Headlight switch replaced (3) three times. The last time had to replace the cannon plug also due to it burning wires along with headlight switch terminals burned. Talked with other 1994 through 1997 dodge ram 2500 owners and turns out that this problem occurs frequently. Is there anyway something can be done, this could possibly cause a fire an people injured or killed! Reference: 854783.
1996 Dodge RAM 2500 electrical complaints
Page 2 of 2: complaints 11 to 26 of 26, newest first, as owners wrote them.
Third engine compartment fire on 1996 dodge p/u w/ deisel engine. I reported to dot on 11-jul-2000 after the second fire. See your reference no 865223. This makes three times the driver could not turn engine off, wiring harnesses overheated causing engine compartment fire.
While driving at 65 MPH and with the air conditioner running smoke drifted out of the vents. Consumer took the vehicle to a mechanic, who determined that wires were burnt in the steering column.
Dodge 1996 2500 cummins diesel - VIN - [xxx]. Started truck, starter remained engaged, turned key off, starter remained on and engine running, smoke rose from the engine compartment, only way engine could be stopped was to disconnect the batteries. By the time batteries were disconnected, the starter, fuel shutdown solenoid, some wiring were burnt up, had to be replaced. Luckily electrical fire went out before igniting diesel fuel. *nlm information redacted pursuant to the freedom of information act (foia), 5 u.s.c. 552(b)(6).
Occasionally, experience difficulty in starting the engine, stalls immediately after starting and during long distance driving, experience intermittent firing, like trembling.
Starter came on while driving vehicle at 40 MPH. I parked vehicle and turned off the ignition switch and removed the key, and starter kept running. Smoke was coming from under the hood from the battery cables. I disconnected the batteries and the starter stopped. The dealer said the recall for the ignition switch wiring had nothing to do with the starter. I believe there was a short in the ignition wiring that caused the starter to come on. I can not imagine how a starter solenoid could get powered without turning the ignition switch or a short.
Heat is on the module and will catch on fire.*ak the transmission failed and was rebuilt. Consumer would like to be reimbursed for the money he paid to have the transmission rebuilt.
When putting vehicle in reverse and there is a trailer on back, trailer blows the fuse on reverse lights of truck. Consumer feels this is very unsafe, could be rear ended. All lights replaced were factory installed.
Headlights go on and off over every bump in the road. About 2 years ago I replaced the switch body to fix the same problem, I did not notice if the loom was already failing at that time. When the same problem happened again I investingated a bit further and found the center section of the wire loom was melted and deformed around 2 of the connectors. Testing with a volt meter indicates one of the connectors (green wire) is wired to the headlights. The wire also shows signs of excessive heat buildup. I suspect the real problem is a busted relay somewhere else, but havent searched for that yet. This is curiously similar to recall 99v024000.
Front coil spring broke, which caused front end to drop. There is a recall for this problem, but this vehicle is not included although it has the same problem. Also, occupant received a recall for the wiring harness which he never had repaired, and lost the recall notice. Manufacturer stated that this vehicle was not included in wiring harness recall. Also, 5th gear quit for the second time, first time covered under extended warranty, this time owner must pay for repair. Chrysler has issued an updated nut for this problem. *ak
When A/C or heater is on the ignition switch will overheat and steering column start smoking, consumer had to buy another switch, and dealer put it on. Original switch could not take all the power coming from all the circuitry.
Drive shaft/cruise control, and battery malfunctioned. The original tires on the vehicle wore out within 20 months after it was purchased. The keyless entry system does not always operate properly. Owner indicated a "2-point belt"restraint system.however, the equipment listing a unibelt restraint system.
Power control module failed.
Consumer states the listed vehicle is used for towing purposes, upon towing vehicle, the automatic circuit fuse blowed, causing loss of braking ability. Consumer has contacted the dealer. *ak control (braking) is lost to the 12,000lb tralier when the ABS fuse blows, dealer unable to correct the problem.
Driving truck down the road, stopped at a stop light and noticed smoke coming from underneath the hood. Got out of truck, pulled hood up and noticed that the fire retarding pad was on fire. Truck had to be towed to a mechanic, has not determined was caused the fire.
Vehicle has had two battery failures.
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