FaultScore

FaultScore report

2008 Dodge RAM 2500 problems

Owners have filed 405 complaints about the 2008 Dodge RAM 2500 with NHTSA between 2008 and 2024. The largest single group is the steering. Across this model's run it ranks 10 of 20 worst.

C

FaultScore 46/100

Higher is worse. Measured against the other years of the Dodge RAM 2500.

How this is worked out

The numbers

405

Complaints

15

Crashes reported

13

Fires reported

7

Injuries reported

60,977 mi

Median mileage at failure

Half of reported failures happened before this

24%

Failed under 36,000 miles

Inside a typical bumper-to-bumper warranty

What kind of bad

The letter says how bad. This says what kind — whether this year drew an unusual number of complaints, unusually dangerous ones, or failures that arrived unusually early.

Complaint volume 48 vs 50 Severity 45 vs 50 Early failure 40 vs 50
The dashed ring is 50 — the national norm. Further out is worse.
Complaint volume — 48
Against the median year of the Dodge RAM 2500. 50 means typical for this model; 100 means roughly double.
Severity — 45
8.6% of these complaints involved a crash, fire, injury or death, against a national rate of 9.7%.
Early failure — 40
24% of failures with a mileage on record happened under 36,000 miles, against a national rate of 29%.

How 2008 compares with every other Dodge RAM 2500

Click any bar to open that year's report.

Complaints filed with NHTSA, by model year. Bar colour is the FaultScore grade: A B C D F ungraded

What breaks on a 2008 Dodge RAM 2500

Every complaint is filed against a part. Follow any row for the complaints about that part alone.

Steering 178 44.0%

5 crashes, 1 fires · median 60,000 mi

Suspension 49 12.1%

1 crashes, 0 fires · median 55,000 mi

0 crashes, 4 fires · median 40,130 mi

Airbags 30 7.4%

3 crashes, 0 fires · median 121,500 mi

3 crashes, 2 fires · median 79,000 mi

1 crashes, 4 fires · median 122,000 mi

Median failure at 80,774 miles

0 crashes, 2 fires · median 115,000 mi

Acceleration & Cruise Control 9 2.2%

1 crashes, 0 fires · median 59,750 mi

Fuel & Propulsion 7 1.7%

1 crashes, 0 fires · median 40,730 mi

Wheels 5 1.2%

Median failure at 87,000 miles

Brakes 5 1.2%

Median failure at 57,945 miles

Seat Belts 4 1.0%

Median failure at 45,945 miles

Tires 4 1.0%

Median failure at 45,168 miles

Lights 4 1.0%

Median failure at 65,780 miles

Body & Structure 4 1.0%

Median failure at 50,000 miles

Equipment & Accessories 1 0.2%

Median failure at 29,000 miles

Stability & Traction Control 1 0.2%
Seats 1 0.2%

Median failure at 4,500 miles

Exactly what failed

NHTSA files every complaint against a named sub-assembly, not just a system. This is the difference between knowing it was "the engine" and knowing which part of it — the list to hand a mechanic.

TIE ROD Assembly 16 32.7%
Front 10 20.4%
Exhaust System 9 18.4%
Diesel 6 12.2%
Engine 3 6.1%
Defroster/Defogger/Hvac System 2 4.1%
Body 2 4.1%
AIR Handler/Chamber, Ducts, AND Valves 1 2.0%

When it fails

Odometer readings owners gave when they filed. About half of all complaints include one.

Under 1,000 miles 6 2.0%
1,000 – 9,999 miles 13 4.3%
10,000 – 24,999 miles 25 8.3%
25,000 – 49,999 miles 75 24.8%
50,000 – 74,999 miles 56 18.5%
75,000 – 99,999 miles 50 16.6%
100,000 – 149,999 miles 41 13.6%
150,000+ miles 36 11.9%

When owners complained

A spike years after the car went on sale usually means a part wearing out on schedule across the whole fleet — the kind of pattern no single owner can see from inside their own car.

Jan 2008 peak 17 Dec 2024

NHTSA investigations into the 2008 Dodge RAM 2500

An investigation is the step before a recall: the agency has seen enough complaints to look into a pattern itself. An open one means it thinks something may be wrong and nothing has been fixed yet.

1 investigation is still open.

EA21002 Opened 17 Sep 2021 Still open AIR BAGS:FRONTAL:DRIVER SIDE:INFLATOR MODULE

Desiccated Air Bag Inflator Rupture

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 www.nhtsa.gov/sites/nhtsa.gov/files/documents/expert_report-hrblomquist.pdf.C...

AQ14003 Opened 20 Oct 2014 Closed 16 May 2016 STEERING:LINKAGES:TIE ROD ASSEMBLY

Chrysler's execution of 13V-528 & 529

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 avail...

PE11009 Opened 4 Apr 2011 Closed 6 Feb 2012 STEERING:LINKAGES:TIE ROD ASSEMBLY

Outer Tie Rod Failure

ODI received complaints regarding failing tie rod ball studs on Model Year 2008-2011 Dodge Ram 2500 and 3500 vehicles resulting in loss of steering control.Chrysler concluded that misalignment of the left (driver side) ball stud on vehicles built with the Cross Car steering linkage system could allow contact between the bull stud and the ball housing which could weaken the stud and result in fracture.Chrysler submitted a recall notice on August 15, 2011 involving certain MY 2003-2011 Ram 2500 and Ram 3500 pickup trucks built or repaired with the Cross Car steering linkage.Chrysler will inspect...

