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Vehicle safety record

2016 Ram 1500 Problems, complaints & recalls

Owners have filed 1,567 complaints about the 2016 Ram 1500 with NHTSA, most often about the engine & cooling (355) and the steering (317). Those complaints describe 92 crashes, 36 fires, 73 injuries and 5 deaths. It is covered by 17 recalls, the latest in January 2025 for the inflator. For comparison, the 2015 has 1,462 and the 2017 has 887.

NHTSA data checked

FFar more problems than a typical 1500 year, for its age

#3 most complained-about 2016 vehicle

Complaints
1,567
Recalls
17
Crashes
92
Fires
36
Injuries
73
Deaths
5

Most common 2016 Ram 1500 problems

Share of all 1,567 complaints. One complaint can name more than one area. Tap an area for its complaints and recalls.

2016 Ram 1500 recalls 17

Recall repairs are free. Your dealer fixes them whether or not you bought the car there - check your VIN at nhtsa.gov/recalls to see if yours is done. What to do

Air bags: inflator

25V0100006,066 vehicles affected

The problem
Chrysler (FCA US, LLC) is recalling certain 2016-2019 Ram 3500, Ram 1500, 2016-2020 Ram 2500, and 2016 Ram 3500 Cab Chassis vehicles. The right and left side curtain air bag inflators may rupture due to a manufacturing defect.
The risk
An inflator rupture may result in sharp metal fragments striking occupants, resulting in injury.
The fix
Dealers will replace one or both side curtain air bags, as necessary, free of charge. Owner notification letters were mailed February 13, 2025. Owners may contact FCA customer service at 1-800-853-1403. FCA's numbers for this recall are 05C, 09C, and 10C.

Engine and engine cooling

23V41100080,629 vehicles affected

The problem
Chrysler (FCA US, LLC) is recalling certain 2014-2019 Ram 1500 and 2014-2020 Jeep Grand Cherokee vehicles equipped with 3.0L Diesel engines. The crankshaft position sensor tone wheel may delaminate, causing the engine to lose its ability to synchronize the fuel injector pulses and cam shaft timing, possibly resulting in an engine stall.
The risk
An engine stall can increase the risk of a crash.
The fix
Dealers will update the powertrain control module software to maintain vehicle propulsion, free of charge. Interim notification letters, notifying owners of the safety risk, were mailed August 3, 2023. Some owner notification letters were mailed October 31, 2023. The remaining owner notification letters will be mailed at a future date, anticipated July 2024. Owners may contact FCA US, LLC customer service at 1-800-853-1403. FCA US, LLC's number for this recall is 66A. This recall is an expansion of recall 20V-475.

Fuel system: fuel pump

22V406000138,645 vehicles affected

The problem
Chrysler (FCA US, LLC) is recalling certain 2014-2020 Jeep Grand Cherokee, and 2014-2019 Ram 1500 vehicles equipped with 3.0L diesel engines. A high pressure fuel pump (HPFP) failure may introduce internal debris into the fuel system, potentially resulting in fuel starvation.
The risk
Fuel starvation may result in an unexpected loss of drive power, increasing the risk of a crash.
The fix
Dealers will replace the HPFP, and inspect and replace, if necessary, additional fuel system components, free of charge. Interim notification letters informing owners of the safety risk were mailed July 21, 2022. Owner notification letters for were mailed for Jeep Grand Cherokee owners starting January 11, 2024. Owner notification letters for Ram 1500 owners were mailed March 7, 2024. Owners may contact FCA US, LLC customer service at 1-800-853-1403. FCA US, LLS's number for this recall is Z46.

Air bags: inflator

21V632000212,373 vehicles affected

The problem
Chrysler (FCA US, LLC) is recalling certain 2015-2020 Ram 1500 Classic, 2015-2016 Ram 3500, and Ram 2500 vehicles, and 2016 Ram 3500 Cab Chassis with a gross vehicle weight rating less than 10,000 lbs. The side air bag inflatable curtain (SABIC) inflator end cap may detach from the inflator, or the inflator sidewall may rupture.
The risk
A separated inflator end cap or inflator rupture can allow compressed gas to escape, resulting in the end cap or other components being propelled into the vehicle, increasing the risk of injury or crash.
The fix
Dealers will inspect and replace as necessary, the SABIC assemblies, free of charge. Interim owner notification letters were mailed on October 4, 2021. Owner notification letters were mailed on May 26, 2022. Owners may contact FCA US, LLC customer service at 1-800-853-1403. FCA US, LLC's number for this recall is Y55.

