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2001 Dodge RAM 1500 electrical complaints

Page 2 of 4: complaints 11 to 40 of 81, newest first, as owners wrote them.

See the summary of 2001 Dodge RAM 1500 electrical problems: which part fails, at what mileage and related recalls.

Filed Aug 11, 2014 · Electrical · 88,000 miles · LA

Blows fuse for dash lights and tail lights.

Filed Jun 1, 2014 · Body, Electrical · 22,000 miles · NC

My father bought this truck new in 2001, and I bought it from him in 2008. About 20000 miles on the unit when I bought it. In 2008, the dash started cracking and became very brittle, pieces began to break out and has continued to crack and break. It is now 2014, about 32000 miles on this unit, and I am going to have to replace the dashboard with an aftermarket product. Based on the number of complaints from other owners, I would believe that the materials used in the original dash were below acceptable quality. No front end zerk fittings for steering components- cheap design and construction. I had to have new front end assemblies with zerk fittings, at a cost of about $1400.00. (because chrysler/dodge went cheap in construction.) my last dodge vehicle, I think I can do better.

Filed Apr 17, 2014 · Acceleration, Electrical · 145,000 miles · TX

I have the same issue as thousands of others with the dash falling apart, this incident happened when the bezel just fell off of the dash onto the steering wheel while traveling down a busy highway. I had to try and steer with one hand while using the other to dislodge the bezel and hold it away from the steering wheel until I could safely pull over to the shoulder of the road. Since then my glove box has fallen off along with the drink holder. I am also concerned that if I am involved in an accident where the air bags may be deployed that the passenger side airbag will cause the dash to explode and send plastic schrapnel inside the cab. This could cause serious damage or death for the passenger and\or driver.

Filed Nov 26, 2013 · Airbags, Body · 135,000 miles · CA

The dashboard has been cracking for over 2 years. Large pieces are breaking off and falling into the dash area where there are many electrical wires and vacuum hoses. The pieces that are breaking off are large and have sharp edges that may cut into the wires and hoses and may start fires or electrical failures/shorts. I researched and found out this is a common failure in this vehicle year due to manufacturing. Sometimes as I'm driving, the broken pieces pop out towards passengers in the vehicle. I'm also concerned that a short may deploy the airbags.

Filed Sep 11, 2013 · Electrical · 227,000 miles · KS · fire

Tl* the contact owns a 2001 dodge ram 1500. The contact stated that while driving 5 MPH, the vehicle caught on fire without warning. The fire department extinguished the fire and a police report was filed. The contact was not injured. The vehicle was taken to an independent mechanic. The mechanic stated that the cause for the fire was unknown. The vehicle was not repaired. The manufacturer was made aware of the failure. The approximate failure mileage was 227,000. The vehicle was destroyed.

Filed Jun 9, 2013 · Electrical, Transmission · DC · crash · 1 injury

The dashboard get destroy to easly and the debries flies to the face making drive insecure because the plastic parts were hiting the face. The powers train gets very easly damage by rocks and debris on the street making it to vulnerable to get destroy (and that happen to me) . The charging regulator gets brokes for nothing anytime and you need to be changing the computer or ading an external one and solder it to the principal cables that goes to the alternator, and relays.

Filed May 15, 2013 · Body, Electrical · 126,119 miles · AZ

I am an owner of a 2001 dodge 1500 truck that was in perfect condition up until 2 days ago, that was when my dashboard caved in. I took my truck to my mechanic for a summer tune-up. I live in arizona and when those triple digits start rolling in you want to be sure your AC is blowing cold and mine seem to be having some airflow problems. When my mechanic got through inspecting the truck he discovered that my dashboard was slowly "caving in" causing some electrical problems. He decided to take the dash off to get a better look and when he took the screws out the whole dashboard just broke into many pieces. I am very concerned because that dash has many electrical components behind it which could potentially cause some major problems. I am also in favor of a recall, because the dashboard inspector must of been on vacation in 2001 when they let this truck leave the factory with issues like that. Recall that dash!!!

