2003 Dodge Ram 2500

Do not drive

Owners filed 661 complaints about this vehicle with federal regulators, most often about the airbags. It has been recalled 9 times.

Avoid One of the Dodge Ram 2500 years to avoid: 2.3× the complaints of a typical Ram 2500 year. Which Dodge Ram 2500 years to avoid →

When it fails
020k40k60k90k120k200k
77,200 milesMedian miles at failure

460 complaints record an odometer reading. Failures cluster around 120,000–150,000 miles.

Most common 2003 Dodge Ram 2500 problems

134 of the 661 complaints (20%) are about the airbags.

ComponentReportsCrashesFiresInjuries
Air Bags · airbags131
406
Steering104
605
Structure · body and frame88
004
Suspension36
200
Structure › Body · body and frame35
005
Unknown or Other30
000
Suspension › Front20
000
Electrical System20
010
Power Train › Automatic Transmission · transmission19
500
Visibility15
000

2003 Dodge Ram 2500 airbags problems

20% of all complaints

134 of the 661 complaints are about the airbags. This is what owners describe:

  • shows an airbag warning light4% · 5
  • did not deploy its airbags in a crash4% · 5

Share of the 134 airbags complaints whose text describes each symptom. One complaint can describe several.

Typical mileage
95,000 mi
median of 29 reports
Peak year of filing
2015
53 airbags complaints that year
Crashes · fires · injuries
5 · 0 · 7
in these complaints
Recalls on the airbags
“Tl* the contact owns a 2003 dodge ram 2500. While driving unknown speeds, the air bag indicator illuminated. The vehicle was taken to a local dealer (dominion of bedford, 1750 independence blvd bedford, va 24523) where it was diagnosed that the air bag control module needed to be replaced; however, the part was no longer being manufactured.”
Owner complaint, filed Oct 4, 2017 at 130,000 miles
“Took vehicle into jacksons of enid, 4405 w owen garriott rd, enid, ok 73703 on 4/27/17 for safety recall related work on passenger air bag inflator and outer tie rod assembly. Air bag light was coming on sporadically and increasingly often. Work performed, if any, by jacksons of enid did not solve the problem.”
Owner complaint, filed Jul 6, 2017

Complaints and recalls over time

By year of filing
2002: 2 complaints, 0 about the airbags'022003: 18 complaints, 0 about the airbags2004: 43 complaints, 1 about the airbags'042005: 35 complaints, 0 about the airbags2006: 22 complaints, 0 about the airbags'062007: 33 complaints, 0 about the airbags2008: 21 complaints, 1 about the airbags'082009: 38 complaints, 1 about the airbags2010: 52 complaints, 0 about the airbags'102011: 48 complaints, 2 about the airbags2012: 44 complaints, 1 about the airbags'122013: 25 complaints, 0 about the airbags2014: 60 complaints, 1 about the airbags'142015: 93 complaints, 53 about the airbags2016: 65 complaints, 46 about the airbags'162017: 40 complaints, 24 about the airbags2018: 4 complaints, 1 about the airbags'182019: 6 complaints, 1 about the airbags2020: 3 complaints, 2 about the airbags'202021: 4 complaints, 0 about the airbags2022: 1 complaints, 0 about the airbags'222023: 2 complaints, 0 about the airbags2024: 1 complaints, 0 about the airbags'242025: 1 complaints, 0 about the airbagsRecall 03V033000 (throttle and acceleration)Recall 03V212000 (wheels)Recall 05V462000 (transmission)Recall 07E009000 (suspension)Recall 07E104000 (visibility)Recall 10E013000 (steering)Recall 11V350000 (steering)Recall 13V528000 (steering)Recall 15V312000 (airbags)NHTSA investigation EA21002NHTSA investigation EA15001NHTSA investigation AQ14003NHTSA investigation PE14016NHTSA investigation EA04025NHTSA investigation PE04039
All complaintsAbout the airbagsRecall (red: the airbags)NHTSA investigation opened

Complaints about the 2003 Ram 2500 peaked in 2015, with 93 filed that year. Owners had filed 16 complaints about the airbags before the first recall that covers it, 15V312000 in May 2015; 118 more have come in since. In 2025 owners filed 1 so far.

9 safety recalls

Part 573 reports
Air Bags › Frontal › Passenger Side › Inflator Module15V312000Do not drive
Filed May 26, 2015385,686 vehiclesChrysler (FCA US LLC)

Defect. Chrysler (FCA US LLC) is recalling certain model year 2003 Dodge Ram 1500, 2500, and 3500 trucks manufactured August 29, 2002, to July 25, 2003 to address a safety defect in the passenger side frontal air bag inflator which may produce excessive internal pressure causing the inflator to rupture upon deployment of the air bag. This recall addresses both the passenger side frontal air bags that were originally installed in the vehicles, as well as replacement air bags that may have been installed as replacement service parts. A replacement air bag may have been installed, as one example, if a vehicle had been in a crash necessitating the replacement of the passenger side frontal air bag.

Risk. In the event of a crash necessitating deployment of the passenger’s frontal air bag, the inflator could rupture with metal fragments striking the vehicle occupants potentially resulting in serious injury or death.

Remedy. Owners are advised not to drive their vehicle until the recall repair is complete. Owners are advised not to drive their vehicles until the remedy is completed. Chrysler will notify owners, and dealers will replace the passenger frontal air bag, free of charge. The recall began on March 16, 2016. Owners may contact Chrysler customer service at 1-800-853-1403. Chrysler's number for this recall is R26. Note: This recall partially supersedes recall 14V770.

Steering › Linkages › Tie Rod Assembly13V528000
Filed Nov 6, 2013706,664 vehiclesChrysler Group LLC

Defect. Chrysler Group LLC (Chrysler) is recalling certain model year 2003-2008 Dodge RAM 2500 4x4 and 3500 4x4, model year 2007-2008 Dodge RAM 3500 4x2 Cab Chassis and model year 2006-2008 Dodge RAM 1500 Mega Cab 4x4 trucks manufactured February 12, 2002, through February 13, 2008. The left tie rod assembly may break.

Risk. A failure of the tie rod assembly may result in a loss of steering control, increasing the risk of a crash.

Remedy. Chrysler notified owners and launched its recall campaign in January 2014. Owners may contact Chrysler at 1-800-247-9753. Chrysler's recall campaign number is N62.

Steering › Linkages › Tie Rod Assembly11V350000
Filed Jul 6, 2011242,780 vehiclesChrysler Group LLC

Defect. CHRYSLER IS RECALLING CERTAIN MODEL YEAR 2008-2011 DODGE RAM 2500/3500 4X4, MANUFACTURED FROM FEBRUARY 14, 2008, THROUGH MARCH 28, 2011; MODEL YEAR 2008-2011 DODGE RAM 3500 CAB CHASSIS 4X2, MANUFACTURED FROM FEBRUARY 14, 2008, THROUGH MARCH 28, 2011; AND MODEL YEAR 2008 DODGE RAM 1500 MEGA CAB 4X4, MANUFACTURED FROM FEBRUARY 14, 2008, THROUGH AUGUST 15, 2008, BECAUSE THE LEFT TIE ROD BALL STUD MAY FRACTURE. THIS CONDITION TENDS TO OCCUR DURING LOW SPEED PARKING LOT TYPE MANEUVERS WHEN THE CUSTOMER IS MAKING A TIGHT TURN. ADDITIONALLY, MODEL YEAR 2003-2008 DODGE RAM 2500/3500 VEHICLES MAY HAVE RECEIVED THE AFFECTED TIE ROD ASSEMBLY AS A REPLACEMENT PART DURING NORMAL SERVICE.

Risk. THIS CONDITION COULD RESULT IN THE POTENTIAL LOSS OF DIRECTIONAL STABILITY IN THE LEFT HAND FRONT WHEEL, INCREASING THE RISK OF A CRASH.

