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2013 Ram 3500 problems, recalls and owner complaints
What the 2013 Ram 3500 has been recalled for and what owners report, from official government data. Updated October 25, 2026.
- 18safety recalls
- 115owner complaints
- 4crash reports
- 7fire reports
- 2injuries reported
115 complaints, against an average of 171 for the other 13 Ram 3500 model years.
Every Ram 3500 model year with its number of owner complaints. Pick a year to compare.
What goes wrong with the 2013 Ram 3500?
The components named most often in the 115 owner complaints. One complaint can name several, so the shares can add up to more than 100%.
What symptoms do 2013 Ram 3500 owners describe?
Found by reading the text of all 115 owner complaints. Tap a symptom for the answer, a real owner quote and any related recall.
- Why is the check engine light on in my 2013 Ram 3500?8 owners · 7%
- Why does my 2013 Ram 3500 stall, lose power or shut off while driving?6 owners · 5.2%
- Why does my 2013 Ram 3500 vibrate or shake while driving?5 owners · 4.3%
- Does the 2013 Ram 3500 have emissions system or DPF problems?5 owners · 4.3%
- Why does the power steering fail or feel heavy on my 2013 Ram 3500?4 owners · 3.5% · Recall 19V021000
- Why does my 2013 Ram 3500 smell of burning or smoke?4 owners · 3.5% · Recall 17V824000
- Have any 2013 Ram 3500 vehicles caught fire?4 owners · 3.5% · Recall 17V824000
Has the 2013 Ram 3500 been recalled?
18 U.S. safety recalls. Repairs are free at a franchised dealer; some are done over the air.
Wheels: Lugs/Nuts/Bolts/Studs 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: Wheel separation can cause a vehicle crash.
Fix: 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.
Latches/Locks/Linkages: Tailgate: Latch Chrysler (FCA US LLC) is recalling certain 2015-2017 Ram 1500, 2500 and 3500 pickup trucks equipped with an 8 foot bed and a power locking tailgate. Chrysler is also recalling all 2013-2014 and 2018 Ram 1500, 2500 and 3500 pickup trucks built before April 1, 2018 with a 6 or 8 foot bed and a power locking tailgate. On August 29, 2019 Chrysler expanded the recall to include an additional 693,128 model year 2013-2014 Ram 1500, 2500 and 3500 pickup trucks. The tailgate actuator limiter tab may fracture and cause the tailgate to unlatch and open while driving.
Risk: If the tailgate opens while the vehicle is being driven, cargo may fall out the vehicle and create a road hazard, increasing the risk of crash.
Fix: Chrysler will notify owners, and dealers will repair the tailgate latch, free of charge. The recall began May 23, 2019. Chrysler is expected to notify owners of the expanded population on October 18, 2019. Owners may contact FCA US customer service at 1-800-853-1403. FCA US's number for this recall is V44. Note: 2015-2017 MY Ram 1500 pickup trucks with truck beds other than 8 foot, are currently covered under NHTSA recall 18V-486 for this issue.
Steering: Linkages: Drag: Link: Connection Chrysler (FCA US LLC) is recalling certain 2013-2018 Ram 3500 and 2014-2018 Ram 3500 Chassis Cab and Ram 2500 vehicles. The outboard steering linkage jam nut may loosen, allowing one end of the drag link to separate.
Risk: A drag link separation can cause a loss of steering control, increasing the risk of crash.
Fix: Chrysler will notify owners, and dealers will check the steering linkage jam nut tightness, replacing the drag link assembly or welding the nut to the adjuster sleeve, free of charge. The recall began March 22, 2019. Owners may contact Chrysler customer service at 1-800-853-1403. Chrysler's number for this recall is V06.
Steering: Linkages Streetcar ORV LLC (Streetcar) is recalling certain American Expedition Vehicles (AEV) 3" Dualsport aftermarket suspension kits, part numbers N0436000 and N0436001, sold for installation on 2013-2018 RAM 2500 and 3500HD trucks. Improper installation and machining of the original equipment steering knuckle may weaken the joint between the steering drag link and knuckle.
Risk: The weakened connection may result in a fractured steering drag link, causing a loss of steering and increasing the risk of a crash.
