards down the road. Fortunately it was a straight stretch and no oncoming traffic. Rear axle sized up, drive shaft shrown, and rear shaft froze resulting in equivalent of rear brakes onky thus the 180. Rear axle lost all lubrication and this is very similar to existing safety recall on other Ram models but not this one.

NHTSA ID

11744184

Incident

Dec 31, 2025

While coming to a stop at an intersection, vehicle engine stalled and transmission automatically slammed itself into park, with no warning, nearly causing a collision. This issue has previously been recalled for other Ram Trucks - some were not appropriately recalled and pose a major safety risk.

NHTSA ID

11738937

Incident

May 20, 2026

Vehicle Info •2020 Ram 1500 •Approximately 70,000 miles •eTorque system ________________________________________ Complaint: I am reporting a failure of the eTorque system in my 2020 Ram 1500 that has rendered the vehicle inoperable for an extended period of time. The vehicle experienced an eTorque system failure and has been out of service since December 23, 2025. The vehicle is covered under the 100,000-mile powertrain warranty. After a prolonged delay in obtaining replacement parts, a replacement component was installed; however, the replacement part was defective, leaving the vehicle in the same inoperable condition and restarting the repair process. As a result, the vehicle has been out of service for over three months. The failure of a drivetrain-related system, combined with the installation of a defective replacement part, raises concerns regarding reliability and potential safety risks. A sudden loss of system function while the vehicle is in operation could present a safety hazard. The extended delay in repair, along with the defective replacement component, raises concern that this may not be an isolated incident but could indicate a broader component or system reliability issue. I am submitting this complaint to ensure this issue is documented and evaluated for potential wider impact.

NHTSA ID

11727055

Incident

Dec 23, 2025

I am reporting a suspected safety defect involving the Motor Generator Unit (MGU) used in the eTorque system on my Ram 1500. The vehicle experienced an MGU failure that resulted in abnormal electrical behavior, warning messages, and impaired drivability. The vehicle was inspected by an authorized Ram dealership, which confirmed the MGU has failed and requires replacement. The MGU is currently on national backorder with no estimated availability date. As a result, the vehicle is inoperable or unsafe to operate and cannot be repaired in a reasonable timeframe. Why this is a safety concern: The MGU is critical to the vehicle’s starting, charging, and powertrain functions. Failure of this component presents safety risks including loss of propulsion, potential stalling or failure to restart, electrical system instability, and vehicle immobilization in traffic or unsafe locations. The extended inability to obtain replacement MGUs significantly increases these risks. Additional information: Based on dealer communications and publicly available owner reports, similar MGU failures and extended backorders appear to affect multiple Ram 1500 eTorque vehicles, indicating this may not be an isolated incident. Dealer/manufacturer actions: The dealer confirmed the failure and ordered the replacement MGU. No repair timeline or permanent remedy has been provided. Request: I am requesting that NHTSA review this issue to determine whether MGU failures in Ram 1500 eTorque vehicles constitute a safety-related defect requiring investigation and potential recall action.

NHTSA ID

11713784

Incident

Jan 6, 2026

The rear driver-side wheel detached from the axle, resulting in an immediate loss of vehicle control. As a result, the truck left the roadway. The detached wheel landedapproximately 150 feet behind the vehicle, on the opposite side of the road from where the truck ultimately stopped. Insurance has not yet completed its inspection of the vehicle; however, the crack and damage to the wheel were observed at the scene by a volunteer firefighter, the responding officer, and the tow truck operator. Additionally, an independent witness reported that the truck appeared to abruptly lift off the roadway, as though something suddenly caused it to “go flying.” Due to the sudden nature of the incident, no warning lights illuminated prior to the loss of control. All airbags deployed during the incident. The tailgate was dislodged, and the driver’s side of the truck sustained severe damage, including significant damage to the axle. The vehicle is not operable. While insurance has indicated the truck will likely be deemed a total loss, the claim has not yet been finalized. Video documentation is available showing the location of the detached wheel relative to the truck’s final resting position.

NHTSA ID

11713389

Incident

Jan 22, 2026

I had just started my vehicle and drove about 3 blocks and was running 40 miles per hour when the truck sounded like it was revving up and it went into neutral and slowed down. I was able to pull to the side of the road and put the truck into park. I put it back into drive and drove back home. It was scary because I had small children with me and it happened at an intersection.