Remedy. DEALERS WILL INSPECT THE TIE ROD ENDS FOR RELATIVE ORIENTATION AND REPLACE THE LEFT OUTER TIE ROD AS REQUIRED AND PERFORM A FRONT END TOE ALIGNMENT AS NEEDED. THIS SERVICE WILL BE PERFORMED FREE OF CHARGE. THE SAFETY RECALL BEGAN ON OCTOBER 3, 2011. OWNERS MAY CONTACT CHRYSLER AT 1-800-853-1403.

Steering › Gear Box › Shaft Pitman10E013000
Filed May 3, 20101,500 vehiclesFabtech Motorsports

Defect. FABTECH IS RECALLING CERTAIN AFTERMARKET REPLACEMENT PITMAN ARMS, P/NOS. FTS93001 AND FT44039, INSTALLED FOR USE ON CERTAIN 2003 THROUGH 2008 DODGE 2500 4WD, 3500 4WD, AND 1500 4WD MEGA CAB VEHICLES. THE PITMAN ARM CAN FRACTURE AND BREAK AWAY FROM THE STEERING BOX CAUSING TOTAL LOSS OF STEERING CONTROL.

Risk. STEERING LOSS COULD RESULT IN A VEHICLE CRASH POSSIBLY RESULTING IN PROPERTY DAMAGE, INJURY OR DEATH.

Remedy. FABTECH WILL NOTIFY OWNERS AND AUTHORIZED INSTALLERS WILL INSPECT FOR DEFECTIVE PITMAN ARM AND REPLACE IF NECESSARY FREE OF CHARGE. THE SAFETY RECALL BEGAN ON MAY 24, 2010. OWNERS MAY CONTACT FABTECH AT 1-877-432-2832.

Visibility › Glass, Side/Rear07E104000
Filed Dec 11, 20071,657 vehiclesSafelite Fulfillment, Inc.

Defect. CERTAIN CURVED TEMPERED REPLACEMENT GLASS MANUFACTURED BY HANGZHOU SAFETY GLASS LTD AND SUPPLIED TO SAFELITE BY AUTO TEMP INC., IDENTIFIED AS DOT-430, AND SOLD FOR USE ON CERTAIN DOMESTIC AND FOREIGN VEHICLES MAY NOT BREAK INTO SMALL PIECES AS EXPECTED OF TEMPERED GLASS AND FAILS TO CONFORM TO FEDERAL MOTOR VEHICLE SAFETY STANDARD NO. 205, "GLAZING MATERIALS."

Risk. IN THE EVENT OF A VEHICLE CRASH, THE OCCUPANT(S) MAY BE SERIOUSLY INJURED BY SHATTERED GLASS.

Remedy. SAFELITE WILL NOTIFY ITS RETAIL CUSTOMERS AND REPLACE THE GLASS FREE OF CHARGE. RETAIL CUSTOMERS CAN CONTACT SAFELITE TOLL FREE AT 1-888-843-2906. SAFELITE WILL NOTIFY ITS WHOLESALE CUSTOMERS AND REIMBURSE WHOLESALE CUSTOMERS FOR CURRENT INVENTORY AND AT A SPECIFIED RATE FOR REPLACING THEIR CUSTOMER'S GLASS. WHOLESALE CUSTOMERS CAN CONTACT SAFELITE'S WHOLESALE DIVISION, SERVICE AUTOGLASS TOLL FREE AT 1-888-246-6298. THE RECALL BEGAN ON JANUARY 15, 2008.

Suspension07E009000
Filed Feb 1, 20073,350 vehiclesL.k.i. Enterprises, Inc.

Defect. CERTAIN LKI ENTERPRISES, INC., BRAND NAME SUPERLIFT SUSPENSION, PITMAN ARMS SOLD AS REPLACEMENT EQUIPMENT FOR 2003-2007 DODGE RAM 2500 AND 3500 4X4 LIGHT TRUCKS. DUE TO INADEQUATE HEAT TREATMENT DURING PRODUCTION, THE AFFECTED PITMAN ARMS MAY DEVELOP CRACKS IN THE UPPER SPLINED ATTACHMENT ATTACHMENT TO THE STEERING OUTPUT SHAFT. MOVEMENT BETWEEN THE PITMAN ARM AND THE OUTPUT SHAFT MAY DEFORM SPLINES, RESULTING IN PREMATURE WEAR AND FATIGUE FAILURE OF THE AFFECTED PITMAN ARM.

Risk. PITMAN ARM WEAR OR FAILURE MAY LEAD TO LOSS OF VEHICLE CONTROL, POSSIBLY RESULTING IN A VEHICLE CRASH.

Remedy. LKI WILL NOTIFY OWNERS AND REPLACE THE PITMAN ARM, IF NECESSARY. THE RECALL BEGAN ON MARCH 12, 2007. OWNERS MAY CONTACT LKI AT 1-800-551-4955.

Power Train › Automatic Transmission › Lever and Linkage › Column Shift05V462000
Filed Oct 6, 2005250,433 vehiclesDaimlerchrysler Corporation

Defect. ON CERTAIN PICKUP TRUCKS EQUIPPED WITH DIESEL ENGINES AND AUTOMATIC TRANSMISSIONS, IN AN ATTEMPT TO EXIT THE VEHICLE QUICKLY WITHOUT SHUTTING OFF THE ENGINE AND REMOVING THE KEY, THE DRIVER MAY INADVERTENTLY LEAVE THE AUTOMATIC TRANSMISSION SHIFT CONTROL IN INDICATED REVERSE.

Risk. THIS ERROR IS AN UNINTENDED ACTION THAT MAY RESULT IN A LACK OF TRANSMISSION PARK PAWL ENGAGEMENT AND POSSIBLY DELAYED REARWARD MOVEMENT OF THE VEHICLE.

Remedy. DEALERS WILL PERFORM A SOFTWARE MODIFICATION TO EQUIP THESE VEHICLES WITH AN OUT-OF-PARK ALARM. OWNERS MAY CONTACT DAIMLERCHRYSLER AT 1-800-853-1403.

Wheels › Hubcap/Cover03V212000
Filed Jun 5, 20031,086 vehiclesDaimlerchrysler Corporation

Defect. CERTAIN HEAVY DUTY PICKUP TRUCKS, THE ALUMINUM WHEELS MAY HAVE EXCESSIVE POROSITY IN THE CENTER HUB AREA WHICH CAN CAUSE A WHEEL TO CRACK.

Risk. THIS COULD CAUSE A LOSS OF VEHICLE CONTROL AND RESULT IN A CRASH WITHOUT WARNING.

Remedy. DEALERS WILL INSPECT THE WHEELS AND REPLACE THEM IF NECESSARY. OWNER NOTIFICATION IS EXPECTED TO BEGIN JUNE 17, 2003.. OWNERS WHO TAKE THEIR VEHICLES TO AN AUTHORIZED DEALER ON AN AGREED UPON SERVICE DATE AND DO NOT RECEIVE THE FREE REMEDY WITHIN A REASONABLE TIME SHOULD CONTACT DAIMLERCHRYSLER AT 1-800-992-1997.

Vehicle Speed Control03V033000
Filed Feb 5, 200319,500 vehiclesDaimlerchrysler Corporation

Defect. CERTAIN PICKUP TRUCKS, EQUIPPED WITH CUMMINS DIESEL ENGINES AND MANUAL TRANSMISSIONS, MAY EXPERIENCE AN ELEVATED IDLE SPEED AFTER EXTENDED CRUISE CONTROL USE.

Risk. THIS CAN RESULT IN UNINTENDED ACCELERATION AND A REDUCTION IN BRAKING EFFECTIVENESS, INCREASING THE RISK OF A CRASH.

Remedy. DEALERS WILL REPROGRAM THE SOFTWARE IN THE CUMMINS ENGINE CONTROLLER. OWNER NOTIFICATION BEGAN ON MARCH 10, 2003. OWNERS WHO TAKE THEIR VEHICLES TO AN AUTHORIZED DEALER ON AN AGREED UPON SERVICE DATE AND DO NOT RECEIVE THE FREE REMEDY WITHIN A REASONABLE TIME SHOULD CONTACT DAIMLERCHRYSLER AT 1-800-853-1403.

