Worse than most 1500 years
Owners filed about 1.4 times as many complaints as a typical 1500 year. The main thing to watch is the engine and cooling, which half of owners reported by about 65,000 miles. Years with fewer complaints: 2018, 2020 and 2021.
Based on owner complaints to NHTSA, compared with other 1500 years from 2012 to 2024. A good year can still be a bad car, so check the one you are looking at.
Owners have filed 1,559 complaints with NHTSA about the 2016 Ram 1500. The most reported problem area is the engine and cooling (353, 23% of complaints), followed by the steering and the brakes and stability control. That ranks 2nd of 13 1500 years from 2012 to 2024 for complaints. It has 17 recalls.
20 of these complaints came from Utah owners.
Get recall alerts for your 2016 1500
Add it to My Garage, free. We email you when a new recall is issued for it, plus service reminders and what it is worth each month.
Add it to My GarageStart a free car search
Tell us what you want in a 2016 1500 and your budget. We review every request and show you how we can help you find a good one and skip the bad years.
Start my car searchMost reported problems
Problem areas ranked by how many complaints mention them. One complaint can name more than one area. Open an area to see what to check on a 2016 Ram 1500 before you buy.
Engine and cooling
353 complaintsStalling, misfires, oil consumption, leaks, overheating and engine failure.What to check before you buy
Half of the owners who gave a mileage had the problem by about 65,000 miles.
What to check before you buy
- Ask the seller not to warm the car up, and start it cold. Listen for ticking, knocking or a rough idle in the first minute.
- Pull the oil dipstick and the oil cap. Low oil, a gasoline smell or a milky film on the cap are reasons to walk away or get an inspection.
- Plug in an OBD2 scanner. Stored or pending codes matter, and so do readiness monitors that show "not ready", which usually means the codes were cleared right before the sale.
- Ask for oil change records. A gap in the records on a model known for engine complaints is a negotiating point at minimum.
Tools that help
What owners said
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…Owner complaint, filed 2026, at 14,700 miles
The contact owns a 2016 Ram 1500. The contact stated that while driving at an undisclosed speed, the vehicle intermittently went into LIMP Mode. The contact stated that the "Drive to Park" and "Pull Over and Shift Gear" messages were displayed on the instrument panel. The failure had occurred on several occasions. The vehicle was taken…Owner complaint, filed 2026, at 170,000 miles
Steering
314 complaintsLoss of power steering assist, wandering, play in the wheel and noises when turning.What to check before you buy
Half of the owners who gave a mileage had the problem by about 71,000 miles.
What to check before you buy
- Turn the wheel lock to lock while parked and listen for groaning, clicking or binding.
- On a straight road the car should track straight with the wheel centered and no loose feeling.
- A power steering warning on the dash, even briefly, deserves a mechanic’s look before you buy.
Tools that help
What owners said
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.Owner complaint, filed 2026
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.Owner complaint, filed 2026
Brakes and stability control
290 complaintsBrakes that feel soft or grab, grinding, ABS and stability control faults.What to check before you buy
Half of the owners who gave a mileage had the problem by about 71,000 miles.
What to check before you buy
- The pedal should feel firm and the car should stop straight without pulling, grinding or a pulsing pedal.
- The ABS and stability control lights should go out after startup and stay out.
- Look through the wheels at the rotors. A deep lip on the edge means brakes are due soon, which is a fair thing to negotiate on.
Tools that help
What owners said
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.Owner complaint, filed 2026, at 149,000 miles
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…Owner complaint, filed 2026, at 52,000 miles
Fuel system
282 complaintsHesitation, stalling, fuel smell, fuel pump and injector failures.What to check before you buy
Half of the owners who gave a mileage had the problem by about 66,000 miles.
What to check before you buy
- Smell around the engine bay and under the rear of the car for raw fuel.
- On the test drive, accelerate firmly from a stop and up a grade. Stumbling, surging or a flashing check engine light are red flags.
- Fuel pump recalls are common. Check this exact VIN for open recalls before you buy.
Tools that help
What owners said
On [XXX], I experienced a severe safety failure regarding the fuel tank support on my 2016 Ram 1500 (VIN: [XXX]). 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…Owner complaint, filed 2026
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…Owner complaint, filed 2026
Transmission and drivetrain
203 complaintsHarsh or delayed shifts, slipping, shuddering, CVT whine, and drivetrain clunks.What to check before you buy
Half of the owners who gave a mileage had the problem by about 32,000 miles.
What to check before you buy
- Drive it from cold if you can. Shifts should be smooth in every gear, including reverse.
- Feel for slipping (revs rise without the car speeding up), shudder at low speed and a delay when you put it in gear.
