RoadVitals

2016 RAM 2500 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.
256
+2 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.
17
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.
18
Reports on file since Oct 22, 2015

What this page shows

Our database holds 256 NHTSA owner-reported complaints for the 2016 RAM 2500. 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 256 · page 1 of 11

Steering
Filed Aug 1, 2026

the V06 Recall on this vehicle that for some reason was approved is an inadequate repair. The steering wheel is not adjustable with the "Weld Fix". Stellantis should have to replace the defective parts. My truck is not not able to be aligned 100%. The repair was done in 2019, and I have complained about this in the past once I realized what they did to "FIX" the issue for the recall. They have been no help and said that because it was and approved repair even though this should never of been a long term solution.. according to them I'm SOL and the dealership can align it but other shops are saying that you can't truly align the car and steering with that fix in place. I would hope that you put pressure on them to make this right.

NHTSA ID
11754201
Incident
Aug 1, 2026
SteeringSuspension
Filed Jul 20, 2026

This complaint is against HENDRICK CHRYSLER DODGE JEEP RAM IN HOOVER ALABAMA misaligned solid-axle geometry and compromised tire casings triggered a violent, uncontrollable oscillation through the steering system, rendering the truck an immediate highway safety hazard. The vehicle was so dangerous to operate that it could not be driven home and remains stranded at a secondary residential location. IV. EXPEDITION OF COMPLAINT: DEALERSHIP BAD-FAITH REFUSAL Following the failure, a corporate case file was officially opened with Ram Corporate Customer Care. Upon notification of the corporate escalation, the owner/general management of Hendrick Chrysler Dodge Jeep Ram in Hoover, AL placed a direct phone call to the consumer. During this conversation, the dealership owner explicitly and aggressively stated that the dealership would do anything they had to do to get out of fixing the mistakes made on the drag link, directly refusing to authorize a safe flatbed tow, refusing to replace the ruined, improperly welded linkage, and refusing to assume liability for the three structurally destroyed tires. REQUESTED REMEDIAL ACTIONS The complainant requests that the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA), the Federal Trade Commission, and the Alabama Attorney General's Consumer Protection Division launch an immediate investigation into Hendrick Chrysler Dodge Jeep Ram for faulty execution of federal safety mandates, reckless endangerment of motorists, and bad-faith commercial practices. The dealership must be held legally and financially accountable for: The immediate cost of a flatbed tow from the vehicle's stranded location to a certified repair facility. The complete removal of the ruined, welded steering components and the installation of Ram’s updated, factory-authorized non-welded, clamp-style drag link assembly. The complete financial reimbursement or replacement of three (3) structural tires destroyed as a direct consequence of the failed recall execution.

NHTSA ID
11751693
Incident
Apr 28, 2026
Electrical
Filed Jul 14, 2026

To Whom It May Concern, I am requesting a no-cost replacement of the factory Uconnect 8.4 radio in my truck (VIN: [XXX]) due to daily safety-related failures that significantly affect the safe operation of my vehicle. Every day, the radio experiences a startup delay where the screen remains black and many center stack functions are unavailable. This delay often lasts 5–10 minutes before the system becomes operational. During normal driving, the radio also displays repeated “Vehicle Phone Requires Service” error messages, creating a constant distraction that takes my attention away from the road. When these issues occur, the factory backup camera is unavailable. Losing the backup camera eliminates an important safety feature intended to help prevent collisions with pedestrians, children, vehicles, and objects while reversing. Additionally, the factory navigation and GPS no longer function at all. These are not minor convenience issues—they are daily safety concerns. Safety-related features should work immediately every time the vehicle is started. A factory infotainment system that fails every day, disables the backup camera during startup, and repeatedly distracts the driver while the vehicle is in motion presents an unacceptable safety risk. Because these failures occur daily and involve factory-installed safety equipment, I believe Stellantis should replace the defective Uconnect radio at no cost. I respectfully request that this complaint be documented and that a no-cost replacement be authorized. Thank you for your prompt attention to this matter. [XXX] VIN: [XXX] INFORMATION REDACTED PURSUANT TO THE FREEDOM OF INFORMATION ACT (FOIA), 5 U.S.C. 552(B)(6)

NHTSA ID
11750226
Incident
Jan 1, 2025
Steering
Filed May 26, 2026

The contact owns a 2016 RAM 2500. The contact stated while driving at an undisclosed speed, the steering wheel failed to steer in the intended direction. In addition, the contact stated that the steering wheel independently steered the vehicle to the right. The vehicle was taken to the dealer, however the contact was informed that the alignment could not be completed because of an unrepaired recall repair. The contact received a recall notification, NHTSA Campaign Number: 19V021000 (Steering). The vehicle was taken to the dealer, however the contact was informed that the recall repair was completed in July 2019. The vehicle was not repaired. The manufacturer was made aware of the failure but provided no assistance. The contact was informed that the recall repair was covered under warranty for two years from the date of completion. The contact stated that the recall repair was not performed, but marked as completed by the dealer. The failure mileage was approximately 97,000.

