The 2013 Ram 2500 has 16 safety recalls and 178 owner complaints on file with NHTSA. The most-reported problem area is engine (43 complaints).
Recalls16safety recalls
Complaints178filed by owners
Crashes · fires7 · 7reported in complaints
Injuries · deaths4 · 0reported in complaints
Safety recalls
Latches/locks/linkages › Tailgate › Latch
NHTSA recall 19V347000 · May 9, 2019 · 1,103,209 vehicles
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.
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.
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.
Steering › Linkages
NHTSA recall 18E096000 · Oct 16, 2018 · 847 vehicles
Problem: Streetcar ORV LLC (Streetcar) is recalling certain American Expedition Vehicles (AEV) 3" Dualsport aftermarket suspension kits, part numbers N0436000 and N0436001, sold for installation on 2013-2018 RAM 2500 and 3500HD trucks. Improper installation and machining of the original equipment steering knuckle may weaken the joint between the steering drag link and knuckle.
Risk: The weakened connection may result in a fractured steering drag link, causing a loss of steering and increasing the risk of a crash.
Fix: Streetcar will notify owners and dealers will inspect and install a new steering knuckle, free of charge. The recall began December 3, 2018. Owners may contact AEV customer service at 1-248-926-0256, extension 500.
Equipment
NHTSA recall 17V824000 · Dec 21, 2017 · 61,791 vehicles
Problem: Chrysler (FCA US LLC) is recalling various Dodge, Chrysler, and RAM vehicles equipped with Kidde Plastic-Handle or Push Button 'Pindicator' Fire Extinguishers. A list of the affected trailer models is available at: https://static.nhtsa.gov/odi/rcl/2017/RMISC-17V824-0103.pdf. These extinguishers may become clogged, preventing the extinguisher from discharging as expected or requiring excessive force to activate the extinguisher. Additionally, in certain models, the nozzle may detach from the valve assembly with enough force that it could cause injury and also render the product inoperable. For a full list of the affected fire extinguisher models visit: https://static.nhtsa.gov/odi/rcl/2017/RMISC-17E062-5427.pdf
Risk: If the fire extinguisher does not function properly, it can increase the risk of injury in the event of a fire.
Fix: Chrysler will notify owners instructing them to contact Kidde for a replacement fire extinguisher, free of charge. The recall began February 14, 2018. Owners may contact Chrysler customer service at 1-800-853-1403 or Kidde customer service service toll-free at 1-855-262-3540, or online at www.kidde.com and click on "Product Safety Recall" for more information. Chrysler's number for this recall is T82.
Power train › Automatic transmission › Lever and linkage › Column shift
NHTSA recall 17V821000 · Dec 20, 2017 · 1,482,874 vehicles
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.
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.
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.
Problem: Chrysler (FCA US LLC) is recalling certain 2013-2017 RAM 2500, 3500, 3500 Cab Chassis, 4500 Cab Chassis, and 5500 Cab Chassis vehicles, equipped with Cummins 6.7L Turbo Diesel engines that have Concentric-brand water pumps without a vent hole. These water pumps may leak coolant.
Risk: The leaking water pump can increase the risk of an engine compartment fire.
Fix: Chrysler will notify owners, and dealers will replace the water pumps, 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 T51.
Wheels
NHTSA recall 17V499000 · Aug 10, 2017 · 1,765 vehicles
Problem: Streetcar ORV LLC, dba American Expedition Vehicles (AEV) is recalling certain 2013-2017 RAM 2500 and 3500 heavy duty trucks, modified by AEV to be equipped with cast aluminum Katla 8.5" road wheels. The outer surface of the wheel may fracture, resulting in rapid air loss.
Risk: If the wheel fractures, a loss of vehicle control can occur, increasing the risk of a crash.
Fix: AEV will notify owners, and dealers will replace the wheels with wheels of similar value, free of charge. The recall began on August 30, 2017. Owners may contact AEV customer service at 1-248-926-0256 extension 500.
Air bags › Side/window › Curtain
NHTSA recall 17V302000 · May 9, 2017 · 1,021,279 vehicles
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.
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.
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.
