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Ram 3500 loss of power problems

45 of the 2,371 owner complaints about the Ram 3500 describe sudden loss of power, most of them for the 2022 model year.

owner complaints
45
worst model year
2022
typical mileage
30,000
Is there a fix? There are 6 recalls for this area of the car. See below

By model year

  • 2024
    1
  • 2022
    15
  • 2021
    1
  • 2020
    10
  • 2019
    3
  • 2018
    3
  • 2017
    2
  • 2016
    2
  • 2015
    1
  • 2014
    3
  • 2013
    4

Often reported together

Fuel pump 8Check engine light 7Won't shift 6Transmission failure 5Power steering loss 4Stalling 2Overheating 2Harsh shifting 2

Trouble codes mentioned

P2459 1P0732 1P0731 1P006A 1P0046 1P003A 1

What owners say

Filed May 8, 2026 · Engine, Transmission · 74,500 miles · OR

The contact owns a 2016 RAM 3500. The contact stated that while her husband was driving on several occasions at various speeds, the vehicle lost power and did not accelerate as intended. The vehicle was not diagnosed or repaired. The contact stated that her husband hooked the vehicle up to a handheld diagnostic machine where codes: P003A, P006a, P0046 populated. The manufacturer was notified of the failure. The failure mileage was approximately 74,500.

Filed Mar 23, 2026 · Engine · TX

### **the federal safety agency Complaint Statement of Facts** **RE: Recall Y43 (the federal safety agency Campaign 22V‑406) – Failure of Recall Remedy** **Summary:** The manufacturer (Stellantis/FCA) is refusing to provide a complete and effective remedy for **Recall Y43**. My 2022 Ram 3500 was manufactured without the **Particulate Matter (PM) Sensor**, a defect officially acknowledged in Recall Y43. This factory omission has caused terminal blockage of the **Diesel Particulate Filter (DPF)**—a specific consequential failure documented in the manufacturer's own recall filing. **Technical Argument:** 1. **Causal Link:** The official Y43 recall notice states: *"The PM sensor... may not have been installed... This could increase vehicle emissions and **block the diesel particulate filter**."* My vehicle currently suffers from the exact "blocked DPF" condition described. 2. **Ineffective Remedy:** Stellantis has offered to install the missing sensor (the Y43 part) but refuses to replace the ruined DPF. Installing a sensor on a filter already terminally blocked due to the sensor's absence is not an "effective remedy" under the **National Traffic and Motor Vehicle Safety Act**. 3. **Warranty Admission:** Per **TSB 09-014-22 (X97)**, the manufacturer has issued a 1-year unlimited mile warranty extension for the DPF specifically for vehicles affected by Y43. Refusing to replace a filter that failed *before* the recall was performed is an attempt to circumvent this warranty obligation. **Safety Risk:** The vehicle is currently in "Limp Mode" with a "Filter Full - Power Reduced" message. This creates an unreasonable safety risk of **stalling or loss of power** while operating on public highways, a condition explicitly mentioned in the Y43 safety report as increasing the risk of an accident. I am seeking an order for the manufacturer to replace the DPF as part of the Y43 recall remedy at no cost to the consumer. The manufacturer’s Case Manager has denied the claim and refused further communication

Filed Jan 6, 2026 · Engine, Fuel system · TX

***1*** The emissions system on this truck (2022 Ram 3500 with 34,435 miles) has been problematic since I acquired it 5 months ago. It continually attempts to regenerate and rid itself of ash/soot buildup. If it does not successfully regenerate, it will go into a state of reduced power, also known as limp mode. The truck is available for inspection and will be at Lithia CDJR in Corpus Christi tomorrow, 07 Jan 2026. ***2*** Today specifically, the truck flashed a message EXHAUST FILTER NEARING FULL SAFELY DRIVE AT CONSISTENT SPEED TO CLEAR. I got on the highway to achieve this and avoid lights and stop/go traffic. It typically takes around 25 minutes of consistent driving for it to clear. But today, shortly after I reached highway speeds, the truck entered limp mode, displaying EXHAUST FILTER FULL REDUCED POWER SEE DEALER. This was a very alarming incident that created a bottleneck on the highway and presumably for me to nearly be rear ended as it happened at 5:35pm. I was able to safely make it off of the highway, however this incident has put the lives of all motorists on the road around me today in danger. ***3*** The truck has been inspected numerous times by the dealership. The Diesel Particulate Filter was replaced on 01 October 2025 (this was the first time the truck went into limp mode on me). The frequent regenerations continued after the DPF replacement and a sensor was replaced on 29 October 2025. Regens continue at approximately 1 per week. ***4*** This is a known issue amongst the community of RAM truck owners. It's unfortunate that many do not report it because the safety issue could easily set off a chain reaction, especially if this heavy duty truck were to be towing a heavy load as it capable of doing.