Engine and engine cooling: diesel

20V47500058,016 vehicles affected

The problem
Chrysler (FCA US LLC) is recalling certain 2014-2018 Ram 1500 and 2014-2016 Jeep Grand Cherokee vehicles equipped with 3.0L diesel engines. The crankshaft position sensor tone wheel may delaminate causing the engine to lose its ability to synchronize the fuel injector pulses and cam shaft timing, possibly resulting in an engine stall.
The risk
An engine stall can increase the risk of a crash.
The fix
FCA US will notify owners, and dealers will update the powertrain control module software to maintain vehicle propulsion by reading the camshaft position signal in the event that the crankshaft position signal is lost, free of charge. Owner notification letters were mailed on May 13, 2021. Owners may contact FCA US customer service at 1-800-853-2002. FCA US's number for this recall is W58.

Engine and engine cooling: gas recirculation valve (egr valve)

19V757000107,980 vehicles affected

The problem
Chrysler (FCA US LLC) is recalling certain 2014-2019 Ram 1500 and 1500 Classic Pickup trucks equipped with 3.0L Eco Diesel engines. The Exhaust Gas Recirculation (EGR) cooler may crack and allow pre-heated vaporized coolant to enter the EGR system. This mixture may combust inside the intake manifold.
The risk
Combustion in the intake manifold can increase the risk of a fire.
The fix
Chrysler will notify owners, and dealers will replace the EGR cooler, free of charge. Dealers will also inspect and, as necessary, replace the intake manifold. The recall began April 16, 2020. Owners may contact Chrysler customer service at 1-800-853-1403. Chrysler's number for this recall is VB1.

Latch

19V3470001,103,209 vehicles affected

The problem
Chrysler (FCA US LLC) is recalling certain 2015-2017 Ram 1500, 2500 and 3500 pickup trucks equipped with an 8 foot bed and a power locking tailgate. Chrysler is also recalling all 2013-2014 and 2018 Ram 1500, 2500 and 3500 pickup trucks built before April 1, 2018 with a 6 or 8 foot bed and a power locking tailgate. On August 29, 2019 Chrysler expanded the recall to include an additional 693,128 model year 2013-2014 Ram 1500, 2500 and 3500 pickup trucks. The tailgate actuator limiter tab may fracture and cause the tailgate to unlatch and open while driving.
The risk
If the tailgate opens while the vehicle is being driven, cargo may fall out the vehicle and create a road hazard, increasing the risk of crash.
The fix
Chrysler will notify owners, and dealers will repair the tailgate latch, free of charge. The recall began May 23, 2019. Chrysler is expected to notify owners of the expanded population on October 18, 2019. Owners may contact FCA US customer service at 1-800-853-1403. FCA US's number for this recall is V44. Note: 2015-2017 MY Ram 1500 pickup trucks with truck beds other than 8 foot, are currently covered under NHTSA recall 18V-486 for this issue.

Structure: tailgate

18V4860001,149,223 vehicles affected

The problem
Chrysler (FCA US LLC) is recalling certain 2015-2017 RAM 1500, 2500, and 3500 pickup trucks equipped with a power locking tailgate and either a 5 foot, 7 inch or 6 foot, 4 inch bed. The tailgate actuator limiter tab may fracture and cause the tailgate to unlatch and open while driving.
The risk
If the tailgate latch releases and the tailgate opens while driving, cargo may fall out, creating a road hazard and increasing the risk of a crash.
The fix
Chrysler will notify owners, and dealers will repair the vehicle, free of charge. The recall began September 17, 2018. Owners may contact Chrysler customer service at 1-800-853-1403. Chrysler's number for this recall is U74.