NHTSA ID
11740029
Incident
Jun 18, 2025
Mileage
97,000 mi
BrakesElectrical
Filed May 2, 2026

Electronic brake controller faulty

NHTSA ID
11735322
Incident
Jun 11, 2024
EnginePowertrain (other)
Filed Apr 22, 2026

Grid heater nut/bolt detached and entered engine, causing catastrophic internal failure and total engine loss while driving.

NHTSA ID
11733046
Incident
Feb 5, 2026
Engine
Filed Feb 17, 2026

Adding to form 11717793

NHTSA ID
11718528
Incident
Feb 17, 2026
Powertrain (other)
Filed Feb 14, 2026

Got into my truck after letting it warm up and the shifter broke out of the handle. It’s a known problem cause the design is flawed by putting so much pressure on the part. So in the end it breaks and then you can’t get your vehicle out of park or whatever gear it broke in. I was charged 718.00 for it to get fixed when I think this should be a recall or tsb.

NHTSA ID
11718053
Incident
Feb 9, 2026
Engine
Filed Feb 13, 2026

The vgt actuator failed the truck only has 127000 miles on it ram extended the warranty for 2015 trucks but not 2016. The part to replace it from ram has almost doubled in a years time. It is now $2170. For this part whose internal computer components have failed. The files uploaded was just for the part. I can upload the repair cost when done. I am just trying to get everyone to see how corrupt these companies are becoming. They could have saved themselves some problems if they would just paid the $3000 to fix it this is a rough estimate.

NHTSA ID
11717792
Incident
Feb 9, 2026
Engine
Filed Feb 12, 2026

The contact owns a 2016 Ram 2500. The contact stated that while driving at various speeds, the check engine warning light illuminated, and the vehicle lost motive power and went into LIMP Mode. The contact stated that the failure was intermittent but also occurred while towing a 30-foot trailer or a 24-foot trailer. Occasionally, after pulling over, turning off, and restarting the vehicle, the vehicle returned to normal functionality. On other occasions, the vehicle was towed back to the residence after the failure. The vehicle was taken to an Auto Parts Store and diagnosed using a handheld scanner, and a fault code associated with the turbo actuator for the diesel engine was retrieved. The contact was informed that the engine needed to be replaced. The vehicle was not repaired. The contact called a local dealer and was notified of Technical Service Bulletin Number: 09-005-22; however, the vehicle was not included. The manufacturer was informed of the failure and referred the contact to the NHTSA Hotline for assistance. The failure mileage was approximately 113,000.

NHTSA ID
11717651
Incident
Jul 12, 2025
Mileage
113,000 mi
Brakes
Filed Feb 9, 2026

ITBM Integrated Trailer Brake Module not outputting correct breaking voltage to trailer.

NHTSA ID
11716646
Incident
Oct 5, 2025
Steering
Filed Jan 22, 2026

Drag link issue led to not being able to get an alignment, dealership and RAM support refused to fix it, as it was completed but they did not do it correctly the first time and it is dangerous

NHTSA ID
11712751
Incident
Dec 23, 2025
Steering
Filed Jan 12, 2026

The low pressure power steering hose is leaking and can't get part for it. Been having to invest in tons of power steering fluid and want to know if this is gonna be a recall. It is very frustrating that we can't get parts for the problem.

NHTSA ID
11710332
Incident
Jul 1, 2025
BrakesDriver assistanceElectrical
Filed Dec 30, 2025

ABS FAILURE, WHICH TURNS OFF TRACTION CONTROL AND CRUISE CONTROL. This is a known issue for the HCU to fail. How is this not a recall on 2016 but it is on 17 and 18. Same parts.... have replace front hubs with new ABS sensors and rear ABS sensors, still on. It has to be the HCU or the module.