Filed Oct 10, 2025 · Engine, Fuel system · DC

My pm sensors or particulate matter system malfunction and failed which lead to emissions issues and created my vehicle to drive in limp mode. Limp mode basically slowed downs the vehicle is slow as 5 mph as soon as this light displays at any time while driving on the highway. This put my safety in danger and the public as I transport what dot considers a type hazardous material. The sudden loss of power in the middle of the road has made vehicles around me extremely vulnerable to fatal collisions. I took my vehicle to the dealership where they confirmed this malfunction and problem with my vehicle but no recall has been issued as of yet no warning lamps appeared prior to the failure.

Filed Aug 8, 2025 · Brakes, Engine · OR

Vehicle died in a busy intersection coming off the freeway. Light flashed that indicated it was an issue with the electronic throttle control. The safety of myself and others was put at risk due to the posted speed of the road and multiple lanes from 4 directions. I had to remain in my vehicle to make sure I was not hit by another vehicle and due to the vehicle issue, I was impeding traffic. Lithia Dodge of Grants Pass, OR stated they could not make an appt for the vehicle to get looked at for 2 weeks out, scheduled 8/22/25. Dealership seems to think this is not an issue with safety and this issue can occur while the vehicle is in motion which is a huge safety issue. No warning lights flashed before the first one indicating the vehicle would shut down/lose all power.

Filed Jun 19, 2025 · Fuel system · GA

My 2022 RAM 3500 has repeated failures of the diesel particulate filter (DPF) system. The truck enters limp mode unexpectedly, including while towing on the interstate, creating a serious safety hazard due to sudden loss of power. Since purchasing the vehicle, I have experienced ongoing issues with the emissions system, specifically related to the DPF. The check engine light comes on frequently, and diagnostic scans consistently show code P2459 (Diesel Particulate Filter Regeneration Frequency Too High). The DPF system has been replaced approximately five times by authorized RAM dealer. Despite these repairs, the same problem continues to occur. The truck will sometimes enter limp mode without warning, drastically reducing engine power. This has happened while towing a camper on the interstate, making it difficult or impossible to maintain safe highway speeds or accelerate when needed. This puts me, my passengers, and other motorists at risk of a crash, particularly when merging or changing lanes in fast-moving traffic. I have already pursued and settled a claim with Stellantis (RAM’s manufacturer) for $10k due to these issues. However, the problem persists, and the root cause has not been resolved. Accepting the settlement was recommended by legal counsel. The failure has occurred on multiple occasions (at least five separate incidents). The vehicle has undergone several service visits and emissions system replacements, but the safety issue continues. Current mileage 42,000. Dates of incidents from most recent: 6/25 (still in shop), 3/25, 9/24, 8/24,7/24,6/24,4/24,1/24,7/23,6/23,11/22. Documentation available upon request. Diesel particulate filter (DPF) system replaced approximately five times. I believe there is a defect in the design or operation of the emissions system that poses a safety risk. Loss of power while driving at highway speeds or towing creates a dangerous situation. I am reporting this in hopes that the federal safety agency will investigate this recurring issue.

Filed May 9, 2025 · Electrical, Engine · SC

On May 3, 2025, while driving my 2018 RAM 2500 with approximately 46,000 miles, the check engine light came on and the engine immediately experienced a significant loss of power. The vehicle entered a limp mode condition, drastically reducing speed and acceleration. I was forced to pull into a nearby business as the truck could not maintain safe highway speeds, creating a traffic hazard and contributing to congestion. The vehicle was diagnosed by a repair facility as having a failed turbo actuator, a critical component in regulating turbo boost and engine power delivery. After researching this issue, I have found numerous similar complaints and reports from other RAM truck owners on various owner forums and websites, indicating this may be a recurring and potentially widespread defect in these vehicles. Given that this failure occurred at relatively low mileage, caused a hazardous driving condition, and seems to be a commonly reported problem, I believe this issue warrants investigation by the federal safety agency for potential safety risks and manufacturer accountability. No injuries or property damage occurred, but the incident posed a significant safety risk to myself and other drivers.

Filed Apr 20, 2025 · Engine · OK

The turbo actuator quit working at 103,000 miles. Loss of power. Took to Dodge dealer in Bartlesville Oklahoma to fix. I bought an extended warranty but it wouldn’t cover the cost because I have a flatbed. Out $7,500. I noticed they recalled this part on the 2015 and they need to on the 2018.

Filed Nov 12, 2024 · Electrical, Engine · OR · fire

On 9 September, while driving, I got an emergency dashboard notice that stated Throttle System Malfunction contact dealer. It went out and then another immediately flashed that stated Exhaust System Malfunction contact dealer. The vehicle lost power within seconds after the second notice. I coasted to a stop on the side of the road. Once stopped, smoke quickly started coming out of the engine compartment and then flames. I contacted 911, an engine arrived but the truck was fully engaged and completely burnt.

Filed Oct 22, 2024 · Acceleration, Brakes · AL

The abs and traction control lights flash on and off. They also have remained off and the back on for while. Happens a lot during summer and when driving for a while. While on cruise control and the lights comes sudden loss of power and agrressive engine slow down causing the vehicle to shake. Has happen multiple times.