- Listen for whining, which is a common CVT complaint, and clunks when you go from drive to reverse.
- If it has 4WD or AWD, engage it on the test drive and ask when the transmission and differential fluids were last changed.
Tools that help
What owners said
Passenger side axle half shaft has separated. There is a recall (Safety Recall S32) currently on 2016 Ram 1500 4WD manufactured between February 19, 2016, and March 3, 2016. This vehicle was manufactured March 8, 2016. It is too coincidental that I am having the same issue as described in the recall information. I have contacted FCA via…Owner complaint, filed 2025
The contact owns a 2016 Ram 1500. The contact stated that while driving approximately 30 MPH, the rear wheel seized, causing the vehicle to abruptly stop. The contact discovered that the vehicle failed to drive forward while in drive(D). The contact stated that after switching to 4WD, the vehicle was driven off the road and was later…Owner complaint, filed 2025, at 81,127 miles
Electrical system
193 complaintsDead batteries, warning lights, failed screens and cameras, and electrical shorts.What to check before you buy
Half of the owners who gave a mileage had the problem by about 33,000 miles.
What to check before you buy
- Test every switch: windows, locks, mirrors, seat heaters, the screen, the backup camera, Bluetooth and every USB port.
- Watch the dash at startup. Every warning light should come on briefly and then go out.
- Have the battery and charging system tested. A weak alternator or battery drain shows up here.
Tools that help
What owners said
The contact owns a 2016 Ram 1500. The contact stated that at start-up, the fuel gauge indicated that the fuel tank was on empty, even though the fuel tank was full. Additionally, the check engine warning light remained illuminated, with the message “Fuel Sensor Failure” displayed. The local dealer was not contacted; however, the vehicle…Owner complaint, filed 2025
the connecter under Power Distribution Center has melted and has made it so that the blower motor turns on and off at random. This is going to cause a fire if not fix. There is alot of other people online saying they have the same issue and even showing photos of the connecter. if needed i will send a photo of my connecter.Owner complaint, filed 2025
Cruise control and acceleration
111 complaintsHesitation, loss of power, sudden acceleration and cruise control problems.What to check before you buy
Half of the owners who gave a mileage had the problem by about 44,000 miles.
What to check before you buy
- On the test drive, press the gas gently and firmly. The response should be smooth with no lag or surge.
- Set the cruise control, then use resume and cancel to make sure each one works.
Tools that help
What owners said
The ABS Module in my truck went out also causing no speedometer readings. The dealership at Dodge confirmed it needs to be replaced as well as a failing fuel pump. They have had my truck since April 7th 2026. Today as of writing is May 22nd. They keep moving my estimated date for part arrival constantly. Two months and I am still out of…Owner complaint, filed 2026
cruise control difficult to set sometimes. When set, cancel button does not shut cruise control off.Truck continues to keep speed rate going. This has been a continual problem from purchase.Owner complaint, filed 2025
Suspension
68 complaintsClunks over bumps, broken springs, worn struts and uneven tire wear.What to check before you buy
Half of the owners who gave a mileage had the problem by about 52,000 miles.
What to check before you buy
- Drive over a few bumps and potholes slowly with the radio off and listen for clunks or rattles.
- Check the tires for uneven wear on the inside or outside edges, a sign of alignment or suspension trouble.
- Look behind the wheels for oily, wet shocks or struts.
Tools that help
What owners said
After driving approximately 30-45 minutes a message on the dashboard showed up saying "Immediate Air Suspension Service/Repair Required". The suspension locked up at this point. Driving down the interstate at speeds of 70 mph was not safe for the vehicle or the occupants. This problem was addressed by a licensed Ram mechanic/dealership…Owner complaint, filed 2026
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. I was advised by Mac Haik's Service department in April 2025 that they were unable to replicate or address the issues with my vehicle after having my vehicle for…Owner complaint, filed 2026
Air bags
49 complaintsAir bag warning lights, air bags that did not deploy, and inflator recalls.What to check before you buy
Half of the owners who gave a mileage had the problem by about 34,000 miles.
What to check before you buy
- The air bag (SRS) light should come on at startup and go out within a few seconds. If it stays on, the system may not work in a crash.
- Air bag recalls are some of the most serious. Check this exact VIN for open recalls and get proof any recall work was done.
Tools that help
What owners said
The service airbag system keeps alerting me. Some vehicles have been recalled but my vehicle has not been recalled and I would like that to be taken care of.Owner complaint, filed 2025
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. No property damage was reported, the vehicles came to a stop upon impact, and the air bags did not deploy. The speed of the other vehicle at…Owner complaint, filed 2025, at 120,000 miles
Body, doors and structure
43 complaintsRust, doors and liftgates that will not latch, leaks, and frame or structure concerns.What to check before you buy
Half of the owners who gave a mileage had the problem by about 45,000 miles. Parts named most: Body (31).