All 9 campaigns on file, newest first.

NHTSA investigations

Office of Defects Investigation

Before a recall there is often an investigation: NHTSA opens one when complaints or manufacturer data point to a safety defect. 6 name the 2003 Ram 2500.

Desiccated Air Bag Inflator RuptureEngineering analysis EA21002Open
Opened Sep 17, 2021airbags

From 2000 through 2017, Takata produced millions of air bag inflators using two types of phase-stabilized ammonium nitrate ("PSAN") propellant -- propellant 2004 and propellant 2004L. After prolonged exposure to high temperature cycles and humidity, inflators using propellant 2004 can degrade, causing the propellant to burn too quickly when ignited. The rapid burning can cause the inflator to rupture during deployment, potentially causing serious or even fatal injury to vehicle occupants. See 2016 Blomquist Report at …

Air Bag Inflator RuptureEngineering analysis EA15001Open
Opened Feb 24, 2015Led to recall 14V668airbags

The Office of Defects Investigation (ODI) opened PE14-016 in June 2014 based on six inflator rupture incidents involving consumer owned vehicles produced by five vehicle manufacturers.All six vehicles were operated in Florida or Puerto Rico at the time of the rupture and for the majority of their service life, and were equipped with inflators produced by Takata, a tier-one supplier of automotive air bag systems.During the course of PE14-016, ODI determined that five additional vehicle manufacturers used inflators of a similar design and vintage also supplied by Takata. No evidence of field …

Chrysler's execution of 13V-528 & 529Audit query AQ14003Closed
Opened Oct 20, 2014Closed May 16, 2016steering

RMD opened this audit query (AQ) investigation in order to better understand and evaluate Chrysler's process(es) for timely and efficient execution of its safety recall campaigns, including its oversight and management of its parts division Mopar.Prior to opening this investigation, RMD had raised concerns with the company related to its execution of two safety recalls, 13V-528 and 13V-529, both of which involved safety defects that could cause the involved vehicles, FCA?s heavier Dodge Ram trucks, to lose steering control suddenly and without warning.Specifically, RMD inquired about the …

Air Bag Inflator RupturePreliminary evaluation PE14016Closed
Opened Jun 11, 2014Closed Mar 2, 2015Led to recall 13V172000airbags

The Office of Defects Investigation (ODI) opened PE14-016 in June 2014 based on six inflator rupture incidents involving consumer owned vehicles produced by five vehicle manufacturers.All six vehicles were operated in Florida or Puerto Rico at the time of the rupture and for the majority of their service life, and were equipped with inflators produced by Takata, a tier-one supplier of automotive air bag systems.During the course of PE14-016, ODI determined that five additional vehicle manufacturers used inflators of a similar design and vintage also supplied by Takata. No evidence of field …

FALSE PARKEngineering analysis EA04025Closed
Opened Aug 26, 2004Closed Dec 22, 2005Led to recall 05V462000transmission

The subject vehicles are heavy duty pickup trucks with diesel engines and automatic transmissions commonly used for commercial and work purposes.a column mounted shift lever is used for gear selection and an electronic prndl on the instrument panel provides gear position information to the driver.the subject vehicles are also equipped with a brake-transmission shift interlock that prevents the shift lever from being moved from the park position (when the engine is on) unless the brake pedal is depressed and an ignition-shift interlock that prevents key removal unless the transmission is in …

FALSE PARKPreliminary evaluation PE04039Closed
Opened Apr 13, 2004Closed Aug 26, 2004transmission

There have been 50 complaints to odi and daimlerchrysler alleging incidents of reverse powered rollaway in subject vehicles that were parked with the engine running and the parking brake disengaged.the incidents are alleged to have resulted in 42 crashes and 3 injuries. According to daimlerchrysler, incident vehicle inspections have not identified any misadjusted or broken parts.a typical incident is believed to involve the following set of conditions:(1) with the vehicle on a relatively level surface, an attempted shift into park inadvertently places the transmission in a position between …

Technical service bulletins

32 on file

Repair instructions the manufacturer sent its dealers for the 2003 Ram 2500. Not recalls: the fix is usually free only while the car is under warranty.

engine 9equipment 8electrical system 6body and frame 4steering 2brakes 1transmission 1

What owners reported

Newest filings
Visibility/Wiper
Filed Jul 9, 2025AL

DEFROST DOESNT WORK DUE TO DOOR BEAKING IN HOUSING, ALLOWS ICEING IN FREEZING CONDITIONS AS CANNOT DEFROST WINDSHIELD. WELL KNOW PROBLEM WITH THESE YEAR MODEL DODGE TRUCKS

Tires › Sidewall
Filed Feb 6, 2024SC

Travelstar ecopath a/t size LT265/70R17 a large bubble developed on sidewall. about 3 inches in diameter. tire only had about 5000 miles on it. i was on a trip with my truck camper mounted on bed of truck. returned from trip and noticed the bulge. truck is single rear axle with one tire on each side. travel speed was 55 to 60 mph. if tire had blown out truck and camper would have flipped over. i called manufacturer of tire, was told to contact walmart where i purchased tire. contacted walmart, was told to contact manufacturer. classic runaround.

Steering
Filed Jul 17, 2023WI

The contact owns a 2003 Dodge Ram 2500. The contact received notification of NHTSA Campaign Number: 09E001000 (Steering), 13V528000 (Steering) and 15V312000 (Air Bags) however, the parts to do the recall repairs were not yet available. The local dealer was contacted. The contact stated that the manufacturer had exceeded a reasonable amount of time for the recall repairs. The manufacturer was made aware of the issue. The contact had not experienced a failure. Parts distribution disconnect.

Electrical System
Filed Apr 9, 2023IL

After driving in heavy rain. During the following day started having electrical issues the parking lights would stay on even when the switch was turned off the driver's side headlight would also come on. and the parking lights would either turn off or flash when the high beams were turned on this happened with front and back parking lights the only way to fully get them to stay off was to pull the relay or disconnect the battery. The problem is with the power distribution center and front control module the poor design allows them to corrode damaging the copper tracing and causing shorts in the system this is a common problem as there are several online forums dedicated to these problems with a lot of people having the same issues so I'm not sure why there hasn't been a recall for this since it is a major safety problem when it affects lights, windshield wipers and several other things that could cause accidents. my brother's truck is also having sign's of the pdc and fcm being bad. and at over $1000 to replace both for a manufacturing defect it's not right that dodge customer's should have to pay that bill. I'll be attaching a picture of another board but the damage is the same and in the same spot

Steering
Filed May 18, 2022NE

We have a 2003 Dodge Ram 2500 Diesel crew cab pickup that occasionally after hitting a bump or on rough roads the steering mechanism or suspension develops an uncontrollable harmonic vibration with one or the other front wheels bouncing. The only way to stop the vibration is to come to a complete stop. In heavy traffic it could be a serious safety issue. The condition is well known to Chrysler and is commonly called a "Death Wobble". The first incidence on our vehicle was around ten years ago, but newer pickups are reported to have the condition. By replacing just the shock absorbers then it seemed to have helped, but that fix may have been fortuitous. The Dodge service center at that time did know of or maybe did not admit to the issue. Recently we have had the return of a couple episodes of the Death Wobble. The internet has many aftermarket brackets available for the Death Wobble, so, I assume, the condition is well known. Chrysler now has replacement that I was told are stronger (and maybe of a better design), but any pickup of this model without the upgrade is potentially a very dangerous safety hazard. I assume there should have been a recall for this problem, but, from your website, there are no recalls listed for this vehicle. As a side note, the Jeep SUVs have also been reported to have a Death Wobble, but I have no information on whether the wobble with them is caused by the same defect with the steering or suspension systems.

