Own a 2019-2026 Ram 1500 with engine knock, stalling, or ESC recall issues? Learn your California lemon-law rights and whether you qualify for a buyback.
The 2019-2026 Ram 1500 (DT platform) arrived as Ram's most ambitious half-ton ever: coil-spring rear suspension, a class-leading interior, and a 5.7L Hemi that could optionally shut down four cylinders to save fuel. For most owners it has been a genuinely capable truck. But years of NHTSA recalls and owner complaints have exposed a pattern of serious defects: a 1.2-million-truck safety recall that silently kills your stability control, a hydraulic lifter failure that can cost $4,000-$7,000 to rebuild, airbags that may not deploy, tailgates that drop open on the highway, and a 2021 stall recall that shut engines off without warning at highway speeds. If your Ram 1500 has spent more time at the dealer than in your driveway, California's Song-Beverly Consumer Warranty Act may entitle you to a buyback or replacement.
The issues owners report most, ranked by severity — each one verified against a cited NHTSA source.
Loud metallic knock or tick on startup; progressive loss of power; check engine light on; P030x misfire codes; engine may require replacement.
Metallic ticking noise from engine compartment on cold start; noise diminishes or disappears as engine warms; no check engine light in most cases.
Engine shuts off unexpectedly while driving at highway speeds; no warning light before stall; vehicle loses power steering and braking assistance.
Electronic Stability Control (ESC), ABS, adaptive cruise control, and forward collision warning may disable without driver notice; dashboard warning light may or may not illuminate.
Tailgate drops open unexpectedly while vehicle is in motion; cargo may fall from bed into traffic; tailgate may not close fully.
No user-visible symptom before crash; in a collision, driver airbag may fail to deploy. Steering column control module may also cause erratic turn signal or high beam behavior (23V-799 / 24V-729 variants).
A settled Margarian Law case on this exact model, published with the actual settlement math.
See every published case, with the settlement math shown →
Every case is different. Past results do not guarantee a similar outcome; results depend on the facts of each case.
Open any defect for the symptoms and why it matters for a California lemon-law claim. Each is tied to a cited NHTSA source.
Loud metallic knock or tick on startup; progressive loss of power; check engine light on; P030x misfire codes; engine may require replacement.
Catastrophic engine defect requiring major repair (often $4,000–$7,000+); if symptom recurs after repair attempts within the statutory window, strong lemon-law candidate. No recall safety net; owner must document dealer visits meticulously.
Replace failed lifters, pushrods, and rocker arms; full engine rebuild or replacement in severe cases. No recall issued. TSBs address exhaust manifold tick separately.
Metallic ticking noise from engine compartment on cold start; noise diminishes or disappears as engine warms; no check engine light in most cases.
Standing alone, annoyance-level issue unlikely to support lemon claim. However, if combined with repeated failed repair attempts or dealer inability to replicate, it contributes to a pattern of nonconformity.
Replace exhaust manifolds using updated kit per TSB 09-011-22 (superseded by MC-10247472 Oct 2023, further superseded by MC-10251862 Jan 2024).
Engine shuts off unexpectedly while driving at highway speeds; no warning light before stall; vehicle loses power steering and braking assistance.
NHTSA safety recall covering 131,700 vehicles. If vehicle stalled before recall remedy, or if recall repair failed to resolve stalling, this is a strong lemon-law predicate — safety-related, unexpected power loss while driving.
Dealer updates PCM calibration software free of charge under NHTSA Recall 23V-265.
Electronic Stability Control (ESC), ABS, adaptive cruise control, and forward collision warning may disable without driver notice; dashboard warning light may or may not illuminate.
Largest Ram 1500 DT recall (~1.23 million units). Silent deactivation of safety systems is a strong lemon-law factor, especially if vehicle was driven in an unsafe condition before recall remedy. Document any dealer visit where ESC light or stability issues were reported.
Dealer updates ABS control module software free of charge under NHTSA Recall 24V-653.
Tailgate drops open unexpectedly while vehicle is in motion; cargo may fall from bed into traffic; tailgate may not close fully.
Tailgate opening while driving creates a road hazard (cargo projectile risk). If dealer failed to perform recall or tailgate problem persisted after repair, document carefully. Recurring tailgate failure post-repair strengthens a lemon claim.
Dealer inspects and realigns tailgate striker(s) per NHTSA Recall 22V-904 (free, ~15 min). Earlier 2019 vehicles also covered by NHTSA 19V-347 (actuator stop block installed).
No user-visible symptom before crash; in a collision, driver airbag may fail to deploy. Steering column control module may also cause erratic turn signal or high beam behavior (23V-799 / 24V-729 variants).