Recalls on the 2008 Dodge RAM 2500

A complaint is one owner's allegation. A recall is the point at which the manufacturer or a regulator agreed the defect is real and dangerous enough to fix for free — however old the car is.

United States — NHTSA

16V352000

AIR BAGS:FRONTAL:PASSENGER SIDE:INFLATOR MODULE

Chrysler (FCA US LLC) expanded the affected population to include 73,712 2005-2009 RAM 2500 trucks produced at the St. Louis North Assembly Plant. With this change, Chrysler is recalling certain model year 2004-2008 RAM 1500, 2005-2009 RAM 2500, 2006-2009 RAM 3500, 2007-2010 RAM 3500 Cab Chassis, 2008-2010 RAM 4500 and 5500 Cab Chassis, 2004-2009 Dodge Durango, 2007-2009 Chrysler Aspen, 2007-2012 Jeep Wrangler, 2008-2012 Dodge Challenger, 2005-2008 Dodge Magnum, 2005-2012 Chrysler 300, 2006-2012 Dodge Charger, 2005-2011 Dodge Dakota, and 2006-2009 Mitsubishi Raider vehicles originally sold, or ever registered, in AL, CA, FL, GA, HI, LA, MS, SC, TX, Puerto Rico, American Samoa, Guam, the Northern Mariana Islands (Saipan), and the U.S. Virgin Islands, or "Zone A." Additionally, unless included in "Zone A" above, Chrysler is also recalling 2004-2008 RAM 1500, 2005-2009 RAM 2500, 2006-2009 RAM 3500, 2007-2009 RAM 3500 Cab Chassis, 2008-2009 RAM 4500 and 5500 Cab Chassis, 2004-2009 Dodge Durango, 2007-2009 Chrysler Aspen, 2007-2009 Jeep Wrangler, 2008-2009 Dodge Challenger, 2005-2008 Dodge Magnum, 2005-2009 Chrysler 300, 2006-2009 Dodge Charger, 2005-2009 Dodge Dakota and 2006-2009 Mits

Risk: These vehicles are equipped with certain air bag inflators assembled as part of the passenger frontal air bag modules, and used as original equipment or replacement equipment. These inflators may rupture due to propellant degradation occurring after long-term exposure to absolute humidity and temperature cycling. An inflator rupture may result in metal fragments striking the vehicle occupants resulting in serious injury or death.

15V313000

AIR BAGS:FRONTAL:DRIVER SIDE:INFLATOR MODULE

Chrysler (FCA US LLC) is recalling certain model year 2005-2009 Dodge Ram 2500, 2004-2008 Dodge Ram 1500 and Durango, 2006-2009 Dodge Ram 3500, 2008-2010 Dodge Ram 4500 and 5500, 2007-2008 Chrysler Aspen, 2005-2010 Chrysler 300, 300C, 300S, and SRT8, 2006-2010 Dodge Charger, 2005-2008 Magnum, 2005-2011 Dodge Dakota, and 2006-2009 Mitsubishi Raider vehicles. The affected vehicles are equipped with a dual-stage driver frontal air bag that may be susceptible to moisture intrusion which, over time, could cause the inflator to rupture.

Risk: In the event of a crash necessitating deployment of the driver's frontal air bag, the inflator could rupture with metal fragments striking the driver or other occupants resulting in serious injury or death.

13V529000

STEERING:LINKAGES:TIE ROD ASSEMBLY

Chrysler Group LLC (Chrysler) is recalling certain model year 2008-2012 RAM 2500 4X4 and 3500 4X4 trucks, 2008-2012 Dodge RAM 3500 4x2 Cab Chassis, and model year 2008 Dodge RAM 1500 Mega Cab 4x4. 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.

13V528000

STEERING:LINKAGES:TIE ROD ASSEMBLY

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.

11V350000

STEERING:LINKAGES:TIE ROD ASSEMBLY

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.

10E013000

STEERING:GEAR BOX:SHAFT PITMAN

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.

09V005000

STEERING:LINKAGES:TIE ROD ASSEMBLY

CHRYSLER IS RECALLING 32,782 MY 2008-2009 DODGE RAM 2500, 3500 AND 3500 CAB CHASSIS PICKUP TRUCKS EQUIPPED WITH POWERS AND SONS STEERING LINKAGE. THE STEERING LINKAGE DRAG LINK INNER TIE ROD TO PITMAN ARM BALL STUD MAY FRACTURE. ALSO THE STEERING LINKAGE DAMPER ATTACHING THE BRACKET MAY YIELD AND SHIFT ON THE LINKAGE.

Risk: THIS COULD RESULT IN A LOSS OF STEERING CONTROL AND THE RESTRICTED ABILITY TO TURN THE VEHICLE IN ONE DIRECTION INCREASING THE RISK OF A CRASH WITHOUT WARNING.

08V641000

ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING:ENGINE:DIESEL

CHRYSLER IS RECALLING 108,429 MY 2007-2008 DODGE RAM 2500 AND 3500 PICKUP TRUCKS EQUIPPED WITH 6.7L DIESEL ENGINES. A SILENCER PAD CAN SAG AND CONTACT THE EXHAUST GAS RECIRCULATION (EGR) COOLER.

