2016 Ram 1500 Recalls, Issues & Maintenance

The 2016 Ram 1500 carries 17 open NHTSA recalls — most recently covering diesel and latch. Owners report 7 recurring issue clusters, led by “ABS control module failure with nationwide parts backorder.” Ram trucks use the Oil Change Indicator system to signal oil service based on driving conditions. The Ram 1500 (HEMI 5.7L, eTorque mild-hybrid, EcoDiesel 3.0L) and Ram 2500/3500 (Cummins 6.7L turbo-diesel) have markedly different intervals — the schedule below covers Ram 1500 gas. Cummins-equipped HD trucks have separate oil, fuel filter, and DEF service requirements.

17 Open Recalls

Source: NHTSA

ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING:ENGINE:DIESEL

Campaign #20V475000 · Aug 13, 2020

Issue: 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.

Risk: An engine stall can increase the risk of a crash.

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.

LATCHES/LOCKS/LINKAGES:TAILGATE:LATCH

Campaign #19V347000 · Sep 5, 2019

Issue: 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.

STRUCTURE:BODY:TAILGATE

Campaign #18V486000 · Jul 27, 2018

Issue: 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.

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.

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

Campaign #18V332000 · May 17, 2018

Issue: 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.

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.

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.

AIR BAGS:SIDE/WINDOW:CURTAIN:INFLATOR

Campaign #21V632000 · Dec 8, 2021

Issue: 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.

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.

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:EXHAUST SYSTEM:EMISSION CONTROL:GAS RECIRCULATION VALVE (EGR VALVE)

Campaign #19V757000 · Oct 24, 2019

Issue: 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.

Risk: Combustion in the intake manifold can increase the risk of a fire.

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.

POWER TRAIN:AUTOMATIC TRANSMISSION:LEVER AND LINKAGE:COLUMN SHIFT

Campaign #17V821000 · Dec 20, 2017

Issue: 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.

POWER TRAIN:DRIVELINE:DIFFERENTIAL UNIT

Campaign #17V198000 · Mar 23, 2017

Issue: 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.

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.

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.

AIR BAGS

Campaign #17V302000 · Sep 5, 2017

Issue: 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.

POWER TRAIN:AXLE ASSEMBLY:AXLE SHAFT

Campaign #16V301000 · May 16, 2016

Issue: 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.

Risk: A fractured halfshaft may damage underbody components and create road debris, increasing the risk of a crash.

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.

TIRES:TEMPORARY/EMERGENCY SPARE TIRE

Campaign #15V663000 · Oct 16, 2015

Issue: 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.

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.

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 ASSEMBLY:AXLE SHAFT

Campaign #15V661000 · Oct 15, 2015

Issue: 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.

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.

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.

STEERING:ELECTRIC POWER ASSIST SYSTEM

Campaign #16V167000 · Mar 23, 2016

Issue: 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.

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.

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.

EQUIPMENT

Campaign #16E041000 · May 16, 2016

Issue: 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.

FUEL SYSTEM, DIESEL:DELIVERY:FUEL PUMP

Campaign #22V406000 · Sep 6, 2022

Issue: 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.

Risk: Fuel starvation may result in an unexpected loss of drive power, increasing the risk of a crash.

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.

ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING

Campaign #23V411000 · Aug 6, 2023

Issue: 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.

Risk: An engine stall can increase the risk of a crash.

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.

AIR BAGS:SIDE/WINDOW:CURTAIN:INFLATOR

Campaign #25V010000 · Jan 16, 2025

Issue: 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.

Risk: An inflator rupture may result in sharp metal fragments striking occupants, resulting in injury.

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.

Recall data refreshed Sep 6, 2026.

Known issues for this vehicle

What drivers and federal regulators have officially reported about the 2016 Ram 1500.