Unknown or Other
Filed Nov 10, 2021FL

Because the OE blend doors are defective, my defroster does not work. I have to constantly use a squeegee while driving to remove fog from the inside windshield, which is extremely unsafe. Occasionally the heater will kick in, and even though I live in Florida, it does get quite cold during the winter months.

Tires › Tread/Belt
Filed Oct 13, 2021VA

265/70/17- busted belts in 2 tires, liner separation in another. available for inspection removed all 4 due to safety concerns

Power Train
Filed Jun 2, 2021AR

I was driving on I55 this morning and all of a sudden my truck started vibrating really bad, the steering wheel was veering, I had to constantly fight to keep in my lane. And when I touched my brakes it veered. Riding really rough, and has power loss. I took it to the nearest shop and they said my driveshaft was very loose, and that it is affecting everything that I described. The center driveshaft support bearing is also failing.

Fuel/Propulsion System
Filed Jan 30, 2021135,000 milesNJ

ON A 35MPH STREET, TRUCK SUDDENLY BUCKING AS IF IT WAS GOING TO STALL, AND THE RPM'S WERE ERRATIC. I PUT IT IN N PULLED OVER AND SHUT IT OFF. IT RESTARTED WITH NO ISSUES. I DROVE ABOUT 9 MILES, PULLED INTO MY DRIVEWAY AND WAS COASTING UP IT, WHEN SUDDENLY THE TRUCK ACCELERATED. I DEPRESSED THE BRAKE, NOTHING. I SLAMMED IT IN PARK AND SHUT IT OFF. IT HAPPENED A FEW TIMES WHILE IDLING, OR MOVING AT A SLOW RATE. I WAS STOPPED AT A LIGHT WHEN IT SUDDENLY ACCELERATED INTO A 50MPH, 4 LANE MAIN THOROUGHFARE. I STEPPED ON PARKING BRAKE, TURNED IT OFF AND THANKED GOD THAT I WAS UNHARMED. I STARTED BACK UP, PUT IT IN D, DEPRESSED THE GAS PEDAL (LIGHT TURNED GREEN) AND IT WOULD NOT ACCELERATE. I TOOK MY FOOT OFF THE GAS, THEN IT BUCKED A FEW TIMES AND ACCELERATED ON IT'S OWN. I DEPRESSED THE BRAKE PEDAL, BUT IT KEPT REVVING UP AND ACCELERATING. AGAIN, I DEPRESSED THE EMERGENCY BRAKE AND SHUT IT OFF. IT JUST HAPPENED AGAIN AS I WAS COMING UP MY SUBURBAN 35MPH STREET. I GOT TO APPROXIMATELY 20MPH WHEN IT WOULDN'T ACCELERATE FURTHER. I BUCKED AND CHOKED, RPM'S JUMPING UP AND DOWN THE LAST 100 YARDS. I TURNED INTO MY DRIVEWAY AT AN IDLING RATE AND IT TOOK OFF LIKE A SHOT. I PRESSED THE BRAKE AND IT STILL KEPT ACCELERATING. IF I HADN'T TURNED THE WHEEL, I WOULD HAVE DRIVEN THROUGH MY GARAGE. THIS IS NOT AN ISOLATED INCIDENT. I SUFFER FROM IDIOPATHIC CARDIOMYOPATHY AND CKD, THESE INCIDENTS HAVE CAUSED ME TO BE UNABLE TO BREATHE AS MY HEART WAS BEATING SO FAST. THIS MUST BE ADDRESSED IMMEDIATE

Engine
Filed Dec 2, 2020195,000 milesNV

AT 70 MPH THE ENGINE TURNS OFF AS IF A SWITCH WAS FLIPPED. THIS HAS HAPPENED MULTIPLE TIMES, ALWAYS ON THE INTERSTATE AND ALWAYS WITH CRUISE CONTROL ON AND ACTIVE. IT OCCURS MORE FREQUENTLY IN THE HOT SUMMER MONTHS (110+ F). THE WARNING LIGHT FOR THE THROTTLE CONTROL CIRCUIT SOMETIMES ILLUMINATES. WHILE STILL MOVING, SELECTING NEUTRAL, TURNING THE IGNITION OFF AND THEN BACK ON ALLOWS THE ENGINE TO RESTART. THIS CAN OCCUR AS FREQUENTLY AS EVERY 60 MILES, BUT THE AVERAGE OCCURRENCE WOULD BE AROUND 150 MILES.

Air BagsCrash4 injured
Filed Jul 29, 2020195,000 milesID

VEHICLE WAS INVOLVED IN A COLLISION GOING 50 MPH ON A HIGHWAY AND ANOTHER VEHICLE FAILED TO STOP AT A STOP SIGN AT A CROSS ROAD AND WE STRUCK THEM WITH THE FRONT OF THE VEHICLE ON THEIR PASSENGER DOOR. AIR BAGS DID NOT DEPLOY CAUSING 2 OF THE PASSENGERS IN THE VEHICLE TO HIT THEIR HEAD/FACE ON THE DASH AND WINDSHIELD.*DT*JB

Air Bags
Filed Jul 12, 2020220,000 milesKY

3D7KU26633G8[XXX] REDACTED TO PROTECT PERSONALLY IDENTIFIABLE INFORMATION PURSUANT TO THE FREEDOM OF INFORMATION ACT (FOIA), 5 U.S.C. 552(B)(6). *CC

SteeringCrash
Filed Aug 8, 2019199,600 milesAZ

TL* THE CONTACT OWNS A 2003 DODGE RAM 2500. THE CONTACT STATED THAT WHILE HIS DAUGHTER WAS DRIVING AT 3 MPH, THE TIE ROD DETACHED FROM THE VEHICLE AND THE STEERING WHEEL WAS LOOSE. AS A RESULT, THE VEHICLE CRASHED INTO THE CURB. THE AIR BAGS DID NOT DEPLOY. THERE WERE NO REPORTED INJURIES AND NO POLICE REPORT WAS FILED. THE VEHICLE WAS TOWED TO PLANET CHRYSLER DODGE JEEP RAM FIAT OF FLAGSTAFF (5190 N TEST DR, FLAGSTAFF, AZ 86004 (928) 433-6787) WHERE IT WAS DIAGNOSED THAT THE TIE ROD KIT NEEDED TO BE REPLACED. THE VEHICLE WAS NOT REPAIRED. THE CONTACT MENTIONED THAT A TIE ROD KIT WAS INSTALLED PRIOR TO THE FAILURE. THE MANUFACTURER WAS CONTACTED AND STATED THE ALIGNMENT AND INSTALLATION WOULD BE AT THE OWNERS EXPENSE. THE FAILURE MILEAGE WAS 199,600.

Power Train
Filed Jul 15, 2019LA

TL* THE CONTACT OWNS A 2003 DODGE RAM 2500. THE CONTACT RECEIVED NOTIFICATION OF NHTSA CAMPAIGN NUMBER: 05V462000 (POWER TRAIN). THE CONTACT CALLED MARK DODGE AT 337-474-2640 (LOCATED AT 3777 GERSTNER MEMORIAL BLVD, LAKE CHARLES, LA) AND WAS INFORMED THAT THE PARTS WERE NOT AVAILABLE. THE MANUFACTURER WAS MADE AWARE OF THE ISSUE AND WAS NOT ABLE TO CONFIRM WHEN THE PARTS WERE TO BECOME AVAILABLE. THE CONTACT HAD NOT EXPERIENCED A FAILURE. PARTS DISTRIBUTION DISCONNECT.