Components: Air bags › Side/window › Curtain; Air bags
Electrical system › Alternator/generator/regulator
NHTSA recall 16V739000 · Oct 13, 2016 · 74,811 vehicles
Problem: Chrysler (FCA US LLC) is recalling certain model year 2011-2014 Dodge Charger Police vehicles, 2007-2013 RAM 3500 Cab Chassis, 2008-2013 RAM 4500 and 5500 Cab Chassis, and 2013 RAM 2500 and 3500 vehicles. The affected vehicles have a 220 amp alternator that may suddenly fail.
Risk: If the alternator fails, the vehicle may stall without warning, increasing the risk of a crash. There is also the possibility that the alternator may short circuit, increasing the risk of a fire.
Fix: Chrysler will notify owners, and dealers will replace the alternator with a revised alternator, free of charge. The recall began on December 23, 2016. Owners may contact Chrysler customer service at 1-800-853-1403. Chrysler's number for this recall is S68.
Equipment
NHTSA recall 16E041000 · May 16, 2016 · 345 vehicles
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.
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.
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.
Problem: Chrysler (FCA US LLC) is recalling certain model year 2013-2015 Ram 1500, 2500, 3500, 4500, and 5500, 2015 Chrysler 200, Chrysler 300, Dodge Charger, and Dodge Challenger, 2014-2015 Jeep Grand Cherokee, Cherokee, and Dodge Durango, and 2013-2015 Dodge Viper vehicles. The affected vehicles are equipped with radios that have software vulnerabilities that can allow third-party access to certain networked vehicle control systems.
Risk: Exploitation of the software vulnerability may result in unauthorized remote modification and control of certain vehicle systems, increasing the risk of a crash.
Fix: Chrysler will notify and mail affected owners a USB drive that includes a software update that eliminates the vulnerability, free of charge. Optionally, owners may download the update to their own USB drive from http://www.driveuconnect.com/software-update/ or take their vehicle to a Chrysler dealer for immediate installation. In an effort to mitigate the effects of this security vulnerability, Chrysler has had the wireless service provider close the open cellular connection to the vehicle that provided unauthorized access to the vehicle network. This measure may not have been implemented on all vehicles and does not address access by other means that will be remedied by the software update. The recall began on August 25, 2015. Owners may contact Chrysler customer service at 1-800-853-1403. Chrysler's number for this recall is R40.
Problem: Chrysler (FCA US LLC) is recalling certain model year 2012-2014 Ram 1500, 2500, 3500, 4500, and 5500 trucks manufactured January 18, 2011, to October 7, 2014, and equipped with the Electronic Vehicle Information Center option. The affected vehicles have a steering wheel wiring harness that may rub against the driver air bag module retainer spring.
Risk: This abrasion may result in an electrical short that could cause driver's frontal air bag to unexpectedly deploy. Inadvertent deployment of the air bag may increase the risk of injury and the possibility of a vehicle crash.
Fix: Chrysler will notify owners, and dealers will inspect, repair as necessary, and secure the steering wheel wiring harness. Additionally, protective caps will be added to the air bag retainer spring ends. These repairs will be done free of charge. The recall began on September 18, 2015. Owners may contact Chrysler customer service at 1-800-853-1403. Chrysler's number for this recall is R36.
Problem: Chrysler (FCA US LLC) is recalling certain model year 2013-2015 Ram 1500, 2500, and 3500 trucks manufactured June 20, 2012, to January 26, 2015. In the affected vehicles, the side impact sensor calibrations may be overly sensitive, and as a result, the side air bag inflatable curtains and seat air bags may unexpectedly deploy and the seat belt pre-tensioners may activate.
Risk: Air bags that unexpectedly deploy increase the risk of a crash or injury.
Fix: Chrysler will notify owners, and dealers will update the Occupant Restraint Control module calibration, free of charge. The recall began on September 8, 2015. Owners may contact Chrysler customer service at 1-800-853-1403. Chrysler's number for this recall is R23.
