2013–2018 Ram 1500 · common problems & known faults

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.

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.

Exhaust manifold bolt breakage on the Hemi.

Typically appears

80,000+ miles

What to inspect

Listen for an exhaust tick on cold start.

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.

Camshaft and lifter failure causing misfires and a rhythmic metallic tapping.

Typically appears

80,000-120,000 miles

What to inspect

Start the engine from cold, open the bonnet, and listen to the upper engine block for a sharp, rhythmic metallic tapping that persists after warm-up.

Third brake light seal failure causing water ingress into the cabin.

Typically appears

40,000-60,000 miles

What to inspect

Press firmly on the rear carpets behind the front seats to check for dampness. Inspect the rear headlining above the rear window for brown water stains.

Uconnect 8.4-inch touchscreen delamination causing phantom inputs and dead spots.

Typically appears

50,000-70,000 miles

What to inspect

Turn the ignition on and visually inspect the display for a sticky, bubbling film under the glass, usually starting from the top corners. Test touch responsiveness.

Water pump bearing failure and coolant weeping on 5.7L V8 models.

Typically appears

60,000-90,000 miles

What to inspect

Shine a torch down the front of the engine block beneath the water pump pulley. Look for pinkish-orange dried coolant residue or a wobbly pulley whilst idling.