3 active NHTSA investigations

Source: NHTSA
  • High pressure fuel pump failure

    Action #EA23001 · opened Mar 17, 2023 · linked recall 24V957

    The Office of Defects Investigation (ODI) opened PE21-021 on October 14, 2021, to investigate incidents alleging a stall/loss of motive power as a result of high-pressure fuel pump failures in certain model year (MY) 2019-2020 Ram 2500, 3500, 4500, and 5500 heavy duty trucks equi…

    View on NHTSA →

  • Intermittent/Comp Loss of Power Steering

    Action #RQ23003 · opened Aug 4, 2023

    The Office of Defects Investigation (ODI) has received 380 reports from consumers alleging an intermittent or complete loss of power steering assistance in certain 2013-2016 Ram 1500.The failure allegations occur at various speeds with limited detectability to the driver.On March…

    View on NHTSA →

  • Post Recall Remedy Brake Transmission Shift Interlock (BTSI) Failure

    Action #RQ25003 · opened Jul 3, 2025

    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 picku…

    View on NHTSA →

Reported to NHTSA

ABS control module failure with nationwide parts backorder

SERVICE BRAKES

94 NHTSA complaints · 2025-08 → 2026-07

The ABS light on my dashboard came on approximately one year ago. After researching the issue, I discovered there are numerous complaints about the ABS module failing on my 2016 Ram 1500 and similar models
Owner report, NHTSA ODI #11749674
The contact owns a 2016 Ram 1500. The contact stated that upon taking the vehicle for the State Inspection, the contact's son was informed that the vehicle failed to pass due to the ABS
Owner report, NHTSA ODI #11701446
The ABS Control Module failed 7/2025. Brake and other warning lights came on. My mechanic diagnosed as an ABS Control Module failure
Owner report, NHTSA ODI #11693221

Read all complaints on NHTSA →

Fuel tank strap corrosion and detachment

FUEL/PROPULSION SYSTEM

7 NHTSA complaints · 2025-08 → 2026-04

Frame is rusted out and front gas tank strap came out and gas tank came down
Owner report, NHTSA ODI #11732227
My 2016 Ram 1500 (4th‑gen) has a severely rusted and failed front fuel tank strap bracket, causing the tank to sag. This matches the defect described in Recall U04 / NHTSA 18V‑160 for 2009–2012 Ram 1500 trucks, but my VIN is not included
Owner report, NHTSA ODI #11724563
Front gas tank strap is detached from frame and fuel tank is hanging down ready to fall out on road. There is a recall for this condition on the 2009-2012 models but the same condition exists on the 2016
Owner report, NHTSA ODI #11683842

Read all complaints on NHTSA →

Electric power steering assist loss while driving

STEERING

40 NHTSA complaints · 2025-08 → 2026-07

While driving, the vehicle suddenly lost power steering assist without warning. The steering wheel warning light illuminated on the instrument panel, and the steering immediately became extremely difficult to turn
Owner report, NHTSA ODI #11752688
Electronic power steering failure. Not complete shut down, but intermittent. Heavy steering feel when cornering at very low or highway speeds. No return to center. Notchy/sticky steering feel
Owner report, NHTSA ODI #11740354
The contact owned a 2016 Dodge Ram 1500. The contact’s husband stated that while driving at approximately 30 mph, the steering wheel became inoperable and the vehicle unexpectedly veered to the left with no warning lights illuminated
Owner report, NHTSA ODI #11726661

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Crankshaft position sensor tone wheel failure

ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING

6 NHTSA complaints · 2025-08 → 2026-05

The contact owns a 2016 RAM 1500. The contact stated while the contact's husband was driving at 75 MPH, the engine seized. In addition, several warning lights illuminated
Owner report, NHTSA ODI #11738787
The vehicle was driving down the highway at highway speed when it began to shut down. This put myself & other drivers at serious risk as I had to navigate several lanes of traffic with a dead vehicle
Owner report, NHTSA ODI #11738791
2016 RAM Ecodiesel in shop with crankshaft position sensor error. Vehicle available for inspection at Sarasota RAM. Vehicle shut down on highway
Owner report, NHTSA ODI #11680522

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EcoDiesel high-pressure fuel pump failure

FUEL SYSTEM, DIESEL

8 NHTSA complaints · 2025-09 → 2026-07

The contact owns a 2016 Ram 1500. The contact stated that while driving approximately 70-75 MPH, the vehicle stalled. The vehicle was coasted to the side of the road
Owner report, NHTSA ODI #11751045
The vehicle was previously repaired under Recall Z46, but the replacement remedy pump suffered the exact same catastrophic internal failure. The vehicle has now been stranded at Orange Coast Ram for over 30 days under Work Order 156725
Owner report, NHTSA ODI #11748022
I own a 2016 Ram 1500 EcoDiesel, VIN [XXX] . The vehicle has been in and out of Rydell Jeep & Ram dealership over 3 times in the last few months for fuel pump issues
Owner report, NHTSA ODI #11733977

