2009 Dodge RAM 1500 recalls and problems

The 2009 Dodge RAM 1500 has 2 safety recalls and 670 owner complaints filed with NHTSA. Recall repairs are free at any Dodge dealer.

Recalls
2
Complaints
670
Crashes / fires
29 / 2
Injuries / deaths
19 / 0

Recalls may cover only some 2009 Dodge RAM 1500 vehicles. Check your VIN at NHTSA ↗ to see open recalls for your exact car.

2009 Dodge RAM 1500 recalls

Recall 13V-038: Power Train

Reported Feb 6, 2013 · 278,674 vehicles affected · Chrysler Group LLC

Problem: Chrysler is recalling certain model year 2009-2012 Ram 1500 trucks manufactured from February 27, 2008, through June 30, 2009, and from December 1, 2009, through October 20, 2011; model year 2009-2011 Dodge Dakota trucks manufactured from February 27, 2007, through June 30, 2009, and from December 1, 2009, through September 30, 2011; model year 2009 Chrysler Aspen trucks manufactured from January 3, 2008, through December 18, 2008; and model year 2009 Dodge Durango trucks manufactured from January 3, 2008, through December 18, 2008. The rear axle pinion nut may loosen due to an undersized pinion spline that can allow relative motion between the nut and companion flange.

Risk: If the rear axle pinion nut loosens, the axle can lock up and cause a loss of vehicle control and/or a vehicle crash with little warning.

Fix: On November 7, 2013 Chrysler notified owners that dealers would install a pinion nut retainer, free of charge. In July 2015, and under a consent order with NHTSA, the company agreed to offer owners three options for remedying their vehicles: perform the original remedy, offer to repurchase the vehicle at the fair market value plus 10%, or offer an additional incentive offer towards the purchase of a new Dodge, Jeep, Chrysler, or Fiat vehicle. Chrysler will notify owners of the new recall options in a letter expected to be mailed on August 31, 2015. Owners may contact Chrysler at 1-800-247-9753. Chrysler's recall campaign number is N08.

Recall 12V-474: Power Train

Reported Oct 2, 2012 · 44,300 vehicles affected · CHRYSLER GROUP LLC

Problem: Chrysler is recalling certain model year 2009-2010, Ram 1500 and Dodge Dakota trucks, manufactured from July 1, 2009, through November 30, 2009, because the rear axle pinion nut may loosen due to a lack of adhesive.

Risk: If the rear axle pinion nut loosens, the axle can lock up and cause a loss of vehicle control and/or a vehicle crash with little warning.

Fix: Chrysler will notify owners, and dealers will install a pinion nut retainer, free of charge. The recall began on June 17, 2013. Owners may contact Chrysler at 1-800-247-9753.

2009 Dodge RAM 1500 problems reported by owners

Problem areaReports
Power Train233
Electrical System98
Unknown or Other52
Wheels50
Engine50
Structure41
Tires39
Suspension36
Air Bags34
Fuel/Propulsion System33
Visibility/Wiper30
Visibility28

Most reported parts

  • Structure › Body — 30
  • Visibility › Defroster/Defogger/Hvac System — 19
  • Tires › Valve — 9
  • Tires › Pressure Monitoring and Regulating Systems — 7
  • Power Train › Driveline › Differential Unit — 6
  • Engine and Engine Cooling › Exhaust System › Manifold/Header/Muffler/Tail Pipe — 4
  • Equipment › Appliance › Air Conditioner — 4
  • Suspension › Front › Wheel Bearing — 4

Typical mileage at the time of the problem: 67,149 miles (median of owner reports).

Problems that are not covered by a recall are paid repairs; labor rates follow local mechanic pay — see what auto mechanics earn in each state.

Recent 2009 Dodge RAM 1500 complaints

Owner reports filed with NHTSA, as written (personal details removed). Complaints are not verified by NHTSA.

Visibility · at 158,000 miles · reported Sep 8, 2025
The contact owns a 2009 Dodge Ram 1500. The contact stated that while driving at an undisclosed speed, the MTC unit failed to function as intended. The contact stated that while the system was enabled, the system independently switched between the heating and cooling systems. In addition, the defrost system was deactivated. The vehicle was not diagnosed or repaired by an independent mechanic or dealer. The contact referenced an unknown recall; however, the VIN was not under recall. The manufacturer was not made aware of the failure. The failure mileage was approximately 158,000.
Exterior Lighting · reported Jul 19, 2025
The left turn signal not working properly. When I put my left turn signal the amber light front of the truck not working instead the high bean works as turn signal also amber running light not working. Is so frustrating getting pulled over by a cop for that reason!!!
Electrical System · at 211,492 miles · reported Jun 20, 2025
Odometer Fraud. The contact purchased a 2009 Dodge Ram 1500. The contact stated that while attempting to register the vehicle, it was discovered that there was a mileage discrepancy. The vehicle was a private sale. At the time of purchase, the vehicle mileage was 131,000 and at the time of registration, it was discovered on the title that the mileage was 211,492.
Fuel/Propulsion System · reported Jan 24, 2025
Heating & ventilation, I have lost heat in my truck, issues with fuel pump/filte where truck won’t start, and had the water pump had to be replace. I believe the majority of the things listed had recalls. What is included in the recalls and can a recall be replaced more than 1x?
Power Train · reported Sep 14, 2024
My trucks ignition switch just stops turing my truck on I've seen multiple complaints about the same issue leaves you stranded

Other Dodge RAM 1500 years

Compare all Dodge RAM 1500 years · All Dodge models

Frequently asked questions

Does the 2009 Dodge RAM 1500 have any recalls?

Yes — NHTSA lists 2 recalls for the 2009 Dodge RAM 1500: 13V-038 (power train), 12V-474 (power train). Not every vehicle is affected, so check your VIN at nhtsa.gov/recalls.

What is the most common problem with the 2009 Dodge RAM 1500?

Owners report power train problems most often (233 reports), followed by electrical system (98). The typical mileage when problems were reported is about 67,149 miles.

Are Dodge recall repairs free?

Yes. Safety recall repairs are free at authorized Dodge dealers, whether you are the first owner or bought the car used.