Fix: Streetcar will notify owners and dealers will inspect and install a new steering knuckle, free of charge. The recall began December 3, 2018. Owners may contact AEV customer service at 1-248-926-0256, extension 500.
Equipment 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
Risk: If the fire extinguisher does not function properly, it can increase the risk of injury in the event of a fire.
Fix: 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.
Power Train: Automatic Transmission: Lever And Linkage: Column Shift 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.
Risk: Being able to shift the transmission without pushing the brake pedal and/or without a key in the ignition can increase the risk of an unintended vehicle rollaway that may result in personal injury or a crash.
Fix: 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.
Engine And Engine Cooling: Engine: Diesel Chrysler (FCA US LLC) is recalling certain 2013-2017 RAM 2500, 3500, 3500 Cab Chassis, 4500 Cab Chassis, and 5500 Cab Chassis vehicles, equipped with Cummins 6.7L Turbo Diesel engines that have Concentric-brand water pumps without a vent hole. These water pumps may leak coolant.
Risk: The leaking water pump can increase the risk of an engine compartment fire.
Fix: Chrysler will notify owners, and dealers will replace the water pumps, 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 T51.
Wheels Streetcar ORV LLC, dba American Expedition Vehicles (AEV) is recalling certain 2013-2017 RAM 2500 and 3500 heavy duty trucks, modified by AEV to be equipped with cast aluminum Katla 8.5" road wheels. The outer surface of the wheel may fracture, resulting in rapid air loss.
Risk: If the wheel fractures, a loss of vehicle control can occur, increasing the risk of a crash.
Fix: AEV will notify owners, and dealers will replace the wheels with wheels of similar value, free of charge. The recall began on August 30, 2017. Owners may contact AEV customer service at 1-248-926-0256 extension 500.
Electrical System: Alternator/Generator/Regulator 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.
Risk: If the alternator fails, the vehicle may stall without warning, increasing the risk of a crash. There is also the possibility that the alternator may short circuit, increasing the risk of a fire.
Fix: 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.
Equipment Chrysler (FCA US LLC) is recalling aftermarket Mopar Canvas Seat Covers for certain 2012-2016 RAM 1500, 2500, and 3500 trucks. These Mopar canvas seat covers were sold through Chrysler dealerships beginning October 15, 2015. The seat covers can impede the deployment of the seat thorax airbags.
Risk: If the seat cover impedes the air bag deployment, the seat thorax air bags may not provide adequate protection in the event of a crash, increasing the risk of a injury.
Fix: Chrysler will notify owners to remove the front seat covers and return them for a full refund. The recall began on July 1, 2016. Owners may contact Chrysler customer service at 1-800-853-1403. Chrysler's number for this recall is S30.
Steering Chrysler (FCA US LLC) is recalling certain model year 2014 Ram 2500 trucks and 2013-2014 Ram 3500 trucks and cab chassis manufactured October 9, 2012, to July 29, 2014. The affected vehicles may have inadequate welds securing the front track bar frame brackets, which may result in the bracket components separating from the frame.
Risk: If the bracket components separate from the frame, the vehicle may be more difficult to steer and control, increasing the risk of a crash.
Fix: Chrysler will notify owners, and dealers will inspect and install a reinforcement bracket over the front track bar bracket. This recall began on February 24, 2016. Owners may contact Chrysler customer service at 1-800-853-1403. Chrysler's number for this recall is R46.
Equipment: Electrical: Radio/Tape Deck/Cd Etc. Chrysler (FCA US LLC) is recalling certain model year 2013-2015 Ram 1500, 2500, 3500, 4500, and 5500, 2015 Chrysler 200, Chrysler 300, Dodge Charger, and Dodge Challenger, 2014-2015 Jeep Grand Cherokee, Cherokee, and Dodge Durango, and 2013-2015 Dodge Viper vehicles. The affected vehicles are equipped with radios that have software vulnerabilities that can allow third-party access to certain networked vehicle control systems.
Risk: Exploitation of the software vulnerability may result in unauthorized remote modification and control of certain vehicle systems, increasing the risk of a crash.