Components: Seat belts; Air bags › Side/window
Fuel system, diesel
NHTSA recall 14V635000 · Oct 8, 2014 · 315,325 vehicles
Problem: Chrysler Group LLC (Chrysler) is recalling certain model year 2010-2014 Ram 2500, 3500, 4500, and 5500 trucks manufactured March 27, 2009, to September 5, 2013. In the affected vehicles, the electrical connectors of the diesel fuel heater may overheat.
Risk: If the connectors overheat, the fuel heater may leak fuel, increasing the risk of a fire.
Fix: Chrysler will notify owners, and dealers will replace the harness side connector with a silver plated beryllium copper terminal service kit, and inspect the fuel heater for leaks, replacing it as necessary, free of charge. Chrysler issued interim notification to owners on December 8, 2014. The recall began on April 27, 2015. Owners may contact Chrysler customer service at 1-800-853-1403. Chrysler's number for this recall is P65.
NHTSA recall 13V240000 · Jun 4, 2013 · 1,069 vehicles
Problem: Chrysler is recalling certain model year 2013 Ram 2500 and 3500 trucks manufactured January 7, 2013, through February 28, 2013 and equipped with optional premium headlamps. The headlamp shutters may function improperly when in high-beam mode. Thus, these vehicles fail to conform to the requirements of Federal Motor Vehicle Safety Standard (FMVSS) No. 108, "Lamps, reflective devices, and associated equipment."
Risk: Improper headlight shutter function during high beam use may reduce the drivers visibility and possibly blind oncoming traffic. Either condition may increase the risk of crash.
Fix: Chrysler will notify owners, and dealers will reconfigure the Central Body Controller, free of charge. The recall began July 30, 2013. Owners may contact Chrysler at 1-800-247-9753. Chrysler's recall campaign number is N33.
Exterior lighting › Turn signal
NHTSA recall 13V237000 · Jun 4, 2013 · 17,411 vehicles
Problem: Chrysler is recalling certain model year 2013 Ram 1500, 2500, and 3500 trucks manufactured September 9, 2012, through March 5, 2013 and equipped with optional premium tail lamps. In the affected vehicles, the turn signal indicator may not flash at a double rate to give a notification to the driver of a turn signal malfunction. Thus, these vehicles fail to conform to the requirements of Federal Motor Vehicle Safety Standard (FMVSS) No. 108, "Lamps, reflective devices, and associated equipment."
Risk: Without a warning that the turn signal is malfunctioning, the driver would continue to use the vehicle, unaware that other drivers on the road are not being notified that the vehicle is turning, increasing the risk of a crash.
Fix: Chrysler will notify owners, and dealers will reprogram the Central Body Controller software, free of charge. The recall began June 27, 2013. Owners may contact Chrysler at 1-800-853-1403. Chrysler's recall campaign number is N35.
Problem: Chrysler Group LLC (Chrysler) is recalling certain model year 2013 Dodge Ram 2500 and 3500 trucks manufactured January 7, 2013, through March 6, 2013. The engine cover may trap an excessive amount of heat under the cover.
Risk: The excessive heat under the engine cover may result in an under hood fire.
Fix: Chrysler will notify owners, and dealers will replace the existing engine cover with one that is a different design, free of charge. An interim letter was mailed on May 31, 2013. A second letter was mailed to owners with instructions on how to obtain the free remedy on August 15, 2013. Owners may contact Chrysler at 1-800-853-1403. Chrysler's recall campaign number is N19.
Recall repairs are free at any authorised dealer. A recall listed here may already have been fixed on a particular car: enter its 17-character VIN at nhtsa.gov/recalls to see open recalls.