Air BagsCrash1 injured
Filed May 16, 2019175,000 milesTN

I WAS INVOLVED IN AN ACCIDENT ON MAY 3RD 2019 WHERE I STRUCK A VEHICLE THAT HAD JUST ENTERED THE TWO LANE HIGHWAY FROM THE SHOULDER OF THE ROAD AND CROSSED IN FRONT OF ME. I HIT HER AT 45 MPH RESULTING IN HEAVY FROM END DAMAGE WHICH I'M STILL WAITING ON THE INSURANCE COMPANY TO DECIDE IF IT WILL BE REPAIRED OR TOTALED OUT. I'M FEARING IT'S TOTALED. ANYWAY I'M CONTACTING YOU BECAUSE MY AIRBAGS DIDN'T DEPLOY. I'M IN NO MANNER AN AUTOMOTIVE ENGINEER SO I CAN'T EXPLAIN WHY THY DIDN'T DEPLOY I'M JUST WANTING YOU TO KNOW THEY DIDN'T. THE VEHICLE I HIT WAS DIAGONAL TO ME,

Suspension › Front › Control Arm › Lower Ball Joint
Filed May 1, 2019162,000 milesTX

I WAS TRAVELING AT ABOUT 20 MPH, SLOWING DOWN TO MAKE A TURN WHEN I HEARD A LOUD CRACKING SOUND. I PULLED OVER BUT COULD NOT DETERMINE THE SOURCE OF THE SOUND. I DECIDED TO RETURN TO THE HOUSE TO INVESTIGATE FURTHER. ON MY WAY HOME, I STOPPED AT A COFFEE SHOP AND WHEN TRIED TO BACK UP INTO A PARKING SPACE, THE PASSENGER FRONT WHEEL BROKE OFF. IT COMPLETELY FELL OFF!! I AM VERY HAPPY WE WERE MOVING AT ABOUT 1-2 MPH INSTEAD OF THE 40MPH ON THE ROAD. TRUCK WAS TOWED TO THE DEALER WHERE I WAS TOLD THAT THE BOTTOM BALL JOINT HAD BROKEN OFF. THIS IS A VERY SERIOUS ISSUE. PEOPLES LIVES ARE AT STAKE HERE. I AM THE ONLY OWNER OF THIS VEHICLE AND HAVE ALL THE REPAIR/ MAINTENANCE RECORDS. THE REPAIR FOR THIS IS OVER $3000.00. WHY HASN'T THE MANUFACTURER RECOGNIZED THIS AS A PROBLEM? *DT *DT CONSUMER PICKED UP THE TRUCK AFTER GETTING IT FIXED ABOUT 7 MILES DRIVING DOWN THE HIGHWAY THE TRUCK BROKE DOWN AGAIN. IT WAS TOWED AND REPAIRED SECOND TIME AROUND.*JB

Steering
Filed Mar 18, 201988,000 milesNE

TL* THE CONTACT OWNS A 2003 DODGE RAM 2500. WHILE DRIVING 75 MPH OVER A POTHOLE, THE FRONT END OF THE VEHICLE SHOOK VIOLENTLY AND VIBRATED. THE CAUSE OF THE FAILURE WAS NOT DETERMINED. JANSSEN DODGE (3101 S. JEFFERS DR, NORTH PLATTE, NE) AND THE MANUFACTURER WERE NOTIFIED, BUT NO ASSISTANCE WAS OFFERED. THE VEHICLE WAS NOT REPAIRED. THE FAILURE MILEAGE WAS 88,000. *TT *TR

Unknown or Other
Filed Jan 20, 201960,000 milesOR

I HAVE A 2003 DODGE RAM 2500 THAT THE DASH BOARD IS CRACKING AND FALLING APART FOR KNOW REASON. MY TRUCK IS IN LIKE NEW CONDITION THE DASH STARTED CRACKING AT ABOUT 60,000 THE TRUCK NOW HAS 112,000 MILES ON IT AND THE DASH IS IN PIECES. NHTSA NEEDS TO TAKE THIS MATER SERIOUSLY AND MAKE DODGE TAKE CARE IS THIS PROBLEM AT NO COST TO THE TRUCK OWNER. DODGE KNOWS THERE WAS A DEFECT WITH THE PLASTIC THAT WAS USED IN THE DASH AND NEEDS TO TAKE CARE OF IT OR BE MADE TO FIX IT. THIS IS A DANGER TO ME THE DRIVER AND MY WIFE AND KIDS THAT RIDE IN MY TRUCK.

Air Bags
Filed Mar 22, 2018NY

TOOK VEHICLE TO DEALER THEY STATED IT NEEDED A AIR BAG CONTROL MODULE WHICH WAS 3 YEARS AGO PART IS STILL ON ORDER AND HAS NOT BEEN INSTALLED

Latches/Locks/Linkages › Doors › LatchCrash1 killed
Filed Jan 8, 2018130,000 milesCA

TAKATA ?- ON 7/15/2017 MY SON WAS INVOLVED IN A SINGLE VEHICLE ACCIDENT AS HE DROVE HOME ON THE FREEWAY. LOST CONTROL OF VEHICLE RESULTING IN THE VEHICLE SPINNING AND IMPACTING A GUARD RAIL POST , EJECTING HIM FROM THE VEHICLE ON TO THE FREEWAY WHERE HE DIED. UPON EXAMINATION OF VEHICLE NO AIRBAGS IN THE CABIN DEPLOYED. *BF * *TR

Structure › Body
Filed Jan 8, 2018237,682 milesTX

THE DASH BOARD ON ALMOST ALL OF THESE TRUCKS ARE SEVERELY CRASHING AND IF THE AIRBAGS GO OFF PARTS OF THE DASH CAN INJURY OR KILL SOMEONE FROM FLYING PARTS OF THE DASH BOARD

Structure › Body
Filed Jan 5, 201853,000 milesNJ

TL* THE CONTACT OWNS A 2003 DODGE RAM 2500. THE CONTACT STATED THAT THERE WAS AN ABNORMAL NOISE COMING FROM THE REAR OF THE VEHICLE. THE CONTACT NOTICED THAT THE FRAME WAS FRACTURED. THE CONTACT CALLED FREEHOLD DODGE RAM AT 732-462-1600 AND WAS INFORMED THAT THERE WAS NO RECALL AND THE PART WAS NOT REPLACEABLE. THE VEHICLE WAS NOT REPAIRED. THE MANUFACTURER WAS NOT NOTIFIED OF THE FAILURE. THE APPROXIMATE FAILURE MILEAGE WAS 53,000.

Electrical System
Filed Dec 18, 2017141,959 milesSC

THE TRAILER CONNECTOR ON MY TRUCK HAS NEVER BEEN USED BY ME SO I DIDNT KNOW IT DIDNT WORK. I NOW HAVE A TRAVEL TRAILER BUT NOTHING WORKS BUT THE DRIVER SIDE SIGNAL. NOTHING ELSE. I CHECKED THE CONNECTOR AND THERE IS NO CURRENT COMING OUT OF IT EXCEPT FOR THE LEFT SIGNAL. I SEE THERE WAS A RECALL BUT CANT FIND ANY INFO. CANT TAKE IT ANYWHERE WITHOUT LIGHTS!!! HAVE TO GO OUT OF TOWN WITH IT BUT CANT UNTIL ITS WORKING. HELP PLEASE.

Unknown or Other
Filed Nov 25, 2017256,000 milesCO

VEHICLE HESITATES WHEN STEPPING ON FUEL PEDEL FROM A DEAD STOP DOES IT WHEN IT WANTS TO OFF AND ON AT DIFFERENT TIMES AND SOME DAYS NOT AT ALL.

Engine
Filed Nov 20, 20175,000 milesFL

ENGINE TICKING

Air Bags
Filed Nov 15, 2017CA

TL* TAKATA RECALL. THE CONTACT OWNS A 2003 DODGE RAM 2500. THE CONTACT RECEIVED NOTIFICATION OF NHTSA CAMPAIGN NUMBER: 15V312000 (AIR BAGS). THE PART NEEDED FOR THE REPAIR WAS NOT AVAILABLE. THE CONTACT STATED THAT THE MANUFACTURER EXCEEDED A REASONABLE AMOUNT OF TIME FOR THE RECALL REPAIR. THE CONTACT CALLED CABRAL CHRYSLER JEEP DODGE RAM (1145 W YOSEMITE AVE, MANTECA, CA 95337, PHONE NUMBER: (209) 823-1148) AND WAS INFORMED THAT THE PART WAS NOT AVAILABLE. THE MANUFACTURER WAS NOT CONTACTED. THE CONTACT HAD NOT EXPERIENCED A FAILURE. PARTS DISTRIBUTION DISCONNECT.