Fix: Chrysler will notify and mail affected owners a USB drive that includes a software update that eliminates the vulnerability, free of charge. Optionally, owners may download the update to their own USB drive from http://www.driveuconnect.com/software-update/ or take their vehicle to a Chrysler dealer for immediate installation. In an effort to mitigate the effects of this security vulnerability, Chrysler has had the wireless service provider close the open cellular connection to the vehicle that provided unauthorized access to the vehicle network. This measure may not have been implemented on all vehicles and does not address access by other means that will be remedied by the software update. The recall began on August 25, 2015. Owners may contact Chrysler customer service at 1-800-853-1403. Chrysler's number for this recall is R40.
Air Bags: Frontal 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.
Risk: This abrasion may result in an electrical short that could cause driver's frontal air bag to unexpectedly deploy. Inadvertent deployment of the air bag may increase the risk of injury and the possibility of a vehicle crash.
Fix: 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.
Seat Belts Chrysler (FCA US LLC) is recalling certain model year 2013-2015 Ram 1500, 2500, and 3500 trucks manufactured June 20, 2012, to January 26, 2015. In the affected vehicles, the side impact sensor calibrations may be overly sensitive, and as a result, the side air bag inflatable curtains and seat air bags may unexpectedly deploy and the seat belt pre-tensioners may activate.
Risk: Air bags that unexpectedly deploy increase the risk of a crash or injury.
Fix: Chrysler will notify owners, and dealers will update the Occupant Restraint Control module calibration, free of charge. The recall began on September 8, 2015. Owners may contact Chrysler customer service at 1-800-853-1403. Chrysler's number for this recall is R23.
Engine And Engine Cooling: Engine: Diesel 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.
Risk: If the connectors overheat, the fuel heater may leak fuel, increasing the risk of a fire.
Fix: 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.
Exterior Lighting: Turn Signal Chrysler is recalling certain model year 2013 Ram 1500, 2500, and 3500 trucks manufactured September 9, 2012, through March 5, 2013 and equipped with optional premium tail lamps. In the affected vehicles, the turn signal indicator may not flash at a double rate to give a notification to the driver of a turn signal malfunction. Thus, these vehicles fail to conform to the requirements of Federal Motor Vehicle Safety Standard (FMVSS) No. 108, "Lamps, reflective devices, and associated equipment."
Risk: Without a warning that the turn signal is malfunctioning, the driver would continue to use the vehicle, unaware that other drivers on the road are not being notified that the vehicle is turning, increasing the risk of a crash.
Fix: Chrysler will notify owners, and dealers will reprogram the Central Body Controller software, free of charge. The recall began June 27, 2013. Owners may contact Chrysler at 1-800-853-1403. Chrysler's recall campaign number is N35.
Exterior Lighting: Headlights Chrysler is recalling certain model year 2013 Ram 2500 and 3500 trucks manufactured January 7, 2013, through February 28, 2013 and equipped with optional premium headlamps. The headlamp shutters may function improperly when in high-beam mode. Thus, these vehicles fail to conform to the requirements of Federal Motor Vehicle Safety Standard (FMVSS) No. 108, "Lamps, reflective devices, and associated equipment."
Risk: Improper headlight shutter function during high beam use may reduce the drivers visibility and possibly blind oncoming traffic. Either condition may increase the risk of crash.
Fix: Chrysler will notify owners, and dealers will reconfigure the Central Body Controller, free of charge. The recall began July 30, 2013. Owners may contact Chrysler at 1-800-247-9753. Chrysler's recall campaign number is N33.
Engine And Engine Cooling Chrysler Group LLC (Chrysler) is recalling certain model year 2013 Dodge Ram 2500 and 3500 trucks manufactured January 7, 2013, through March 6, 2013. The engine cover may trap an excessive amount of heat under the cover.
Risk: The excessive heat under the engine cover may result in an under hood fire.
Fix: Chrysler will notify owners, and dealers will replace the existing engine cover with one that is a different design, free of charge. An interim letter was mailed on May 31, 2013. A second letter was mailed to owners with instructions on how to obtain the free remedy on August 15, 2013. Owners may contact Chrysler at 1-800-853-1403. Chrysler's recall campaign number is N19.
Is the 2013 Ram 3500 recalled in the UK or Europe?
