According to Au7o's research across NHTSA recalls, manufacturer TSBs, and owner forum reports, the 2026 RAM 1500 has 6 documented known issues, with 4 rated critical. The most serious are Digital Instrument Cluster Goes Blank at Startup or While Driving (Recall 25V826 / 26V225), Trailer Tow Module Defect — Trailer Brakes and Lights May Not Work (Recall 26V059), Second-Row Seat Belt Buckle Anchors Not Attached to the Body Structure (Recall 26V495 / 67D — 1.27 Million Trucks) ($0-$0 repair) and Headlights, Parking Lights and DRLs Flicker Off or Fail — Headlight Wiring and Headlight Module Software (Recalls 26V421 and 24V942) ($0-$0 repair). DIY maintenance guides at au7o.io.
On the 2025-2026 RAM 1500, nHTSA campaigns 25V826 and 26V225 establish this identity for VIN-selected 2025-2026 RAM 1500 trucks. A software error can leave the instrument-panel display blank or unable to show safety information such as gear selection and warning lamps. The campaigns use different compliance scopes and remedies, so VIN status determines which action applies; neither campaign establishes an owner-frequency count.
cluster, power and vehicle-network faults preserved
software remedy separated from hardware replacement
How to Fix
Check the VIN for 25V826 (FCA B4C/B8C) and 26V225 (FCA 35D). Have the dealer inspect and update instrument-cluster software or replace the cluster when the applicable campaign requires it, free of charge. If the display fails while driving, avoid relying on missing gear or warning information, move to a safe location and arrange service. Outside an open campaign, preserve cluster, body and network faults before diagnosis. Do not buy a cluster, display or control module from this page; campaign eligibility, software level, coding, current part number and VIN fitment must be established first.
On the 2025-2026 RAM 1500, two separate FMVSS 108 non-compliance recalls cover exterior lighting failure on the current-generation RAM 1500. Recall 24V942 (FCA D4B, 53 units) addresses 2025 trucks built with incorrect headlight module software that can render the headlights inoperative. Recall 26V421 (FCA 62D, 12,592 units) addresses 2026 trucks whose headlight wiring causes the parking lights and daytime running lights to flicker on and off or fail entirely. NHTSA complaints from 2025 owners match the same failure mode ahead of the 2026 campaign: headlights and parking lights shutting completely off while driving and coming back on — not a momentary flash — with other drivers reading it as a turn signal, and one truck sitting at a dealership more than 120 days over it. A related and separately-reported 2025 defect is a driver's-side headlight aimed far to the left that dealers say has no adjustment, leaving a dark spot directly ahead of the driver.
Headlights and parking lights shut off completely while driving, then return
Daytime running lights flicker on and off
Headlights inoperative from startup
Other drivers misread the flicker as turn signals
Driver's-side headlight aimed sharply left leaving a dark spot ahead
No warning lamp or message accompanies the outage
How to Fix
Check the VIN at NHTSA.gov against both campaigns. For 2025 trucks, Recall 24V942 (FCA D4B) is a free headlight module software update. For 2026 trucks, Recall 26V421 (FCA 62D) is inspection and replacement of the headlight assemblies as necessary, free of charge; interim letters went out July 30, 2026 with the final remedy to follow. If a 2025 truck exhibits the 2026 flicker pattern but is outside 26V421, have the dealer open a STAR case and inspect the headlight connector and harness for pin fretting and chafing rather than replacing bulbs or modules blind. Aiming complaints should be documented with a wall-aim measurement so the claim is not dismissed as subjective.
On the 2025-2026 RAM 1500 3.0L Hurricane twin-turbo I6, a large number of 2025 RAM 1500 owners (especially Hurricane-equipped trucks) report repeated dead 12V batteries from a parasitic draw where body/comfort modules and proximity sensors fail to enter sleep mode after shutdown. Owners describe waking to a no-start, low system voltage, infotainment freezes, and wireless-charge pads that stay warm. One Texas owner documented an '11.7V death spiral' at under 4,000 miles, with dealers initially finding 'no fault.' Stellantis addresses it with a body-control-module software reflash TSB to force the affected modules to sleep. This is distinct from the older TIPM failure already covered — it is a 5th-gen DT software/electrical-architecture issue on the newest trucks.
