Owner-reported complaints naming the electrical system, filed with NHTSA
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Reports naming the electrical system — wiring, battery, charging, control modules, infotainment and electrical accessories. Every record below is an owner-reported complaint about the 2021 RAM 1500 submitted to NHTSA — not a confirmed defect, not a recall and not a manufacturer bulletin. 193 reports on file name it.
Complaints are reports submitted by owners and drivers to NHTSA. They are not verified and do not establish that a defect exists.
The 25 most recent of 193, in the owner's own words
REAR WINDOW FRAME CRACKED AT BOTH CORNERS- WATER LEAKS INSIDE OF VEHICLE DURING RAIN. THIS CAN AFFECT ELECTRICAL COMPONENTS THAT ARE AT THE REAR CAB INSIDE THE TRUCK. I NOTICED THIS A MONTH AGO BUT DONT KNOW HOW LONG IT HAS BEEN THERE.
Engine ticking and trunk lock latch not opening
RTSCM FAILED TO BE REPAIRED resulting in life long issue. Recall Y80 from December 2021 was performed and then erased from my vin history. 14a associated with same failing part was completed and issue never went away.
Recently this vehicle has triggered a check engine light. Upon further examination the code was related to an ignition #3. (CODES: P020C, PO1DO).
In January I experienced a “backlite leak” that allowed water to enter the cab of my vehicle. As a direct result of this water intrusion, my RFH (Radio Frequency Hub) module failed due to electrical shorting caused by moisture exposure. This failure was sudden and completely outside of my control and was not the result of misuse, neglect, or normal wear and tear. Not to mention the risk it put my family in as I was driving with my wife and daughter when the module failed and caused total power failure. I was driving down the road with my family in the vehicle when without any warning the truck completely shut down and didn’t have any power. I brought it to the dealership I bought it from and they stated they fixed the leak and replaced the RFH. Fast forward to this past week, there was another leak in the rear window. The dealership then stated it was a faulty back window unit that needs to be completely replaced. Stellantis (formerly FCA) previously acknowledged this defect through extended warranty coverage. However, my vehicle’s model year was later excluded despite being affected by the same known issue. This exclusion is particularly concerning given that the defect ultimately caused collateral electrical damage beyond the window itself. Given the documented nature of this issue, its prior recognition under extended warranty, and the risk of safety it put my family in I wanted to document this issue
2021 Ram 1500, rear window leaked after it rained. (Common problem with these trucks, even a class action law suit because of this issue). Leak was bad enough to cause severe electrical damage, truck will not start. There is an extended warranty related to this issue BUT according to Ram my truck does not qualify…..
Made several stops and on the last one when I went to start the vehicle it wouldn't start. Used jump pack and it started. Had a non-flashing check engine light and a service ESC light. Decided to drive across town to auto store and have them check battery and replace if bad, When I pulled into the auto store parking lot the truck died and wheels locked up. (Very sudden stop) All four gear selector lights (PRND) were lit. Thought to myself "I'm glad this didn't happen on the roadway." Turns out the battery was indeed bad, and a new battery got me running again.
[XXX] Fire occurred while driving [XXX] my Ram 2021 and it was like a mini blast with a lot of sparks as I saw in a rear-view mirror. Everything went out on the dashboard and the car stopped at the Top of Wolf Creek Pass [XXX] . I got out of the car and saw a small fire burning under the car. The fire under the car went out on its own. The very shape of the hole (perfectly round) in my muffler indicates an explosion that occurred simultaneously. Also, the fused edges of the round hole indicate a high temperature during this explosion and fire. I disagree that this fair damage [XXX] my Ram 2021 3.0 ecodiesel [XXX] is considered from Progressive insurance as simple "wear and tear." estimate only $1669,78. Garber Collision Pontiac repaired the Ram 2021 by 04.24.2026 and replaced the damaged wiring harness ($1161 self-pay) as required by Progressive. After this repair, the Ram 2021 was unable to move and was delivered to the Tucson Ram dealer on 05/04/2026. The dealer did not indicate the root cause of the damage in the estimate. The car was also returned to me by the dealer. When I asked the dealer on 05.12.2026 to indicate the root cause of the damage, the dealer replied that he was not aware of such a similar damage and indicated that the warranty on the car has expired and there are no open recalls. But The dealer's initial assessment from 05.13.2026 (estimates $9325.25) indicates the fire was caused by a failure of the Exhaust Gas Recirculation (EGR) cooler, which is a known issue (similar to recall VB1/19V-757) where the cooler cracks, leaks coolant, and causes a fire in the intake manifold. This is a component failure resulting in an explosion/fire, not typical wear. I need a diagnostic report that specifically mentions the EGR cooler failure as the source of the fire. I give my full consent for Ram Manufacturing to send an independent inspector to me for Ram 2021 3.0 Ecodisel INFORMATION REDACTED PURSUANT TO THE FREEDOM OF INFORMATION ACT (FOIA), 5 U.S.C. 552(B)(6)
I was driving at freeway speeds when the vehicle lost engine power and all the electronics in the vehicle stopped functioning. I was able to safely get the side of the road and stop the vehicle. Had vehicle towed to dealership. Tech inspected remote frequency hub (RFH) and observed corrosion on the circuit board. It looked as if water intrusion had occurred inside the vehicle, entered the RFH, causing corrosion and circuit failure. Believe intrusion occurred in the third brake light at the top of the cab. I am reporting this matter because a failure in the RFH caused the vehicle to stop functioning. I was lucky to be traveling on a straight, wide road and could safely get to a stop. I don't believe this would have been the case if I was on a curve or narrow road.