Electrical system: wiring

18V3320004,815,661 vehicles affected

The problem
Chrysler (FCA US LLC) is recalling certain 2014-2018 Dodge Journey, Charger and Durango, RAM 2500, 3500, 3500 Cab Chassis (more than 10,000lb), 4500 Cab Chassis and 5500 Cab Chassis, Jeep Cherokee and Grand Cherokee and Chrysler 300, 2014-2019 RAM 1500, 2015-2018 Dodge Challenger, 2015-2017 Chrysler 200, 2016-2018 RAM 3500 Cab Chassis (less than 10,000 lb), 2017-2018 Chrysler Pacifica and 2018 Jeep Wrangler vehicles. These vehicles are being recalled to address a defect that could prevent the cruise control system from disengaging. If, when using cruise control, there is a short circuit within the vehicle's wiring, the driver may not be able to shut off the cruise control either by depressing the brake pedal or manually turning the system off once it has been engaged, resulting in either the vehicle maintaining its current speed or possibly accelerating.
The risk
If the vehicle maintains its speed or accelerates despite attempts to deactivate the cruise control, there would be an increased risk of a crash.
The fix
Chrysler will notify owners, and dealers will inspect the software, and perform a software flash on the engine or powertrain control module, free of charge. The recall began June 4, 2018. Owners may contact Chrysler customer service at 1-800-853-1403. Note: Owners are advised to stop using cruise control until the software update has been performed. In the event that cruise control cannot be disengaged while driving, owners should firmly and steadily apply the brakes and shift the transmission to neutral, placing the vehicle in park once it has stopped.

Power train: column shift

17V8210001,482,874 vehicles affected

The problem
Chrysler (FCA US LLC) is recalling certain 2016-2017 Ram 3500 Cab Chassis with a Gross Vehicle Weight Rating (GVWR) of less than 10,000 lbs, 2011-2017 Ram 3500, 4500 and 5500 Cab Chassis vehicles, 2009-2017 Ram 1500 and 2010-2017 Ram 2500 and 3500 pickup trucks, all equipped with a column shifter. Pushing the brake pedal for prolonged periods when the vehicle is running and in PARK may cause the Brake Transmission Shift Interlock (BTSI) pin to stick in the open position. With the pin in the open position, the transmission can be shifted out of PARK into any gear without pushing the brake pedal or having the key in the ignition.
The risk
Being able to shift the transmission without pushing the brake pedal and/or without a key in the ignition can increase the risk of an unintended vehicle rollaway that may result in personal injury or a crash.
The fix
Chrysler will notify owners, and dealers will update the vehicle software, inspect the BTSI, and, as necessary, replace it, free of charge. The recall began February 26, 2018. Owners may contact Chrysler customer service at 1-800-853-1403. Chrysler's number for this recall is T79.

Air bags

17V3020001,021,279 vehicles affected

The problem
Chrysler (FCA US LLC) is recalling certain model year 2013-2016 Ram 1500, Ram 2500, and 2014-2016 Ram 3500 vehicles. Certain driving conditions, such as driving off-road or debris striking the vehicle may cause the roll rate sensor to trigger a fault within the Occupant Restraint Controller (ORC). If this fault occurs, the rollover side curtain air bag and the seat belt pretensioner will be disabled from deploying.
The risk
If the rollover side curtain air bags and seat belt pretensioners are disabled, there is an increased risk of injury to the vehicle occupants in the event of a crash that necessitates activation of these safety systems.
The fix
Chrysler will notify owners, and dealers will update the ORC software, free of charge. The recall began June 26, 2017. Owners may contact Chrysler customer service at 1-800-853-1403. Chrysler's number for this recall is T25.

Power train: differential unit

17V19800030 vehicles affected

The problem
Chrysler (FCA US LLC) is recalling certain 2016-2017 Ram 1500 trucks. The differential pin retaining screw may come loose while driving, potentially causing the differential to break or lock up.
The risk
A broken or locked up differential may result in a loss of motive power and possibly a loss of vehicle control. Either scenario increases the risk of a crash.
The fix
Chrysler will notify owners, and dealers will inspect and replace the differential retaining pin, free of charge. The recall began April 24, 2017. Owners may contact Chrysler customer service at 1-800-853-1403. Chrysler's number for this recall is T20.