NHTSA ID
11707920
Incident
Nov 1, 2025
Powertrain (other)
Filed Nov 10, 2025

Incident Report – Gear Shift Failure Date of Incident: 11/10/2025 Vehicle: 2016 Ram 2500 Pickup Truck VIN [XXX] Mileage: [Insert Mileage] Location: [Insert Location of Incident] Description of Incident While attempting to shift the vehicle from Park (P) into Drive (D), the shift lever suddenly went limp and lost all resistance. Upon applying slight additional pressure to engage the transmission, the shift lever snapped off completely. The gear shift bracket—the component securing the shift rod—fractured in half at the point where the shift rod inserts into the bracket. This mechanical failure rendered the vehicle inoperable and unable to be shifted out of Park. No warning lights or prior symptoms were observed before the failure. The broken part was visually inspected and confirmed to be the shifting lever bracket, consistent with Mopar part number 68470756AA. Immediate Actions Taken The vehicle was safely secured to prevent unintended movement. Engine was turned off and keys removed. Visual inspection confirmed that the shift lever bracket had broken at the rod insertion point. Tow service was arranged for transport to a repair facility. Photographs of the damaged bracket and shifter assembly were taken for documentation. Assessment This incident represents a critical component failure of the gear shift mechanism, resulting in sudden loss of control over transmission operation. The break occurred under normal shifting force, indicating a possible material or design defect in the bracket assembly. Recommended Actions File a warranty or recall inquiry with Ram/Stellantis regarding potential defects in part 68470756AA. Replace the damaged bracket with a verified OEM replacement. Inspect surrounding linkage and cable components for stress damage or misalignment. Retain the failed part for potential recall or manufacturer investigation. INFORMATION REDACTED PURSUANT TO THE FREEDOM OF INFORMATION ACT (FOIA), 5 U.S.C. 552(B)(6)

NHTSA ID
11698580
Incident
Nov 10, 2025
Powertrain (other)
Filed Oct 13, 2025

I previously had recall 17V-821 work completed. This recall was for The Brake Transmission Shift Interlock (BTSI) locking pin may become stuck in the open position. I have the same issue now and see that NHTSA is investigating failed recall fixes. I have taken this to the dealer and an independent shop and am now trying to figure out how to get this repaired.

NHTSA ID
11693040
Incident
Oct 13, 2025
Powertrain (other)
Filed Sep 29, 2025

The contact owns a 2016 Ram 1500. The contact stated that the shift solenoid change message was displayed. The vehicle was taken to the local dealer for a recall repair. Upon retrieving the vehicle, the vehicle failed to shift and had no power. The vehicle was diagnosed with a faulty shift solenoid. The replacement parts were on backorder. The local dealer later informed the contact that the transmission was faulty and needed to be replaced. The vehicle was not repaired. The manufacturer was contacted and filed a complaint. The manufacturer declined to cover the cost of the repair. The failure mileage was approximately 238,000.

NHTSA ID
11690345
Incident
Jul 30, 2025
Mileage
238,000 mi
Filed Sep 19, 2025

The grab handle or left interior a arm part broke and fell of in my lap while I was driving luckily it did not fall off when I entered the vehicle or I would have been flat on my back. I contacted Stelantis got the typical run around. Tried to order new part but part has been discontinued. Now I am driving with airbag not covered and exposed. The part number for my truck is 5RM911XAC you can check discontinued. I ask Stelantis to find part after I tried for months to no avail. Reply was sorry part discontinued. What broke was the plastic that holds two screws in. Hopefully no one gets hurt if others break. In my opinion it seems like a bad design to save money. The replacement part by the way is $313.00 for plastic with leather wrapped handle. I was willing to spend that but the attitude I got from Stelantis was very non caring after I spent $60,000 on a truck in 2016. I ordered this part in May of 2025 then in August they told me it was discontinued.

NHTSA ID
11688411
Incident
Apr 24, 2025
Powertrain (other)
Filed Jul 14, 2025

Transmission gear selector lever can be moved from park to reverse, neutral, and drive without having the brake pedal depressed. This is the way the transmission gear selector currently operates. This is not a one-time incident. I bought this vehicle recently and noticed this transmission gear selector lever issue about a month ago.