Read all complaints on NHTSA →

Air suspension system failure and sagging

SUSPENSION

6 NHTSA complaints · 2025-08 → 2026-04

I originally brought my vehicle into Mac Haik Dodge in April 2025 for issues with my Air Suspension and 4-Wheel drive control modules displaying on the dashboard of my vehicle
Owner report, NHTSA ODI #11732678
What component or system failed or malfunctioned, and is it available for inspection upon request? Factory Air Suspension on 2016 RAM Rebel V8 5.7L Right Front broken elbow How was your safety or the safety of others put at risk?
Owner report, NHTSA ODI #11715477
Air suspension failed while driving on interstate and nearly caused total loss of control of the vehicle. Truck violently bounces due to failure in air suspension system
Owner report, NHTSA ODI #11682292

Read all complaints on NHTSA →

Air bag non-deployment during frontal crash

AIR BAGS

3 NHTSA complaints · 2025-09 → 2026-06

Vehicle was in a front end collision and the air bags never deployed. Approximate speed 40-45 mph
Owner report, NHTSA ODI #11746444
The contact owned a 2016 Ram 1500. The contact stated that while making a right turn onto a main road, a passing vehicle crashed into the front driver's side quarter panel of the contact's vehicle
Owner report, NHTSA ODI #11687869
Driver hit a tree at 55mph, air bags did not deploy, insurance company determined vehicle was total loss, and body shop (Caliber Collision at 3061 US-42 Delaware OH 43015, phone # 740-430-2869) questioned why the air bags did not deploy
Owner report, NHTSA ODI #11685356

Read all complaints on NHTSA →

Note: NHTSA also opened 1 defect investigation(s) on this vehicle that closed without action.

Source: NHTSA Office of Defects Investigation (ODI). Complaint data refreshed Sep 11, 2026. Investigation data refreshed Sep 11, 2026.

We display NHTSA's record with attribution; we don't editorialize on what these complaints mean for any specific vehicle.

Essential maintenance

Critical for safety and preventing major damage

Engine Oil & Filter

Every 8,000 mi

HEMI 5.7L: SAE 5W-20 every 8,000 miles per Oil Change Indicator. Pentastar 3.6L: SAE 0W-20. EcoDiesel 3.0L: full synthetic 5W-30, every 10,000 miles. Cummins 6.7L (HD): 15W-40 every 15,000 miles or 6 months.

Estimated cost — typical U.S. ranges

Dealer

~$120–$160

Shop

~$85–$115

DIY

~$25–$55

Full synthetic costs more than conventional. 5-quart 0W-20 + filter is the typical bill.

Tire Rotation

Every 8,000 mi

Rotate tires every 8,000 miles. 4WD models towing or hauling regularly: rotate every 5,000 miles to even out drivetrain wear.

Estimated cost — typical U.S. ranges

Dealer

~$85

Shop

~$60

DIY

Free

Often free at the shop where you bought the tires — worth asking before paying.

Brake Inspection

Every 8,000 mi

Inspect pads, rotors, and parking brake every 8,000 miles. Ram 1500 front pads typically last 40,000-60,000 miles under normal use; cut by 30-50% if towing heavily.

Estimated cost — typical U.S. ranges

Dealer

~$85

Shop

~$60

DIY

Free

Most shops do this free as a courtesy with any service. Don't pay separately if you can avoid it.

Fuel Filter (EcoDiesel + Cummins)

Every 30,000 mi

EcoDiesel 3.0L: dual fuel filters (under hood + frame-mounted) replace every 30,000 miles. Cummins 6.7L: replace at 30,000 miles or sooner if water-in-fuel light triggers.

Estimated cost — typical U.S. ranges

Dealer

~$195–$250

Shop

~$135–$175

DIY

~$20–$60

On many modern cars the filter lives inside the fuel tank and is lifetime — verify before paying for a 'service'.