Airbag non-deployment is a critical safety defect. If vehicle was subject to an open recall and owner was not notified or dealer did not complete repair, this is highly relevant. Confirm recall completion status before filing.
Inspect and replace SCCM or secure airbag connector depending on campaign; all repairs performed by dealer at no charge.
Vibration or shuddering sensation between 25-50 mph; rough or jerky shifts; 'bump' feeling when coasting to a stop; transmission hesitation on acceleration.
If shudder/hesitation persists after multiple dealer repair attempts, this supports a lemon claim on drivability grounds. Obtain documentation for each repair attempt. Note that 2023 MY recall (24V-413) creates a documented TCU weld defect with recall-level acknowledgment.
Triple transmission fluid flush with Mopar ZF Lifeguard 8 fluid; TCM software update per applicable TSB. 2023 MY also subject to Recall 24V-413 for weld defect allowing fluid leak.
Water dripping from headliner near rear of cab; musty odor; visible water stains or mold on headliner or rear interior; cracked or deteriorated gasket around third brake light or rear sliding window.
If water intrusion caused electrical damage or mold/mildew health concerns, or if dealer made multiple failed repair attempts, this can support a lemon claim. TSB warranty extensions signal OEM acknowledgment of systemic defect.
Replace CHMSL assembly (TSB 23-074-23; warranty extended to 10 yr/150,000 mi); replace/reseal backlite per TSB 23-098-23 (warranty extended to 8 yr/240,000 km Canadian; US terms may vary — verify with dealer).
No warning to the driver before a crash; a second-row seat belt buckle may be loose, twisted, or improperly seated at the anchor point.
An improperly installed occupant restraint anchor is a significant safety defect, in the same category as an airbag non-deployment issue. If a second-row occupant was involved in a crash, or the vehicle exhibited a loose, twisted, or improperly seated second-row buckle before this recall was announced and repeated dealer visits failed to resolve it, this may support a lemon-law claim. No remedy is yet accessible to owners: VIN search opens 2026-08-06 and owner letters begin mailing 2026-08-18.
Dealers inspect the second-row seat belt buckle anchors and reattach to the body structure as necessary, free of charge under NHTSA Recall 26V-495.
Center display shows a black or blank screen, or stays on the previous screen, instead of the rearview camera image when the truck is shifted into reverse; may be intermittent and clear on the next ignition cycle. No warning light.
A rearview camera that does not display is an FMVSS 111 safety noncompliance, and the fix is a software update that should take one visit (or none, if delivered over the air). By itself this rarely supports a claim; it becomes relevant when the camera failure persists after the update, when it recurs alongside the other Uconnect infotainment faults documented on this truck, or as one more entry in a multi-visit repair history. Document each backing event where the image failed and each software update performed.
Radio software update delivered over-the-air or by a dealer, free of charge, under NHTSA Recall 26V-560 (FCA 83D). Owner letters Sep 24 - Oct 2, 2026.
Check-engine light with persistent diagnostic trouble codes; hesitation, misfire, or sudden loss of engine power; limp mode (sharply reduced power); loss of power brake assist; engine stall, including while driving at highway speed and during remote start. Dealers often unable to duplicate or identify a root cause; repeat visits without a lasting fix.
Strong lemon-law predicate for California owners: a new 2025 truck that stalls or loses power in traffic is a safety defect, so a small number of repair attempts can be 'reasonable' under Song-Beverly, and repeated unresolved visits (the complaint cites up to eight) plus extended dealer holds support repurchase. Class action Norberg, et al. v. FCA US LLC, Case No. 2:26-cv-13040-JEL-APP (E.D. Mich.), filed 2026-08-25 is newly filed with no certification or settlement; an individual claim moves independently and is typically worth more than a class share. Margarian post: /class-action/news/ram-1500-hurricane-engine-stalling-2026/
No manufacturer remedy identified. Dealers have attempted repeated diagnostics and component replacements (e.g., brake booster) without resolving the fault, per the complaint. Owners should document every visit and file a NHTSA complaint.
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A radio software error may prevent the rearview camera image from displaying when the vehicle is shifted into reverse. The vehicles therefore fail to comply with FMVSS No. 111 (Rear Visibility), S6.2.6, which requires the rearview image to be visible at the beginning of each backing event.
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The second-row seat belt buckle anchors may have been improperly installed, failing to meet Federal Motor Vehicle Safety Standard 210 (FMVSS 210).
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SCCM may prevent the driver airbag from deploying in a crash due to a module defect.
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ABS control module software malfunction creates a configuration mismatch that silently disables the Electronic Stability Control (ESC) system, along with ABS, adaptive cruise control, and forward collision warning.