Power train: axle shaft

16V30100064 vehicles affected

The problem
Chrysler (FCA US LLC) is recalling certain 2016 RAM 1500 trucks manufactured February 19, 2016, to March 3, 2016. The front halfshafts may have been incorrectly manufactured causing them to fracture without warning.
The risk
A fractured halfshaft may damage underbody components and create road debris, increasing the risk of a crash.
The fix
Chrysler will notify owners, and dealers will replace both front halfshafts, free of charge. The recall began on July 5, 2016. Owners may contact Chrysler customer service at 1-800-853-1403. Chrysler's number for this recall is S32.

Equipment

16E041000345 vehicles affected

The problem
Chrysler (FCA US LLC) is recalling aftermarket Mopar Canvas Seat Covers for certain 2012-2016 RAM 1500, 2500, and 3500 trucks. These Mopar canvas seat covers were sold through Chrysler dealerships beginning October 15, 2015. The seat covers can impede the deployment of the seat thorax airbags.
The risk
If the seat cover impedes the air bag deployment, the seat thorax air bags may not provide adequate protection in the event of a crash, increasing the risk of a injury.
The fix
Chrysler will notify owners to remove the front seat covers and return them for a full refund. The recall began on July 1, 2016. Owners may contact Chrysler customer service at 1-800-853-1403. Chrysler's number for this recall is S30.

Steering: electric power assist system

16V167000440 vehicles affected

The problem
Chrysler (FCA US LLC) is recalling certain model year 2015-2016 Ram 1500 trucks manufactured January 22, 2015, to September 13, 2015. Contamination on the Electric Power Steering (EPS) control circuit board may cause a short and result in the loss of power steering assist.
The risk
If the vehicle experiences a loss of power steering assist, extra steering effort will be required, especially at lower speeds, increasing the risk of a vehicle crash.
The fix
Chrysler will notify owners, and dealers will replace the EPS unit, free of charge. The recall is expected to begin on May 16, 2016. Owners may contact Chrysler customer service at 1-800-853-1403. Chrysler's number for this recall is S19.

Tires: temporary / emergency spare tire

15V663000253 vehicles affected

The problem
Chrysler (FCA US LLC) is recalling certain model year 2016 Ram 1500 trucks with a 5.7L engine and dual exhaust manufactured August 3, 2015, to August 10, 2015. The affected vehicles may be missing a heat shield for the spare tire.
The risk
Without a heat shield, heat from the exhaust system may damage the spare tire. When used, the damaged tire may have a tread separation or side wall rupture, resulting in a loss of control and an increased risk of a crash.
The fix
Chrysler will notify owners, and dealers will install a spare tire heat shield if the vehicle is missing one. Vehicles that have already been sold with an excess of 50 miles will also have their spare tires replaced. These repairs will be performed free of charge. The recall began on December 2, 2015. Owners may contact Chrysler customer service at 1-800-853-1403. Chrysler's number for this recall is R58.

Power train: axle shaft

15V66100061,859 vehicles affected

The problem
Chrysler (FCA US LLC) is recalling certain model year 2015-2016 Ram 1500 trucks manufactured June 17, 2015, to September 28, 2015. The affected vehicles may have been built with rear axles that were incorrectly heat treated.
The risk
If the rear axle shaft was not properly heated treated, it may fracture and a wheel separation could occur, increasing the risk of a crash.
The fix
Chrysler will notify owners, and dealers will inspect the vehicles and replace the axle assemblies, as necessary, free of charge. The recall began on November 23, 2015. Owners may contact Chrysler customer service at 1-800-853-1403. Chrysler's number for this recall is R59.

What owners say

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1,567 complaints about the 2016 Ram 1500

Newest first, as filed with NHTSA by owners. Page 1 of 63.

SteeringElectrical systemBrakes

The brake light, stability control, and abs light have been on for almost 2 years. The garage says the abs module is bad ots on interstellar back order. None of those systems have functioned for almost two years and I can't even sell it at this point for a fair price. Now the ignition seems to have an issue in that after starting the MPH will not display and the power steering doesn't function properly.