NHTSA ID

11712165

Incident

Jan 18, 2026

To Whom It May Concern, I am submitting this email to document a vehicle safety issue involving my 2020 Ram 1500 (5.7L eTorque). In November 2025, the vehicle experienced a failure of the eTorque motorized alternator / belt starter generator system, resulting in a loss of the electrical and charging system. As a result, the vehicle became non-drivable. The vehicle was delivered to an authorized Ram dealership on November 18, 2025, and has remained there continuously. The manufacturer (MOPAR / Stellantis) has confirmed the failure is warranty-covered, but has advised that the required part is on indefinite backorder with no firm ETA. As of the date of this email, the vehicle has been out of service for over 60 days and cannot be safely operated. This issue appears to be widely reported nationwide (I was told by Landers Dodge in Norman, OK that the part is on backorder, and that there are currently 4,678 on Back Order. They also said that they’ve had a RAM there since last Oct. 2025 (this was on 12/12/2025 at 12pm) among vehicles equipped with the eTorque system, indicating a potential systemic defect affecting vehicle operability and safety. I am submitting this email in addition to my formal NHTSA complaint to ensure the issue is fully documented. Thank you for your attention. Sincerely, [XXX] 2020 Ram 1500 VIN: [XXX] Mileage: 79K INFORMATION REDACTED PURSUANT TO THE FREEDOM OF INFORMATION ACT (FOIA), 5 U.S.C. 552(B)(6)

NHTSA ID

11711141

Incident

Nov 18, 2025

My 2020 Ram 1500 exhaust manifold leak often causes a loud ticking noise, especially on startup, due to broken bolts or a cracked manifold.

NHTSA ID

11706238

Incident

Sep 25, 2024

The mgu/generator went out and left me stranded due to battery failure. I had no steering or power brakes. Everything electrical failed. Have been waiting for new mgu for 2 months.

NHTSA ID

11694889

Incident

Sep 5, 2025

The contact owns a 2020 Ram 1500. The contact stated that while driving at an undisclosed speed, the vehicle failed to accelerate as intended while depressing the accelerator pedal. No warning lights were illuminated. In addition, the contact stated that there was an abnormal sound coming from the engine. The contact was unable to pull over to the side of the road. While the vehicle was still on the road, the contact shifted to park(P) and then back to drive(D), and the vehicle returned to normal functionality. However, the contact stated that the failure had occurred six times. The contact stated that on a separate occasion, while driving at an undisclosed speed, there was an abnormal sound coming from the engine. In addition, the contact stated that while driving at an undisclosed speed, the gear knob independently shifted gears. The contact stated that the gear knob was in drive(D) and then independently shifted to park(P). It was unknown if any warning lights were illuminated. The vehicle was not diagnosed or repaired by an independent mechanic or the dealer. Most recently, after reversing out of the driveway and then driving forward, the front passenger’s side mirror independently moved inwards. The failure obstructed the driver's visibility and prevented the driver from safely operating the vehicle. The contact pulled over to the side of the road and manually pulled the front passenger’s side mirror outward. The manufacturer was not made aware of the failure. The failure mileage was approximately 62,000.

NHTSA ID

11693559

Incident

May 15, 2025

Mileage

62,000 mi

Automatikgetriebe Schalthebel auf " P " verriegelt. Schalthebel kann man nicht aus der Parkposition lösen. Seit 16,08,2025 steht Auto in der Werkstatt.

NHTSA ID

11688795

Incident

Sep 15, 2025

My 2020 Ram 1500 etorque had a major breakdown. My husband was driving down the highway in a construction zone when he lost power steering, power brakes and then the vehicle totally shut down. He had to steer it to the side of the highway, barely making it. We had the vehicle towed to the dealership who ran diagnostics on it and told us the Mechanical Generator Unit (MGU) needed to be replaced. The major issue: the MGU could not be found anywhere in the US. They wasn't able to order / backorder from anywhere. They said it could take months or longer to get the part. We couldn't go indefinitely without our truck so the dealer recommended we trade it in. That was our only option so that was what we were forced to do. We did not want another vehicle!! Ours was paid off.

NHTSA ID

11688543

Incident

Sep 6, 2025

RAM has a bad design on MGU's, new ones and old ones are failing, whining, causing engine spudder and no movement at times. Can't purchase one because RAM has them on "Engineering HOLD". Therefore they no they have an issue, not offer a replacement. I have been advised if they become available I'm looking at $2,000 for an alternator. That is insane.

NHTSA ID

11680840

Incident

Jun 3, 2025

I am writing to report a serious and dangerous issue with my 2020 Ram 1500. The vehicle has been randomly shutting off while I am driving, often accompanied by a strange acceleration or revving sound just before the engine dies. This has occurred multiple times without warning, creating an extremely unsafe driving situation. The issue happens at random and cannot be easily reproduced on demand, which I understand may make it difficult to diagnose. However, it is important to emphasize that this is a major safety risk that could easily result in a crash or injury.

NHTSA ID

11673990

Incident

Jun 3, 2025

Have a whirring, whining noise and at my Feb 2025 service, was told it was the e-torque assembly bearing and it was loose. Part is on back order for months since this is a common issue and will cost over $1400 for part alone. Was told not covered under warranty but believe that the dealership is wrong BUT am reading it was recalled in the 2021 RAM 1500 but I am having same issue with my 2020 and I am reading I am not alone.