Have the dealer apply the BCM/electrical-system software update that corrects the modules-won't-sleep condition (reported under a 2025 service bulletin). In the interim, a battery tender prevents dead-battery no-starts. If a dealer reports 'no fault found,' request the parasitic-draw software reflash specifically and have the 12V battery state-of-health load-tested, as repeated deep discharges can prematurely ruin the battery.
On the 2025-2026 RAM 1500, nHTSA 26V059 / FCA 03D establishes this identity for affected 2025-2026 RAM 1500 trucks. An improperly designed trailer-tow module can prevent trailer lights from illuminating and trailer brakes from operating, increasing crash risk. The campaign is VIN-specific and does not establish an owner-frequency count.
module, connector and harness condition documented
completed campaign remedy confirmed
How to Fix
Check the VIN for 26V059 / 03D and have the dealer replace the trailer-tow module free of charge. Do not tow until campaign status is known and trailer brake, brake-light and turn-signal operation has been verified with the connected trailer. Do not buy a tow module, brake controller or harness from this page; campaign eligibility, module state, connector condition, programming, current part number and VIN fitment must be established first.
On the 2024-2026 RAM 1500, chrysler recalled 1,271,294 RAM 1500 pickups covering model years 2019 through 2026 because the second-row seat belt buckle anchors may have been improperly installed — the buckle anchor was not attached to the body structure as designed. In a crash the anchor can pull free and the belt will not restrain the rear-seat occupant. NHTSA recorded the trucks as non-compliant with FMVSS 210, 'Seat Belt Assembly Anchorages.' This is one of the largest campaigns filed against the truck and it reaches all the way into current 2026 production, so a brand-new truck on a dealer lot can be affected. Owner notification letters were expected August 18, 2026 with VINs searchable from August 6, 2026.
No visible symptom — the buckle anchor is simply not fastened to the body
Second-row buckle stalk feels loose or shifts position
Vehicle appears on the 26V495 recall list by VIN
How to Fix
Have the dealer perform Recall 26V495 (FCA 67D) — inspection and, where required, attachment of the second-row seat belt buckle anchor to the body structure, free of charge. Because the defect is a missing attachment rather than a broken part, it is invisible from the cabin; do not try to self-assess by tugging on the buckle. Until the inspection is done, prefer the front seats for passengers where practical and be aware that a child seat secured by the second-row seat belt rather than by the lower LATCH anchors depends on this attachment.
On the 2025-2026 RAM 1500, early-production 2025 RAM 1500 trucks equipped with the new 3.0L Hurricane twin-turbocharged inline-six (Standard Output 420 hp and High Output 540 hp) are widely reported to throw check-engine lights and random/multi-cylinder misfire codes, often on cold start or under load in hot weather. Owners on the 5thGenRams and RamForum communities report P0300 (and per-cylinder P0301-P0306) within the first few thousand miles. Stellantis has issued multiple software TSBs (e.g., 08-055-25 for HO, 08-031-25 for SO, and a cold-start update) that reflash the ignition system control module (ISCM) and PCM; a separate TSB (09-025-25) addresses a purge-line/vacuum-leak source of lean misfires. This is a new-engine, new-generation problem outside the existing HEMI-focused coverage.
Have the dealer apply the latest ISCM/PCM software per the applicable misfire TSB (HO vs SO calibration). Inspect and reseat the EVAP purge line and the air-intake hose at the airbox for vacuum leaks (TSB 09-025-25). Many owners report running 91+ octane reduces misfire events in hot weather. If reflash and vacuum-leak repairs do not resolve it, dealer should diagnose ignition coils/injectors under powertrain warranty.
