2012 Dodge Ram 5500: problems, recalls and reliability
9 recalls and 40 owner complaints on record; the weakest area is steering (41% of complaints); the 2011 model year looks more trouble-free.
Data updated weekly · latest recall May 2021
All counts are reports filed with NHTSA in the United States - US market only, not worldwide totals.
Common problems
Computed from 40 owner complaints filed with NHTSA for this exact model year.
“Tl* the contact owns a 2012 ram 5500. While performing maintenance on the vehicle, the contact noticed that the frame was cracked in the rear on both sides near the rear wheels. The vehicle was taken to wickstrom chrysler jeep dodge ram (located at 660 w northwest hwy, barrington, il 60010, (847) 382-5400), but was not diagnosed or repaired. The dealer took pictures of the failure and sent it to their corporate office. The contact took the vehicle to a welding shop and was informed that the vehicle was unsafe to drive. The manufacturer was notified and provided case number: 58372436. The approximate failure mileage was 27,000.”Owner report · Structure · Apr 2019
“2012 dodge 5500. Consumer writes in regards to steering angle sensor and clockspring in the steering column issues and other electrical failures. *ld the consumer stated the electronic functions on the steering wheel were inoperable. This includes the horn and cruise control. The consumer was advised parts are on back order but there was no recall. Updated 09/11/2017*js”Owner report · Steering · Jul 2017
“Tl* the contact owns a 2012 ram 5500. After the vehicle was repaired per NHTSA campaign number: 16v739000 (electrical system), the vehicle stalled without warning on multiple occasions. The vehicle was taken to a dealer, but they could not duplicate the failure. The vehicle was not repaired. The manufacturer was notified of the failure. The approximate failure mileage was 78,025.”Owner report · Electrical System · Dec 2016
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“When driving the magnetic key ignition module was shorting out. This caused the truck to loose the majority of drivers control at 65 mph on the highway, then the key would make contact and restart the motor causing convulsions in running. This operating condition almost caused a semi truck to rear end my truck. Four days after replacing the $800 ignition system, we also had to replace the flex plate & starter due to the centrifugal force from the motor restarting under highway speeds it destroyed the flex plate backed the flex plate bolts out and deformed the bolt holes in the back of the crank.”Owner report · Electrical System · Jan 2016
“Tl* the contact owns a 2012 ram 5500. While driving approximately 5-10 mph, the steering failed due to the driver side tie rod ball detaching from the vehicle. The failure happened without warning. The vehicle was towed to the dealer where it was diagnosed that the driver side tie rod assembly detached and needed to be replaced. Prior to the failure, the vehicle was taken to the dealer where the contact was notified that the vehicle was remedied according to NHTSA campaign numbers: 13v527000 (steering) and 15v459000 (air bags). The manufacturer was not notified of the failure. The failure mileage was approximately 91,386.”Owner report · Steering · Jan 2016
“This vehicle qualifies for the buy back program but fca is only offering a trade-in value plus 10% of that value. This truck is only 3 years old and they are only offering to purchase it for $11,000 as a buy back amount. This truck was purchased new for $51,000 and I don't not see how a $40,000 reduction for depreciation is acceptable or reasonable. I feel they are trying to rip me off for the second time. This is not acceptable. I could sell this truck on the open market for somewhere between $23,000 and $32,000 and I feel this is a major slap in the face.”Owner report · Unknown Or Other · Oct 2015
“On the evening of july 30, 2015 while driving my 2012 dodge ram 5500 utility truck, there was a fire in the engine compartment which I believe was due to recall p65. This recall is for the diesel fuel heater electrical connector. This vehicle was taken to dealerships multiple times for repair, yet I was told that no part was available to perform recall. This truck was deemed a total loss.”Owner report · Electrical System · Jul 2015