What to check before you buy
- Look underneath with a flashlight. Utah road salt is hard on frames, brake lines and the bottoms of doors.
- Open and close every door, the hood and the liftgate, and lock and unlock each one.
- Use a paint thickness gauge and compare panels. A panel that reads very differently from the rest has likely been repaired.
Tools that help
What owners said
i have 2016 ram 1500 p/u and tailgate has problem opening up and/or opening on its own. This problem ended up sending me to the hospital in an ambulance with a concussion, fractured pelvic bone and 4 broken ribs.Owner complaint, filed 2026
The tailgate on my 2016 Dodge Ram will not stay locked and falls open during cold weather. I've contacted the dealer but they said this particular vin is not included in a recall. I've accessed the inside panel on the tailgate several times to clean and lubricate, but it only works for a short time. It's been a continuous problem for the…Owner complaint, filed 2025
Lights, wipers and visibility
24 complaintsHeadlights that dim or fail, wiper and washer failures, and windshield cracks.What to check before you buy
Half of the owners who gave a mileage had the problem by about 10,000 miles.
What to check before you buy
- Check every light: headlights on low and high, fog lights, brake lights, turn signals and reverse lights.
- Run the wipers on every speed with washer fluid, and run the defroster front and back.
Tools that help
What owners said
The contact owns a 2016 Ram 1500. The contact stated while driving at approximately 55 MPH, there was a loud booming sound coming from the roof of the vehicle. The contact later discovered that the glass sunroof had shattered and there were shards of glass falling from the roof of the vehicle. There were no injuries reported. The cause…Owner complaint, filed 2025, at 107,000 miles
The contact owns a 2016 ram 1500. The contact stated that the vehicle's headlights would burn out and needed to be replaced often. The contact stated that the headlights needed to be replaced approximately once every 2-3 months. The contact took the vehicle to a repair shop where the headlights were replaced each time. The [VIN] and…Owner complaint, filed 2019, at 85,948 miles
Driver assist systems
23 complaintsPhantom braking, false collision warnings, and lane keeping or backup sensors that act up.What to check before you buy
Parts named most: Adaptive cruise control (11), Automatic emergency braking (11).
What to check before you buy
- Where it is safe, try the adaptive cruise and lane keeping on the test drive and watch for sudden braking or warnings with nothing there.
- Check the windshield in front of the camera and the bumper sensors for cracks, chips or poor repairs.
- Ask whether the windshield has been replaced. The camera has to be recalibrated afterward, and many shops skip it.
Tools that help
What owners said
The automatic brake system (ABS) module has failed. Warning lights on the dash are for brakes, traction control and automating braking. The lights are frequent but not constant. When lit, the vehicle loses 4 wheel drive and cruise control. Sudden loss of cruise control at highway speeds is a safety hazard. Loss of 4 wheel drive in…Owner complaint, filed 2024
Sir/Ma'am, My Ram 2016 Ram1500 has been at the local Chrysler Dealer for approximately three months. The ABS and HCU needs to be replaced, however the dealer is unable to order the parts due to an ongoing engineer review which renews every 29 days. This is the same issue affecting the 2019-2024 models which have now been recalled…Owner complaint, filed 2024
Wheels and tires
22 complaintsTire failures, wheels and lug nuts, and tire pressure sensor faults.What to check before you buy
Half of the owners who gave a mileage had the problem by about 25,000 miles.
What to check before you buy
- Read the four-digit DOT date on each tire. Tires older than about six years should be replaced, whatever the tread looks like.
- Check tread depth on all four. On AWD vehicles all four tires should match.
- The tire pressure light should go out after startup.
Tools that help
What owners said
The contact owns a 2016 Ram 1500. The contact stated that while driving approximately 70 MPH, the vehicle started shaking abnormally. The contact pulled over to the side of the road and was informed by a mechanic that the front passenger’s side wheel lug nuts and bolts were loosened and had detached. The vehicle was towed to the dealer…Owner complaint, filed 2025, at 178,080 miles
I bought my truck August 17, 2016 brand new from Crown Dodge - Chrysler with 7 miles on the odometer. When I bought my truck it had Good Year tires on the truck. At about 35k to 40k miles I replaced those tires with Michelin Defender LTX M/S that I purchased from Delta World Tire shop located 1629 Popps Ferry Road, Biloxi, MS 39532.…Owner complaint, filed 2023
Seats and seat belts
15 complaintsBelts that will not latch or retract, seat adjusters and passenger occupancy sensors.What to check before you buy
Half of the owners who gave a mileage had the problem by about 28,000 miles.
