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2016 Ram 1500 fuel system problems

284 complaints (18% of all complaints for this car). Typical mileage when it fails: 66,000. 2 crashes reported.

owner complaints
284
of this car's complaints
18%
typical mileage
66,000
crashes
2
recalls
1

Which part fails

  • Delivery: fuel pump
    4
  • Fuel filter
    1
  • Delivery: hoses, lines/piping, and fittings
    1

At what mileage

Complaints by mileage at the time of the problem.

0k-25k
25k-50k
50k-75k
75k-100k
100k-125k
125k-150k
150k-175k
175k-200k
200k+

Ram 1500 fuel system problems in other years

2009201520202025

Specific symptoms reported on the 2016 Ram 1500 fuel system

Phrases found in the owners' own descriptions, so one complaint can mention several symptoms.

Fuel pump 54Fuel gauge 46Fuel smell 8

Related recalls

Fuel system, diesel: delivery: fuel pumpReported June 9, 2022 · 138,645 vehicles affected
What is wrong
Chrysler (FCA US, LLC) is recalling certain 2014-2020 Jeep Grand Cherokee, and 2014-2019 Ram 1500 vehicles equipped with 3.0L diesel engines. A high pressure fuel pump (HPFP) failure may introduce internal debris into the fuel system, potentially resulting in fuel starvation.
Risk
Fuel starvation may result in an unexpected loss of drive power, increasing the risk of a crash.
Remedy
Dealers will replace the HPFP, and inspect and replace, if necessary, additional fuel system components, free of charge. Interim notification letters informing owners of the safety risk were mailed July 21, 2022. Owner notification letters for were mailed for Jeep Grand Cherokee owners starting January 11, 2024. Owner notification letters for Ram 1500 owners were mailed March 7, 2024. Owners may contact FCA US, LLC customer service at 1‑800‑853‑1403. FCA US, LLS's number for this recall is Z46.

Recall number 22V406000 · Recall details

Related investigations

High pressure fuel pump failureOpened March 17, 2023, still open

The Office of Defects Investigation (ODI) opened PE21-021 on October 14, 2021, to investigate incidents alleging a stall/loss of motive power as a result of high-pressure fuel pump failures in certain model year (MY) 2019-2020 Ram 2500, 3500, 4500, and 5500 heavy duty trucks equipped with 6.7L Cummins turbodiesel engines. During the investigation, ODI sought to determine if the related defect allegation was limited in scope to the recalled population. After review of information request response materials from both FCA and BMW, the federal safety agency determined that sufficient information to identify a comprehensive recall population could not be produced by FCA and BMW.During the investigation FCA filed recalls 22V406, 22E048, 22V767, and 22E087 which include vehicles not identified in the initial subject population by ODI. ODI also received recall 21V586, involving loss of motive power due to failed CP4 fuel pumps on certain BMW manufactured vehicles. An information request letter response received from BMW indicated that failed pumps on their vehicles were caused by an interaction between pump internal components and US market diesel fuel, leading to increased slip and eventual particle-generating wear surface. Additional work will be done to identify whether a similar root cause is associated with the FCA recalled population and if similar wear dynamics occur on pumps supplied to vehicle manufacturers other than those included in the recalled population.ODI has upgraded this investigation to an EA in order to 1) determine engineering specifications of internal pump components that are correlated with pump failure leading to loss of motive power or other safety related hazards, 2) identify vehicle populations equipped with alleged defective pump variants, 3) assess if vehicles equipped with alleged defective pump variants result in an unreasonable risk to motor vehicle safety and 4) gather and review any other relevant information related to high pressure fuel pump failure associated with the subject populations of recalls 21V586, 21V880, 21E094, 22V406, 22E048, 22V767, and 22E087.Review of the above information will allow the federal safety agency to confirm root cause and recall remedy viability, and identify and evaluate vehicle populations equipped with pump components that may pose an unreasonable risk to motor vehicle safety.The ODI reports cited above can be reviewed at: http://www-odi.the federal safety agency.dot.gov/owners/Searchreference using the following complaint identification numbers: 11257550, 11351441, 11361603, 11361616, 11365300, 11365426, 11365858, 11366401, 11372337, 11373793, 11374797, 11376793, 11377871, 11378173, 11384377, 11386063, 11387018, 11399710, 11402550, 11415339, 11418868, 11418870, 11427075, 11434276, 11436807, 11437226, 11437249, 11437273, 11437292, 11437294, 11437394, 11437399, 11437403, 11437405, 11437423, 11437528, 11437565, 11437579, 11437580, 11437590, 11437679, 11437744, 11437781, 11437842, 11437993, 11438006, 11438008, 11438121, 11438138, 11438155, 11438392, 11438629, 11439359, 11439879, 11440397, 11443030, 11446542, 11448163, 11453556, 11458918, 11460558, 11469337