Filed Mar 27, 2013 · Airbags, Body · 14,000 miles · IN

Dash had began to crack and cracks have progressed to point of they reach the trim bezel. Initially dealer said to just wait they felt dodge would recall because it was very common problem. They didn't advise to replace because it would just happen with new one as well. But nothing was ever done and after contacting dodge customer assistance I was told because of age of truck and mileage now (60,000) nothing could be done. My concerns are if involved in an accident the dash could just crumble and send sharp pieces flying throughout interior. As well as interior of dash being exposed and causing operational issues while driving.

Filed Feb 23, 2013 · Airbags, Body · 30,000 miles · FL

My 2001 dodge ram 1500 has had the dashboard disintegrating since 30,000 miles as I was informed by the previous owner. It only had cracks but since I have owned it the dash has literally disintegrated with sharp objects flying about the cab when windows are down. My research suggest that chrysler used inferior products as a cost reduction, did not acquire the proper manufacturing temperatures which results in cracking, and the dash is inadequately mounted causing flexing. This is a very dangerous situation.........and not a cosmetic issue as dodge has hidden behind!! When the dash breaks, sharp objects are in flight throughout the cab. When it breaks near the air bags, I believe they will deploy themselves and that alone is a serious event while driving in traffic! Dodge has a history all the way back to my first purchase of a brand new 1973 dodge ram, ignoring warranty and making excuses of why things aren't their fault! It's high time this company assumes it's responsibility especially after tax payers bailed them out!!!! I have fought many battles with this company concerning warranty issues as well where a brand new 1976 dodge ram I purchased spun the races in the rears as a result of defective manufacturing!!! The time for making excuses is old, it's time for action and assuming responsibility for an inferior product!!!

Filed Nov 12, 2012 · Electrical, Engine · 119,000 miles · MA

My 2001 dodge ram 1500 4x4 keep stalling when decelerating. The engine will start right up again when I turn the key but unless I keep my foot on the gas it dies again and again. It's always at low speeds like in a parking lot or approaching stop signs or red lights. This is very dangerous in traffic. I have had it to 3 different mechanics and we've replaced the alternator and the battery (twice on the battery) and it is still doing the same thing. Sometimes it runs fine and then it just starts quitting on my.

Filed Sep 20, 2012 · Electrical, Lights · 105,019 miles · AL

Headlights were on high beam and dimmed lights and lost all of the headlights . It was early morning but there was enough light for me to slow and pull over to the side of the road. I kept moving the dimmer switch back and forth between high and low beam until the lights finally came back on. I left them in low beam and drove the rest of the way to work on low beam. When I got home later after work I waited till night time and pulled my truck into my car port and repeated what had happened on that morning. On about the fifth try the lights went out again , I then repeated flipping the dimmer switch back and forth between high and low beam and after many attempts was able to get the headlights back on. The next day took it to the dealer for repairs , they replaced the dimmer switch and the mechanic who worked on my truck told me that was no the first one he had replaced and told me I was very lucky. If it had failed in heavy traffic on a two lane highway and under darker night conditions and at a higher rate of speed I probably would have wrecked. I believe this is a design flaw. *tr

Filed Aug 30, 2012 · Body, Electrical · FL

The dashboard started falling apart shortly after I purchased the truck. Pieces of the dash keep falling down into the area where the wires are at.