“2012 ram 5500. Consumer writes in regards to diesel fuel heater electrical connector recall parts not available to complete recall notice. *smd the consumer also received recall # 13v527000. Updated 04/11/16.*jb”Owner report · Fuel System, Diesel · Apr 2015
“Tl* the contact owns a 2012 dodge ram 5500. The contact stated that while driving at approximately 10 mph, the steering wheel became unstable and spun around uncontrollably. The vehicle was towed to the dealer where it was diagnosed that the tie rod assembly fractured. In addition, the vehicle was unable to be serviced under NHTSA campaign number: 13v527000 (steering) due to the part not being available. The manufacturer was not made aware of the failure. The approximate failure mileage was 32,844.”Owner report · Steering · Dec 2014
“Tl* the contact owns a 2012 dodge ram 5500. While driving approximately 15 mph, the contact heard a loud noise and the front driver side of the vehicle began to drag onto the ground. The vehicle was towed to an independent mechanic who stated that the front driver side outer tie rod assembly fractured. The tie rod assembly was previously replaced by an independent mechanic one month prior to this failure. NHTSA campaign number: 13v527000 (steering) was related to the recall, but the remedy was not currently available. The vehicle was not repaired and the manufacturer was not notified. The approximate failure mileage was 50,000.”Owner report · Steering · Aug 2014
Recalls - 9 campaigns
Chrysler (FCA US LLC) is recalling certain model year 2011-2014 Dodge Charger Police vehicles, 2007-2013 RAM 3500 Cab Chassis, 2008-2013 RAM 4500 and 5500 Cab Chassis, and 2013 RAM 2500 and 3500 vehicles. The affected vehicles have a 220 amp alternator that may suddenly fail.
Remedy: Chrysler will notify owners, and dealers will replace the alternator with a revised alternator, free of charge. The recall began on December 23, 2016. Owners may contact Chrysler customer service at 1-800-853-1403. Chrysler's number for this recall is S68.
Chrysler Group LLC (Chrysler) is recalling certain model year 2010-2014 Ram 2500, 3500, 4500, and 5500 trucks manufactured March 27, 2009, to September 5, 2013. In the affected vehicles, the electrical connectors of the diesel fuel heater may overheat.
Remedy: Chrysler will notify owners, and dealers will replace the harness side connector with a silver plated beryllium copper terminal service kit, and inspect the fuel heater for leaks, replacing it as necessary, free of charge. Chrysler issued interim notification to owners on December 8, 2014. The recall began on April 27, 2015. Owners may contact Chrysler customer service at 1-800-853-1403. Chrysler's number for this recall is P65.
Chrysler Group LLC (Chrysler) is recalling certain model year 2008-2012 RAM 4500 and 5500 trucks manufactured February 20, 2007, through December 22, 2012. The left tie rod assembly may break.
Remedy: On May 19, 2015 Chrysler notified owners that dealers would replace the tie rod assembly, free of charge. In July 2015, and under a consent order with NHTSA, the company agreed to offer owners three options for remedying their vehicles: perform the original remedy, offer to repurchase the vehicle at the fair market value plus 10%, or offer an additional incentive offer towards the purchase of a new Dodge, Jeep, Chrysler, or Fiat vehicle. Chrysler will notify owners of the new recall options in a letter expected to be mailed on August 31, 2015. Owners may contact Chrysler at 1-800-247-9753. Chrysler's recall campaign number is R16.
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.
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 Group LLC (Chrysler) is recalling certain model year 2012 RAM 4500 and 5500 trucks manufactured February 2, 2012, to December 22, 2012. Due to a welding issue with the front axle carrier, the front drive shaft may fracture and result in a loss of motive power and damage to surrounding components if the shaft continues to spin.
Remedy: Chrysler will notify owners, and dealers will replace or repair the front axle assembly, free of charge. The recall began on May 1, 2014. Owners may contact Chrysler at 1-800-247-9753. Chrysler's recall campaign number is N26.
Chrysler (FCA US LLC) is recalling certain model year 2012-2014 Ram 1500, 2500, 3500, 4500, and 5500 trucks manufactured January 18, 2011, to October 7, 2014, and equipped with the Electronic Vehicle Information Center option. The affected vehicles have a steering wheel wiring harness that may rub against the driver air bag module retainer spring.