EA23001

What 2016 Ram 1500 owners say

Most recent owner complaints, unedited.

Filed Nov 5, 2026 · Engine, Fuel system · CA

In Nov 2020, we had a Ram recall repair for the EGR Cooler/VB1. This was a safety issue that could potentially cause the truck to catch on fire. Nov 2026, we are getting a code for the same issue with our VB1 egr cooler valve. We've contacted Ram and have an email stating that our repair is out of warranty since it's been over 2 years since the repair was completed. Since this was a safety recall and not a standard recall, there is no 2 year warranty time frame. Ram is refusing to repair at their expense.

Filed Nov 3, 2026 · Fuel system · TX

On [XXX], I experienced a severe safety failure regarding the fuel tank support on my 2016 Ram 1500 (VIN: [XXX]). I was driving on public roads under normal conditions and stopped at a store for grocery shopping. While parked, a bystander alerted me that my gas tank was physically hanging down from underneath the vehicle. Upon inspection, I found that the metal fuel tank strap had completely broken off due to corrosion, leaving the heavy fuel tank unsupported and at high risk of dropping onto the road. Because the vehicle was unsafe to leave as-is, I had to rig a temporary strap harness under the truck to hold the tank up just enough to carefully limp the vehicle home. This sudden structural failure presents a massive fire and road hazard. Upon contacting my local Ram/Chrysler dealership, I was informed that there is no active recall covering my specific vehicle. However, after researching the issue on automotive forums and Facebook owner groups, I discovered this is a widespread and well-documented defect among Ram 1500 owners. While some older models received a formal recall (Recall U04) for this exact issue, many owners of newer models like mine are being left without assistance, forcing them to pay out-of-pocket at independent mechanics or attempt DIY repairs on a critical safety component. I urge the federal safety agency to investigate this ongoing defect for 2016 models. INFORMATION REDACTED PURSUANT TO THE FREEDOM OF INFORMATION ACT (FOIA), 5 U.S.C. 552(B)(6)

Filed Nov 3, 2026 · Fuel system · 168,000 miles · IL

The contact owns a 2016 Ram 1500. The contact stated that while driving 50 MPH, several warning lights illuminated and the vehicle lost motive power. The contact stated that while attempting to start the vehicle, the vehicle failed to start. The vehicle was towed to an independent mechanic where it was diagnosed with high-pressure fuel pump failure. The contact was informed that the fuel system was contaminated with metal shavings. The contact was informed that the high-pressure fuel pump needed to be replaced. The contact stated that the vehicle was previously repaired under the federal safety agency Campaign Number: 22V406000 (Fuel System, Diesel) in May 2024. The dealer was contacted and made aware of the failure. The manufacturer was contacted, and a case was filed. In addition, the contact stated that several cases were filed. The contact was advised to contact the dealer for assistance. The failure mileage was approximately 168,000.