Air Bags
Filed Nov 8, 2017CA

TL* THE CONTACT OWNS A 2003 DODGE RAM 2500. THE CONTACT RECEIVED NOTIFICATION OF NHTSA CAMPAIGN NUMBER: 15V312000 (AIR BAGS); HOWEVER, THE PART TO DO THE REPAIR WAS UNAVAILABLE. THE CONTACT STATED THAT THE MANUFACTURER EXCEEDED A REASONABLE AMOUNT OF TIME FOR THE RECALL REPAIR. LITHIA CHRYSLER DODGE JEEP RAM IN FRESNO, CALIFORNIA (6162 N BLACKSTONE AVE) WAS MADE AWARE OF THE RECALL AND STATED THAT THE PARTS WERE UNAVAILABLE. THE MANUFACTURER WAS MADE AWARE OF THE ISSUE. THE CONTACT HAD NOT EXPERIENCED A FAILURE. PARTS DISTRIBUTION DISCONNECT.

Structure › Body1 injured
Filed Oct 25, 2017150,000 milesAZ

DASHBOARD DISINTEGRATED INTO PLASTIC KNIVES THAT FLY OFF AND CAUSE INJURY. ALSO COMPROMISING THE EFFECTIVENESS OF THE PASSENGER AIRBAG AND OR CREATING ADDITIONAL DEBRIS TO BE THROWN AT THE OCCUPANTS DURING A CRASH.

Air Bags
Filed Oct 25, 2017GA

TAKATA RECALL. AIR BAG STAYS ON SOMETIMES LIGHT WILL BLINK OFF. IN MOTION

Air Bags
Filed Oct 18, 2017MT

TAKATA INFILTRATORS WELL THE GOVERNMENT WANTS TO FORCE REPLACEMENT OF AIR BAG, BUT DOSES NOT REQUIRE THE VEHICLE MANUFACTURE TO PROVIDE REPLACE PARTS FOR THE ANTI- LOCK BRAKES. THIS PICK-UP HAS NEED A NEW ANTI LOCK BRAKE CONTROL MODULE FOR YEARS, BUT OEM REPLACEMENT PARTS ARE NOT AVAILABLE, BUT AIR BAGS ARE. A EXCELLENT EXAMPLE OF HOW BUREAUCRACY'S REALLY CARE ABOUT YOUR SAFETY.

Service Brakes
Filed Oct 18, 2017135,202 milesPA

ABS AND BRAKE LIGHT REMAIN ON ANYTIME MY TRUCK IS RUNNING. TOOK IT TO A DODGE DEALER TO FIX THE PROBLEM. QUOTING FROM MY BILL..."REPLACED WHEEL SPEED SENSOR. FURTHER DIAGNOSIS REVEALED CORRODED CONNECTION AT ABS MODULE. NEED TO REPLACE ABS MODULE CONNECTION AND MODULE. CUSTOMER DECLINED REPAIRS AT THIS TIME/QUOTE FOR $1200.00" I HAD ALREADY SPENT $191.90 FOR WHEEL SPEED SENSOR ABOVE. DEALER SAYS THE ABS PROBLEM IS NOT SHOWING AS RECALLED FOR MY TRUCK'S VIN. I HAVE FOUND A RECALL (D20 ISSUED IN SEPTEMBER 2004) FOR CORRODED ABS CONNECTORS ON 2003 DODGE RAMS. WHY IS MY 2003 RAM NOT COVERED BY THIS RECALL?

Unknown or Other
Filed Oct 13, 2017CO

INSTRUMENT DASH COVER AND UPPER DASH COVER HAVE FRACTURED IN SEVERAL AREAS. THESE PIECES OF PLASTIC HAVE SHARP EDGES AND WOULD RESULT IN SEVERE LACERATIONS IF IMPACTED OR DISLODGED AND SET INTO MOTION AS A PROJECTILE DURING A COLLISION.

Air Bags
Filed Oct 4, 2017130,000 milesVA

TL* THE CONTACT OWNS A 2003 DODGE RAM 2500. WHILE DRIVING UNKNOWN SPEEDS, THE AIR BAG INDICATOR ILLUMINATED. THE VEHICLE WAS TAKEN TO A LOCAL DEALER (DOMINION OF BEDFORD, 1750 INDEPENDENCE BLVD BEDFORD, VA 24523) WHERE IT WAS DIAGNOSED THAT THE AIR BAG CONTROL MODULE NEEDED TO BE REPLACED; HOWEVER, THE PART WAS NO LONGER BEING MANUFACTURED. THERE WAS AN ATTEMPT TO REPAIR THE VEHICLE WITH A RE-MANUFACTURED PART, BUT THE FAILURE RECURRED. THE VEHICLE WAS NOT REPAIRED. THE VIN WAS UNKNOWN. THE FAILURE MILEAGE WAS 130,000.

Steering
Filed Oct 2, 2017141,000 milesUT

VIOLENT FRONT WHEEL SIDE TO SIDE SHAKING WHEN HITTING A SMALL BUMP ON THE FREEWAY, GOING STRAIT. BRAKING HARD TO A SLOWER SPEED, BELOW 50 MPH STOPS THE SHAKE. RAM DEALER INSTALLED A STEERING ARM FACTORY UPDATE. THIS DID NOT CURE THE PROBLEM. THE DEALER COULD NOT TELL ME HOW THEY COULD FIX THE PROBLEM. THIS PROBLEM IS KNOWN AS THE DEATH WOBBLE.

Air Bags
Filed Sep 8, 2017160,782 milesTN

TAKATA RECALL: THIS IS THE SECOND RECALL I HAVE RECEIVED CONCERNING THE TAKATA RECALL. WHEN THE FIRST ONE WAS DONE, MY DASH HAD 3 CRACKS THAT WERE DUE TO EXCESSIVE HEAT BUILD UP WHEN EH WINDOWS WERE ROLLED UP AND THE OUTSIDE TEMPERATURE WAS EXCESSIVE. AFTER R THE RECALL WAS COMPLETED THE DASH HAD 11 CRACKS, WHICH I WAS WILLING TO ACCEPT. NOW I GET ANOTHER RECALL NOTICE (R26/ NHTSA 15V-312). THE DEALER TELLS ME, THIS WILL MOST LIKELY RESULT IN MORE CRACKS IN THE DASH, AND THEY WILL NOT BE RESPONSIBLE. I HAVE CONTACTED DODGE CUSTOMER ASSISTANCE AND THEY TOLD ME THAT DUE TO THE FACT THAT THERE WERE CRACKS ALREADY IN THE DASH, THEY CANNOT REPAIR OR REPLACE THE DASH WHEN THEY PERFORM THIS LAST RECALL. I AM ASSUMING TO PERFORM THE CURRENT RECALL WILL RESULT IN MORE THAT 6 MORE CRACKS. I DO NOT FEEL THAT 17-18 CRACKS IN A HARD PLASTIC DASH WOULD BE SAFE IN THE EVENT OF A WRECK. I ALSO DO NOT FEEL THAT I SHOULD HAVE TO PAY FOR THE DAMAGE THAT WAS DONE DUE TO THESE TAKATA RECALLS. I AM TRYING TO GET THIS RESOLVED BEFORE I HAVE THE LAST RECALL PERFORMED. THE FIRST RECALL (P78) WAS PERFORMED DURING JULY THRU AUGUST 2015.

