Ram revamped its 2500 heavy-duty pickup truck for 2019 with more luxurious styling, increased hauling and towing capacities, and a smoother ride. It is easy to see why customers were excited to purchase the newly updated heavy-duty pickup. The 2019 Ram 2500 can tow an impressive 35,100 pounds and offers various new safety features previously unseen in earlier model years. These vehicles, however, may not be as tough and durable as they appear.
Drivers quickly discovered that the 2019 Ram 2500 can have a host of manufacturing defects, with symptoms regularly appearing at less than 10,000 miles. According to the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA), the 2019 Ram 2500 has been recalled nine times for safety risks involving essential systems of the vehicle, including the transmission, engine, and electrical systems.
2019 Ram 2500 Transmission Problems
In January 2020, Chrysler recalled certain 2019-2020 Ram 2500 and 3500 pickup trucks equipped with six-speed automatic transmissions due to the risk of fire. Transmission fluid can leak onto the turbocharger or another ignition source within the engine, increasing the possibility of a vehicle fire. In the following report to NHSTA, one 2019 Ram 2500 driver describes how their vehicle caught on fire shortly after the recall, “In August 2020, while I was driving my vehicle at approximately 15MPH, with approximately 13,500 miles on the odometer, I noticed that the vehicle’s transmission gauge was about 230-240 degrees. I pulled over and smelled smoke. Luckily, my passengers and I were able to get out of the vehicle. The vehicle was completely destroyed. I have video showing flames coming out of the passenger side engine compartment. I had previously taken my vehicle in for repair for recall W03 to have the transmission valve body replaced so the transmission wouldn’t cause an engine fire.”
Other transmission-related issues reported by drivers include fluid leaks, smoke, illuminated transmission service lights, shifting issues, and transmission failure. These problems have been directly linked to several auto accidents, according to Fiat Chrysler Automobiles (FCA).
2019 Ram 2500 Electrical System Problems
Defective electrical systems appear to be common in this model year. Interior accessories such as the Uconnect display, or the stereo can intermittently malfunction or completely fail. One Ram driver reported the following to NHTSA, “When the temperature drops below 30, the truck will randomly give the warning ‘battery saver ON some systems may have reduced power.’ Then a random system will be shut down, the most noticeable system to shut down is the radio.”
These faulty electrical systems may also present a fire risk. Several formal complaints to NHTSA about the Ram pickup report vehicle fires that began in the wiring harnesses. This issue can appear at relatively low mileages, often under 10,000 miles. In a formal complaint to NHTSA, one Ram driver discusses how their pickup caught on fire due to wiring defects, “started my truck today and within a minute of driving it out my driveway I smelled something burning and saw smoke. The electrical wiring harness under the front driver’s seat was on fire. I had to put the fire out with a bottle of water.”
2019 Ram 2500 6.4 Hemi Problems
Engine concerns are regularly reported in the 2019 Ram 2500. Drivers have experienced strange engine sounds, misfire, stalling, excessive oil consumption, and engine failure. One customer reported the following engine troubles in their pickup truck to NHTSA, “[the] engine started to slip or misfire. It got worse and then a light came on that said Exhaust Emission Service was needed. The truck lost power as it limped to the side of the road. The Service Electronic Ignition light came on and the truck turned off. It would not crank again.”
The Ram 2500 has multiple engine options; however, the 6.4 Hemi engine is perhaps the most common. This engine type has been associated with transmission failure, power loss, engine ticking noise, and engine misfire. In 2022, three pickup Ram drivers, including one 2500 driver, filed a class action lawsuit against FCA due to the engine ticking noise present in their vehicles. They accused the manufacturer of knowingly selling vehicles with defective engines. 2014-2022 Ram 2500 vehicles are named in the suit’s list of affected vehicles.
2019 Ram 2500 Diesel Engine Issues
There appear to be several manufacturing defects exclusive to the 2019 Ram 2500 diesel or 2019 Ram 2500 Cummins turbo-diesel model. Problems in the Cummins 6.7 liter diesel engine are common, more so than in other brands. In the past few years, there have been over 70 recalls involving this engine type. In 2019, NHTSA announced that it had launched a formal investigation into Ram heavy-duty trucks due to multiple complaints of safety defects. NHSTA estimates that over 600,000 vehicles could be affected.
Engine power loss and stalling are among the most common problems. They are likely the result of fuel pump failure. This driver reported power loss in their diesel 2500 pickup in a formal report to NHTSA, “The contact stated that while driving approximately 75 MPH, the vehicle lost motive power. The contact stated that the vehicle lost power steering assist and several other functions. The vehicle was coasted to the side of the roadway and then towed to the dealer to be diagnosed.”
Call the California Lemon Law Experts
Have any concerns with your Ram Pickup Truck? There is a good chance it could be a lemon. Engine stalling, transmission failure, electrical system malfunctions, and more issues are all covered by state and federal lemon laws. If you are experiencing extensive problems with your pickup and you have taken it in for several repairs during the warranty period, you could qualify for a refund, replacement vehicle, or cash compensation. Other common issues regularly reported in Ram and Chrysler vehicles include:
- Fuel pump failure
- Shaking
- Grinding noise while turning
- Difficulty shifting gears
- Fluid leaks
- Warning lights
For over ten years, the Lemon Law Experts have successfully represented thousands of consumers in California recover refunds and cash compensation for their lemon vehicles. As the state’s premier lemon law firm, we regularly assist our clients with cases involving large auto manufacturers including RAM. If you are a California consumer and need assistance with your Ram pickup truck or any other vehicle, contact the Lemon Law Experts today for a case evaluation.