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Insufficient weld in the transmission control unit (TCU) valve body allows transmission fluid to leak onto electrical components, which may cause loss of drive power or loss of park function.
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SCCM may not be properly welded internally, preventing the deployment signal from reaching the driver airbag module in a crash.
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PCM software calibration error causes an over-rich air-fuel mixture in 5.7L eTorque engines, triggering an engine shutdown while driving without prior warning.
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One or both tailgate strikers may have been installed misaligned at the factory, preventing the tailgate latch from fully engaging. Tailgate may open unexpectedly while vehicle is in motion.
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VP4 radio software error causes the rearview camera image to remain displayed on screen after the vehicle exits reverse; does not conform to FMVSS No. 111 Rear Visibility standard.
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Tailgate actuator limiter tab may fracture, allowing the lock rod control bracket to over-travel and pull the lock rods, releasing the tailgate latches. Tailgate may fall open at any time, including while stationary.
Every item below comes from this vehicle's documented defects. The more you recognize, the more a free case review is worth your time.
California's Song-Beverly Consumer Warranty Act (commonly called the California Lemon Law) applies to new vehicles purchased or leased in California that come with an express warranty. If the manufacturer or its authorized dealer is unable to fix a defect that substantially impairs the vehicle's use, value, or safety after a reasonable number of repair attempts, you may be entitled to a replacement vehicle or a full repurchase — including your down payment, monthly payments made, and registration fees.
California law presumes a 'reasonable number' of attempts has occurred if:
The defects documented on the 2019–2026 Ram 1500 — including airbag non-deployment recalls, the ESC/ABS recall, the highway stall recall, and catastrophic engine failure — are exactly the types of issues courts and arbitrators evaluate under Song-Beverly. This is general information only and not legal advice. Whether your specific situation qualifies depends on the facts of your case.
“Could not duplicate” doesn't mean the defect isn't real. Here's exactly what to do to protect a potential California lemon-law claim.
Document the moment it happens. Photos, video, and screenshots of any warning lights — with the date and the mileage.
Get a repair order every visit — even “found nothing.” That paperwork is the foundation of a claim.
Check your VIN at nhtsa.gov/recalls. Note any recall that has no available remedy yet.
Track your out-of-service days. California law counts the cumulative days your vehicle spends in the shop.
Keep loaner & rental records. Alternate-transport paperwork during long repairs matters.
Save everything in one place. Symptoms, dates, repair orders, and every repeat visit — the intermittent ones especially.
A dealer who writes 'no fault found' or 'could not replicate' on your repair order is not the end of the road — it can actually help your California lemon-law case.
Here is what to do when you walk out with a blank work order:
1. **Document every visit in writing.** Get a repair order — even one that says 'no fault found' — every single time. Each order is a timestamped record of a repair attempt.
2. **Describe the symptom in owner language, not technical jargon.** Write on the service write-up exactly what you hear, feel, or see: 'loud knocking noise when I start it in the morning'; 'truck shut off on the freeway at 70 mph'; 'tailgate fell open while I was driving on the 5.' The more specific and experiential, the harder it is for the dealer to dismiss.
3. **Check for open recalls before every visit.** Go to NHTSA.gov, enter your VIN, and print the open-recall list. Hand it to the service advisor and ask that each open recall be documented on the RO as either completed or not applicable. If your truck has Recall 24V-653 (ESC) or 25V-765 (airbag) open, the dealer is obligated to perform that work — and their failure to do so is evidence.
4. **Request the technical diagnostic log (DealerConnect printout).** Ask the service advisor to print the full diagnostic scan and attach it to your RO. Stored fault codes — even historical ones — can show the system registered the problem even when the symptom wasn't present at the moment the tech tested it.
5. **Ask for a specialist technician or a ram-specific field service engineer.** On severe issues like lifter failure or repeated transmission shudder, you can request that the dealer involve a Stellantis field engineer. Document that request on the RO.
6. **Keep every record.** Repair orders, recall completion notifications, loaner agreements, your own dated notes and photos or videos of the symptom — all of it forms the factual foundation of a lemon-law claim.
The 2019–2026 Ram 1500 is a truck with genuine strengths — but it carries a heavy recall load and a well-documented engine issue that Ram has never formally recalled. The lifter problem, in particular, is the kind of defect that can feel like it came out of nowhere: one morning the truck knocks, and a few months later you are staring at a repair estimate larger than a used car payment. Combined with the largest-ever Ram safety recall (24V-653, covering over 1.2 million trucks for disabled stability control), the repeated airbag-system recalls, and the tailgate failures, the picture is one of a manufacturer that has struggled to control quality across this entire generation. If you have been back to the dealer more than twice for the same problem — or if your truck has had a safety-related recall open while you were driving it — it is worth having a California lemon-law attorney review your repair orders. Many take cases on contingency, meaning you pay nothing unless they recover for you.