Crash test ratings
2013 Ram 2500 Crew PU/CC 4WD
Overall
Not Rated
Frontal crash
Not Rated
Side crash
Not Rated
Rollover
★★★★★
Rollover risk
23.7%
2013 Ram 2500 Crew PU/CC 2WD
Overall
Not Rated
Frontal crash
Not Rated
Side crash
Not Rated
Rollover
★★★★★
Rollover risk
15.5%
2013 Ram 2500 Mega PU/EC 4WD
Overall
Not Rated
Frontal crash
Not Rated
Side crash
Not Rated
Rollover
★★★★★
Rollover risk
23.7%
2013 Ram 2500 Mega PU/EC 2WD
Overall
Not Rated
Frontal crash
Not Rated
Side crash
Not Rated
Rollover
★★★★★
Rollover risk
15.5%
2013 Ram 2500 Regular PU/RC 4WD
Overall
Not Rated
Frontal crash
Not Rated
Side crash
Not Rated
Rollover
★★★★★
Rollover risk
23.7%
2013 Ram 2500 Regular PU/RC 2WD
Overall
Not Rated
Frontal crash
Not Rated
Side crash
Not Rated
Rollover
★★★★★
Rollover risk
15.5%
NHTSA 5-Star Safety Ratings (New Car Assessment Program). Ratings are comparable only between vehicles of similar size and weight, and ratings from 2011 on use tougher tests than earlier years. Photos: NHTSA.
What owners report
Problem area
Complaints
Crashes
Fires
Injuries
Typical mileage*
Engine
43
0
1
0
30,000 mi
Electrical system
41
1
3
1
44,500 mi
Steering
31
2
0
0
34,437 mi
Suspension
23
1
0
0
42,040 mi
Unknown or other
23
0
1
1
24,000 mi
Fuel/propulsion system
22
0
0
0
23,960 mi
Power train Automatic transmission › Park/neutral start interlock switch
22
2
2
2
64,000 mi
Vehicle speed control Cruise control
14
1
0
0
13,800 mi
Fuel system, diesel
8
0
0
0
5,025 mi
Service brakes
8
0
0
0
47,000 mi
Air bags
8
1
0
1
65,000 mi
Engine and engine cooling Engine › Diesel
6
0
0
0
—
*Median odometer reading when the problem happened, where owners gave one. One complaint can name several problem areas.
Recent owner complaints
Mar 11, 2026Unknown or other The ABS module is not working. Part # 68052421AF is part of a recall # C4B but not for my truck. The VIN states it's been reprogrammed. What can I do?
Feb 4, 2026Engine Jan 8 th had Ram 67A recall performed. Feb1 the EL on dash comes on and def system engine shutdown countdown. Feb 4 brought truck to dealer for service fix. Feb 5 dealer states that truck needs new DEF injector, Wiring harness , and SCR .and covered under the 67A recall warranty. Dealer states truck will be ready Feb 11. Feb 11 dealer states parts part out for devilery status but delayed with no eta on delivery date. Called dealer for status with same parts not available reply from dealer on Feb 11,17,18,23,24 March 2, 4 . Truck had been immobile at dealership for over 30 days and no delivery date available after 67A recall issues.
Nov 21, 2025Power train Over time the transmission cooling line to the radiator was rubbing against another part in the engine compartment resulting in a hole in the line and eventually catastrophic failure of the line. This caused transmission fluid to be sprayed around the engine compartment and the roadway creating an environmental issue. This could cause loss of power, fire and damage to the environment. Online other users of same make model and year have reported the same issue.
Sep 22, 2024 · 116,000 milesPower train The contact owns a 2013 Ram 2500. The contact stated while the vehicle was turned off and in park(P), the vehicle shifted into reverse after the contactâs son bumped into the column shifter. As a result, the vehicle rolled down hill coming to a complete stop after striking a fence post. The air bags did not deploy. No warning lights were illuminated. The vehicle was not taken to the dealer or an independent mechanic. The vehicle was not repaired. After investigating the failure, the contact related the failure to NHTSA Campaign Number: 17V821000 (Power Train); the VIN was included, but the vehicle had already been repaired. A Police report was not filed. No injury was reported. The…
Apr 4, 2023Service brakes DTC C0020-01 appeared after hitting a speed bump along with service TCS and ABS system. This message is displayed sometimes at random but mostly during common bumps in the road. Any wheel spin during wet weather also creates the message. Contacted the local Chrysler deal and was informed this was common and to report it. I have yet to spend money to fix the issue since finding that the wrong part is often replaced and I am no longer under warranty.