Chrysler (FCA US, LLC) is recalling certain 2025-2026 Ram 1500 Pickup, Ram 2500 Pickup, Ram 3500 Pickup, Ram 3500 Cab Chassis, Ram 4500 Cab Chassis, and Ram 5500 Cab Chassis vehicles. A software error may cause the instrument panel display to fail. As such, these vehicles fail to comply with the requirements of Federal Motor Vehicle Safety Standards numbers 102, "Transmission Shift Position Sequence," 105, "Hydraulic and Electric Brake Systems," 108, "Lamps, Reflective Devices, and Associated Equipment," 126, "Electronic Stability Control Systems for Light Vehicles," 135, "Light Vehicle Brake Systems," 138, "Tire Pressure Monitoring System," and/or 208, "Occupant Crash Protection."
Campaign #26V22500009/04/2026
EXTERIOR LIGHTING:BRAKE LIGHTS
Chrysler (FCA US, LLC) is recalling certain 2024-2026 Jeep Wagoneer S, 2025-2026 Ram 1500 Pickup, Ram 2500 Pickup, Ram 3500 Pickup, Ram 3500 Cab Chassis, Ram 4500 Cab Chassis, Ram 5500 Cab Chassis, and 2026 Jeep Cherokee vehicles. Due to an improperly designed trailer tow module, the trailer lights may fail to illuminate and the trailer brakes may fail.
Campaign #26V05900002/02/2026
BACK OVER PREVENTION:SOFTWARE
Chrysler (FCA US, LLC) is recalling certain 2025-2026 Ram 1500 vehicles. A radio software error may cause the rearview camera image not to display. As such, these vehicles fail to comply with the requirements of Federal Motor Vehicle Safety Standard (FMVSS) number 111, "Rear Visibility."
Campaign #26V56000001/09/2026
EXTERIOR LIGHTING:HEADLIGHTS
Chrysler (FCA US, LLC) is recalling certain 2026 Ram 1500 vehicles. The headlight wiring may cause the parking lights and daytime running lights to flicker on and off, or fail. As such, these vehicles fail to comply with the requirements of Federal Motor Vehicle Safety Standard number 108, "Lamps, Reflective Devices, and Associated Equipment."
Campaign #26V42100001/07/2026
ELECTRICAL SYSTEM: INSTRUMENT CLUSTER/PANEL
Chrysler (FCA US, LLC) is recalling certain 2025-2026 Ram 1500 Pickup, Ram 2500 Pickup, Ram 3500 Pickup, Ram 3500 Cab Chassis, 4500 Ram Cab Chassis, and Ram 5500 Cab Chassis vehicles. A software error may cause the instrument panel cluster display to be blank. As such, these vehicles fail to comply with the requirements of Federal Motor Vehicle Safety Standard numbers 135, "Light Vehicle Brake Systems," 105, "Hydraulic and Electric Brake Systems," and 102, "Transmission shift lever sequence, starter interlock, and transmission braking effect."
According to Au7o's research across NHTSA recalls, manufacturer TSBs, and owner forum reports, the 2026 RAM 1500 has 6 documented issues. The most frequently reported are: Digital Instrument Cluster Goes Blank at Startup or While Driving (Recall 25V826 / 26V225), Trailer Tow Module Defect — Trailer Brakes and Lights May Not Work (Recall 26V059), Second-Row Seat Belt Buckle Anchors Not Attached to the Body Structure (Recall 26V495 / 67D — 1.27 Million Trucks). Of these, 4 are rated critical and should be addressed promptly.
Is the RAM 1500 reliable?