Filed Incident Steering · Electrical system · Service brakesNHTSA 11777387
Engine & coolingFuel system

The vehicle suffered a sudden crank, no-start condition due to a low fuel rail pressure reading of 34.6 Bar (well below the required cranking threshold) and a blown fuel pump motor fuse. Upon initial roadside inspection, heavy metallic glitter and shavings were documented via timestamped video inside the fuel filter housing. This vehicle had the Z46 High-Pressure Fuel Pump Safety Recall (NHTSA Campaign 22V406000) performed 8 months ago. The vehicle was towed to an authorized dealership. The dealership has since...

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pulled the fuel filter housing and is claiming that the system is currently clean and working as designed. However, because I have undeniable, timestamped media evidence of severe metal contamination inside the fuel loop at the exact moment of failure, I am filing this complaint because a federally mandated safety recall component has failed, and the current dealership diagnostics are contradicting the physical evidence of the breakdown.

Filed Incident Engine · Fuel / propulsion systemNHTSA 11776960
Brakes

See attached document for complaint.

Filed Incident Service brakesNHTSA 11776136
Engine & coolingFuel system

In Nov 2020, we had a Ram recall repair for the EGR Cooler/VB1. This was a safety issue that could potentially cause the truck to catch on fire. Nov 2026, we are getting a code for the same issue with our VB1 egr cooler valve. We've contacted Ram and have an email stating that our repair is out of warranty since it's been over 2 years since the repair was completed. Since this was a safety recall and not a standard recall, there is no 2 year warranty time frame. Ram is refusing to repair at their expense.

Filed Incident Unknown or other · Engine · Fuel / propulsion systemNHTSA 11776010
Transmission & drivetrainElectrical systemBrakes

I am writing to file a formal safety complaint regarding a widespread defect in the Anti-Lock Brake System (ABS) Control Module and Hydraulic Control Unit (HCU) on my 2016 Ram 1500. The ABS system on my vehicle has suffered an internal failure, resulting in an active ABS dashboard warning light, total loss of traction control, and immediate electronic disabling of both the cruise control system and the four-wheel drive (4WD) system. Disabling ABS and the 4WD system leaves the vehicle unable to adapt to hazardous...

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road or weather conditions, creating a significant safety risk. This exact failure pattern mimics identical ABS defects that parent company Stellantis/FCA has previously recalled on heavier-duty Ram platforms (such as NHTSA Recall 24V-896), but the 2016 half-ton models have not yet been included in a mandatory remedy campaign. I request that this issue be documented and investigated as a potential safety defect requiring expanded remedy coverage.

Filed Incident Power train · Electrical system · Service brakesNHTSA 11775672
Steering

The contact owns a 2016 Ram 1500. The contact stated that while driving 45 MPH, the electronic power steering became inoperable, and the steering wheel was difficult to turn and was almost impossible to turn. The contact stated that on the previous day, the power steering warning light was illuminated momentarily. The contact stated that an independent mechanic diagnosed the vehicle and retrieved DTC: C2217-00 (internal electronic power steering module failure). The contact associated the failure with NHTSA investigation RQ23-033. The dealer was contacted by phone. The failure mileage was approximately 138,210.

Filed Incident SteeringNHTSA 11775658
Steering

ELECTRIC STEERING RACK FAILURE. The truck requires tremendous strength to steer manually, risking accident and injury to passengers and other vehicles. Emmett's Auto in Klamath Falls, OR has ordered a new steering rack. RAM Corporate advised the truck is not on recall. Other trucks manufactured the same year have the recall for the same defect. A "service steering soon" message appears in the message center of the truck. Local dealer, Lithia Auto received 18 new steering racks which were already promised to other repairs. This indicates to me that this is a widespread problem and the recall should have involved my vehicle.

Filed Incident SteeringNHTSA 11775646
Fuel system

On [[redacted]], I experienced a severe safety failure regarding the fuel tank support on my 2016 Ram 1500 (VIN: [[redacted]]). I was driving on public roads under normal conditions and stopped at a store for grocery shopping. While parked, a bystander alerted me that my gas tank was physically hanging down from underneath the vehicle. Upon inspection, I found that the metal fuel tank strap had completely broken off due to corrosion, leaving the heavy fuel tank unsupported and at high risk of dropping onto the...