Filed Jul 30, 2012 · Body, Electrical · 130,000 miles · GA

I own a 2001 dodge ram 1500. This vehicle however, has a defect, the dashboard cracks and is starting to basically disintegrate. I however, am not the only one with these issues. As you can see on the forums and websites below. Http://www.dashcover.com/dodgeramdash.html http://forums.motortrend.com/70/6297146/pickups-suvs/is-your-2001-dodge-ram-dash-falling-apart/index.html http://www.carcomplaints.com/dodge/ram_1500/2001/accessories-interior/cracked_dashboard.shtml http://www.carcomplaints.com/dodge/ram_1500/2001/accessories-interior/cracked_dashboard-2.shtml http://www.automotiveforums.com/t429358-cracked_dash_in_2001_2500_truck.html the failure is so common there are youtube videos on how to fix it temporarily: http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=h7wfcxsy8xi I have seen quotes to get this fixed anywhere from 800 to 1500 dollars. Absolutely absurd. Some people are reporting that their dashboard is cracking and pieces are falling behind the dash and creating rattling noises and some even as severe as taking out electrical equipment causing headlight failure, AC failure, etc. Despite all of these issues dodge will not issue a recall. One of my biggest concerns is if I were to get into an accident the dashboard could shatter sending sharp edged pieces of plastic towards me under high impact, which could lead to severe injury and/or death. I am highly concerned with this issue and I hope that by you showing interest on mine and others behalf we can resolve this. [xxx] information redacted pursuant to the freedom of information act (foia), 5 u.s.c. 552(b)(6).

Filed Mar 25, 2012 · Body, Electrical · 70,000 miles · NJ

Interior dash has several severe cracks. Dash is starting to crumble and collapse.

Filed Jan 13, 2012 · Body, Electrical · CA

My dodge ram 1500 truck's dashboard started breaking up into pieces and has become worse since 2007. Pieces from dash are falling down into the area that houses the speedometer & other electrical components that are vital to the functioning of the vehicle plus we are very concerned about the air bags being exposed. Every time we go over a bump in the road.....pieces fly off the dashboard & surrounding areas of the dashboard.......my granddaughter was hit by one of these pieces. After checking on computer, I found out that this problem has existed for years on the 2001 dodge ram 1500 pickup, complaints range from california to florida...I am very concerned our safety and the safety of others. Please go online and check complaints about this problem.

Filed Dec 26, 2011 · Body, Electrical · 60,000 miles · LA

Two- three years ago years ago I notice a break in my dashboard that break has LED to the dashboard falling apart exposing wiring. When the dashboard cave (part of ) in all the gauges stop working (speed,temp. Gas, ect.,) and the air bag warning light came on. This happen while driving .

Filed Dec 25, 2011 · Body, Electrical · 60,000 miles · LA

Dashboard cracking and caved in causing all gauges to stop while driving working and airbag light to come on all wiring was exposed the ( dashboard was cracking for over two years but I just learn of other who had the same issues .

Filed Dec 2, 2011 · Electrical · 60,000 miles · IL

Tl* the contact owns a 2001 dodge ram 1500. The contact stated that the instrument panel shattered into small pieces and fell into the dashboard. The dealer and manufacturer were notified of the failure, but denied any assistance with repairs to the vehicle. The vehicle was not repaired. The failure mileage was 60,000 and the current mileage was 93,000. The VIN was unavailable.

Filed Dec 27, 2010 · Body, Electrical · 120,000 miles · FL

Several electrical issues due to pieces from broken dashboard falling into dash area wearing and cutting away wiring insulation. Have had problems with headlights turning off and gauges not functioning properly. Also on several occasions have seen smoke rising out of large holes in dash area. Glare from mounting brackets reflecting off inside of windshield has created visibility issues on bright days.

Filed Nov 27, 2010 · Airbags, Body · 100,000 miles · GA

The dash panels on my 01 dodge 1500 ram quad cab truck have cracked and are falling apart. The holes in the dash have exposed wiring and electrical components. It appears the molded plastics used in the dash panels are deteriorating over time due to the sun's heat and rays. I suspect, like polypropolene tubing, all dashes made of this defective plastic will desinigrate. Anyway, after some research it seems that a aftermarket dash cover is the best remedy, however I'm concerned about the sharp edges of the old dash panel could cut some wiring over time and cause a vehicle fire.

Filed Aug 26, 2010 · Electrical · 210,000 miles · MI · fire

Truck was running just fine. When truck was parked for less than 10 minutes, with engine off it suddenly ignited in the engine compartment. The truck was a complete loss. There was no warning before the event took place.