NHTSA ID

11657087

Incident

Feb 20, 2025

The motor generator has effected the ess (engine start stop) system and at a stop it does not restart the vehicle when you let off the brake. It startes and then jumps forward creating a safety hazard if there is a vehicle in front of you or a pedestrian in the crosswalk. This is a concern that seems to happen with this system frequently through web searches that I have seen. My truck is at a dealer now to diagnose the problem with the system.

NHTSA ID

11653509

Incident

Apr 3, 2025

This is the second time this has happened (03APR25). The first time this occurred, 20JUL25, I had to pay (Bill attached) to have the ABS Module replaced. Today several service lights came on not limited to: Service 4wd, 4wd Trans Case overheat, stabilization system, and the traction control light came on along with the 4wd High light and both the 4wd High and 4wd Low indicator lights were all flashing. When parked the emergency parking brake was automatically set. (break) I have all the documentation from the first occurrence and an additional recall notice (Attached) of which states contact the dealer, whom said that it was not their responsibility. Then I contacted Stellantis recall office, and they said they would get back with me and never have and today most all the sensor faults flashed on the display. The truck locked in 4 high up until I parked it.

NHTSA ID

11652458

Incident

Apr 3, 2025

The contact owns a 2020 Ram 1500. The contact stated while driving at approximately 60 MPH, the check engine warning light and power train warning lights illuminated. The contact stated that the vehicle was losing motive power. The contact depressed the accelerator pedal; however, the vehicle failed to respond as needed. The contact stated that the steering wheel was difficult to turn to the left or right, and while pulling off the roadway the vehicle stalled. The contact was unable to restart the vehicle. The contact stated that there were several unknown warning lights illuminated while attempting to restart the vehicle. The contact had the vehicle towed to a dealer. The dealer diagnosed the vehicle and determined that the E-Torque Alternator had failed and needed to be replaced; however, the part to repair the vehicle was on a national backorder. The vehicle was not repaired. The manufacturer was informed of the failure. The failure mileage was 74,553.

NHTSA ID

11648173

Incident

Mar 11, 2023

Mileage

74,553 mi

The contact owns a 2020 Ram 1500. The contact stated while driving with the cruise control feature enabled at 70 MPH, the contact noticed a loud banging sound. The contact noticed in the rearview mirror that large parts were flying from underneath the rear of the vehicle. The contact drove the vehicle to the shoulder of the road. The contact stated that the vehicle independently rolled backward. The contact activated the parking brake to stop the vehicle. The vehicle was towed to the dealer where it was diagnosed with a failed drive shaft and damaged rear end. The contact was informed that the driveshaft and the rear of the vehicle needed to be replaced. The vehicle was not repaired. The manufacturer was made aware of the failure and a case was filed. The failure mileage was approximately 62,400.

NHTSA ID

11647499

Incident

Mar 3, 2025

Mileage

62,400 mi

My 2020 Ram 1500 5.7L e-Torque started making a noise. I then received a "Battery" indicator Light, then received an "Engine" indicator light. I was losing voltage on my battery. The truck is now at the Dealership. The alternator has failed (87k miles). No one has the part. It's been on back order since November 2024. Online research indicates that over 3000 are on back order. I can't even place an order with Mopar (Genuine Ram Parts Supplier). I'm also told that the repair will be $2300 - seems like a lot for an alternator that you can't get that can be replace in about an hour.

NHTSA ID

11647291

Incident

Mar 3, 2025

The contact owns a 2020 Ram 1500. The contact stated while driving on the highway at 15 MPH, the vehicle experienced a loss of automotive power and the transmission unexpectedly downshifted from 4th to 1st gear. The contact stated that the "Shift to Park, and then Start" message was displayed. No warning lights were illuminated. The contact stated that the vehicle shut off and coasted to a stop. The contact parked the vehicle on the side of the highway to restart the vehicle and continued driving. The local dealer was not contacted. The vehicle was not repaired. The manufacturer was not notified of the failure. The approximate failure mileage was 140,000.

NHTSA ID

11644563

Incident

Jan 31, 2024

Mileage

140,000 mi

When slowing down for a stop the transmission will shift into neutral and a warning will pop up on display “shift to park then desired gear” this is happing on my 2020 ram and my sons 2019 ram but the dealer says there is no fix. I checked online and it looks like it’s happening a lot.

NHTSA ID

11640550

Incident

Feb 3, 2025

As with previous recall issued 66A for 1500 trucks from 2014-2019, my vehicle is with the dealer for the same known issue for the 2020 model 3.0 ecodiesel for repair of the tone wheel and crankshaft sensor failure. Tone wheel and crankshaft sensor failed while on highway presenting same know safety risk as previous truck models.

NHTSA ID

11637749

Incident

Jan 17, 2025