Steering Problems on the Dodge Ram 1500
The Dodge Ram 1500 has been reported to have several steering problems over the years. Here are some of the common issues reported by owners:
1. Power Steering System Failure:
– A common issue with the power steering is the CPU going bad, causing it to not work, or the wire powering the switch going bad, resulting in a loss of power.
2. Steering Box Adjustment:
– Some owners have reported difficulty in steering, with one user mentioning that their 98 Ram 1500 is hard to steer and inquiring about an adjustment to change the amount of effort required to turn the steering wheel.
3. Steering Wandering and Bouncing:
– Owners have reported issues with the steering constantly swaying back and forth when in motion, causing the truck to bounce back and forth from lane lines.
4. Excessive Play in Steering Wheel:
– As the Dodge Ram accumulates miles, owners may notice more play in the steering wheel, which may require tightening.
5. Electric Power Steering Failure:
– Some users have experienced intermittent or permanent electric power steering failure, leading to difficulties in steering.
6. Other Steering Related Problems:
– Other reported issues include death wobble, rattling making it hard to steer, loss of power steering while braking, and difficulty in steering at higher speeds.
Maintenance and Solutions
To address these steering problems, regular maintenance and checks are recommended:
– Power Steering Fluid Check: Regularly check the power steering fluid to ensure it remains between warm and cold levels and is free of air bubbles.
– Steering Component Service: Service the rack and pinion assembly and steering linkage every 15,000 miles to ensure proper functioning.
– Alignment and Suspension Checks: Correct excessive pulling to one side by inspecting the tie rods, steering rack, and front suspension components. Additionally, ensure proper wheel alignment and suspension condition.
It’s important to note that if you are experiencing steering problems with your Dodge Ram 1500, it is advisable to consult with a qualified mechanic or dealership for a thorough diagnosis and appropriate solutions.
If you have any further questions or need more information, feel free to ask!
Contents
- What years are the Dodge Ram recall?
- How much does it cost to replace power steering in Ram 1500?
- What are the symptoms of a bad tie rod?
- What is the most common steering problem?
- What is the power steering issue on a 2015 Ram 1500?
- How do you know if your steering rack needs replacing?
- What is the problem with the electric power steering on the Ram?
- Are Ram pickup trucks being investigated for losing power steering?
- What is the recall on Ram 1500 steering?
- How do you reset power steering?
What years are the Dodge Ram recall?
Over 600,000 Ram Pickup Trucks to Be Recalled
Under the settlement, Cummins must repair and replace the engine control software in some 2013–2019 Ram 2500 and Ram 3500 diesel engine pickup trucks.
How much does it cost to replace power steering in Ram 1500?
The average cost for a Dodge Ram 1500 Power Steering Pump Replacement is between $326 and $482.
What are the symptoms of a bad tie rod?
Common signs include a steering wheel that shakes or vibrates and looseness or excessive play in the steering wheel. The vibration typically becomes worse as you accelerate or turn. Don’t wait for your steering issues to become worse; get your vehicle to a qualified technician as soon as you notice these issues.
What is the most common steering problem?
Common steering problems can include: Difficulty in turning the wheel, especially at rest or lower speeds. This may be caused by a problem with power steering, low power steering fluid, a fluid leak, or worn parts. Lack of response from the steering wheel or looseness.
What is the power steering issue on a 2015 Ram 1500?
In 2016, Fiat Chrysler Automobiles issued a small recall (campaign number 16V-167) of 440 Ram 1500 trucks from 2015 and 2016. At issue was possible contamination of the electrical power steering (EPS) unit, leading to failures of a similar nature to what owners are reporting now.
How do you know if your steering rack needs replacing?
What are signs of a steering rack failure?
- Clunking, hammering or cracking noise when steering.
- Stiff steering wheel.
- Oil puddle under the car.
- It is more difficult to drive in a straight line.
- One side of your steering wheel is more responsive than the other.
- The steering wheel vibrates.
What is the problem with the electric power steering on the Ram?
Ram 1500 Power Steering Failure Investigation
The automaker and their supplier investigated the issue, concluding that the failures were due to contamination of the part’s control circuit board, which could cause an electrical short circuit and lead to partial or complete failure of the electrical power steering.
Are Ram pickup trucks being investigated for losing power steering?
Why: Investigations have opened after the NHTSA received 380 reports of drivers intermittently or completely losing power steering assistance in multiple year models of the Dodge Ram pick-up truck. The issue may result in extra steering effort or loss of vehicle directional control, increasing the risk of a crash.
What is the recall on Ram 1500 steering?
Fiat Chrysler has issued a recall for nearly 165,000 Ram trucks due to a potential issue with the steering column control module. According to Ram’s estimates, about 142,150 trucks are likely to have this defect. The steering column control module is a critical component of the vehicle’s steering system.
How do you reset power steering?
Often, you can fix the problem by pulling off the road, shutting the car off, and letting it sit for a minute. When you turn the car back on, the system will reset itself. If it doesn’t, you need to have the steering system inspected as soon as possible.