Filed Aug 20, 2010 · Electrical · 55,000 miles · OR

Tl* the contact owns a 2001 dodge 1500 quad cab. The contact was pulling into a residential driveway at relatively low speeds. He utilized the tilt adjust for the steering wheel and when he lifted upward, the electrical components of the vehicle failed. When he adjusted the steering wheel back downward, the electrical components became operable. The contact repeated several times and the failure occurred with each instance. The dealer discovered that the wiring harness wires were too short and was beginning to loosen. The vehicle was repaired. The failure recurred and the headlights failed. The high beams were the only front-end lights that would operate. The contact was concerned that the failure could potentially cause a crash. Updated 01/20/11 *bf updated 04/20/11

Filed Aug 19, 2010 · Body, Electrical · 54,000 miles · FL

Tl* the contact owns a 2001 dodge ram 1500. The contact stated that the glass shield on the instrument panel fractured. The gauges were still operable yet they were exposed. The vehicle was not inspected or repaired for the failure. The failure mileage was 54,000 and the current mileage 64,000. Updated 11/11/10 *bf the entire plastic part of the dash cracked and fell a part. Updated 11/18/10

Filed Jul 26, 2010 · Electrical, Transmission · 88,000 miles · WI

Tl*the contact owns a 2001 dodge ram 1500. The contact stated while driving approximately 30 MPH, she drove over a bump in the road and the entire the instrument panel lights failed. The contact moved the vehicle off the roadway and attempted to shift into park but the shifter was stuck in the drive gear. The contact attempted to move the shifter several times before engaging. The contact stated the failure would occur whenever she would drive over an uneven road surface. In addition, often when the failure would occur, the key would not turn in the ignition until after several attempts. The contact stated the vehicle was previously repaired under an unknown recall and the failures did not occur until the recall work was performed. The dealer advised the recall repairs were not related to the failure the contact was experiencing. The vehicle was not further repaired. The failure mileage was 88,000 and the current mileage was 91,000.

Filed Jun 16, 2010 · Body, Electrical · 125,000 miles · TX

Dashboard has cratered and pieces break off to this day. Have had multiple cuts and wiring issues since the beginning of this problem and worried that air bag might be involved with the issues. Have placed a cover over gaping holes while waiting for a recall regarding this problem.

Filed Mar 31, 2010 · Electrical · TX

Dash is cracked and falling in. Vehicle stops running due to wires being exposed.

Filed Mar 28, 2010 · Body, Electrical · 50,000 miles · TX

When are you folks going to do something about this hazard? Are you just waiting for someone to get hurt?? It is irresposnsible to continue to neglect this. You have 802 complaints on this vehicle and most are the following issue!!dodge ram dashboard manufacturer defect; falling apart creating a serious safety hazard in numerous ways. Updated 04/12/10

Filed Dec 29, 2009 · Body, Electrical · NC · fire

Like many others, the dash fell apart...you aren't doing a thing about it until what? Someone dies? 2001 dodge ram 1500 truck. Everyone I talk to knows someone whose truck did the same thing. If we are in a wreck and the airbag doesn't deploy due to the support system being missing....falling apart totally....then if we die, will something be done to make chrysler stand good for the repairs? I have contacted them and they want us to pay 800 for our part. No...it is their widespread defect and we will not pay a penny. We have had a fire in the dash as everything is open to the elements now....we had to stop on the side of the road and crawl up under and find the wires burning. Whenever you turned on the key, it smoked and burned. Finally, after the truck was towed home, he traced the wire to the heated mirrors and removed it. Waiting for the next fire, I guess. What a shame for chrysler to take bailout money and not help customers and ensure their safety. Will someone please step up?????

Filed Sep 29, 2009 · Electrical · 100,000 miles · AR

I filed a complaint a few weeks ago about my 2001 dodge ram 1500 since then I am now having electrical problems. First the windows then the radio and dome light and now this morning when I was leaving for work at :30 my head lights went out. This is ridiculous. What if I had been on the road. I drive down the interstate every morning at around 5:30.

Filed Sep 14, 2009 · Electrical · 112,000 miles · GA

I own a 2001 dodge ram pu truck 5.2 .I was driving down road at night and went to click my bright lights on and the lights went out. This has happened several times. Checked the fuse and it was good. This is very dangerous.

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