Risk: THIS COULD RESULT IN AN ENGINE COMPARTMENT FIRE.

Recalls cover specific build ranges, so check your own vehicle by VIN at nhtsa.gov/recalls or, in Canada, Transport Canada.

Complaints that involved harm

Reports where the owner recorded a crash, a fire, an injury or a death.

at 180,000 miles Lynnwood, WA Fire

UNKNOWN OR OTHER

I WAS DRIVING ON I405 IN WASHINGTON STATE TRAVELING SOUTHBOUND WHEN I NOTICED SMOKE COMING FROM MY ENGINE COMPARTMENT...I PULLED OVER POPPED THE HOOD AND TOOK A QUICK LOOK.. I NOTICED FLAMES ON THE LOWER PORTION OF THE MOTOR ALMOST BEHIND THE FIREWALL...CALLED 911...

NHTSA complaint #11361537 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.

at 180,000 miles Lynnwood, WA Fire

ENGINE

I WAS DRIVING ON I405 IN WASHINGTON STATE TRAVELING SOUTHBOUND WHEN I NOTICED SMOKE COMING FROM MY ENGINE COMPARTMENT...I PULLED OVER POPPED THE HOOD AND TOOK A QUICK LOOK.. I NOTICED FLAMES ON THE LOWER PORTION OF THE MOTOR ALMOST BEHIND THE FIREWALL...CALLED 911...

NHTSA complaint #11361537 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.

at 163,000 miles Shoshone, ID Fire

POWER TRAIN

DEATH WOBBLES: I HAVE REPLACED UPPER AND LOWER BALL JOINTS WITH PROBLEM SOLVERS. REPLACED THE TIE RODS AND ENDS. REPLACED THE STABILIZER SHOCK, REPLACED THE TRACK BAR RUBBER BUSHINGS, REPLACED THE OTTER UNIVERSAL JOINTS ON THE AAM 9.50 14 BOLT ELECTRIC HUBS. NEW SHOCKS ALL AROUND. DROVE TO SALT LAKE CITY AND THE DEATH WOBBLES CAME BACK HAVE TO PULL OFF THE HWY AND COME TO A STOP WHILE IT IS SHAKING THE TRUCK APART. 15 TIMES FROM IDAHO.. THIS IS A MAJOR SAFETY PROBLEM THE STEERING BOX HAS PROBLEMS AND IT IS NOT LISTED UNDER ANY RECALLS. NEW ALIGNMENT ALSO. NEW TRANSMISSION, AT 163,000 BOILED OVER ONTO THE TURBO, THE DIPSTICK NEVER FIT IN THE TUBE AND FLUID CAUSED THE TRUCK TO CATCH FIRE. 3 YEARS AGO.

NHTSA complaint #11222935 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.

at 162,000 miles Shoshone, ID Fire

POWER TRAIN

TRANSMISSION BURNED UP AND CAUSED THE TRUCK TO CATCH FIRE DUE TO IMPROPER DIPSTICK FIT. FLUID SPEWED ONTO THE TURBO AND STARTED FIRE. BURNT STUFF UP PRETTY BAD.

NHTSA complaint #11222938 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.

at 163,000 miles Shoshone, ID Fire

STEERING

DEATH WOBBLES: I HAVE REPLACED UPPER AND LOWER BALL JOINTS WITH PROBLEM SOLVERS. REPLACED THE TIE RODS AND ENDS. REPLACED THE STABILIZER SHOCK, REPLACED THE TRACK BAR RUBBER BUSHINGS, REPLACED THE OTTER UNIVERSAL JOINTS ON THE AAM 9.50 14 BOLT ELECTRIC HUBS. NEW SHOCKS ALL AROUND. DROVE TO SALT LAKE CITY AND THE DEATH WOBBLES CAME BACK HAVE TO PULL OFF THE HWY AND COME TO A STOP WHILE IT IS SHAKING THE TRUCK APART. 15 TIMES FROM IDAHO.. THIS IS A MAJOR SAFETY PROBLEM THE STEERING BOX HAS PROBLEMS AND IT IS NOT LISTED UNDER ANY RECALLS. NEW ALIGNMENT ALSO. NEW TRANSMISSION, AT 163,000 BOILED OVER ONTO THE TURBO, THE DIPSTICK NEVER FIT IN THE TUBE AND FLUID CAUSED THE TRUCK TO CATCH FIRE. 3 YEARS AGO.

NHTSA complaint #11222935 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.

at 163,000 miles Shoshone, ID Fire

ELECTRICAL SYSTEM

DEATH WOBBLES: I HAVE REPLACED UPPER AND LOWER BALL JOINTS WITH PROBLEM SOLVERS. REPLACED THE TIE RODS AND ENDS. REPLACED THE STABILIZER SHOCK, REPLACED THE TRACK BAR RUBBER BUSHINGS, REPLACED THE OTTER UNIVERSAL JOINTS ON THE AAM 9.50 14 BOLT ELECTRIC HUBS. NEW SHOCKS ALL AROUND. DROVE TO SALT LAKE CITY AND THE DEATH WOBBLES CAME BACK HAVE TO PULL OFF THE HWY AND COME TO A STOP WHILE IT IS SHAKING THE TRUCK APART. 15 TIMES FROM IDAHO.. THIS IS A MAJOR SAFETY PROBLEM THE STEERING BOX HAS PROBLEMS AND IT IS NOT LISTED UNDER ANY RECALLS. NEW ALIGNMENT ALSO. NEW TRANSMISSION, AT 163,000 BOILED OVER ONTO THE TURBO, THE DIPSTICK NEVER FIT IN THE TUBE AND FLUID CAUSED THE TRUCK TO CATCH FIRE. 3 YEARS AGO.