I was only allowed 3 components to choose from, but I want to make certain that Im including the these additional components that has been failing:Forward Collision Warning, Engine,Fuel/Propulsion System,Engine,Lane assistance/ Departure, and Lighting. There could be more to include but heres the dangerous issue I encounter everyday I utilize my vehicle,that has yet to be fixed nor addressed appropriately when I articulate EXACTLY what I feel,& see occur.My safety & everyone esle has been put at risk everyday which caused my 1st accident which I predicted was potentially likely since May 1,2025. It occurs exactly the same everytime just like the 1st terrifying experience: Id be stopped at a red light,intersection waiting for green light. With foot on brake between 5 to 10 seconds later I can feel the brake disenaging with my foot fully and physically on the brake simultaneously my vehicle screens will light up indicators erractically,(ghost touch,touch screen digitizer failure), while LUNGING FORWARD 5-7 ft on it OWNS,simultaneously screen blackout,& vehicle screen system reset followed by vehicle putting itself in emergency brake.This puts everyone around at RISKS AS MY VEHICLE OPERATES ON ITS OWN, which caused an accident at a red light where my truck plowed into the vehicle in front of me.Ive waited for an independent service contractor to evalute on 4 different occasions which they failed to appear or make contact on THEIR desired scheduled dates.The dealership has failed to reproduce due to unsatisfactory failed service repair attempts, discrepancies in verbal & documention.Absolute lack of concern for my safety or interest in issue, as at least 2 comeback services were met with breach of contract by dealer.The DEALERSHIP has been the only ones servicing my vehicle & according to their top tier diagnosis components successfully checked out in contrast to my many reoccurring service request for same issue.Prior to failure no warning lamps or messages appeared.
July 2021 bought ram 1500 limited. $75k September 2021 3k miles took to dealer with REVERSE TRAILER STEERING UNAVAILABLE MESSAGES AND BACK UP CAMERA issues. Not fixed. Issues still happening. DEC 2021 ram 1500 recall y80 issued. RTSCM NEEDS updated. April 2022 dealer visit 11k miles recall y80 addressed and repaired. Issues continued. Several undocumented stop by dealer visits by request to look at while happening. Software updated each time. April 2023 purchasing dealer visit agin 26k miles. Up to this date vehicle was a lease. I bought the lease out with hopes to repair the issue. That dealer updated and also removed my dash to inspect the module. At this point as well 2 cases had been opened with ram themselves and I was wrote off as it will be fixed eventually. After that the issues never went away to this day but I was at a loss. A lemon law attorney told me that I didn’t have enough proof of the issue and i will share all my proof here with you guys. 2 month ago it froze the screen and accelerated on its own almost hitting a women and child pedestrian. I have had enough. I have worked hard for that money spent in the truck and cannot get the safety recall resolved. Now that the dash has been removed there are lights that shine in my eyes at night through the crease in the dash. All evidence cannot attach to this form because they are videos but I have over 65 showing proof and repair attempts
The contact owns a 2021 Ram 1500. The contact stated that while driving at an undisclosed speed, the check air bag warning light illuminated. The contact stated that the vehicle had a history of wiring failures and that the air bag wiring harness had been replaced three times; however, the failure persisted. The vehicle was taken to a dealer, where it was diagnosed with electrical wiring failure, and the wires were zip-tied in place. The vehicle was repaired, but the failure persisted. The manufacturer was not notified of the failure. The failure mileage was 70,000.