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road. Because the vehicle was unsafe to leave as-is, I had to rig a temporary strap harness under the truck to hold the tank up just enough to carefully limp the vehicle home. This sudden structural failure presents a massive fire and road hazard. Upon contacting my local Ram/Chrysler dealership, I was informed that there is no active recall covering my specific vehicle. However, after researching the issue on automotive forums and Facebook owner groups, I discovered this is a widespread and well-documented defect among Ram 1500 owners. While some older models received a formal recall (Recall U04) for this exact issue, many owners of newer models like mine are being left without assistance, forcing them to pay out-of-pocket at independent mechanics or attempt DIY repairs on a critical safety component. I urge the NHTSA to investigate this ongoing defect for 2016 models. INFORMATION REDACTED PURSUANT TO THE FREEDOM OF INFORMATION ACT (FOIA), 5 U.S.C. 552(B)(6)

Filed Incident Fuel / propulsion systemNHTSA 11775502
Brakes

ABS, Trailer brakes, and traction control lights on ABM C2200-49 DTC Code

Filed Incident Service brakesNHTSA 11775486
Fuel system

The contact owns a 2016 Ram 1500. The contact stated that while driving 50 MPH, several warning lights illuminated and the vehicle lost motive power. The contact stated that while attempting to start the vehicle, the vehicle failed to start. The vehicle was towed to an independent mechanic where it was diagnosed with high-pressure fuel pump failure. The contact was informed that the fuel system was contaminated with metal shavings. The contact was informed that the high-pressure fuel pump needed to be replaced. The...

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contact stated that the vehicle was previously repaired under NHTSA Campaign Number: 22V406000 (Fuel System, Diesel) in May 2024. The dealer was contacted and made aware of the failure. The manufacturer was contacted, and a case was filed. In addition, the contact stated that several cases were filed. The contact was advised to contact the dealer for assistance. The failure mileage was approximately 168,000.

Filed Incident Fuel system, dieselNHTSA 11775355
Transmission & drivetrainBrakes

Brakes, ABS , shift sensor, in drive and would not move had to turn off in heavy traffic and then put in Drive and would go for a while, leveling off, every light was in a rolling script on my dash! Finally got to place that I could park it.Finally was able to get someone to get it home. 1 hour away. My husband is [[redacted]] and has dementia, can hardly walk. I am [[redacted]] and am responsible caregiver to him. We were in getting off work traffic when this was going on...Yes my vehicle is available to be seen. I...

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can not drive it for fear of happening again and causing more trouble. Yes we were surely in danger as so were others in traffic. Yes has been confirmed by dealership and other mechanics. Everyone says they do not have the modular to fix it and have no idea when it might come in! I owe 1500.00 on this vechicle and have been very pleased with it. Even with getting recalls fixed. But now we have this very nice truck that we can't drive, or trade or sale! Our other vehicle is a 2007 FJ Cruiser and has 335,000 miles on it. Bought it new and have had no problems with it. Just a little Leary for us to start out to dr. Appointments or whatever else comes up, I had always felt safe in our truck, but now I am afraid to drive out of driveway. We were told if that had part to fix it , it would be 1600.00 dollars to fix. We live on fixed income and this has caused us much despair. I was not aware of trouble with this problem until now. But have been made aware that we are not the only ones. I would love to hear from you and with a solution to this mess!!! Thank you. [[redacted]]. INFORMATION REDACTED PURSUANT TO THE FREEDOM OF INFORMATION ACT (FOIA), 5 U.S.C. 552(B)(6)

Filed Incident Power train · Service brakesNHTSA 11775304
Brakes

The contact owns a 2016 Ram 1500. The contact stated that the ABS warning light was illuminated. The vehicle was taken to a brake specialist to be diagnosed and it was determined that the ABS module had failed and needed to be replaced; however, the part was on a national back order. The dealer and the manufacturer were contacted and confirmed that the part was on backorder, with no estimated time of availability. The failure mileage was approximately 52,000.

Filed Incident Service brakes, hydraulicNHTSA 11774632
Brakes

The contact owns a 2016 Ram 1500. While driving approximately 25-30 MPH, the ABS, traction control, and brake warning lights were illuminated. The failure mileage was approximately 149,000.