Unknown or Other
Filed Sep 7, 2017TX

I HAVE A 2003 DODGE RAM2500 THAT HAS A CRACKED DASHBOARD AND THE CRACKS ARE GETTING WORSE. SINCE THIS IS A PROBLEM THAT DODGE HAS ACKNOWLEDGED I FEEL THIS SHOULD BE PUT INTO A RECALL SITUATION AND DODGE SHOULD BE RESPONSIBLE FOR THIS PROBLEM. I HAVE HAD PROBLEMS WITH MY AIR CONDITIONER AND I AM NOT CERTAIN BUT THE CRACKED DASHBOARD COULD BE CAUSING OTHER PROBLEMS WITH MY TRUCK

Unknown or Other
Filed Aug 2, 2017245,000 milesMD

2003 DODGE RAM GOT IT WHEN IT 2 YEARS OLD FIRST THE DASH FELL APART 8/1/17 TOOK IT TO GET A FRONT END ALIGNED AND FOUND THE FRAME TO BE RUSTED DO TO BAD DESIGN AND DODGE SHOULD RECALL THIS AND REPAIR THE PROBLEM. TOYOTA FIXED THERE FRAME PROBLEM DODGE PEOPLE NEED TO STAND TOGETHER AND TAKE LEGAL ACTION AGAINST THEM AND STOP BUYING THERE PRODUCT

Air Bags
Filed Jul 28, 2017OR

TL* TAKATA RECALL. THE CONTACT OWNS A 2003 DODGE RAM 2500. THE CONTACT RECEIVED NOTIFICATION OF NHTSA CAMPAIGN NUMBER: 15V312000 (AIR BAGS); HOWEVER, THE PART NEEDED FOR THE REPAIR WAS NOT AVAILABLE. THE CONTACT STATED THAT THE MANUFACTURER EXCEEDED A REASONABLE AMOUNT OF TIME FOR THE RECALL REPAIR. THE DEALER AND MANUFACTURER WERE NOT CONTACTED. THE CONTACT HAD NOT EXPERIENCED A FAILURE. PARTS DISTRIBUTION DISCONNECT.

Air Bags
Filed Jul 6, 2017OK

TOOK VEHICLE INTO JACKSONS OF ENID, 4405 W OWEN GARRIOTT RD, ENID, OK 73703 ON 4/27/17 FOR SAFETY RECALL RELATED WORK ON PASSENGER AIR BAG INFLATOR AND OUTER TIE ROD ASSEMBLY. AIR BAG LIGHT WAS COMING ON SPORADICALLY AND INCREASINGLY OFTEN. WORK PERFORMED, IF ANY, BY JACKSONS OF ENID DID NOT SOLVE THE PROBLEM. AIR BAG LIGHT CAME ON WITHIN A MILE OF THE BUSINESS AND CONTINUES AT VARIOUS SPEEDS AND FOR LONGER PERIODS OF TIME. OUTER TIE ROD ASSEMBLY??? CAN'T TELL. . WHAT AM I SUPPOSED TO DO? WAIT UNTIL THE AIRBAG INFLATES WHILE I AM DRIVING, POSSIBLY INJURING MYSELF OR OTHERS? OR MAYBE LOSE A FRONT WHEEL? THIS IS NOT THE ONLY DISTURBING ENCOUNTER THAT I HAVE EXPERIENCED AT THIS BUSINESS. CALL ME ((580) 984-1200). I DO NOT TRUST JACKSONS OF ENID AND THEY ARE THE ONLY GAME IN TOWN. TRIED TO CONTACT BBB, BUT THEY ARE NOT BBB AFFILIATED. GO FIGURE.

Air Bags
Filed Jun 30, 2017MD

TL* THE CONTACT OWNS A 2003 DODGE RAM 2500. THE CONTACT RECEIVED NOTIFICATION OF NHTSA CAMPAIGN NUMBER: 15V312000 (AIR BAGS). THE PART TO DO THE REPAIR WAS UNAVAILABLE. THE CONTACT STATED THAT THE MANUFACTURER EXCEEDED A REASONABLE AMOUNT OF TIME FOR THE RECALL REPAIR. ANNAPOLIS DODGE OF ANNAPOLIS, MARYLAND WAS CONTACTED ABOUT THE RECALL AND STATED THAT THE PARTS WERE UNAVAILABLE, BUT WOULD BE AVAILABLE WITHIN ONE WEEK. THE MANUFACTURER WAS MADE NOT AWARE OF THE ISSUE. THE CONTACT HAD NOT EXPERIENCED A FAILURE. PARTS DISTRIBUTION DISCONNECT.

Structure › Body
Filed May 25, 201787,000 milesTX

DASH IS CRACKED COMPLETELY. PIECES OF THE DASH HAS FALLEN IN THE AIR VENTS. IT'S A SAFETY ISSUE IF I GET INTO AN ACCIDENT DUE TO A PIECE MIGHT HIT ME OR MY PASSENGER. HAVE A 2002 FORD FOCUS ZTS, I HAVE TAKEN CARE MY DODGE BETTER THAN MY FORD AND THE DASH IS IN PERFECT CONDITION

Service BrakesCrash
Filed May 12, 2017140,000 milesTX

SUDDEN LOSS OF BRAKING WHILE APPROACHING INTERSECTION; THE BRAKE PEDAL JUST WENT TO THE FLOOR WHEN APPLYING APPROXIMATELY TWO HUNDRED FEET BEFORE INTERSECTION; APPLIED EMERGENCY BRAKE TO EFFECTIVELY STOP;SPEED WAS BELOW 30 MPH WHEN APPROACHING INTERSECTION AND BRAKE LOSS OCCURRED; TRUCK HAS ALSO HAD FOUR "DEATH WOBBLE" EXPERIENCES EVEN WITH PITTMAN ARM AND ASSOCIATED PARTS REPLACEMENT; TWO EXPERIENCES OF SUDDEN ACCELERATION (POSSIBLE JAMMED OPEN THROTTLE) OF THE TURBO, LEADING TO LOSS OF CONTROL; SUDDEN ACCELERATIONS OCCURRED SHORTLY AFTER CRUISE CONTROL USAGE AND TRAVELING LESS THAN 30 MPH; WHILE STATIONARY, VEHICLE HAS EXPERIENCED WIRING HARNESS SHORT AND FIRE ON FIREWALL WHILE CONNECTED TO TRAILER. PICTURES ATTACHED WERE TAKEN WITHIN 12 HOURS OF SUDDEN LOSS OF BRAKES.

Structure › Body1 injured
Filed May 7, 2017150,000 milesOK

DASHBOARD DISINTEGRATING INTO HUNDREDS OF EXTREMELY POINTED AND SHARP SHARDS OF HEAVY GAUGE PLASTIC SOME OF CONSIDERABLE MASS THAT POSE A SEVERE RISK IN THE EVENT OF A COLLISION. DAILY REMOVE PIECES OF DASH AS THEY BREAK FREE. MANY ARE HEAVY ENOUGH AND POINTED ENOUGH TO SEVERELY INJURE DRIVER OR OCCUPANTS EVEN UNDER SEVERE BRAKING LET ALONE A CRASH WITH AIRBAG DEPLOYMENT AT SUPERSONIC SPEEDS. UNDER SEVERE BRAKING THESE SHARDS BREAK FREE AND FLY FORWARD TOWARD THE WINDSHIELD THEN BOUNCE BACK AT THE TERRIFIED OCCUPANTS. WE NOW HAVE TO ALWAYS WEAR PROTECTIVE EYEWEAR TO AVOID BEING BLINDED BY A FLYING PIECE OF DEBRIS FROM THE DASH. EVERY TIME THE VEHICLE HITS A SMALL BUMP ANOTHER PIECE OR TWO BREAKS OFF OR A NEW CRACK APPEARS THREATENING TO RELEASE ANOTHER SHARP FLYING OBJECT INTO THE PASSENGER COMPARTMENT. THIS IS NOT JUST COSMETIC!! THIS IS DANGEROUS. THIS HAS BEEN GOING ON FOR YEARS AS A COSMETIC ISSUE BUT NOW IS DIFFERENT.