Filed Oct 7, 2026 · Fuel system · ID

Component or System Failed & Availability for Inspection: High-pressure fuel pump and common rail fuel injection system under the federal safety agency Recall 22V‑406 (Recall Z46). The vehicle and all removed/affected components are grounded and available for inspection at Peterson CDJR in Boise, ID under Repair Order #46751. Safety Risk: Risk of sudden loss of motive power and engine stall while driving, creating collision hazards as defined under the federal safety agency Recall 22V‑406. Chronological Timeline & Dealer Findings: July 5, 2024: Peterson CDJR performed Safety Recall Z46 (the federal safety agency 22V‑406) Procedure A, replacing only the high-pressure fuel pump. September 2026 (RO #45520): Vehicle presented with an illuminated check engine light. Peterson CDJR diagnosed a faulty fuel pressure sensor and replaced the fuel rail and sensor for $2,809.45. September 2026 (RO #46751): Following a 55-mile test drive, Peterson CDJR technician verified the diesel fuel from the fuel tank tested completely clean. Inspection of the newly installed fuel rail sensor documented internal metallic debris actively circulating through the fuel system. September–October 2026: Peterson CDJR opened STAR Case #102997574. DealerCONNECT records and the technician notes from RO #45520 state that the entire fuel system requires replacement. Dealer requested authorization for Recall Z46 Procedure B (complete fuel system replacement kit ⁠CSSMZ46DAA⁠). October 5, 2026: Stellantis corporate documented via DealerCONNECT that the fuel system requires replacement, but stated they will not authorize the repair under warranty because the recall was previously closed. Inspections by Manufacturer / Others: Inspected by Peterson CDJR certified technicians and documented in STAR Case #102997574. Reviewed via DealerCONNECT by Stellantis corporate, who confirmed fuel system failure but refused remedy coverage under open Corporate Case #98257662. I have not had followup from my Stellantis case manager. Dealer is responsive.

Filed Sep 29, 2026 · Engine, Fuel system · 116,000 miles · FL

The contact owns a 2016 Ram 1500. The contact stated that the messages "Service Emissions Control" and "Exhaust Filter 100 Percent Full - Service Required - See Dealer" were displayed, and there was a strong fuel odor coming through the vents while idling or while driving. Additionally, while attempting to refuel the vehicle at the gas station, fuel splashed out and the vehicle could not be refueled. The manufacturer was notified of the failure by phone and initially informed the contact that the vehicle was still covered under Emission Recall Number: V08 and referred the contact to the dealer. The vehicle was taken to the dealer, where it was determined that the failure was associated with the federal safety agency Campaign Number: 22V406000 (Fuel System, Diesel) and Emission Recall Number: V08; however, the contact was informed that the manufacturer had not approved the recall repairs. The contact called the manufacturer was advised that she would receive a call back from a supervisor; however, the contact had not been contacted. The contact stated that the manufacturer had exceeded a reasonable amount of time for the recall repair. The failure mileage was approximately 116,000.

Filed Sep 21, 2026 · Fuel system · OH

I took my truck in to get the front end looked at and this local garage inspects the vehicle. They informed me the gas tank brackets and straps have corroded so bad that the gas tank is sagging and how serious it would be if it fell more or fell off completely. Obviously the gas tank falling off and possible exploding or catching fire is a serious safety issue. Upon my own research, there is a safety recall (U04) that did not include my specific truck for unknown reasons. Then upon further digging I found a safety warranty extension (X75) attached to my vehicle. When I took it in to get inspected and fixed, the dealership informed me this is a Canadian truck and they could not fix it under this X75 warranty extension. This truck was built in [XXX] and I purchased it used in [XXX] so I am not sure why the Canadian part has anything to do with this truck. The warranty extension letter even states unlimited miles and it doesn't matter if I am the original owner or not. INFORMATION REDACTED PURSUANT TO THE FREEDOM OF INFORMATION ACT (FOIA), 5 U.S.C. 552(B)(6)

Filed Sep 5, 2026 · Fuel system · TX · fire

It appears to be a fuel leak. The incident happened less than 200 miles after having a dealer perform the federal safety agency recall 22V‑406, FCA recall Z46. The truck caught fire while pulling a travel trailer. The only way we were aware of it was a passing motorist saw flames shooting out from under the right side. As soon as we pulled over the truck immediately filled with smoke and the fire spread as the fuel puddled below the truck. Chrysler sent an inspector to look at the truck, not enough of the engine, passenger cabin, or front of the truck was left to make a conclusive cause. There was no indication we had an issue and if not for the fortunate timing of the passing motorist this could have turned out much worse. I was relating this story in a restaurant to my nephew when a passing waiter asked if it was a ECO diesel and I said yes, he related his story which was identical including the recall. I attempted to put out the fire with a fire extinguisher we kept in the truck but it was too big by the time we pulled over. We were traveling at less than 50MPH stop and go traffic which had just started moving.