Recalls issued by the UK's DVSA and through the EU's Safety Gate system that cover this model and build period. European models can differ from U.S. ones, and "years estimated" means the recall gave no build dates, so confirm your own car with your registration or VIN.
EU Safety GateA leaky diesel fuel filter/pre-heater may lead to a fire in the engine compartment.
Measures: Type of economic operator taking notified measure(s): Other; Category of measure(s): Recall of the product from end users; Date of entry into force: Unknown
What do 2013 Ram 3500 owners report?
12 of the 115 complaints, the most recent for the most-reported components, as the owners wrote them. NHTSA removes names and VINs; long reports are trimmed. CarHooq has not verified individual claims.
The contact owns a 2013 Ram 3500. The contact stated that the vehicle became uncontrollable and was difficult to maneuver while driving on the road. The vehicle was taken to a local dealer, where the contact was informed that the part was to repair the vehicle was on back order. While driving approximately 45 MPH, the vehicle crashed into a ditch caused by a failure with the drag link. The contact stated that the shift interlock was fractured, causing the gear shifter to detach while the vehicle was driven. The vehicle became stuck in park(P). The vehicle was towed to a mechanic and was…
The contact owns a 2013 Ram 3500. The contact stated that while attempting to sell the vehicle, the contact discovered there was a discrepancy in the mileage. The contact stated that the Carfax mileage was 47,029, and on March 10, 2015, the mileage was recorded at 49,873, and nine days later the mileage was recorded at 47,019.
The contact owns a 2013 Ram 3500. The contact stated while driving 65-68 MPH over a bumpy road surface, the steering wheel and the front end of the vehicle shuddered significantly. The contact decelerated, exited the freeway, and pulled over to the shoulder of the road. The contact was able to continue driving. The vehicle was taken to the dealer, where the contact was informed that the vehicle had experienced the death wobble. The dealer diagnosed the vehicle and determined that the upper ball joints and control arms needed to be replaced. The dealer replaced the upper control arms. The…
I HAVE BEEN HAVING PROBLEMS WITH A RECALL ISSUED BY NHTSA. THE RECALL WAS V06 DRAG LINK. WHEN THE RECALL WA PREFORMED, THE ALIGNMENT NUTS ON THE DRAG LINK WERE WELDED SO THE COULDN'T COME LOOSE. I'VE HAD TO HAVE MY TRUCK REALIGNED 2 TIMES SINCE THE DRAG LINK NUTS WERE WELDED. AS OF RIGHT NOW THE NUTS ARE NOT WELDED AND THE INTEGRITY OF THE DRAG LINK IS COMPROMISED. I'VE HAD IT INTO 3 DIFFERENT INDEPENDENT REPAIR SHOPS AND EACH SAY THAT WELDING THE NUTS SHOULD ONLY BE A TEMPORARY FIX NOT A PERMANENT FIX. SINCE THE WELDING, I'VE HAD STEERING ISSUES WITH MY TRUCK WHICH IS WHY I'VE HAD IT IN THE…
Truck was repaired June 2019. They welded the jam nut which made it impossible to get an alaignment.Been having a open claim with Chrysler Jeep and Dodge going on 2 years per claim #78469040 Front Suspension Track Bar Frame Bracket ( vehicle recently started to do the death wobble again)
Took truck to Mac Haik here in Houston to perform the recall.The jam nut on drag link was welded,which was not a fix.Went back after being told truck can't be aligned with the drag link being welded.Was told I'd have to pay out of pocket for the weld to be cut,which sense have led to other issues with the front suspension. Attached is docs concerning this matter .....I been having a open claim with Dodge Chrysler and Jeep for over 2 years.Is there any remedy for such a problem?
The contact owns a 2013 Ram 3500. The contact received notification of NHTSA Campaign Number: 17V821000 (Power Train). The contact took the vehicle to the dealer and was informed that the vehicle was inspected and repaired. Years later, the contact stated that upon shifting the gear lever to DRIVE, the shifter moved to LOW and remained stuck in the LOW gear. After multiple attempts, the contact was able to shift the vehicle into PARK; however, the transmission remained in NEUTRAL. The contact was forced to keep his foot on the brake pedal to prevent the vehicle from moving forward. The contact…
Vehicle Left rear wheel detached on Interstate 94 in Washtenaw County, Michigan. Resulted in death of another motorist. Michael James Brooks was operating the Black Dodge 4 Door, 2013 vehicle, traveling westbound on I-94. The vehicle tire detached and traveled into a vehicle operated by Janice Southall. The incident resulted in a rollover collision and death of Janice Southall.