The 2026 RAM 1500 has 6 known issues compiled from NHTSA recalls, manufacturer TSBs, and owner forum reports. 4 issues are rated critical: Digital Instrument Cluster Goes Blank at Startup or While Driving (Recall 25V826 / 26V225) and Trailer Tow Module Defect — Trailer Brakes and Lights May Not Work (Recall 26V059) and Second-Row Seat Belt Buckle Anchors Not Attached to the Body Structure (Recall 26V495 / 67D — 1.27 Million Trucks) and Headlights, Parking Lights and DRLs Flicker Off or Fail — Headlight Wiring and Headlight Module Software (Recalls 26V421 and 24V942). Prospective buyers should inspect for these issues and factor potential repair costs into their purchase decision. Regular maintenance following the manufacturer's schedule helps prevent many common problems.
How much does it cost to fix common RAM 1500 problems?
Repair costs for known RAM 1500 issues range from $0 to $350, depending on the specific problem and whether you choose DIY or professional repair. Au7o provides step-by-step DIY maintenance guides that can help reduce repair costs.
What is the 2025-2026 RAM 1500 Digital Instrument Cluster Goes Blank at Startup or While Driving (Recall 25V826 / 26V225)?
NHTSA campaigns 25V826 and 26V225 establish this identity for VIN-selected 2025-2026 RAM 1500 trucks. A software error can leave the instrument-panel display blank or unable to show safety information such as gear selection and warning lamps. The campaigns use different complianc… Severity: high.
What is the 2025-2026 RAM 1500 Trailer Tow Module Defect — Trailer Brakes and Lights May Not Work (Recall 26V059)?
NHTSA 26V059 / FCA 03D establishes this identity for affected 2025-2026 RAM 1500 trucks. An improperly designed trailer-tow module can prevent trailer lights from illuminating and trailer brakes from operating, increasing crash risk. The campaign is VIN-specific and does not esta… Severity: high.
What is the 2024-2026 RAM 1500 Second-Row Seat Belt Buckle Anchors Not Attached to the Body Structure (Recall 26V495 / 67D — 1.27 Million Trucks)?
Chrysler recalled 1,271,294 RAM 1500 pickups covering model years 2019 through 2026 because the second-row seat belt buckle anchors may have been improperly installed — the buckle anchor was not attached to the body structure as designed. In a crash the anchor can pull free and t… Repairs typically run $0-$0. Severity: high.
What is the 2025-2026 RAM 1500 Headlights, Parking Lights and DRLs Flicker Off or Fail — Headlight Wiring and Headlight Module Software (Recalls 26V421 and 24V942)?
Two separate FMVSS 108 non-compliance recalls cover exterior lighting failure on the current-generation RAM 1500. Recall 24V942 (FCA D4B, 53 units) addresses 2025 trucks built with incorrect headlight module software that can render the headlights inoperative. Recall 26V421 (FCA… Repairs typically run $0-$0. Severity: high.
What is the 2025-2026 RAM 1500 3.0L Hurricane Twin-Turbo I6 Random Misfire (P0300) on Early-Build Trucks Needing ECU/Ignition Reflash?
Early-production 2025 RAM 1500 trucks equipped with the new 3.0L Hurricane twin-turbocharged inline-six (Standard Output 420 hp and High Output 540 hp) are widely reported to throw check-engine lights and random/multi-cylinder misfire codes, often on cold start or under load in h… Repairs typically run $0-$200. Severity: medium.
What is the 2025-2026 RAM 1500 2025 RAM 1500 Parasitic 12V Battery Drain / Modules Won't Sleep (Dead Battery, BCM Software TSB)?
A large number of 2025 RAM 1500 owners (especially Hurricane-equipped trucks) report repeated dead 12V batteries from a parasitic draw where body/comfort modules and proximity sensors fail to enter sleep mode after shutdown. Owners describe waking to a no-start, low system voltag… Repairs typically run $0-$350. Severity: medium.
Content on this page was compiled with AI assistance using NHTSA complaints, TSBs, owner reports, and public automotive data. While we strive for accuracy, this information may contain errors. Always verify repair procedures and specifications with your vehicle's service manual or a qualified mechanic.