Oct 31, 2023Electrical system Hi, I own a 2013 Dodge Ram 2500 and the door locks do not lock all the time. The concern here is that when I have children in the truck the child safety locks do not lock and to me this is a concern. I had the door lock actuators replaced and that still didnt fix the problem. After doing research, there is a body control module that controls all electrical functions to the interior of the truck. If you use a scan tool and clear any codes in the module the door locks work perfectly for about 5-6 start cycles. The part #68200252AG is not available through mopar and has no replacement part number that supersedes the old one. Other item to note is this part number is the 6th updated revision.…
Sep 22, 2023Exterior lighting hi beam, low beam, both sides flicker, go off, then come on. Driver's side (low and hi beam) is now permanently off even after having a repair shop fix them.
Oct 3, 2022Electrical system Front passenger door and both rear door locks operate intermittently. . Doors will unlock with key fob or either front door buttons or front door handles; but they will intermittently lock with key fob or front door buttons or while in drive. Doors not locking keep child safety locks from engaging and children being able to exit vehicle without being in park. Also, prevents vehicle from being securely locked and protecting from theft of items. Truck been to dealership and told of problem they checked but could only get it to replicate issue 2 times and found nothing causing the problem. I have also found multiple Ram forums with a lot of people with same issue. There haven't been any…
Owner complaints are submitted to NHTSA by the public and are not verified. Shown as filed (NHTSA removes personal details); long reports are shortened.
NHTSA defect investigations
RQ25003 · opened Jul 3, 2025 · openPost Recall Remedy Brake Transmission Shift Interlock (BTSI) Failure The Office of Defects Investigation (ODI) has received 14 Vehicle Owner Questionnaire (VOQ) reports and 6 EWR Death & Injury (D&I) reports describing post recall remedy failures of the brake transmission shift interlock (BTSI) system in certain Model Year (MY) 2013-2018 RAM pickup trucks.The subject vehicle models include 1500, 2500, 3500, 4500, and 5500 trucks equipped with a column mounted shift lever.The failures of the BTSI described in the VOQs occurred on vehicles that had all previously been repaired under recall 17V-821 or 18V-100.Both recalls address a potential condition which can cause the BTSI locking pin to become stuck allowing the transmission to be shifted out of Park without depressing the brake pedal and/or without having a key in the ignition.Shifting the transmission out of Park when not having the brake pedal depressed can result in a vehicle rollaway. ODI is…
PE18016 · opened Dec 17, 2018 · closed Dec 12, 2019 · led to recall 19V021000Steering loss due to linkage separation On December 17, 2018, NHTSA's Office of Defects Investigation (ODI) opened Preliminary Evaluation (PE) 18-016 to investigate the steering system on model year (MY) 2015 and 2016 Ram 2500 manufactured by FCA US, LLC (FCA). Four complaints were received alleging separation of the drag link, a steering linkage that connects between the right front steering knuckle and the pitman arm on the steering box output shaft. The failures were found to be at a threaded coupler within the drag link used for adjusting the length of the linkage during routine maintenance (alignment) of the steering system.Once separation occurs, turning the steering wheel has no effect, and there is no way for the driver to control or maintain the direction of the vehicle. During the investigation, it was determined that the same threaded coupler was used on two different drag link designs FCA manufactured on MY…
RQ15004 · opened Jul 24, 2015 · closed Jan 5, 2016 · led to recall 15V508000Software security vulnerability On July 23, 2015, Fiat Chrysler Automobiles (FCA) launched Safety Recall 15V-461 to remedy security vulnerabilities in approximately 1.4 million model year (MY) 2013 through 2015 vehicles equipped with Uconnect head units (HU) 8.4A (RA3 radio) and 8.4AN (RA4 radio) manufactured by Harman International.On July 24, 2015, the Office of Defects Investigation (ODI) opened Recall Query, RQ 15-004, to investigate HU security vulnerabilities and remedy effectiveness in the recalled population and to determine whether similar units have been supplied for use in other FCA vehicles.In an August 11, 2015 letter, FCA submitted a second Part 573 safety recall report expanding the scope of the Uconnect RA4 model radio to include additional 7,810 MY 2015 Jeep Renegade vehicles manufactured from September 18, 2014 through June 25, 2015 (Recall 15V-508).Scope analysis indicated that Uconnect radios…