NHTSA complaint #11222935 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.

The most recent complaints

In the owners' own words, exactly as filed with NHTSA.

Muleshoe, TX

STRUCTURE:BODY

driving down the highway at 70 mph and the drivers door came opened it was caused by a faulty door lock actuator

NHTSA complaint #11630223 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.

Muleshoe, TX

ELECTRICAL SYSTEM

driving down the highway at 70 mph and the drivers door came opened it was caused by a faulty door lock actuator

NHTSA complaint #11630223 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.

Washington, MI

SEAT BELTS

I want to apologize for the lengthy description but I feel this is quite possibly the most critical area to not be vague in. **This problem occurs every time, NOT an intermittent condition.** REAR SEAT/CENTER SEAT BELT RETRACTOR; will not extend out from the retractor. The belt is locked in the fully retracted (unoccupied) position. The vehicle can be on a flat surface, an incline, or a declined position when this occurs. There's nothing obstructing any part of the belt and retractor. In order to use that position/seat belt, I must repeatedly (sometimes in excess of 20 times) pull the belt in different rates of speed ie. pull the belt very slowly, pull it normally, pull it very fast by basically snatching the belt. I've even tried to help the belt further retract into the retractor by slowly feeding the belt rearward. There's no 1 action that seems to work better than the other. Furthermore, at times, the belt (once able to be used) will not hold its position to keep the occupant from moving forward in a panic stop or even by snatching the belt to check its operation. The buckle does function as designed so this problem is strictly related to the shoulder belt not keeping the occupant secure. Apon visual inspection, there are no noted frays, stains, foreign objects, or signs of attempted (prior) repairs. I also want to note that I am an ASE certified Master Mechanic so I am well versed on the operation, diagnosis and replacement of seat belts/retractors/sinchers buckets etc. I'm asking for assistance by any information you can share with me to remedy this issue. This is my "daily driver" routinely using the back seat for my children. I don't want to replace it with a used part because I believe this is a common issue for this platform vehicle. Thank you for your time and assistance!

NHTSA complaint #11526379 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.

at 162,000 miles Lula, GA

ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING:EXHAUST SYSTEM

The contact owns a 2008 Dodge Ram 2500. The contact stated while driving various speeds, he started to smell exhaust fumes inside the cabin of the vehicle. The contact stated no warning light was illuminated. The vehicle was not diagnosed or repaired. A dealer was not contacted. The manufacturer had not been informed of the failure. The failure mileage was approximately 162,000.

NHTSA complaint #11508674 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.

at 162,000 miles Lula, GA

ENGINE

The contact owns a 2008 Dodge Ram 2500. The contact stated while driving various speeds, he started to smell exhaust fumes inside the cabin of the vehicle. The contact stated no warning light was illuminated. The vehicle was not diagnosed or repaired. A dealer was not contacted. The manufacturer had not been informed of the failure. The failure mileage was approximately 162,000.

NHTSA complaint #11508674 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.

Pittsfield, ME

VISIBILITY/WIPER

during cold weather - when outside temp is below 30 degrees the wipers will not work. When outside temp is above 30 degrees wipers work. During a snow storm, driving home the wipers stop working and windshield freezes up. I replaced the multifunction switch and the wiper motor and dealer stated that the totally integrated power module could be bad. there is so many complaints about others having this issue. This is a major safety issue. Something needs to be done before someone is killed.

NHTSA complaint #11450753 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.

Colorado Springs, CO

STEERING

While driving the vehicle suddenly lost engine power and turned off. When this happened the steering column locked. It did not just loose power steering. The column itself entirely locked up. At this point the vehicle had no steering and limited breaking and went off the road. Thankfully it just went into a ditch and no damage was done. The vehicle turned right back on. The next day I recreated the problem on some friends property. I gave the keys in the ignition a small tug and the engine would stop and the steering column would lock. The ignition never rotated out of the on position and the key remained in the ignition. I recreated this probably 5 times and it did the same thing every time. I then brought it to the dealer but they didn't have the parts to repair it so I didn't have them look at it. I had to use the vehicle sooner then they could repair it to pull a camper about 1200 miles. I diagnosed the problem to be the ignition switch. I replaced the switch myself and the vehicle has not had the same problem since. I have given the keys in the ignition the same kind of tug and it is no longer a problem. I do have the switch available for inspection. I personally can totally understand the engine turning off due to an ignition switch failure but I believe the actual steering column locking is unacceptable.

NHTSA complaint #11446616 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.