Related recalls

Engine and engine cooling: engine: engine control module (ecu/ECM)Reported August 26, 2022 · 4,907 vehicles affected
What is wrong
Chrysler (FCA US, LLC) is recalling certain 2022 Ram 3500, 3500 Cab Chassis, Ram 2500, and 4500 and 5500 Cab Chassis vehicles equipped with Cummins 6.7L turbo diesel engines. The engine control module (ECM) may have been built with a misaligned capacitor that can short-circuit, resulting in an internal loss of communication.
Risk
An internal loss of communication can result in a loss of drive power, increasing the risk of a crash.
Remedy
Dealers will replace the ECM, free of charge. Owner notification letters were mailed October 20, 2022. Owners may contact FCA US, LLC customer service at 1‑800‑853‑1403. FCA US, LLC's number for this recall is Z87.

Recall number 22V642000 · Recall details

Engine and engine cooling: engine: oil/lubricationReported June 10, 2021 · 32,002 vehicles affected
What is wrong
Chrysler (FCA US, LLC) is recalling certain 2019-2020 Ram 3500, 4500, and 5500 cab chassis vehicles equipped with a Cummins 6.7L High Output engine. The engine calibration software may not warn about low oil volume.
Risk
Low oil can damage the engine, causing an oil leak or a punctured engine block, increasing the risk of a fire.
Remedy
Dealers will update the engine calibration software, free of charge. Owner notification letters were mailed June 25, 2021. Owners may contact FCA US LLC customer service at 1‑800‑853‑1403. FCA US LLC's number for this recall is Y21.

Recall number 21V439000 · Recall details

Engine and engine cooling: engine: oil/lubricationReported August 27, 2020 · 32,318 vehicles affected
What is wrong
Chrysler (FCA US LLC) is recalling certain 2019-2020 Ram 3500, 4500 and 5500 cab chassis built with a Cummins 6.7L High Output engine. Inadequate warmup protection can cause a lack of oil film on the engine connecting rod bearings while the engine is reaching operating temperature. This can result in engine damage and connecting rod failure, which could potentially puncture the engine block.
Risk
A damaged engine block may leak oil, which can contact hot engine or exhaust components, increasing the risk of a fire.
Remedy
Chrysler will notify owners, and dealers will flash the engine calibration software to enhance the engine warm up protection, free of charge. The recall began September 10, 2020. Owners may contact Chrysler customer service at 1‑800‑853‑1403. Chrysler's number for this recall is W57.

Recall number 20V511000 · Recall details

Engine and engine cooling: engine: dieselReported September 12, 2017 · 443,874 vehicles affected
What is wrong
Chrysler (FCA US LLC) is recalling certain 2013-2017 RAM 2500, 3500, 3500 Cab Chassis, 4500 Cab Chassis, and 5500 Cab Chassis vehicles, equipped with Cummins 6.7L Turbo Diesel engines that have Concentric-brand water pumps without a vent hole. These water pumps may leak coolant.
Risk
The leaking water pump can increase the risk of an engine compartment fire.
Remedy
Chrysler will notify owners, and dealers will replace the water pumps, free of charge. The recall began February 26, 2018. Owners may contact Chrysler customer service at 1‑800‑853‑1403. Chrysler's number for this recall is T51.

Recall number 17V562000 · Recall details

Engine and engine cooling: engineReported September 23, 2015 · 41 vehicles affected
What is wrong
Chrysler (FCA US LLC) is recalling certain model year 2016 Ram 2500, 3500, 3500 Cab Chassis and 4500/5500 Cab Chassis trucks manufactured July 31, 2015, to August 13, 2015 and equipped with a 6.7L Cummins Diesel engine. In the affected vehicles, the Engine Control Module (ECM) may short circuit, causing the engine to stall without warning.
Risk
An engine that stalls without warning increases the risk of a crash.
Remedy
Chrysler will notify owners, and dealers will replace the ECM, free of charge. The recall began on December 21, 2015. Owners may contact Chrysler customer service at 1‑800‑853‑1403. Chrysler's number for this recall is R52.

Recall number 15V592000 · Recall details

Engine and engine coolingReported April 3, 2013 · 6,143 vehicles affected
What is wrong
Chrysler Group LLC (Chrysler) is recalling certain model year 2013 Dodge Ram 2500 and 3500 trucks manufactured January 7, 2013, through March 6, 2013. The engine cover may trap an excessive amount of heat under the cover.
Risk
The excessive heat under the engine cover may result in an under hood fire.
Remedy
Chrysler will notify owners, and dealers will replace the existing engine cover with one that is a different design, free of charge. An interim letter was mailed on May 31, 2013. A second letter was mailed to owners with instructions on how to obtain the free remedy on August 15, 2013. Owners may contact Chrysler at 1‑800‑853‑1403. Chrysler's recall campaign number is N19.

Recall number 13V122000 · Recall details

Questions about the Ram 3500 loss of power

Which Ram 3500 years have sudden loss of power problems?

The model years with the most reports are 2022 (15 complaints), 2020 (10 complaints) and 2013 (4 complaints).

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