What to check before you buy
- Pull out and latch every seat belt, and let each one retract on its own.
- Try every seat adjuster, and watch for a passenger air bag "off" light when an adult is in the seat.
Tools that help
What owners said
When putting on seat belt it won't stay secured, you have to constantly insert seat belt for it to stay, there's something wrong with it.Owner complaint, filed 2026
I am very angry that the drivers seat belt on my Dodge Ram Hemi 2016 is NOT working properly. I bought the truck used in the fall of 2016 and I & my family have been the only drivers since then. The truck only has 92,235 miles on it & has NOT been used for towing, work nor has it been in an accident. I use it to do my grocery shopping.…Owner complaint, filed 2024
Ram 1500 complaints by year
Compare the 2016 with other years before you choose one. Tap a year to see its problems.
Compare with similar 2016 full-size trucks
Each car is rated against its own other years, since popular models always get more complaints than rare ones.
| Car | Vs. its other years | Recalls |
|---|---|---|
| 2016 Ram 1500 | Worse than most years | 17 |
| 2016 Ford F-150 | About average | 14 |
| 2016 Chevrolet Silverado 1500 | About average | 14 |
| 2016 GMC Sierra 1500 | About average | 10 |
2016 Ram 1500 recalls
Air bags Inflator
- 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.
Full recall summary
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.
Engine and cooling
- 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.
Full recall summary
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.
Fuel system Fuel pump
- 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.
Full recall summary
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.
Air bags Inflator
- 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.
Full recall summary
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.
Engine and cooling Diesel
- 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…
Full recall summary
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.
Engine and cooling Gas recirculation valve
- 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.
Full recall summary
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.
Doors, hood and latches
- 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.
Full recall summary
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.
Body and structure Tailgate
- 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.
Full recall summary
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.
Electrical system Wiring
- 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.
Full recall summary
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.
Transmission and drivetrain Column shift
- 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.
Full recall summary
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.
Air bags
- 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.
Full recall summary
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.
Transmission and drivetrain Differential unit
- Risk
- A broken or locked up differential may result in a loss of motive power and possibly a loss of vehicle control.
- Fix
- Chrysler will notify owners, and dealers will inspect and replace the differential retaining pin, free of charge.
Full recall summary
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.
Transmission and drivetrain Axle shaft
- 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.
Full recall summary
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.
Equipment
- 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.
Full recall summary
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.
Steering Electric power assist system
- 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.
Full recall summary
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.
Tires Temporary / emergency spare tire
- Risk
- Without a heat shield, heat from the exhaust system may damage the spare tire.
- Fix
- Chrysler will notify owners, and dealers will install a spare tire heat shield if the vehicle is missing one.
Full recall summary
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.
Transmission and drivetrain Axle shaft
- 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.
Full recall summary
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.
2016 Ram 1500 questions
What are the most common problems with the 2016 Ram 1500?
The most reported problem areas on the 2016 Ram 1500 are the engine and cooling (353 complaints), the steering (314 complaints) and the brakes and stability control (290 complaints).
Is the 2016 Ram 1500 a good year to buy?
Worse than most 1500 years. Owners filed about 1.4 times as many complaints as a typical 1500 year. The main thing to watch is the engine and cooling, which half of owners reported by about 65,000 miles. Years with fewer complaints: 2018, 2020 and 2021. Based on owner complaints to NHTSA, compared with other 1500 years from 2012 to 2024. A good year can still be a bad car, so check the one you are looking at.
How many recalls does the 2016 Ram 1500 have?
NHTSA lists 17 recalls for the 2016 Ram 1500. The most recent, from Jan 2025, covers the inflator. Recalls cover the whole model year, so check the VIN of the car you are looking at to see which are still open.
At what mileage do 2016 Ram 1500 problems start?
Half of the owners who reported a problem with the engine and cooling gave a mileage of about 65,000 miles or less. Half of the owners who reported a problem with the steering gave a mileage of about 71,000 miles or less. Plenty of cars have these problems later or never, so ask for service records.
Which Ram 1500 years should I avoid?
The 1500 years with the most complaints compared with the rest are 2014. Years with clearly fewer complaints are 2018, 2020 and 2021. Years from 2022 on are too new to rate fairly yet.
Check the exact car
These problems are for the model year as a whole. Here is how to find out about the one you are looking at.
Looking at a 2016 Ram 1500?
We inspect the car with a scan tool and paint gauge, read the history report and tell you whether it is worth the asking price, before you hand over any money.
- Check a specific car for open recalls at NHTSA
- Decode a VIN to see recalls, safety ratings and complaints for that exact year, make and model