2021 RAM 4500
Safety record from NHTSA: recalls, owner complaints, investigations and service bulletins.
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These records cover every 2021 RAM 4500. To see whether one car still needs a recall repair, decode its VIN or check it with NHTSA.
Recalls
5 recalls name the 2021 RAM 4500. Newest first.
Chrysler (FCA US, LLC) is recalling certain 2021-2022 Ram 1500, Ram 2500, Ram 3500, Ram 4500, and Ram 5500 vehicles. The steering column control module may cause the driver's side air bag not to deploy as intended. As such, these vehicles fail to comply with the requirements of Federal Motor Vehicle Safety Standard number 208, "Occupant Crash Protection."
Risk and remedy
Risk
A driver's side air bag that does not deploy as intended increases the risk of injury in a crash.
Remedy
Dealers will replace the steering column control module, free of charge. Owner notification letters were mailed beginning December 11, 2025. Owners may contact Chrysler customer service at 800-853-1403. Chrysler's number for this recall is 14C. Vehicle Identification Numbers (VINs) involved in this recall became searchable on NHTSA.gov beginning November 13, 2025.
Chrysler (FCA US, LLC) is recalling certain 2021-2023 Ram 2500, 3500, 3500 Cab Chassis, and 4500, 5500 Cab Chassis vehicles equipped with a Cummins 6.7L Turbo Diesel engine. An electrical short may occur in the heater grid relay with the ignition on or off.
Risk and remedy
Risk
An electrical short in the relay can result in an engine compartment fire with the ignition on or off, increasing the risk of injury.
Remedy
Owners are advised to park outside and away from structures until the recall repair is complete. Dealers will replace the relay, free of charge. This will be a Phased campaign. Phase 1 will include 2023 model year vehicles. FCA US will notify dealers on or about 3/23/2023 and begin notifying owners on or about 4/5/2023. Phase 2 will include 2022 model year vehicles and Phase 3 will include 2021 model year vehicles. FCA US will notify dealers and owners on or about 4/27/2023 for Phase 2 and 5/11/2023 for Phase 3. Interim owner notification letters informing owners of the safety risk were mailed March 28, 2023. Owner notification letters are expected to be mailed April 5, 2023. Owners may contact FCA US, LLC customer service at 1-800-853-1403. FCA US, LLC's number for this recall is 13A. This recall is an expansion of and supersedes recall number 21V-798.
Chrysler (FCA US, LLC) is recalling certain 2021-2022 Ram 3500, 2500 pickup trucks, and Ram 3500, 4500, and 5500 cab chassis vehicles equipped with Cummins 6.7L Turbo Diesel engines. An electrical short in the relay may cause a vehicle fire with the ignition on or off.
Risk and remedy
Risk
A vehicle fire increases the risk of injury.
Remedy
Owners are advised to park these vehicles outside of buildings or structures, and not near other vehicles, until the vehicle has been remedied. Dealers will inspect and, if needed, replace the Solid State Intake Heater Grid Relay ("Relay"); if FCA US Recall ID Y08 (NHTSA Recall ID 21V-163) is open, then insulating material will be applied to the Relay after inspection. Owner notification letters were mailed November 10, 2021. Owners may contact FCA US, LLC customer service at 1-800-853-1403. FCA US, LLC's number for this recall is Y76. This recall has been superseded by 23V060.
Chrysler (FCA US, LLC) is recalling certain 2012-2021 RAM 3500, 3500 Cab Chassis, 4500 Cab Chassis, and 5500 Cab Chassis vehicles. 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.
Risk and remedy
Risk
Wheel separation can cause a vehicle crash.
Remedy
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 mailed on November 30, 2021. Campaign Y36 owner notification letters were mailed on November 30, 2021. Campaign Y26 owner notification letters were mailed on December 1, 2021. Owners may contact FCA US customer service at 1-800-853-1403. FCA US's numbers for this recall are Y26 and Y36.
Chrysler (FCA US, LLC) is recalling certain 2021 Ram 2500, 3500, and 3500, 4500, and 5500 Cab Chassis vehicles equipped with a Cummins 6.7L Turbo Diesel engine. An electrical short may occur in the Solid State Intake Heater Grid Relay, which could result in a vehicle fire.
Risk and remedy
Risk
A vehicle fire increases the risk of injury.