Colorado Springs, CO

ELECTRICAL SYSTEM

While driving the vehicle suddenly lost engine power and turned off. When this happened the steering column locked. It did not just loose power steering. The column itself entirely locked up. At this point the vehicle had no steering and limited breaking and went off the road. Thankfully it just went into a ditch and no damage was done. The vehicle turned right back on. The next day I recreated the problem on some friends property. I gave the keys in the ignition a small tug and the engine would stop and the steering column would lock. The ignition never rotated out of the on position and the key remained in the ignition. I recreated this probably 5 times and it did the same thing every time. I then brought it to the dealer but they didn't have the parts to repair it so I didn't have them look at it. I had to use the vehicle sooner then they could repair it to pull a camper about 1200 miles. I diagnosed the problem to be the ignition switch. I replaced the switch myself and the vehicle has not had the same problem since. I have given the keys in the ignition the same kind of tug and it is no longer a problem. I do have the switch available for inspection. I personally can totally understand the engine turning off due to an ignition switch failure but I believe the actual steering column locking is unacceptable.

NHTSA complaint #11446616 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.

at 109,000 miles Akron, OH

VISIBILITY:DEFROSTER/DEFOGGER/HVAC SYSTEM:AIR HANDLER/CHAMBER, DUCTS, AND VALVES

The contact owns a 2008 Dodge Ram 2500. The contact stated while exiting out of the garage, the windshield defroster was activated and there was a loud clicking sound coming from the HVAC system. The contact stated that the HVAC system failed to switch over to the air vents. The contact inspected the vehicle and became aware that the defroster actuator was cracked inside in the vents causing the failure. The vehicle was not diagnosed or repaired. The manufacturer was not made aware of the failure. The failure mileage was approximately 109,000.

NHTSA complaint #11439888 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.

at 289,000 miles Colorado Springs, CO

STEERING

TL* THE CONTACT OWNS A 2008 DODGE RAM 2500. THE CONTACT STATED WHILE DRIVING 4 MPH, HE HEARD AN ABNORMAL SOUND COMING FROM THE VEHICLE. THE CONTACT STATED NO WARNING LIGHT WAS ILLUMINATED. THE CONTACT STATED THAT HE ATTEMPTED TO STEER TO THE VEHICLE TO THE RIGHT HOWEVER, THE VEHICLE FAILED TO RESPOND. THE VEHICLE WAS STOPPED IN THE MIDDLE OF THE ROADWAY. THE VEHICLE WAS NOT DRIVABLE. THE VEHICLE WAS TOWED TO HIS RESIDENCE. THE CONTACT CALLED COLORADO SPRINGS DODGE (7455 AUSTIN BLUFFS PKWY, COLORADO SPRINGS, CO 80923, (719)475-8550) AND THE DEALER WAS MADE AWARE OF THE FAILURE. THE VEHICLE WAS NOT DIAGNOSED NOR REPAIRED. UPON INVESTIGATION, THE CONTACT ASSOCIATED THE FAILURE WITH NHTSA CAMPAIGN NUMBER: 13V529000 (STEERING) HOWEVER, THE VIN WAS NOT INCLUDED. THE MANUFACTURER HAD NOT BEEN INFORMED OF THE FAILURE. THE FAILURE MILEAGE WAS APPROXIMATELY 289,000.

NHTSA complaint #11413495 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.

at 180,000 miles Lynnwood, WA Fire

UNKNOWN OR OTHER

I WAS DRIVING ON I405 IN WASHINGTON STATE TRAVELING SOUTHBOUND WHEN I NOTICED SMOKE COMING FROM MY ENGINE COMPARTMENT...I PULLED OVER POPPED THE HOOD AND TOOK A QUICK LOOK.. I NOTICED FLAMES ON THE LOWER PORTION OF THE MOTOR ALMOST BEHIND THE FIREWALL...CALLED 911...

NHTSA complaint #11361537 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.

at 180,000 miles Lynnwood, WA Fire

ENGINE

I WAS DRIVING ON I405 IN WASHINGTON STATE TRAVELING SOUTHBOUND WHEN I NOTICED SMOKE COMING FROM MY ENGINE COMPARTMENT...I PULLED OVER POPPED THE HOOD AND TOOK A QUICK LOOK.. I NOTICED FLAMES ON THE LOWER PORTION OF THE MOTOR ALMOST BEHIND THE FIREWALL...CALLED 911...

NHTSA complaint #11361537 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.

at 75,000 miles Oxford, PA

ELECTRICAL SYSTEM

THE BRAKE LIGHTS COME ON THEMSELVES WHEN THE TRUCK IS COMPLETELY OFF. IT'S INTERMITTENT HOWEVER IT DOES IT FREQUENTLY ENOUGH TO DRAIN THE BATTERY. THE ENGINE LIGHT COMES ON AS WELL HOWEVER IT DOES NOT PROVIDE A CODE TO DETERMINE THE CAUSE OF THE ISSUE.