— The Margarian Law team
If your 2019–2026 Ram 1500 has been to the dealer multiple times for the same problem — or if it is still exhibiting symptoms covered by an open safety recall — you may have a lemon-law claim under California law. Our team reviews repair orders at no cost to you. Contact Margarian Law to find out if your Ram qualifies for a buyback or replacement.
Yes. NHTSA Recall 24V-653 covers approximately 1,227,808 Ram 1500 trucks built for model years 2019 and 2021–2024 (the 2020 model year is excluded). A software malfunction in the ABS control module can create a configuration mismatch that silently disables the Electronic Stability Control (ESC) system — along with ABS and forward collision warning — often without a clear warning light. The fix is a free software update at any authorized Ram dealer. Check your VIN at NHTSA.gov to confirm whether your truck is included.
There are two distinct cold-start noises on 5.7L Hemi Ram 1500 trucks, and they are not the same problem. The first is an exhaust manifold tick — a metallic tapping near the engine that quiets as the truck warms up. Ram acknowledged this through three successive Technical Service Bulletins (TSBs 09-011-22, MC-10247472, and MC-10251862) and the remedy is replacing the exhaust manifolds with a revised kit. The second — and far more serious — issue is MDS hydraulic lifter collapse. This presents as a deeper internal knock or clatter that does not go away with warmup, is often accompanied by check engine lights and cylinder misfire codes, and can progress to complete engine failure. Repairs for lifter collapse typically run $4,000–$7,000 or more. There is no recall for lifter failure as of mid-2026. If your dealer replaced your exhaust manifolds but the knock returned or worsened, the underlying issue may be the lifters — and repeated failed repair attempts may support a California lemon-law claim.
Yes. NHTSA Recall 23V-265 covers approximately 131,700 model year 2021 Ram 1500 trucks equipped with the 5.7L eTorque (48V mild-hybrid) engine built between June 2020 and September 2021. A PCM software error causes an over-rich air-fuel mixture that triggers an engine shutdown without any prior warning — while the vehicle is moving. When the engine cuts out, you also lose power steering assist and braking boost. The remedy is a free PCM software update at any authorized Ram dealer. If your truck stalled before the recall was performed, or if the stall recurred after the software update, those repair visits are documented evidence for a lemon-law evaluation.
It can be, especially if the tailgate problem persisted after a dealer attempted a recall repair. NHTSA Recall 22V-904 covers approximately 695,154 Ram 1500 trucks from the 2019–2022 model years for a factory-installed misalignment of the tailgate striker bolt that allows the tailgate to release while driving. A separate 2019-specific recall (19V-347) covered a fractured actuator limiter tab with the same consequence. If cargo fell from your truck or your tailgate continued dropping after the dealer performed the recall inspection, document every visit. Recurring failure of a safety-related system after repair is one of the clearest paths to a lemon-law claim under California's Song-Beverly Act.
Two separate Technical Service Bulletins address this for 2019–2021 Ram 1500 DT trucks. TSB 23-074-23 covers water leaking through a degraded gasket at the center high-mounted stop lamp (third brake light / cargo lamp, sales code LPE) on trucks built before December 31, 2020; Ram extended the warranty for this repair to 10 years or 150,000 miles. TSB 23-098-23 covers a cracked rear window (backlite) frame on trucks with a rear sliding window built before September 30, 2020; an extended warranty also applies. If your dealer has attempted to fix the water leak more than once without lasting results, or if the intrusion caused electrical damage or mold inside the cab, the pattern of nonconformity may support a lemon-law claim — particularly because the extended warranties signal Ram's acknowledgment of a systemic defect.
Under California's Song-Beverly Consumer Warranty Act there is no single magic number, but the law creates a presumption that a reasonable number of attempts has been made when: (a) the same safety defect has been subject to repair two or more times, or (b) the same non-safety defect has been subject to repair four or more times, or (c) the vehicle has been out of service for repairs for 30 or more cumulative days during the warranty period. For a Ram 1500 with an open safety recall — such as the airbag non-deployment recalls (24V-199, 25V-765) or the ESC/ABS recall (24V-653) — the threshold is lower. Importantly, 'repair attempts' do not have to succeed; a repair order saying 'no fault found' still counts as an attempt if the vehicle was taken in for that symptom. Keep every repair order from the day you drive home. This is general information, not legal advice — a lemon-law attorney can evaluate your specific repair history at no cost.
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