Remedy: Chrysler will notify owners, and dealers will inspect, repair as necessary, and secure the steering wheel wiring harness. Additionally, protective caps will be added to the air bag retainer spring ends. These repairs will be done free of charge. The recall began on September 18, 2015. Owners may contact Chrysler customer service at 1-800-853-1403. Chrysler's number for this recall is R36.
Chrysler (FCA US LLC) is recalling certain 2016-2017 Ram 3500 Cab Chassis with a Gross Vehicle Weight Rating (GVWR) of less than 10,000 lbs, 2011-2017 Ram 3500, 4500 and 5500 Cab Chassis vehicles, 2009-2017 Ram 1500 and 2010-2017 Ram 2500 and 3500 pickup trucks, all equipped with a column shifter. Pushing the brake pedal for prolonged periods when the vehicle is running and in PARK may cause the Brake Transmission Shift Interlock (BTSI) pin to stick in the open position. With the pin in the open position, the transmission can be shifted out of PARK into any gear without pushing the brake pedal or having the key in the ignition.
Remedy: Chrysler will notify owners, and dealers will update the vehicle software, inspect the BTSI, and, as necessary, replace it, free of charge. The recall began February 26, 2018. Owners may contact Chrysler customer service at 1-800-853-1403. Chrysler's number for this recall is T79.
Chrysler (FCA US LLC) is recalling various Dodge, Chrysler, and RAM vehicles equipped with Kidde Plastic-Handle or Push Button 'Pindicator' Fire Extinguishers. A list of the affected trailer models is available at: https://static.nhtsa.gov/odi/rcl/2017/RMISC-17V824-0103.pdf. These extinguishers may become clogged, preventing the extinguisher from discharging as expected or requiring excessive force to activate the extinguisher. Additionally, in certain models, the nozzle may detach from the valve assembly with enough force that it could cause injury and also render the product inoperable. For a full list of the affected fire extinguisher models visit: https://static.nhtsa.gov/odi/rcl/2017/RMISC-17E062-5427.pdf
Remedy: Chrysler will notify owners instructing them to contact Kidde for a replacement fire extinguisher, free of charge. The recall began February 14, 2018. Owners may contact Chrysler customer service at 1-800-853-1403 or Kidde customer service service toll-free at 1-855-262-3540, or online at www.kidde.com and click on "Product Safety Recall" for more information. Chrysler's number for this recall is T82.
Chrysler Group LLC (Chrysler) is recalling certain model year 2012 RAM 3500 trucks manufactured May 4, 2012, through August 7, 2012; and model year 2012 RAM 4500 and 5500 trucks manufactured May 3, 2012, through August 7, 2012. Due to a loose snap ring inside the transmission, there may be a loss of power transfer through the transmission to the wheels.
Remedy: Chrysler will notify owners, and dealers will replace the transmission assembly free of charge. The recall began on October 17, 2013. Owners may contact Chrysler at 1-800-247-9753. Chrysler's recall campaign number is N50.
How other years compare
Check your exact Ram 5500 by VIN
Recalls and equipment differ between individual vehicles. Decode your VIN to see what applies to yours.
Open VIN decoderFrequently asked questions
Is the 2012 Dodge Ram 5500 reliable?
NHTSA has 40 owner complaints and 9 recall campaigns on record for the 2012 Dodge Ram 5500. The most complained-about area is steering (41% of complaints).
At what mileage do 2012 Dodge Ram 5500 problems usually appear?
Half of the complaints that mention mileage were filed at 32,844 miles or less.
Does the 2012 Dodge Ram 5500 have open recalls?
9 recall campaigns have been issued, the latest concerning electrical system:alternator/generator/regulator. Check your specific vehicle by VIN - recall repairs are free at franchised dealers.
Source: NHTSA recall campaigns and owner complaints (public domain). Counts reflect reports on file and are not a defect rate.