NHTSA complaint #11317739 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.

at 188,000 miles Polk City, IA

EXTERIOR LIGHTING

BRAKE LIGHT AND TURN SIGNALS DO NOT WORK EVEN AFTER REPLACING BULBS, BULB SOCKETS AND MULTIFUNCTION TURN SIGNAL SWITCH

NHTSA complaint #11310511 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.

at 188,000 miles Polk City, IA

ELECTRICAL SYSTEM

BRAKE LIGHT AND TURN SIGNALS DO NOT WORK EVEN AFTER REPLACING BULBS, BULB SOCKETS AND MULTIFUNCTION TURN SIGNAL SWITCH

NHTSA complaint #11310511 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.

at 67,000 miles Keaau, HI

VISIBILITY/WIPER

WIPER ASSEMBLY CAME APART AT 55 MILES AN HOUR ON THE HIGHWAY IN THE RAIN ALMOST WRECKED MY VEHICLE.

NHTSA complaint #11306364 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.

at 151,000 miles Wishon, CA

ENGINE

TL* THE CONTACT OWNS A 2008 DODGE RAM 2500. WHILE DRIVING 60 MPH, THE VEHICLE HESITATED, LOST POWER, FAILED TO ACCELERATE, AND STALLED. ALSO, THE CHECK ENGINE WARNING INDICATOR ILLUMINATED. THE VEHICLE WAS PULLED OVER TO THE SIDE OF THE ROAD AND FAILED TO RESTART. THE CONTACT STATED THAT CODE: P1451 APPEARED. THE FAILURE RECURRED FIVE TIMES AND THE VEHICLE WAS TOWED TO SMOLICH MOTORS (1865 NE HWY 20, BEND, OR 97701, (541) 389-1177). THE DEALER DIAGNOSED THAT THE DIESEL PARTICULATE FILTER TRACKED SOOT FROM THE EXHAUST AND THE LOWER PARTICULATE EMISSION SYSTEM FAILED. THE VEHICLE WAS REPAIRED. A MONTH LATER, THE TURBO SYSTEM FAILED AND WAS REPAIRED BY A DIESEL INDEPENDENT MECHANIC. THE MANUFACTURER WAS MADE AWARE OF THE FAILURES AND DID NOT ASSIST. THE APPROXIMATE FAILURE MILEAGE WAS 151,000.

NHTSA complaint #11270262 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.

at 163,000 miles Shoshone, ID Fire

POWER TRAIN

DEATH WOBBLES: I HAVE REPLACED UPPER AND LOWER BALL JOINTS WITH PROBLEM SOLVERS. REPLACED THE TIE RODS AND ENDS. REPLACED THE STABILIZER SHOCK, REPLACED THE TRACK BAR RUBBER BUSHINGS, REPLACED THE OTTER UNIVERSAL JOINTS ON THE AAM 9.50 14 BOLT ELECTRIC HUBS. NEW SHOCKS ALL AROUND. DROVE TO SALT LAKE CITY AND THE DEATH WOBBLES CAME BACK HAVE TO PULL OFF THE HWY AND COME TO A STOP WHILE IT IS SHAKING THE TRUCK APART. 15 TIMES FROM IDAHO.. THIS IS A MAJOR SAFETY PROBLEM THE STEERING BOX HAS PROBLEMS AND IT IS NOT LISTED UNDER ANY RECALLS. NEW ALIGNMENT ALSO. NEW TRANSMISSION, AT 163,000 BOILED OVER ONTO THE TURBO, THE DIPSTICK NEVER FIT IN THE TUBE AND FLUID CAUSED THE TRUCK TO CATCH FIRE. 3 YEARS AGO.

NHTSA complaint #11222935 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.

at 162,000 miles Shoshone, ID Fire

POWER TRAIN

TRANSMISSION BURNED UP AND CAUSED THE TRUCK TO CATCH FIRE DUE TO IMPROPER DIPSTICK FIT. FLUID SPEWED ONTO THE TURBO AND STARTED FIRE. BURNT STUFF UP PRETTY BAD.

NHTSA complaint #11222938 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.

at 163,000 miles Shoshone, ID Fire

STEERING

DEATH WOBBLES: I HAVE REPLACED UPPER AND LOWER BALL JOINTS WITH PROBLEM SOLVERS. REPLACED THE TIE RODS AND ENDS. REPLACED THE STABILIZER SHOCK, REPLACED THE TRACK BAR RUBBER BUSHINGS, REPLACED THE OTTER UNIVERSAL JOINTS ON THE AAM 9.50 14 BOLT ELECTRIC HUBS. NEW SHOCKS ALL AROUND. DROVE TO SALT LAKE CITY AND THE DEATH WOBBLES CAME BACK HAVE TO PULL OFF THE HWY AND COME TO A STOP WHILE IT IS SHAKING THE TRUCK APART. 15 TIMES FROM IDAHO.. THIS IS A MAJOR SAFETY PROBLEM THE STEERING BOX HAS PROBLEMS AND IT IS NOT LISTED UNDER ANY RECALLS. NEW ALIGNMENT ALSO. NEW TRANSMISSION, AT 163,000 BOILED OVER ONTO THE TURBO, THE DIPSTICK NEVER FIT IN THE TUBE AND FLUID CAUSED THE TRUCK TO CATCH FIRE. 3 YEARS AGO.