Unknown or Other
Filed May 5, 201764,000 milesTN

AT APPROXIMATELY 64,000 MILES, I NOTICED THE DASHBOARD STARTED TO CRACK IN MULTIPLE PLACES. SHORTLY THERE AFTER, PIECES STARTED TO BREAK AWAY WHILE DRIVING. MOST OF THE PIECES HAD SHARP EDGES WITH THE POTENTIAL TO CAUSE INJURY TO THE DRIVER OR FRONT SEAT PASSENGER. THERE HAVE BEEN NUMEROUS COMPLAINTS/REPORTS OF THIS PROBLEM LOGGED WITH BOTH THE MANUFACTURER AND THE NHTSA FOR YEARS WITH NO ACTION EVEN ATTEMPTED TO HAVE A SAFETY RECALL ISSUED TO HAVE THE DEFECTIVE FACTORY DASHBOARD REPLACED AT NO COST TO THE OWNER. WHAT HAS TO HAPPEN BEFORE THE NHTSA ACTS? THE LOSS OF SOMEONE'S EYE PERHAPS OR A PIECE FLYING INTO THE FACE OF A DRIVER CAUSING LOSS OF SIGHT AND CAUSING A COLLISION? WAKE UP!!! THIS IS NOT JUST A COSMETIC PROBLEM. IT'S A SLEEPING GIANT WAITING TO HAPPEN!

Air Bags
Filed May 5, 2017170,000 milesTX

TL* THE CONTACT OWNS A 2003 DODGE RAM 2500. THE DEALER ADVISED THE CONTACT VIA PHONE THAT SHE NEEDED TO HAVE THE DASHBOARD REPAIRED PRIOR TO THE VEHICLE BEING REPAIRED PER NHTSA CAMPAIGN NUMBER: 15V312000 (AIR BAGS). THE MANUFACTURER WAS NOTIFIED AND DID NOT ASSIST. THE FAILURE MILEAGE WAS 170,000.

Structure › Body
Filed Apr 12, 2017210,000 milesCA

DASH IS CRACKING CREATING SHARP SECTIONS THAT WOULD BE AN EXTREME HAZARD IN THE EVENT OF AN AIRBAG DEPLOYMENT.

Air Bags
Filed Apr 10, 2017NC

TL* TAKATA RECALL. THE CONTACT OWNS A 2003 DODGE RAM 2500. THE CONTACT RECEIVED NOTIFICATION OF NHTSA CAMPAIGN NUMBER: 15V312000 (AIR BAGS); HOWEVER, THE TECHNICIAN REFUSED TO PERFORM THE RECALL REPAIR DUE TO THE PARTS NOT MATCHING THE REMEDY PARTS THAT WERE SENT. THE TECHNICIAN STATED THAT THE VEHICLE'S AIR BAG WERE A DIFFERENT SIZE. THE CONTACT STATED THAT THE MANUFACTURER EXCEEDED A REASONABLE AMOUNT OF TIME FOR THE RECALL REPAIR. THE MANUFACTURER WAS NOTIFIED OF THE ISSUE. THE CONTACT HAD NOT EXPERIENCED A FAILURE. VIN TOOL CONFIRMS PARTS NOT AVAILABLE.

Air Bags
Filed Apr 10, 2017MD

TL* TAKATA RECALL. THE CONTACT OWNS A 2003 DODGE RAM 2500. THE CONTACT RECEIVED NOTIFICATION OF NHTSA CAMPAIGN NUMBER: 15V312000 (AIR BAGS); HOWEVER, THE PART TO DO THE REPAIR WAS UNAVAILABLE. THE CONTACT STATED THAT THE MANUFACTURER EXCEEDED A REASONABLE AMOUNT OF TIME FOR THE RECALL REPAIR. THE MANUFACTURER WAS MADE AWARE OF THE ISSUE. THE CONTACT HAD NOT EXPERIENCED A FAILURE. PARTS DISTRIBUTION DISCONNECT.

Air Bags
Filed Apr 6, 2017240,000 milesNC

I CONTACTED MY LOCAL DODGE DEALERSHIP ON THE RECALL YOU GUYS SENT LAST YEAR ON THIS MATTER. I WAS TOLD THEY DID NOT HAVE THE NEW AIRBAGS TO INSTALL AND THAT I WOULD RECEIVE ANOTHER NOTICE STATING WHEN THEY HAD THEM. THEN, I COULD THEN CALL BACK TO SET UP A TIME TO HAVE THE FAULTY ONE REPLACED. I NEVER RECEIVED THAT NOTICE AND HAVE RECEIVED MY SECOND SAFETY RECALL NOTICE ON THE SAME ISSUE. I WOULD VERY MUCH LIKE TO HAVE THIS FIXED SINCE MY FAMILY OFTEN USE THIS VEHICLE. BUT THE LOCAL DEALER ONLY SEEMS INTERESTED IN MAKING MONEY, NOT THE SAFETY OF WHAT THEY SALE.

Air Bags
Filed Mar 31, 2017CO

HAVE HAD 4 RECALL ALERTS IN THE LAST 2 YEARS! CALLED DEALER TO MAKE APPOINTMENT TO FIND THEY HAVE NO PARTS!

Complaints 1-50 of 661, newest first, reproduced as filed.

Across model years

Worst on record: 2006
YearComplaintsRecallsFiresDeathsAssessment
20122835120Above average
2011298470Above average
2010236440Above average
2009214530Do not drive
2008317980Do not drive
20073621192Do not drive
2006670940Do not drive
2005422981Do not drive
2004582974Fatalities reported
2003 — this page661922Do not drive
2002155211Fatalities reported
20014692110Above average
2000211250Above average
1999313220Above average
1998225230Above average
19972131140Above average
19962911150Above average
19952671130Above average
1994168160Routine
199339000Routine
199232020Routine
199116000Routine

Compare every Ram 2500 year →

2003 Dodge Ram 2500: questions buyers ask

Is the 2003 Dodge Ram 2500 a good car?

Going by the federal record, it is one of the Ram 2500 years to avoid: owners filed 661 complaints, 2.3 times as many as a typical Ram 2500 year. The most common complaint is about the airbags (20%).

What is the most common problem with the 2003 Dodge Ram 2500?

The airbags: 134 of the 661 complaints (20%) are about it. Owners most often say it shows an airbag warning light (4%) and did not deploy its airbags in a crash (4%). The typical report comes at 95,000 miles.

How many recalls does the 2003 Dodge Ram 2500 have?

9 safety recalls on file with NHTSA, the most recent filed May 26, 2015. 1 of them carries a do-not-drive or park-outside warning. The largest, 13V528000, covered 706,664 vehicles. Recall repairs are free at a dealer; whether a specific car still has one open depends on its VIN.

At what mileage do 2003 Dodge Ram 2500 problems start?

Half of the complaints that record an odometer reading came in before 77,200 miles. For the airbags the midpoint is 95,000 miles.

Has NHTSA investigated the 2003 Dodge Ram 2500?

Yes, 6 times. The latest, EA21002 ("Desiccated Air Bag Inflator Rupture"), was opened Sep 17, 2021 and is still open. 2 investigations are open.

Are there service bulletins for the 2003 Dodge Ram 2500?

The manufacturer filed 32 technical service bulletins and other notices for it with NHTSA, most of them about the engine (9), the electrical system (6) and the body and frame (4). A bulletin is a repair instruction to dealers, not a recall: the fix is usually free only under warranty.

Reading this record

NHTSA has issued a do-not-drive warning for a recall on this vehicle.

Complaint counts track how many cars were sold and how long they have been on the road as much as they track quality. A common model from 2013 has had a decade to accumulate reports; a rare one from last year has not. The signal worth weighing is in the severity columns, in whether the same component keeps appearing, and in whether the manufacturer eventually opened a recall for it.

Recall repairs are free for as long as the recall stands. Check whether a specific car still has open work at NHTSA's VIN lookup.

Most recent recall on file: May 26, 2015. Source: NHTSA Office of Defects Investigation.