Filed Incident Service brakes, hydraulicNHTSA 11774616
Steering

The electronic power steering has failed. The system failed on 10/19/26. Also, the truck has stalled while driving on three different occasions in the last two years. It has never shown a code for the stalls.

Filed Incident SteeringNHTSA 11772514
SteeringElectrical system

On my son's 2016 Dodge Ram 1500, he was driving and as he was turning into a gas station, his Electronic Power Steering (EPS) stopped working and he had to use much force to turn the wheel into the gas station. The steering wheel warning light came up on his dash and after several attempts of turning off/turning on the engine and removing the battery cables and putting them back, the EPS would not come back on. We did check the fuse from the positive battery terminal with a multimeter and the cable to the EPS still had power, to include fuse 78 in the fuse box. We check the wire under the engine to the EPS and found no issues with the wires.

Filed Incident Steering · Electrical systemNHTSA 11772391
Brakes

ANTIlock brakes module failure

Filed Incident Service brakesNHTSA 11772098
Airbags

Side curtain and front seat airbags deployed randomly, without impact or collision.

Filed Incident Air bagsNHTSA 11771752
Engine & cooling

The contact owns a 2016 Ram 1500. The contact stated that upon starting the vehicle and attempting to drive, the vehicle failed to accelerate, and multiple warning lights, including the check engine warning light, illuminated. The contact stated that the vehicle felt sluggish while driving and failed to accelerate beyond 60 MPH. The contact also stated that a burning smell was noticed coming from the rear filter of the vehicle. The vehicle was taken to an independent mechanic, where it was diagnosed that the diesel...

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particulate filter (DPF) and emissions system failed and required replacement. A dealer was notified of the failure. The contact stated that the failure was previously associated with a recall. The failure mileage was approximately 147,000.

Filed Incident Engine and engine coolingNHTSA 11771410
Steering

Electric power steering failure

Filed Incident SteeringNHTSA 11771188
Brakes

ABS Control Module stopped working ,leaving traction control and anti lock brakes inoperable. Parts are not available from dealers or after market manufacturers. This has been an on going problem with multiple year vehicles.

Filed Incident Service brakesNHTSA 11770388
BrakesCrash

ABS and Brake lights on dash since October of 2024. No module available from any MOPAR source for a year. Had accident in July 2025. Truck slid as ABS did not engage which was direct cause of the accident resulting in damage to both vehicles. I have followed up monthly as to the availably and they continue to be on backorder and for a year it was showing Stellantis was investigating issue. Apparently this has been an ongoing safety issue that has not been address as a recall.

Filed Incident Service brakesNHTSA 11769628
Fuel system

Component or System Failed & Availability for Inspection: High-pressure fuel pump and common rail fuel injection system under NHTSA Recall 22V-406 (Recall Z46). The vehicle and all removed/affected components are grounded and available for inspection at Peterson CDJR in Boise, ID under Repair Order #46751. Safety Risk: Risk of sudden loss of motive power and engine stall while driving, creating collision hazards as defined under NHTSA Recall 22V-406. Chronological Timeline & Dealer Findings: July 5, 2024:...

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Peterson CDJR performed Safety Recall Z46 (NHTSA 22V-406) Procedure A, replacing only the high-pressure fuel pump. September 2026 (RO #45520): Vehicle presented with an illuminated check engine light. Peterson CDJR diagnosed a faulty fuel pressure sensor and replaced the fuel rail and sensor for $2,809.45. September 2026 (RO #46751): Following a 55-mile test drive, Peterson CDJR technician verified the diesel fuel from the fuel tank tested completely clean. Inspection of the newly installed fuel rail sensor documented internal metallic debris actively circulating through the fuel system. September-October 2026: Peterson CDJR opened STAR Case #102997574. DealerCONNECT records and the technician notes from RO #45520 state that the entire fuel system requires replacement. Dealer requested authorization for Recall Z46 Procedure B (complete fuel system replacement kit CSSMZ46DAA). October 5, 2026: Stellantis corporate documented via DealerCONNECT that the fuel system requires replacement, but stated they will not authorize the repair under warranty because the recall was previously closed. Inspections by Manufacturer / Others: Inspected by Peterson CDJR certified technicians and documented in STAR Case #102997574. Reviewed via DealerCONNECT by Stellantis corporate, who confirmed fuel system failure but refused remedy coverage under open Corporate Case #98257662. I have not had followup from my Stellantis case manager. Dealer is responsive.