THE VEHICLE WAS PROVIDED TO THE DEALER. ON DAY THREE THE DEALER INFORMED VEHICLE OWNER THAT THE DEFECTIVE WATER PUMP, UNDER NHTSA Recall Number17V-562 IS NOT REPAIRABLE AS FCA DOES NOT HAVE THE REPLACEMENT PART AVAILABLE, DEALER STATES THAT FCA HAS 160 NEW WATER PUMPS ON HAND AND ALL OF THEM ARE DEFECTIVE. THIS SAFETY RECALL REMAINS OPEN.
BATTERY DRAIN. BOUGHT SEVERAL BATTERIES OVER THE PAST 4 YEARS AND EACH BATTERY WILL LAST 2 MONTHS AFTER THAT I WOULD HAVE TO START THE TRUCK UP EVERY OTHER DAY, SO THE BATTERY WOULDN' T GO DEAD. .
WHILE DRIVING ON A CITY STREET AT APPROXIMATELY 35 MPH, AN ENGINE SPRING VALVE BROKE, CAUSING CATASTROPHIC ENGINE DAMAGE. THE ENGINE IS A TOTAL LOSS AND MUST BE REPLACED. WE ARE HOPING THERE ARE OTHERS OUT THERE WHO HAVE EXPERIENCED THAT SAME FAILURE SO THAT A RECALL CAN BE ISSUED. WE ARE CURRENTLY STUCK WITH THE $15K BILL.
THE DEF GAUGE DOES NOT SHOW THE CORRECT AMOUNT OF DEF FLUID THAT IS ACTUALLY IN THE TANK, IT IS ALWAYS SHOWING FULL.
2013 Ram 3500: questions owners ask
Is the 2013 Ram 3500 reliable?
NHTSA data alone cannot rate reliability, but it shows what owners reported. Owners filed 115 complaints with NHTSA about the 2013 Ram 3500; the most common categories were steering (38, 33%), engine (27, 23.5%), suspension (18, 15.7%). There are 18 safety recalls. 4 complaints mention a crash, 7 mention a fire, 2 injuries were reported.
What are the most common problems with the 2013 Ram 3500?
Across 115 owner complaints filed with NHTSA, the categories mentioned most often are steering (33% of complaints), engine (23.5% of complaints), suspension (15.7% of complaints), electrical system (14.8% of complaints), fuel/propulsion system (13% of complaints). One complaint can name several components.
Does the 2013 Ram 3500 have any recalls?
Yes. NHTSA lists 18 recalls for the 2013 Ram 3500; the most recent (campaign 21V398000, 2021-05-27) concerns Wheels: Lugs/Nuts/Bolts/Studs. Recall repairs are free at a franchised dealer; check your VIN at nhtsa.gov/recalls.
Why is the check engine light on in my 2013 Ram 3500?
8 of the 115 owner complaints NHTSA has on file for the 2013 Ram 3500 (7%) describe the check engine light coming on. One owner wrote: "Tl* the contact owns a 2013 ram 3500. while driving approximately 25 mph, the check engine warning indicator illuminated. the contact drove the vehicle to the dealer (us one chrysler/jeep in sanford, south dakota) where it was diagnosed that the upstream…" (NHTSA complaint 11030097, September 2017). If it happens to your car, check your VIN for open recalls at nhtsa.gov/recalls and report the problem to NHTSA; complaints are what trigger investigations.
Why does my 2013 Ram 3500 stall, lose power or shut off while driving?
6 of the 115 owner complaints NHTSA has on file for the 2013 Ram 3500 (5.2%) describe the engine stalling, losing power or shutting off while driving. One owner wrote: "Shaft on water pump sheared causing water pump to fail and serpentine belt to come off. vehicle being driven on freeway at highway speeds. serpentine belt failure results in loss of power steering and vacuum to power brakes." (NHTSA complaint 10925012, November 2016). If it happens to your car, check your VIN for open recalls at nhtsa.gov/recalls and report the problem to NHTSA; complaints are what trigger investigations.
