2016 RAM 1500 power train problems
200 owner complaints filed with NHTSA name the power train on the 2016 RAM 1500 — 13% of all complaints for this model year.
What owners report
“The contact owns a 2016 RAM 1500. The contact stated that while driving at an undisclosed speed, the ABS, traction control, and several unknown warning lights illuminated, and the failure was persistent. Additionally, while attempting to shift into drive(D), the gear shifter failed to shift into…”
filed Jul 8, 2026
“While driving my 2016 RAM 1500 Eco diesel, the vehicle suddenly lost power and would not accelerate beyond 40 mph. The malfunction occurred while driving under normal road conditions and created a safety concern because the truck was unable to maintain normal traffic speed. Prior to failure, a…”
filed May 11, 2026
Verbatim excerpts from complaints filed with NHTSA. Reports are not independently verified.
Related recalls
- Pushing the brake pedal for prolonged periods when the vehicle is running and in PARK may…Campaign 17V821000 · Dec 20, 2017
- Differential pin retaining screw may come loose while driving, potentially causing the…Campaign 17V198000 · Mar 23, 2017
- Front halfshafts may have been incorrectly manufactured causing them to fracture without…Campaign 16V301000 · May 16, 2016
- Affected vehicles may have been built with rear axles that were incorrectly heat treatedCampaign 15V661000 · Oct 15, 2015
Related service bulletins
The vehicle will exhibit a service transmission/check engine warning indicator for the following transmission models: 845RE, 8HP45, 850RE, 8HP50, 8HP70, 8HP75, 8HP75-PHEV, 8HP75-LCV, 8HP90, 8HP95. Transmissions may…
S2621000003 REV.A · Service Bulletin/Repair Instructions · issued Mar 9, 2026
Power Train problems in other 1500 years
| Year | Reports | Share |
|---|---|---|
| 2026 1500 | 3 | 4% |
| 2025 1500 | 39 | 13% |
| 2024 1500 | 14 | 21% |
| 2023 1500 | 25 | 13% |
| 2022 1500 | 99 | 17% |
| 2021 1500 | 97 | 15% |
| 2020 1500 | 62 | 10% |
| 2019 1500 | 203 | 14% |
| 2018 1500 | 57 | 9% |
| 2017 1500 | 97 | 11% |
| 2015 1500 | 225 | 16% |
| 2014 1500 | 191 | 11% |
Other reported problem areas on the 2016 RAM 1500
Counts are unique NHTSA complaints naming this component group. Complaints are unverified owner reports; mileage is computed only from complaints that included a usable odometer reading.