Important maintenance

Keeps your vehicle running smoothly and efficiently

Engine Air Filter

Every 40,000 mi

Replace engine air filter every 40,000 miles. Trucks driven on construction sites or unpaved roads should inspect at every oil change.

Estimated cost — typical U.S. ranges

Dealer

~$60–$95

Shop

~$45–$70

DIY

~$15–$40

5-minute job on most cars; the airbox lid usually has clips, no tools needed.

Automatic Transmission Fluid (ZF 8HP70 / 8HP75)

Every 60,000 mi

Severe service (towing, plowing): replace ATF every 60,000 miles. Normal: 120,000 miles. Use Mopar ATF+4 — substitutes cause harsh 3-4 and 5-6 shifts.

Estimated cost — typical U.S. ranges

Dealer

~$330–$500

Shop

~$235–$355

DIY

~$60–$180

Some sealed transmissions have no dipstick — fill is precise and best left to a shop. Many drivers can still DIY drain-and-fill.

Transfer Case Fluid (4WD)

Every 60,000 mi

Ram 1500 4WD: replace transfer case fluid every 60,000 miles. Use Mopar ATF+4 for the BorgWarner 44-44 transfer case.

Estimated cost — typical U.S. ranges

Dealer

~$105–$140

Shop

~$75–$100

DIY

~$15–$40

AWD/4WD vehicles only. Easy drain-and-fill on most platforms.

Differential Fluid (front + rear)

Every 60,000 mi

Front and rear axle fluid: replace every 60,000 miles, or 30,000 miles if towing 6,000+ lbs regularly. Limited-slip rears require Mopar friction-modifier additive.

Estimated cost — typical U.S. ranges

Dealer

~$150–$195

Shop

~$105–$135

DIY

~$20–$50

Drain plug + fill plug — straightforward DIY. AWD vehicles have two; budget for both.

Spark Plugs (HEMI — 16 plugs)

Every 100,000 mi

HEMI 5.7L runs two spark plugs per cylinder (16 total) — replace at 100,000 miles. Pentastar 3.6L: standard 6 plugs at 100,000 miles. EcoDiesel: glow plug inspection at 100,000.

Estimated cost — typical U.S. ranges

Dealer

~$285–$390

Shop

~$200–$275

DIY

~$25–$100

Iridium plugs cost more but last 100k+ miles. V6/V8 access varies wildly — some are tough.

MS-12106 Coolant (Mopar HOAT)

Every 50,000 mi

Mopar HOAT (purple): first change at 100,000 miles or 5 years, then every 50,000 miles. EcoDiesel uses a different OAT formulation — do not mix.

Estimated cost — typical U.S. ranges

Dealer

~$285–$330

Shop

~$200–$235

DIY

~$25–$60

Use the manufacturer-specified coolant — wrong color/chemistry can damage the cooling system.

Recommended maintenance

Extends the life of your vehicle and improves comfort

Cabin Air Filter

Every 20,000 mi

Replace cabin air filter every 20,000 miles. Behind the glove box on Ram 1500.

Estimated cost — typical U.S. ranges

Dealer

~$60–$95

Shop

~$45–$70

DIY

~$15–$40

Usually behind the glovebox. Shops charge labor for a 10-minute job — easy DIY win.

Fatal crash history & reported problems

Occupant deaths in fatal crashes (FARS)

209 crashes 2010–2024

FARS counts every occupant death in a fatal crash, whatever the cause — it does not mean the vehicle was at fault or defective. Counts are not adjusted for how many of each vehicle are on the road. How to read this number

Owner-reported problem signals

Separate from the federal fatality data above: complaints owners filed with NHTSA about this year and model. These are reports of problems, unverified, and are counted here only as signals.

90

complaints mentioning a crash

36

complaints mentioning a fire

Reviewed known issues for this vehicle·Open recalls for this vehicle

Typical U.S. ranges. Actual quotes vary by shop, parts choice, and vehicle condition.

How we estimate: Dealer = OEM parts × 1.4 + labor × $165/hr. Shop = parts + labor × $115/hr. DIY = parts only.

This maintenance schedule for the 2016 Ram 1500 reflects Ram's published service intervals and the Oil Change Indicator system. Your actual service needs may vary based on driving conditions, climate, and vehicle usage. Always consult your owner's manual for model-specific recommendations.