2020 Ram 1500: key fob or push-button start problems

Filed Oct 29, 2026 · Electrical · 98,000 miles · FL

The contact owns a 2020 Ram 1500. The contact stated that the vehicle experienced intermittent starting failures. In addition, the contact stated that while accelerating from a complete stop, the vehicle hesitated and the message "Please Put the Car in Park" was displayed. The vehicle was driven to a gas station, shut off, and refueled; however, the vehicle failed to start immediately and only restarted after approximately 30 minutes. The battery was replaced by AAA. The vehicle was taken to the dealer several times, where the contact was informed that no failure was found and the failure could not be duplicated. Several messages and warning lights, including "Key Fob Not Detected", "Parking Brake Error", the ABS warning light, and the traction control warning light were illuminated during the failure. The dealer notified the manufacturer of the failure, and the technicians advised the dealer to replace the key fob; however, the failure persisted. The manufacturer was contacted and informed the contact that the vehicle was undergoing further diagnostic test. The failure mileage was approximately 98,000.

Filed Feb 28, 2025 · Electrical, Engine · 80,000 miles · KY

The contact owns a 2020 Ram 1500. The contact stated that after driving 35-45 MPH, the contact approached a stop sign, and the vehicle stalled. The vehicle failed to restart after pushing the Push-to-Start button. The traction control warning light was illuminated. Additionally, the key fob not recognized message was displayed. The vehicle was towed to an independent mechanic, who determined that the failure was due to the relay module and PCM and referred the contact to the local dealer. The vehicle was towed to the local dealer, where it was diagnosed and determined that the PCM needed to be replaced. The vehicle was not repaired. The manufacturer was contacted, opened a case, but no additional assistance was provided. The failure mileage was approximately 80,000.

Filed Dec 10, 2024 · Electrical · 110,000 miles · GA

The contact owns a 2020 Ram 1500. The contact stated while driving approximately 40 MPH, the dashboard and infotainment screen intermittently darkened, and the key fob was inoperable. Additionally, the vehicle failed to shut off as needed. The failure had occurred on several occasions. There was no warning light illuminated. The vehicle was taken to an independent mechanic where it was discovered that there was an issue with the electrical system; however, the independent mechanic was unable to determine the cause of the failure. The vehicle was not repaired. The manufacturer was notified of the failure and referred the contact to the federal safety agency Hotline to report the failure. The failure mileage was approximately 110,000.

Filed Jul 5, 2024 · Electrical, Locks · 55,000 miles · OH

The contact owns a 2020 Ram 1500. The contact stated the tailgate failed to open with the key fob. The vehicle had not been taken to the dealer. The vehicle had not been diagnosed nor repaired. The manufacturer was not made aware of the failure. The failure mileage was 55,000.

Filed Feb 14, 2022 · Brakes, Electrical · CO

At a speed of 45mph, my truck completely shut down. No power on anything. I was able to pull off the road and come to a stop; power brakes and steering were not operable. Once stopped, the truck would not start. "Push to Start" indicator on dash did come on, but the brake pedal was stiff and the push to start button did nothing. Got out of the truck, exterior door lock button was inoperable and both key fobs did nothing. Had to have the vehicle towed.