NHTSA complaint #11222935 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.

at 163,000 miles Shoshone, ID Fire

ELECTRICAL SYSTEM

DEATH WOBBLES: I HAVE REPLACED UPPER AND LOWER BALL JOINTS WITH PROBLEM SOLVERS. REPLACED THE TIE RODS AND ENDS. REPLACED THE STABILIZER SHOCK, REPLACED THE TRACK BAR RUBBER BUSHINGS, REPLACED THE OTTER UNIVERSAL JOINTS ON THE AAM 9.50 14 BOLT ELECTRIC HUBS. NEW SHOCKS ALL AROUND. DROVE TO SALT LAKE CITY AND THE DEATH WOBBLES CAME BACK HAVE TO PULL OFF THE HWY AND COME TO A STOP WHILE IT IS SHAKING THE TRUCK APART. 15 TIMES FROM IDAHO.. THIS IS A MAJOR SAFETY PROBLEM THE STEERING BOX HAS PROBLEMS AND IT IS NOT LISTED UNDER ANY RECALLS. NEW ALIGNMENT ALSO. NEW TRANSMISSION, AT 163,000 BOILED OVER ONTO THE TURBO, THE DIPSTICK NEVER FIT IN THE TUBE AND FLUID CAUSED THE TRUCK TO CATCH FIRE. 3 YEARS AGO.

NHTSA complaint #11222935 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.

at 76,890 miles Tumtum, WA

SEAT BELTS

THE BRACKET THAT HOLD THE BREAK LINE TO THE REAR END (AXLE) HAD RUBBED THE METAL BREAK LINE UNTIL IT WORE THROUGH THE LINE AND THEN SPLIT CAUSING BRAKE FLUID TO LEAK OUT (FAST). I NOTICED MY BREAK PEDDLE START GOING TO THE FLOOR, I WAS DRIVING ON THE HIGHWAY WHEN I PUSHED THE BREAK PEDDLE TO SLOW DOWN BECAUSE THERE WAS A SPEED ZONE AHEAD, THE BREAK PEDDLE WENT TO THE FLOOR. THAT'S WHEN THE E BREAK WARNING LIGHT CAME ON NOTIFYING ME THAT MY BREAK FLUID WAS LOW OR EMPTY. I HAVE A MANUAL TRANSMISSION SO I WAS ABLE TO SHIFT DOWN TO SLOW DOWN, EVEN THOUGH I WAS STILL TRYING TO USE MY BRAKES THE PEDDLE WOULD TO THE FLOOR, STOPPING WAS 90% GONE, I HAD TO USE MY E BRAKE TO COME TO A COMPLETE STOP.. WHEN I STOP THE VEHICLE THAT'S WHEN I LOOKED UNDERNEATH THE TRUCK AND NOTICED A LARGE PUDDLE OF BREAK FLUID, I COULD ALSO SEE A STREAM OF FLUID WHERE I PULLED IN AT. SO IT WAS SPRAYING OUT WHEN I WAS USING THE BREAKS TO SLOW DOWN AND STOP. WHEN I GOT HOME I LOOKED WHERE TRUCK IS ALWAYS PARKED THERE NO FLUID HAD BEEN LEAKED THERE. BETWEEN MY HOME AND THE 36 MILES TO TOWN IT HAD THE BRACKET HAD RUBBED THROUGH AND SPLIT THE BREAK LINE. MY MECHANIC STATED THAT THE BRACKET HAD BEEN RUBBING THE BRAKE LINE FOR A WHILE TO SPLIT OPEN LIKE THAT. I HAD TO REPLACE THE METAL BRAKE LINE THAT WENT TO THE REAR PASSENGER BRAKE. NOW I'M WORRIED THAT THIS MIGHT HAPPENED TO MY OTHER BRAKE LINES. IT NEVER STATES THAT I'M TO CHECK FOR WEARING ON METAL LINES. NOTHING AFTER MARKET HAS BEEN DONE TO THIS VEHICLE IT'S 100% STOCK AS IT WAS WHEN BOUGHT FROM THE DEALERSHIP. TO ME THIS A SERIOUS PROBLEM THAT COULD HAVE LEAD TO AN ACCIDENT WHICH COULD KILL OR HURT A PERSON/PEOPLE. THIS IS A FACTORY DEFAULT AND NEEDS TO BE ADDRESSED IMMEDIATELY! A SIMPLE RUBBER PROTECT PIECE NEEDS TO BE PLACE ON THE BRACKET AND/OR LINE TO PROTECT THIS FROM HAPPENING AGAIN!!

NHTSA complaint #11184699 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.