Why does my 2013 Ram 3500 vibrate or shake while driving?
5 of the 115 owner complaints NHTSA has on file for the 2013 Ram 3500 (4.3%) describe vibration or shaking while driving. One owner wrote: "While driving on the highway the truck starting shaking violently, the speed was reduced the shake ceased but the front driver side tire came off. when taken in a dodge dealership to inquire about repair,was told they could not repair it." (NHTSA complaint 10778710, September 2015). If it happens to your car, check your VIN for open recalls at nhtsa.gov/recalls and report the problem to NHTSA; complaints are what trigger investigations.
Does the 2013 Ram 3500 have emissions system or DPF problems?
5 of the 115 owner complaints NHTSA has on file for the 2013 Ram 3500 (4.3%) describe emissions faults such as DPF, EGR, catalytic converter, AdBlue/DEF or NOx sensor problems. One owner wrote: "My ram truck went into a malfunction and limited the speed to 5 miles per hour causing a major highway safety issue. the truck put all passengers and operators in danger." (NHTSA complaint 11012070, August 2017). If it happens to your car, check your VIN for open recalls at nhtsa.gov/recalls and report the problem to NHTSA; complaints are what trigger investigations.
Why does the power steering fail or feel heavy on my 2013 Ram 3500?
4 of the 115 owner complaints NHTSA has on file for the 2013 Ram 3500 (3.5%) describe power steering failing, locking up or turning heavy. 4 related recalls exist: campaign 19V021000 (steering: linkages: drag: link: connection). The fix: Chrysler will notify owners, and dealers will check the steering linkage jam nut tightness, replacing the drag link assembly or welding the nut to the adjuster sleeve, free of charge. One owner wrote: "Shaft on water pump sheared causing water pump to fail and serpentine belt to come off. vehicle being driven on freeway at highway speeds. serpentine belt failure results in loss of power steering and vacuum to power brakes." (NHTSA complaint 10925012, November 2016). Recall repairs are free at a dealer; check your VIN at nhtsa.gov/recalls.
Why does my 2013 Ram 3500 smell of burning or smoke?
4 of the 115 owner complaints NHTSA has on file for the 2013 Ram 3500 (3.5%) describe a burning smell or smoke. A related recall exists: campaign 17V824000 (equipment). The fix: Chrysler will notify owners instructing them to contact Kidde for a replacement fire extinguisher, free of charge. One owner wrote: "I went to start my vehicle in my driveway on 5/23/2019. the vehicle gave me a low battery indication and immediately smelled burning plastic. shut the verticle off, had everyone exit the vehicle and popped the hood up." (NHTSA complaint 11209603, May 2019). Recall repairs are free at a dealer; check your VIN at nhtsa.gov/recalls.
Have any 2013 Ram 3500 vehicles caught fire?
4 of the 115 owner complaints NHTSA has on file for the 2013 Ram 3500 (3.5%) describe the car catching fire or melting wiring. A related recall exists: campaign 17V824000 (equipment). The fix: Chrysler will notify owners instructing them to contact Kidde for a replacement fire extinguisher, free of charge. One owner wrote: "The alternator caught on fire. truck has 62000 miles on it. the battery low voltage came on. after the truck ran for a minute it went out. i ran the truck for ten minutes. after i parked the truck and went inside i could smell something." (NHTSA complaint 11231789, July 2019). Recall repairs are free at a dealer; check your VIN at nhtsa.gov/recalls.
Check your own 3500
Counts are a starting point, not a verdict: popular models collect more complaints because more of them are on the road, and NHTSA does not verify individual reports. To see whether a recall is still open on your car, enter your VIN at nhtsa.gov/recalls (U.S.) or your registration at check-vehicle-recalls.service.gov.uk (UK). Had a safety problem? Report it to NHTSA; complaints are what trigger investigations and recalls.
Data: NHTSA Office of Defects Investigation recall and complaint databases (public domain), EU Safety Gate alerts (© European Union), retrieved October 25, 2026. Model year 2013 only.