Remedy
Dealers will inspect and, if needed, replace the Solid State Intake Heater Grid Relay ("Relay"); if FCA US Recall ID Y08 (NHTSA Recall ID 21V-163) is 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. Owner notification letters were mailed November 10, 2021. Owners may contact FCA US, LLC customer service at 1-800-853-1403. FCA US, LLC's number for this recall is Y76. Owners may contact FCA US LLC customer service at 1-800-853-1403. FCA US LLC's number for this recall is Y08. This recall has been superseded by recall number 21V-798.
Service bulletins
Technical service bulletins and other communications the manufacturer sent dealers about this vehicle. Ask a dealer for the full document by its number.
- 11011774Backup Camera Poor Image Quality Inspection
- 11010636"Flash: Diesel Exhaust Fluid (DEF) Dosing Control Unit (DCU) Update Customers must experience a Malfunction Indicator Lamp (MIL) illumination and the vehicle must exhibit/set the following Diagnostic Trouble Code (DTC): P21C4-00 - Reductant Line Heater Relay Control Circuit High. U11C1-00 - Reductant Control Module Received Implausible Data From ECM/PCM. These DTCs will occur after installation of service DCU 68458603AB. This bulletin involves reprogramming the DCU with the latest available software."
- 11010511Tire Pressure Monitor (TPM) Service Information. TPM Lamp On.
- 11009597Module - engine controller
- 11009561Switch - headlamp
- 11008917"Flash: Anti-Lock Brake System (ABS) Module Updates **Customers must experience a Malfunction Indicator Lamp (MIL) illumination and the vehicle must exhibit/set one or more of the following Diagnostic Trouble Codes (DTCs):** **C2200-47 - Anti-Lock Brake Module Internal - Watchdog / Safety Auc Failure.** C006A-49 - Multi-Axis Acceleration Sensor - Internal Electronic Failure. Customers may also comment on one or more of the following: **Anti-lock Brake System (ABS) indicator light illuminated in the Instrument Panel Cluster (IPC). Electronic Stability Control (ESC) indicator light illuminated in the IPC. The Red Brake Warning indicator light illuminated in the IPC.** This bulletin involves reprogramming the ABS with the latest software available."
- 11008900Trailer Tire Pressure Monitor (TTPM) Programming Tips And Operation Information.
- 11008746"Diesel Exhaust Fluid (DEF) Fluid Freezing Warranty Extension XR1 Customers must experience a Malfunction Indicator Lamp (MIL) illumination and the vehicle must exhibit/set the following Diagnostic Trouble Code (DTC): P203E-00 - Reductant Level Sensor 1 Circuit Intermittent-Erratic. Customers may also experience one or more of the following: Repeated freeze/thaw cycles of the urea tank to cause solid DEF crystals to form and settle on the focus tube, blocking the level sensor signal. Rapid temperature swings from below freezing to above freezing causing an incomplete thaw of the DEF tank. When the vehicle is powered on, the diagnostic is enabled due to thawed DEF at the tank bottom surface, but the fluid in the center is still partially frozen. Not following the proper DEF fill procedure and overfilling the tank. This bulletin involves replacing the urea delivery module and possibly updating the Dosing Control Unit (DCU) software"
- 11008745"Diesel Exhaust Fluid (DEF) Fluid Freezing Customers must experience a Malfunction Indicator Lamp (MIL) illumination and the vehicle must exhibit/set the following Diagnostic Trouble Code (DTC): P203E-00 - Reductant Level Sensor 1 Circuit Intermittent-Erratic. Customers may also experience one or more of the following: Repeated freeze/thaw cycles of the urea tank to cause solid DEF crystals to form and settle on the focus tube, blocking the level sensor signal. Rapid temperature swings from below freezing to above freezing causing an incomplete thaw of the DEF tank. When the vehicle is powered on, the diagnostic is enabled due to thawed DEF at the tank bottom surface, but the fluid in the center is still partially frozen. Not following the proper DEF fill procedure and overfilling the tank This bulletin involves replacing the urea delivery module and grade vent valve and updating the Dosing Control Unit (DCU) software This bulletin involves replacing the urea delivery module and possibly updating the Dosing Control Unit (DCU) software"
- 11008707Switch - headlamp
- 11008436Dome Lamp LED And Incandescent Bulb Servicing.