at 76,890 miles Tumtum, WA

SERVICE BRAKES

THE BRACKET THAT HOLD THE BREAK LINE TO THE REAR END (AXLE) HAD RUBBED THE METAL BREAK LINE UNTIL IT WORE THROUGH THE LINE AND THEN SPLIT CAUSING BRAKE FLUID TO LEAK OUT (FAST). I NOTICED MY BREAK PEDDLE START GOING TO THE FLOOR, I WAS DRIVING ON THE HIGHWAY WHEN I PUSHED THE BREAK PEDDLE TO SLOW DOWN BECAUSE THERE WAS A SPEED ZONE AHEAD, THE BREAK PEDDLE WENT TO THE FLOOR. THAT'S WHEN THE E BREAK WARNING LIGHT CAME ON NOTIFYING ME THAT MY BREAK FLUID WAS LOW OR EMPTY. I HAVE A MANUAL TRANSMISSION SO I WAS ABLE TO SHIFT DOWN TO SLOW DOWN, EVEN THOUGH I WAS STILL TRYING TO USE MY BRAKES THE PEDDLE WOULD TO THE FLOOR, STOPPING WAS 90% GONE, I HAD TO USE MY E BRAKE TO COME TO A COMPLETE STOP.. WHEN I STOP THE VEHICLE THAT'S WHEN I LOOKED UNDERNEATH THE TRUCK AND NOTICED A LARGE PUDDLE OF BREAK FLUID, I COULD ALSO SEE A STREAM OF FLUID WHERE I PULLED IN AT. SO IT WAS SPRAYING OUT WHEN I WAS USING THE BREAKS TO SLOW DOWN AND STOP. WHEN I GOT HOME I LOOKED WHERE TRUCK IS ALWAYS PARKED THERE NO FLUID HAD BEEN LEAKED THERE. BETWEEN MY HOME AND THE 36 MILES TO TOWN IT HAD THE BRACKET HAD RUBBED THROUGH AND SPLIT THE BREAK LINE. MY MECHANIC STATED THAT THE BRACKET HAD BEEN RUBBING THE BRAKE LINE FOR A WHILE TO SPLIT OPEN LIKE THAT. I HAD TO REPLACE THE METAL BRAKE LINE THAT WENT TO THE REAR PASSENGER BRAKE. NOW I'M WORRIED THAT THIS MIGHT HAPPENED TO MY OTHER BRAKE LINES. IT NEVER STATES THAT I'M TO CHECK FOR WEARING ON METAL LINES. NOTHING AFTER MARKET HAS BEEN DONE TO THIS VEHICLE IT'S 100% STOCK AS IT WAS WHEN BOUGHT FROM THE DEALERSHIP. TO ME THIS A SERIOUS PROBLEM THAT COULD HAVE LEAD TO AN ACCIDENT WHICH COULD KILL OR HURT A PERSON/PEOPLE. THIS IS A FACTORY DEFAULT AND NEEDS TO BE ADDRESSED IMMEDIATELY! A SIMPLE RUBBER PROTECT PIECE NEEDS TO BE PLACE ON THE BRACKET AND/OR LINE TO PROTECT THIS FROM HAPPENING AGAIN!!

NHTSA complaint #11184699 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.

at 170,000 miles Woodville, TX

AIR BAGS

STEERING DEATH WOBBLE CAN CONTROL STEERING MOTOR BROKE PISTON CONNECTION ROD BECAUSE EXHAUST MANIFOLD WORKS OR DOES SOMETHING BREAK BOLTS IN BEAD CAUSING TICK THEN VALVE SEAT DROP SO VALVE DROP TO PISTON PISTION HIT VALVE BROKE CONNECTION ROD NOW DODGE WANTS $ 5,000 TO FIX WHAT I HAD NO CONTROL OVER IT BREAKING ON MANY TRUCKS AND DIDNT FIX SO THERE WANTING ME TO FIX THERE MESSED UP FAULTY PARTS THEN EVERYTHING IT MESSED UP TO I AIN'T GOT 500 TO SPEND EXTRA LET ALONE $5,000 MINIMUM FOR DODGE MAINIFOLD BREAKING AND MESSING UP MY WHOLEOTOR I DEMAND HELP MY TRUCK AIN'T 10 YEARS OLD THIS IS NOT ON RECALL LIST BUT KEEPS HAPPENING TO A DODGE TRUCKS I HAVE 2008 RAM 2500 3X4 CREW CAB HAVE ALL MY MANITINECE RECIPETS I WANT I DEMAND HELP FOR THIS FAULTY PART LUCKLY VEHICLE AND KILLED SOMEONE WE SPENT A LOT OF MONEY FOR TRUCK I WANT HELP FIXING IT NOW

NHTSA complaint #11183321 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.

at 170,000 miles Woodville, TX

UNKNOWN OR OTHER

STEERING DEATH WOBBLE CAN CONTROL STEERING MOTOR BROKE PISTON CONNECTION ROD BECAUSE EXHAUST MANIFOLD WORKS OR DOES SOMETHING BREAK BOLTS IN BEAD CAUSING TICK THEN VALVE SEAT DROP SO VALVE DROP TO PISTON PISTION HIT VALVE BROKE CONNECTION ROD NOW DODGE WANTS $ 5,000 TO FIX WHAT I HAD NO CONTROL OVER IT BREAKING ON MANY TRUCKS AND DIDNT FIX SO THERE WANTING ME TO FIX THERE MESSED UP FAULTY PARTS THEN EVERYTHING IT MESSED UP TO I AIN'T GOT 500 TO SPEND EXTRA LET ALONE $5,000 MINIMUM FOR DODGE MAINIFOLD BREAKING AND MESSING UP MY WHOLEOTOR I DEMAND HELP MY TRUCK AIN'T 10 YEARS OLD THIS IS NOT ON RECALL LIST BUT KEEPS HAPPENING TO A DODGE TRUCKS I HAVE 2008 RAM 2500 3X4 CREW CAB HAVE ALL MY MANITINECE RECIPETS I WANT I DEMAND HELP FOR THIS FAULTY PART LUCKLY VEHICLE AND KILLED SOMEONE WE SPENT A LOT OF MONEY FOR TRUCK I WANT HELP FIXING IT NOW

NHTSA complaint #11183321 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.