Filed Aug 5, 2026 · Fuel system · NJ

I am writing to request your assistance regarding my 2016 Ram 1500 EcoDiesel and the handling of a safety-related recall repair that has not resolved the original issue. My vehicle has been experiencing the following symptoms: •Check engine light •Hard starting •Engine struggling to start •Engine stalling These symptoms prompted me to bring the vehicle to an authorized Ram dealership for diagnosis and repair. The dealership informed me that the vehicle qualified for Recall Z46, and the recall was subsequently performed. Unfortunately, after the recall was listed as completed, the vehicle continues to exhibit the exact same symptoms that existed prior to the repair. The check engine light remains, the vehicle still struggles to start, and it continues to stall. After further research I discovered that the entire recall was not completed based on the procedures listed on the federal safety agency website. This is extremely concerning because these symptoms create a potential safety risk, particularly when the engine stalls unexpectedly. I have attempted to work through Ram Customer Care to resolve this matter. My experience has been disappointing. I have been unable to obtain meaningful assistance or authorization to have the vehicle evaluated by another certified Ram dealership despite my concerns that the original dealership did not successfully resolve the issue. At this point, I have lost confidence in the original servicing dealership's ability to properly diagnose and repair my vehicle. I have maintained detailed records of my repair visits and communications and am prepared to provide copies of repair orders and any additional documentation needed. My goal is simply to have my vehicle repaired correctly and safely.

Filed Jul 17, 2026 · Fuel system · 240,000 miles · CA

The contact owns a 2016 Ram 1500. The contact stated that while driving approximately 70-75 MPH, the vehicle stalled. The vehicle was coasted to the side of the road. The contact stated that the vehicle restarted; however, the failure reoccurred while driving, and the vehicle was coasted to the side of the road. No warning light was illuminated. The vehicle was first towed to a dealer, who denied service. The vehicle was then towed to another dealer, where metal shavings were found throughout the fuel system. The dealer cleaned the fuel tank and replaced the remaining fuel system components under the federal safety agency Campaign Number: 22V406000 (Fuel System, Diesel); however, the vehicle failed to start. The dealer stated that the Diesel Particulate Filter (DPF) was full and needed to be replaced. The contact stated that the instrument panel displayed that the DPF was 70 percent full, which contradicted the statement from the dealer. The vehicle was not repaired. The contact stated that the manufacturer had exceeded a reasonable amount of time for the recall repair. The manufacturer was contacted, but no assistance was provided. The failure mileage was approximately 240,000.

Filed Jul 2, 2026 · Fuel system · CA

The vehicle was previously repaired under Recall Z46, but the replacement remedy pump suffered the exact same catastrophic internal failure. The vehicle has now been stranded at Orange Coast Ram for over 30 days under Work Order 156725. RAM Corporate Case Management (Case 96867451) is actively refusing to authorize the subsequent recall repair, explicitly stating in writing that corporate has 'no internal channels to obtain approvals,' effectively denying the legally mandated federal safety remedy.

Questions about the 2016 Ram 1500 fuel system

Does the 2016 Ram 1500 have fuel system problems?

Owners have filed 284 complaints about the fuel system of the 2016 Ram 1500, 18% of all its complaints.

At what mileage do 2016 Ram 1500 fuel system problems start?

The typical (median) mileage in owner complaints is 66,000 miles.

Was there a recall on the 2016 Ram 1500 fuel system?

Yes, 1 recall: 22V406000. Check your VIN to see if your car still needs the free repair.

What year does the Ram 1500 have the most fuel system problems?

The Ram 1500 model years with the most fuel system complaints are 2016 (284 complaints), 2014 (276 complaints) and 2015 (239 complaints).

Other 2016 Ram 1500 problems

Engine 354Steering 316Brakes 288Transmission 204Electrical 194Acceleration 111Suspension 68Airbags 49Body 36Driver assistance 31Lights 18Wheels 14Seat belts 13Locks 11Tires 8Visibility 6Seats 2

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