PROBLEM GUIDE

2009–2016 Ram 1500 Common Problems

Here's what owners are experiencing, based on our research of real owner reports and repair data.

Last updated February 2026

1,266

complaints filed for the 2013 model year

2009–2016

Model years affected

$3,000 – $5,000

Typical repair cost, by problem

Electronic power steering sudden, unexpected loss of assist is the dominant complaint category, with manufacturer-noted parts discontinued or severely backordered and no formal recall found covering this specific defect — parts being discontinued outside any recall is also reported on the Acura RL's PAX tire system; here it affects a safety-critical steering component.

Quick Scan: 6 Issues

Click a problem for the full write-up — symptoms, what we found, and typical repair costs where we have them.

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PROBLEM DETAILS

Sudden, unexpected loss of power steering assist

Parts discontinued or severely backordered

Check engine light: On

Electronic power steering (EPS) sudden, unexpected loss of assist is the dominant complaint category — owners report "steering wheel became difficult to turn" and mid-drive "service power steering" warnings, with manufacturer-noted parts discontinued or severely backordered and no formal recall found covering this specific defect.

$3,000 – $5,000

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ABS control module electronic failures

Simultaneous brake/ABS/traction-control warning lights, parts unavailable

Check engine light: On

ABS control module internal electronic failures (DTC C2200-49) cause simultaneous brake/ABS/traction-control warning lights, with replacement parts unavailable or severely delayed.

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Fuel tank strap corrosion

Tanks partially detaching during operation

Check engine light: Off

Fuel tank strap corrosion is documented, with tanks partially detaching during operation.

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Brake Transmission Shift Interlock pin malfunction

Gear shifts possible without the brake pedal or key — recall 17V821000

Check engine light: Off

A Brake Transmission Shift Interlock (BTSI) pin malfunction allows gear shifts without the brake pedal or ignition key — recall 17V821000. The same type of defect is reported on the Cadillac Escalade and Ford F-150.

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Steering wheel wiring harness rubs against the airbag module

Risk of unexpected deployment — recall 15V459000

Check engine light: Off

The steering wheel wiring harness may rub against the driver airbag module, risking unexpected deployment — recall 15V459000.

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Roll-rate sensor faults disable rollover safety systems

Side-curtain airbags and seat belt pretensioners affected — recall 17V302000

Check engine light: Off

Roll-rate sensor faults disable rollover side-curtain airbags and seat belt pretensioners — recall 17V302000.

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Enter your VIN to check for open recalls and technical service bulletins on your specific car.

The information on this page is for general educational purposes only and is not a diagnosis. It is compiled from aggregated owner-reported data and publicly available sources, not from an inspection of your vehicle. Symptoms described here can have multiple causes, and the presence of a commonly reported problem does not mean your vehicle has it. Repair cost ranges are estimates that vary by region, shop, vehicle condition, and parts availability. Recall and service campaign information may be incomplete or out of date — verify current recall status with NHTSA or your manufacturer. MyGearGuru is not affiliated with, endorsed by, or sponsored by any vehicle manufacturer; manufacturer and model names are used for identification only. Always consult a qualified technician before making repair decisions.

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