TransmissionMedium
8-speed automatic hesitation or delayed engagement.
- Typically appears
- Any
- What to inspect
- Test-drive from a stop and in stop-go traffic for lag or clunks.
2013–2018 Ram 1500 · common problems & known faults
The DS Ram 1500 rides well and offers the smooth Pentastar V6 and Hemi V8, but the 8-speed transmission behavior and electrical module (TIPM) are common talking points.
Compiled & reviewed by the VehicleFaults Research Team · last reviewed July 2026
Quick answer
The most commonly reported faults on the 2013–2018 Ram 1500 are TIPM (power distribution module) faults causing no-starts, stalling, or accessory issues, 8-speed automatic hesitation or delayed engagement and Exhaust manifold bolt breakage on the Hemi. 1 of the documented issues are rated high severity · inspect these first. Full inspection points, onset mileage and what to check are listed below.
Reliability snapshot
Based on the documented faults on this page for the Ram 1500.
7.3/ 10
- Critical
- 0
- High
- 1
- Medium
- 3
- Low
- 0
Guidance only · reflects reported patterns, not a specific car's condition.
Known faults to check
ElectricalHigh
TIPM (power distribution module) faults causing no-starts, stalling, or accessory issues.
- Typically appears
- 60,000+ miles
- What to inspect
- Test all electrical accessories, remote start, and confirm no intermittent no-start history.
EngineMedium
Exhaust manifold bolt breakage on the Hemi.
- Typically appears
- 80,000+ miles
- What to inspect
- Listen for an exhaust tick on cold start.
SuspensionMedium
Air suspension faults on so-equipped trucks.
- Typically appears
- 70,000+ miles
- What to inspect
- Confirm the truck levels correctly and check for warning messages.
Inspecting a Ram 1500?
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Check this exact carFrequently asked questions
Is the Ram 1500 reliable?
It's comfortable and capable, but electrical (TIPM) and transmission quirks are the main used-buying risks.
Hemi or Pentastar V6?
The 3.6L Pentastar is efficient and solid; the 5.7L Hemi is stronger but watch manifold bolts and MDS lifters.
What is the TIPM?
It's the truck's power-distribution module; failures can cause a range of odd electrical symptoms.
Sources & further reading
Faults are compiled from documented recalls, technical bulletins, owner reports and mechanic sources, then reviewed for accuracy. This is guidance only · not a substitute for a professional inspection.