2021 RAM 3500 Problems And Complaints

<li>Rear axle clunking sound</li>

2021 RAM 3500 Regular Cab User Complaints and Problems

Mechanical Complaints

• Engine- The 6.7L Cummins diesel engine that comes in as an optional fitment on the RAM 3500 is said to showcase a variety of faults. Issues range from the inability to crank to going into limp mode while on the move. Low boost, low oil pressure, whining noise from the engine, and oil consumption are other major issues recognized against this engine trim. Even though the automaker did make a recall (NHTSA ID-21V798000) for a suspected short circuit, other issues were left to be diagnosed and solved at the dealer's end. Owners also complained about premature fuel pump failures with an average mileage of 30,000-miles.
• Transmission- Not as common as the engine issue here, but owners have complained about transmission slips and jerks. As stated by some owners, the entire unit is said to go berserk at times, preventing the operator from shifting to drive. Though a TCU software reflash was provided by the dealers, owners still complain about the issues recurring.

Electric System complaints

• Infotainment system- The U Connect 4 system on the 2021 RAM 3500 is prone to issues. Owners complain about touch screens and audio speakers failing just weeks into the purchase. Even though the system was reflashed and completely inspected for wiring issues, the issue still is said to recur.

• DEF/DFP- Diesel exhaust fluid and diesel particulate filter-related issues have been a constant concern to RAM 3500 diesel truck owners. The truck is said to flash “Exhaust system service required” warning of vehicles with mileages as low as 1,500-miles. Clogged particulate filter chambers and faulty sensor reading were said to be some causes of these issues.

 Structural Complaints

• Suspension- Trucks equipped with regular shocks are said to squat and sway too much when loaded. Even though this does not arise as an issue when driven normally, loading or towing is said to seriously compromise the handling of the vehicle. No official statements are made available on this issue from the automaker.
• Steering- Loss of power steering functionality is one other complaint officially recognized by the NHTSA for the RAM 3500. Not a common issue here, but the owners who came across this issue were put on a 45-day delay for the shipment of parts that were necessary for replacement.

2021 RAM 3500 Regular Cab Recalls

S. No	Date	NHTSA ID	Issues Noticed	Additional Remarks	Remedy
1	10th march 2022	22V140000	ESC Light may not indicate malfunction.	ABS control module software may prevent the electronic stability control malfunction indicator from not illuminating in certain conditions, leaving the operator unaware and increasing the risk of a crash.	Dealers will update the ABS control module software free of charge. The owners were notified on April 29, 2022.
2	24th November 2021	21V925000	Side curtain airbags may deploy improperly.	Side curtain airbags may be manufactured with an incorrect amount of compressed gas, which can result in improper deployment of the airbag in the event of a crash and increase the risk of injury.	Dealers will replace the side airbag assemblies (SABIC) free of charge. The notification letters were mailed on January 17, 2022.
3	14th October 2021	21V798000	A short circuit in the relay may cause fire	An electrical short in the relay of trucks equipped with Cummins 6.7L diesel engines may cause a fire with the ignition on or off, increasing the risk of injury.	Dealers will inspect and, if needed, replace the Solid State Intake Heater Grid Relay. If found open, then insulating material will be applied to the relay after inspection. Customers are advised to not park these vehicles inside of buildings or structures, or near other vehicles until the vehicle has the final repair completed. Notifications were sent on November 10, 2021.
4	27th May 2021	21V398000	Wheel stud may break.	Incorrect information in the Service and Owner's Manuals may cause the flanged lug nuts to be over-tightened, which could result in a broken wheel stud and possible wheel separation, increasing the risk of a crash	The dealers will update the torque specification in the owner's manual and other published service documents. Dealers will also inspect the vehicle's wheel studs, replacing them if necessary, free of charge. Owner notification letters were sent on November 30, 2021
5	11th March 2021	21V163000	A short circuit in the relay may cause fire	An electrical short in the relay of trucks equipped with Cummins 6.7L diesel engines may cause a fire with the ignition on or off, increasing the risk of injury.	Dealers will inspect and, if needed, replace the Solid State Intake Heater Grid Relay. If found open, then insulating material will be applied to the relay after inspection. Customers are advised to not park these vehicles inside of buildings or structures, or near other vehicles until the vehicle has the final repair completed. Notifications were sent on November 10, 2021.

Should you buy a used RAM 3500 Regular Cab?

The RAM 3500 Regular Cab is a truck that has lots to offer when it comes to outright capability. But recently things have been taking quite a turn, more so since the introduction of the new generation in 2019, as this heavy-duty pickup truck has garnered over 20 recalls in its run time. Even though there is a fall in official complaints registered, there seems to be no shortage of that in unofficial platforms as it has been piling up with customer concerns, more so from the certain powertrain side. So, when you are spending over 40 grand for the cheapest one, it would not be wrong to expect better. Just to play it safe, we would suggest that you skip the trim with a Cummins 6.7L diesel engine in the 2021 lineup if you are looking for a used one and a clean service record is an absolute must-have.