- 11008221"Replace K1 Clutch / Input Shaft Assembly Customers must experience a Malfunction Indicator Lamp (MIL) illumination and the vehicle must exhibit/set the following Diagnostic Trouble Code (DTC): P0731-00 - Gear 1 Shift Incorrect Ratio (This DTC will set during a key cycle and shifting into Drive). Customers may also comment on the following: The transmission will not shift into or out of 1st - 4th gears. 5th and reverse gears are still available. **This bulletin involves replacing the K1 clutch and possibly the K1 input shaft drum sub-assembly. These repairs are to be performed only if the vehicle is inoperable due to K1 clutch failure. ** "
- 11008196"Diesel Exhaust Fluid (DEF) Fluid Freezing Warranty Extension XR1 Customers must experience a Malfunction Indicator Lamp (MIL) illumination and the vehicle must exhibit/set the following Diagnostic Trouble Code (DTC): P203E-00 - Reductant Level Sensor 1 Circuit Intermittent-Erratic. Customers may also experience one or more of the following: Repeated freeze/thaw cycles of the urea tank to cause solid DEF crystals to form and settle on the focus tube, blocking the level sensor signal. Rapid temperature swings from below freezing to above freezing causing an incomplete thaw of the DEF tank. When the vehicle is powered on, the diagnostic is enabled due to thawed DEF at the tank bottom surface, but the fluid in the center is still partially frozen. Not following the proper DEF fill procedure and overfilling the tank. This bulletin involves replacing the urea delivery module and possibly updating the Dosing Control Unit (DCU) software."
- 11008149Warranty Bulletin D-24-16 (XR1) Urea Delivery Module Select 2019 - 2022 RAM Trucks (DJ/D2/DD/DP)
- 11008071Tire Pressure Lamp Flashing, No Tire Pressures Displayed, Tire Pressure Module (TPM) System Unavailable Message Displayed on Cluster
- 11007994FCA Caribbean Warranty Bulletin ID-24-16Rev. Announces the addition of the Rear AxleAssembly replacementfor 2019 - 2024 RAM 3500 Cab Chassis (DD), RAM 4500/ 5500 Cab Chassis (DP), RAM 3500 Pickup (D2), RAM 2500 Pickup (DJ), RAM 1500 Pickup (DS) and RAM 1500 Pickup (DT)vehicles to the Powertrain Pre-Authorization program to ensure proper repair of Rear AxleAssembly failures and to assist in quality improvements. REV.A
- 11007993WARRANTY BULLETIN D-24-15 announces the addition of the Rear Axle Assembly replacement for 2019 - 2024 RAM 3500 Cab Chassis (DD), RAM 4500/ 5500 Cab Chassis (DP), RAM 3500 Pickup (D2), RAM 2500 Pickup (DJ), RAM 1500 Pickup (DS) and RAM 1500 Pickup (DT) vehicles to the Powertrain Pre-Authorization program for all dealers (Base, Plus & Premium) to ensure proper repair of Rear Axle Assembly failures and to assist in quality improvements. REV.A
- 11007954Battery Drain Suspected or "Identified" From USB or Media Hub
- 11007172Horn Sound Is Weak, Off Tone, Or Inoperative.
- 11005365Module kit - urea pump/level unit
- 11005361Module - anti-lock brake system
- 11005359Module - anti-lock brake system
- 11004151Remote Keyless Entry (RKE) Functions Do Not Work, Intermittent Vehicle Response When Using the RKE, Key Not Programmed, Adding Remote Start
- 11003046Customer Satisfaction Notification 90A Diesel Exhaust Fluid
- 11002828"Start Stop Charging Warning Lamp Illuminated On, Intelligent Battery Sensor (IBS) State of Charge (SOC) Inaccurate, Battery Charging Message, Presence of IBS related Diagnostic Trouble Codes (DTCs), or Battery Warning Lamp On "
- 11002802"Diesel Exhaust Fluid (DEF) Fluid Freezing **Customers must experience a Malfunction Indicator Lamp (MIL) illumination and the vehicle must exhibit/set the following Diagnostic Trouble Code (DTC):** P203E-00 - Reductant Level Sensor 1 Circuit Intermittent-Erratic. Customers may also experience one or more of the following: Repeated freeze/thaw cycles of the urea tank to cause solid DEF crystals to form and settle on the focus tube, blocking the level sensor signal. Rapid temperature swings from below freezing to above freezing causing an incomplete thaw of the DEF tank. When the vehicle is powered on, the diagnostic is enabled due to thawed DEF at the tank bottom surface, but the fluid in the center is still partially frozen. Not following the proper DEF fill procedure and overfilling the tank.** This bulletin involves replacing the urea delivery module and grade vent valve and updating the Dosing Control Unit (DCU) software."