NHTSA ID
11673363
Incident
Jun 18, 2025
Engine
Filed May 29, 2025

Towing my trailer with my 2016 Ram 2500, at 48,000 miles I experienced complete turbo failure in heavy traffic at highway speeds. Power was reduced to minimums causing hazardous conditions. The "check engine" light illuminated. I maintained control and eventually had the codes scanned at both a local auto parts store and Larry Miller Dodge/Ram in Sandy, Utah. The codes identified were for the turbo actuator/turbo. Larry Miller said they could replace the actuator, but I'd be back in three weeks for the turbo replacement as well. They were three weeks out for labor. I contacted a local diesel repair shop who purchased the turbo and actuator from Larry Miller Dodge Ram and had it installed in a day. Subsequent to these repairs ($5,400.00) I have learned that MOPAR issued Warranty Bulletin D-22-06, dated March 16, 2022, for the same make and model as mine, only for the year 2015. My truck was built in 2015 and the parts and computer codes for failure are identical. This published warranty bulletin issued relief of a new extended warranty of 15 years /150,000 miles for the installed turbo actuator/turbo. Since mine failed at 48,000 miles, this could be a continuation of the aforementioned issue with the stated 2015 year failures. I was lucky I didn't create a traffic accident when this turbo system failed since it was sudden and violent when the loss of power occurred without warning. I'm asking you to probe or look at the facts that the issue with these Garrett turbos are still outstanding whether Doge/Ram/Fiat/Mopar wants to include them in their campaign. The danger is real. The costs to retired people, such as myself, is consequential and devastating. It is unfair there is no way of sending queries to the manufacturers to alert them of this condition. The only way to communicate is to talk to a person in India and the communication barrier is tremendously difficult as is the chance of getting any return on the days and weeks of attempts for resolution.

NHTSA ID
11663742
Incident
Mar 25, 2025
EnginePowertrain (other)
Filed May 28, 2025

It is the Water pump We have the Concentric brand with out a vent hole picture attached ( which is the one under recall but doesn’t come up on our vin) Yes A Mechanic No No

NHTSA ID
11663422
Incident
May 23, 2025
SteeringSuspension
Filed May 22, 2025

I received an NHTSA recall notice V06/NHTSA 19V-021 on or about April 2023, I brought this vehicle to Stat Line Jeep Dodge RAM located in Somerset, MA early April to fix the vehicle pursuant to the recall notice for a Drag Link problem/defect. Upon arrival the service department stated they had not received a welding machine necessary to fix the problem and to call for another appointment, On or about April 10, 2023, I again brought the vehicle to State Line RAM dealership to complete the repair. On May 31, 2023, I brought the vehicle to Town Fair Tire Center to have all 4 new tires replaced and have the front end aligned. I was told that the alignment could not take place since the dealership welded the "Tie Rods" together. I brought the vehicle back to State Line dealership and asked why my vehicle's tie rods were welded. They told me that the NHTSA had told them that was the fix. I wanted to know how to get the vehicle aligned and the dealership told me that I would have to pay $850.00 to replace them and that should have been done except the NHTSA said to weld them together.

NHTSA ID
11662561
Incident
Apr 10, 2023
BrakesFuel system
Filed Apr 18, 2025

Def system failed ABS, track,tire pressure. Service 4 wheel drive system. 4 wheel drive system temporarily unavailable.

NHTSA ID
11655557
Incident
Apr 4, 2025
EngineFuel system
Filed Apr 6, 2025

The service engine lamp came on. When the mechanic investigated, it was determined that the problem is identical to the Warranty Bulletin titled Cummins 6.7L Turbocharger Actuator - X99 Warranty Extension that pertains to the 2015 RAM 2500 pickup. My vehicle is a 2016 and there is no warranty extension, even though it is an identical problem. The vehicle was not drivable as is and I had to replace the Turbocharger Actuator. I am assuming that this is a known problem to Cummins and to RAM. There should be a Warranty Bulletin for the 2016 also.

NHTSA ID
11653069
Incident
Apr 2, 2025
Steering
Filed Feb 4, 2025

The contact owns a 2016 Dodge Ram 2500. The contact stated that the vehicle was included in NHTSA Campaign Number: 19V021000 (Steering) and the vehicle was taken to the dealer for the recall repair. The contact stated that the vehicle was taken for an alignment and the contact was informed that an alignment could not be completed because to the tie rods were welded together. The dealer who performed the recall repair was contacted and confirmed that the tie rods were to be welded as stated in the recall. The dealer informed the contact that the repair was approved by the NHTSA and that for the alignment to be performed, the entire part had to be replaced. The vehicle was not repaired. The recall repair stated that Chrysler would notify owners, and dealers would check the steering linkage jam nut tightness, replacing the drag link assembly or welding the nut to the adjuster sleeve, free of charge. The contact believed that the dealer failed to perform the remedy due to the tie rods not specifically being mentioned as what was expected to be welded together. The manufacturer was made aware of the issue and confirmed that the remedy was to weld the tie rods. The manufacturer opened a case regarding the failure. The failure mileage was 17,519.

NHTSA ID
11640592
Incident
Oct 16, 2019
Mileage
17,519 mi

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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