The contact owns a 2021 Ram 1500. The contact stated that while driving at an undisclosed speed, the contact noticed an unusual popping sound. The low battery and check engine warning lights were illuminated. In addition, the battery lost power. The vehicle was driven to the shoulder of the road, and the vehicle was turned off. The contact stated that while attempting to restart the vehicle, the vehicle failed to restart. The vehicle was towed to the residence. The vehicle was not diagnosed or repaired by an independent mechanic or the dealer. The dealer was made aware of the failure. The contact was informed that the failure was a known failure with the vehicle. The manufacturer was made aware of the failure, and a case was filed. The failure mileage was approximately 78,900.
Electrical system shutdown including loss of all safety features (blind spot, emergency braking, abs, traction control, towing), climate control options (AC, Heat, window operations) and user interfaces (U-Connect screen, center gauge cluster). Initial warnings (2) on center cluster on listed- 1. Blind Spot Detection Disabled 2. 115 Volt Cargo Power Outlet On All electronics, controls were then disabled- black screens, inoperable controls. Passenger rear windows, sliding back glass, panoramic sunroof and drivers side mirror are the only working electronics other than speedometer. Upon inspection of all fuses, relays, battery, alternator, and checking all accessible wiring related to blind spot and auxiliary power and finding no defective issues, web searches were performed. Based on numerous other RAM owners on multiple forums on RAM trucks 2020 and newer with blind spot avoidance, we found a likely culprit in the driver's side brake light. Upon inspection of the left rear brake light assembly, a small hairline crack was located with signs of internal moisture/ condensation. After observing the internal moisture the drivers side rear brake housing was removed and disconnected for closer inspection and potential repair. While the driver side brake light assembly was removed, an instance occurred when my wife needed the vehicle. Upon and during the entirety of operation over the next 1.5 hrs driving approximately 63 miles, all electrical options worked as intended minus the blind spot avoidance and a new warning on brake lamps (obvious as tail light had been removed). During this time, the proximity sensor housing was removed from the assembly, water accumulation dried, and allowed to remain open next to a dehumidifier for 4 hours. Epoxy was applied over the hairline Crack, and any area that looked as if could be affected. Unit was reinstalled, however all electronic failure returned. Unit removed again to attempt humidity removal- all electronics res
Our alternator is bad in a 2021 Ram. There are 10,000 on back order and up to a 9 -12 month wait list. There is obviously something wrong with this brand and should be recalled.
The rear running lights go out due to a short in the wire harness from the computer module to the tail lights. The short causes the lights to either flicker or go totally out.
I am submitting this complaint to report a significant and unusual mechanical failure involving my 2021 Ram truck. The vehicle experienced a failure of the heater core assembly, which resulted in engine coolant leaking directly into the passenger compartment. This failure caused coolant odor and fluid intrusion inside the cabin and required extensive disassembly of the dashboard and HVAC system to repair. The total cost of repairs exceeded $5,300, which I believe is disproportionate and unexpected for a vehicle of this age and mileage. Two separate repair visits were required as it was found after the heater core was replaced the actuator on the driver’s side was damaged by the ongoing leak and required repair. The vehicle has been properly maintained and serviced according to manufacturer recommendations. While this incident did not result in an immediate crash or injury, the nature of the failure raises safety and health concerns, including: •Driver distraction due to coolant fumes and loss of defrost capability •Exposure of occupants to engine coolant within the enclosed passenger compartment •Sudden loss of cabin heating and windshield defogging capability in cold weather Given the age of the vehicle and the severity of the failure, this does not appear to be normal wear and tear. I am concerned that this may represent a design, material, or manufacturing defect that could affect other vehicles of the same model year. The odor was present for many months prior to the failure; however, the local dealership could not examine the issue at the time of a prior oil change due to lack of time on that visit. I am submitting this report to document the issue, assist in identifying potential patterns, and ensure appropriate review by the manufacturer and regulatory authorities. Repair invoices and supporting documentation are included.
Every time my truck sits for more than 3 days even in the summer the battery dies. I have to jump this truck more than I jumped anything in life. It has less than 30000 miles on it and I’ve had nothing but trouble with the battery staying charged and the air bag system being jimmied to keep the sensor from not going of by the dealer.