Filed Incident Fuel / propulsion systemNHTSA 11769617
Engine & coolingFuel system

The contact owns a 2016 Ram 1500. The contact stated that the messages "Service Emissions Control" and "Exhaust Filter 100 Percent Full - Service Required - See Dealer" were displayed, and there was a strong fuel odor coming through the vents while idling or while driving. Additionally, while attempting to refuel the vehicle at the gas station, fuel splashed out and the vehicle could not be refueled. The manufacturer was notified of the failure by phone and initially informed the contact that the vehicle was still...

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covered under Emission Recall Number: V08 and referred the contact to the dealer. The vehicle was taken to the dealer, where it was determined that the failure was associated with NHTSA Campaign Number: 22V406000 (Fuel System, Diesel) and Emission Recall Number: V08; however, the contact was informed that the manufacturer had not approved the recall repairs. The contact called the manufacturer was advised that she would receive a call back from a supervisor; however, the contact had not been contacted. The contact stated that the manufacturer had exceeded a reasonable amount of time for the recall repair. The failure mileage was approximately 116,000.

Filed Incident Engine and engine cooling · Fuel system, dieselNHTSA 11767670
Steering

Driving down residential street and steering got stiff . Not safe at all . Message on screen power steering service. 2 mechanics said to would need to replace complete electric power steering gear assembly.

Filed Incident SteeringNHTSA 11767610
AirbagsCrash1 injury

I hit a tree head on dodging a deer going between 35 and 40mph and none of my air bags deployed.

Filed Incident Air bagsNHTSA 11767578

Ram 1500: every year compared

YearComplaintsRecallsCrashesFiresTop problemGrade
202064614257Electrical systemC
20191,503307611Electrical systemF
201866915259Electrical systemC
2017887138116SteeringD
20161,567179236Engine & coolingF
20151,462187958Engine & coolingF
20141,785179924SteeringF
20131,283127210SteeringD
201269873210Electrical systemC
All 1500 years

2016 Ram 1500 vs rivals

More sales usually means more complaints, so compare similar vehicles of the same year. The grade compares each vehicle with its own model's other years.

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Questions about the 2016 Ram 1500

Does the 2016 Ram 1500 have any recalls?

Yes - NHTSA lists 17 recalls for the 2016 Ram 1500: inflator (January 2025); engine and engine cooling (June 2023); fuel pump (June 2022); inflator (August 2021) and more. Recall repairs are free at any authorized dealer. Enter your VIN at nhtsa.gov/recalls to see whether yours has been fixed.

What are the most common problems with the 2016 Ram 1500?

By the complaints owners filed with NHTSA, the most common problem areas are the engine & cooling (355), steering (317), brakes (289).

How many complaints has the 2016 Ram 1500 had?

1,567 complaints have been filed with NHTSA, the first on February 26, 2016 and the latest on November 11, 2026. Of these, 92 describe a crash and 36 a fire, and together they report 73 injuries and 5 deaths.

Is the 2016 Ram 1500 a reliable vehicle?

Its Safety Index is 21 out of 100 (grade F: far more problems than a typical Ram 1500 year, for its age). The index weighs complaints, crashes, fires, injuries, deaths and recalls against how long the vehicle has been on the road, compared with the same model's other years. It is not a measure of every repair - read the complaints and owner experiences, and have any used vehicle inspected before you buy.

Which Ram 1500 years have the most complaints?

2014 (1,785), 2016 (1,567), 2019 (1,503). See every Ram 1500 year compared.

What should I do if my 2016 Ram 1500 has a problem?

If it is a safety problem, stop driving it if it is unsafe and contact your dealer. Report it to NHTSA at nhtsa.gov/report-a-safety-problem - enough reports start investigations and recalls - and share your experience here so other owners know what to look for.

Source: U.S. National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) complaints and recalls, checked . Complaints are owners' own reports and are not verified. How we use the data

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