- 11002753Motor - windshield wiper & wiperunit - windshield wiper
- 11002424Wiperunit - windshield wiper, blade - front wiper
- 11002316Motor - windshield wiper & wiperunit - windshield wiper
- 11002315Wiperunit - windshield wiper, blade - front wiper
- 11002314Wiperunit - windshield wiper, blade - front wiper.
- 11000992Checking Radio Software Level On A VP2 Radio
- 11000866Remote Keyless Entry (RKE) Button Functions Does Not Work, Intermittent Vehicle Response When Using the RKE, Key Not Programmed
- 11000824"GENERATOR Engine Prior to alternator/generator removal: 1. Inspect & check all electrical connections to the alternator a. 2-way connector containing field control circuit & alternator sense voltage circuit. b. Unplug & plug-in the 2-way connector for field & sense circuit. Verify the connection is tight & check for any bent pins in alternator connector or damage to female terminals in connector. c. Check Alternator B+ Stud connection to be sure nut is securing positive cable terminal properly (i.e. nut is clamping terminal & connection is tight). d. Check fuse between the alternator B+ stud & PDC terminal to make sure it is not blown. e. Be sure to follow service manual sections on ALTERNATOR CONTROL CIRCUIT DIAGNOSTIC & ALTERNATOR SENSE CIRCUIT DIAGNOSTIC looking for any opens & shorts (to ground or battery voltage). 2. Check/verify all grounds in the charging system circuit a. Check tightness of mounting bolts securing alternator to engine block. Alternator is a case ground component. b. Check main ground from engine to chassis; connection must be tight. c. Check battery ground cable connections are tight. d. Potentially, loosen alternator mounting bolts, without removing alternator, and re-tighten to torque specifications in service manual. e. After all steps above are complete, re-start engine & check charging system operation. 3. Verify that the Smart Charging System is not the reason for alternator low voltage & current output (Amps). a. Alternator charging can be suspended during engine idle operation because of the Smart Charge strategy. b. Refer to service manual section ""System Operation - Smart Charging System"". c. Refer to Star Case S2008000031 Rev A for low charging voltage & Smart Charge Mode Voltage Range diagram & mode descriptions. d. The alternator has no internal regulator; thus, has no smart circuitry. All alternator control signals come from ECM. 4. If alternator is faulty, remove alternator & mounting bolts. Return alternator with bolts for analysis at QEC."
- 11000611Module - telematics
- 11000608Valve - EGR
- 11000600Module - engine controller
- 10251876Radio Over The Air Update from LR34.51 to LR35.41 Software Version Customer may experience one or more of the following: ? Mobile Wi-Fi inoperative upon start up. ? Hotspot gives "No Internet" connection message on phone when trying to connect to a device. This bulletin provides information regarding the latest Firmware Over The Air (FOTA) update and provides the service technician an overview of the steps a customer will need to take to complete the update. The radio software will be updated from LR34.51 to LR35.41. NOTE: National launch for this FOTA update is expected to begin Feburary 19, 2024.
- 10251875Radio Over The Air Update from QR39.82F to QR40.12 Software Version Customer may experience one or more of the following: ? Mobile Wi-Fi inoperative upon start up. ? Hotspot gives "No Internet" connection message on phone when trying to connect to a device. This bulletin provides information regarding the latest Firmware Over The Air (FOTA) update and provides the service technician an overview of the steps a customer will need to take to complete the update. The radio software will be updated from QR39.82F to QR40.12. NOTE: National launch for this FOTA update is expected to begin Feburary 19, 2024.
- 10251870Radio Over The Air Update from QR39.5 to QR40.11 Software Version Customer may experience one or more of the following: ? Mobile Wi-Fi inoperative upon start up. ? Hotspot gives "No Internet" connection message on phone when trying to connect to a device. This bulletin provides information regarding the latest Firmware Over The Air (FOTA) update and provides the service technician an overview of the steps a customer will need to take to complete the update. The radio software will be updated from QR39.5 to QR40.11. NOTE: National launch for this FOTA update is expected to begin Feburary 19, 2024.
Every RAM 4500 model year
Bars are owner complaints, dots mark years with recalls. Select a year to open its report.