2016 Ram 1500 used buying checklist

Test for the problems owners report most

The most reported problems of this model year, with what to look for on the test drive.

• ABS light or ABS activating250 owner complaints, usually around 100,000 miles, owners paid about $2,000

  Brake firmly from moderate speed: the pedal should feel firm and the car should stop straight, with no grinding or pulsing.

• Check engine light123 owner complaints, usually around 80,000 miles

  Start the engine cold and listen for knocking or ticking. Check for warning lights, oil leaks and a low oil level, and ask how often oil had to be topped up.

• Loss of power steering120 owner complaints, usually around 73,000 miles, owners paid about $2,260

  Turn the wheel from lock to lock while parked and on the road: it should be smooth, with no clunks, stiffness or warning lights.

Make sure these recalls were done

Recall repairs are free at any dealer of the brand. Ask the seller for proof, or have a dealer check the VIN.

• Air bagsRecall number 25V010000, Jan 16, 2025
• Engine and engine coolingRecall number 23V411000, Jun 8, 2023
• Fuel system, dieselRecall number 22V406000, Jun 9, 2022
• Air bagsRecall number 21V632000, Aug 12, 2021
• Engine and engine coolingRecall number 20V475000, Aug 13, 2020
• Engine and engine coolingRecall number 19V757000, Oct 24, 2019
• Latches/locks/linkagesRecall number 19V347000, May 9, 2019
• Latches/locks/linkagesRecall number 18V486000, Jul 27, 2018
• Electrical systemRecall number 18V332000, May 17, 2018
• Power trainRecall number 17V821000, Dec 20, 2017
• Air bagsRecall number 17V302000, May 9, 2017
• Power trainRecall number 17V198000, Mar 23, 2017
• Power trainRecall number 16V301000, May 16, 2016
• SteeringRecall number 16V167000, Mar 23, 2016
• TiresRecall number 15V663000, Oct 16, 2015
• Power trainRecall number 15V661000, Oct 15, 2015

Service bulletins worth asking about

Repair instructions the maker sent to dealers for known problems. Ask whether any of these repairs were done.

• If Safety Recall Z46 has been completed, order 68632011AA.Dec 10, 2025
• If Safety Recall Z46 has not been completed, order 68235275AB.Dec 10, 2025
• Verify Reman part number availabilityAug 7, 2025
• CEL (Check Engine Lamp) C006A-49 Multi-Axis Acceleration Sensor Internal Electronic Failure And C10CC-00...Feb 26, 2025
• Throttle Blade Icing Service Fix Customers may experience a Malfunction Indicator Lamp (MIL) illuminationNov 28, 2023
• Suspected engine coolant leak.Aug 31, 2023

Before you pay

• Decode the VIN and make sure it matches the title, the registration and the car itself.
• Get a vehicle history report to check for accidents, salvage or flood titles and odometer problems.
• Ask for service records, especially oil changes and any transmission fluid service.
• Start the car from cold, and drive it at city and highway speeds for at least 20 minutes.
• Have an independent mechanic inspect the car before you sign anything.