Alt/Gen failure stopped the truck in the middle of an intersection No transmission power steering lights. Had to walk back home to charge the battery in a driving rain storm leaving the truck in the intersection.
I bought this truck used from a dealer in 2022. From the start the resting voltage of the car was a problem getting 12.7v and when I was driving it would often only get up to 13.4v. I took it to the dealer and they replaced it completely in 2023. It still shows low resting voltage and driving voltage. I told them and they said it was fine and not to worry. Now for the past 6 months it has been making a whirring sound that gets louder as I accelerate. I took it back to them and they said they didn't hear anything wrong, which is an outright lie. It still hasn't gotten better so I took it to a different mechanic and they said its a bad alternator and that they are very expensive and on back order. I tried setting up an appointment with the dealer to look at it again and they said I am now out of warranty and will charge me a diagnostic fee and if it is the alternator it again isn't covered by the warranty. I have been searching online and this is something thousands of other customers have been experiencing and there is a class action lawsuit about this as well. I am kindly asking that you look into this and if appropriate issue a recall for this. I shouldn't have to pay thousands of dollars to fix an alternator for a truck that only has 60k miles on it. My truck is only worth $29k so having to pay for a repair that is about 7% of my vehicle value is ridiculous.
The contact owns a 2021 Ram 1500. The contact received notification of NHTSA Campaign Number: 24V653000 (Service Brakes, Hydraulic, Electronic Stability Control (ESC); however, the part to do the recall repair was unavailable. The local dealer was contacted, and it was confirmed that the part was not available. The contact stated that the manufacturer had exceeded a reasonable amount of time for the recall repair. The manufacturer was made aware of the issue. The contact stated that while driving at an undisclosed speed, the message "Battery Low Voltage" was displayed and the vehicle experienced loss of power steering functionality and decelerated. The vehicle was taken to the local dealer, where it was diagnosed and determined that the failure was related to the recall. Additionally, the contact was informed that the E-Torque generator also needed to be replaced but the part was on backorder. The vehicle was not repaired. The manufacturer was notified of the failures. The failure mileage was 110,000.
All warning lights on dash came on including battery. Freedom Dodge assessed it on 11-10-2025 and said the vehicle generator has an internal short and is discharging the battery. If being operated could cause the vehicle to die while in motion. I am making $700 per month payments and Freedom indicated over 6000 of these units are on back order and cannot give me a date for replacement only saying "months"
Body Control Module failure. 2021 Ram 1500 Tradesman with 3.6L engine My first symptom was a message that appeared on the dash gauge cluster that said something like "problem with shift positioner". That message came up then went away. Next symptom was dash lights flashing for no reason. This was a few days after the other. These lights would flash one time for just a fraction of a second, and only when I hit a bump on the road. I thought that I had a loose wire so I checked wiring for loose connection but did not find any. I had no other problems for several days. Then I was on a trip far from home and that is when things got really bad. All of the gauges on my instrument cluster were going up and down for no reason. The windshield wipers came on by themselves. The dash lights started flashing, like before but this time that were on and off for longer periods of time and not caused by bumps on the road. The vehicle lost power while I was driving and I was forced to pull to the side of the road. The engine had died. I was not able to restart right away. While I was sitting there trying to figure out my next move (because I was in the middle of nowhere), the lights on the dash were still flashing even after I had turned the key off. I know that sometimes trouble codes can be cleared by disconnecting the battery, so that is what I did. After I put the battery cables back on, the controls seamed normal again. I was able to start the engine and drive into town. I went straight to an automotive repair shop that I had found by Google search. They put their code reader on and said that I had 59 fault codes. They had never seen that many on any vehicle before. They checked my battery to make sure it was fully charged. It was. They checked a few other things, but diagnosed the problem to a bad Body Control Module. After this incident, I did some research and found that this seems to be a come problem with the Ram Pickups. This should be a recall item.
My etorque motor starting making a really loud noise. So I took it in to have it looked. Technician said the etorque motor was going. Ordered a new one but said it was on back order. My truck then died and the part still does not have a ship date.
eTorque MGU hybrid motor going out with unexpected loss of power and stopping. Upon failure vehicle lost power and became inoperable. Both independent service center and dealer service center confirmed the eTorque MGU hybrid motor is failing. Upon further research thousands of these MGU hybrid motors are failing unexpectedly. No remedy in sight and manufacturer indicates no eta on availability of parts to fix.
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.
Categories with enough reports to have a page of their own
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