2003 Dodge RAM recalls and problems

The 2003 Dodge RAM has 2 safety recalls and 53 owner complaints filed with NHTSA. Recall repairs are free at any Dodge dealer.

Recalls

Complaints

Crashes / fires

6 / 1

Injuries / deaths

5 / 0

Recalls may cover only some 2003 Dodge RAM vehicles. Check your VIN at NHTSA ↗ to see open recalls for your exact car.

2003 Dodge RAM recalls

Recall 04V-185: Service Brakes, Hydraulic

Reported Apr 12, 2004 · 44,588 vehicles affected · DAIMLERCHRYSLER CORPORATION

Problem: On certain van and wagon vehicles equipped with 4-wheel antilock brake systems (Abs), aftermarket batteries may leak electrolyte onto the ABS control module connector, which can compromise sealing integrity of the connector.

Risk: This may allow development of a short circuit in the connector, which could eventually lead to a fire.

Fix: Dealers will inspect the ABS control module connector for electrolyte damage and replace the connector as necessary. The recall will begin on september 27, 2004. Owners should contact daimlerchrysler at 1-800-853-1403.

Recall 03V-033: Vehicle Speed Control

Reported Feb 5, 2003 · 19,500 vehicles affected · DAIMLERCHRYSLER CORPORATION

Problem: Certain pickup trucks, equipped with cummins diesel engines and manual transmissions, may experience an elevated idle speed after extended cruise control use.

Risk: This can result in unintended acceleration and a reduction in braking effectiveness, increasing the risk of a crash.

Fix: Dealers will reprogram the software in the cummins engine controller. Owner notification began on march 10, 2003. Owners who take their vehicles to an authorized dealer on an agreed upon service date and do not receive the free remedy within a reasonable time should contact daimlerchrysler at 1-800-853-1403.

2003 Dodge RAM problems reported by owners

Problem area	Reports
Structure	8
Engine and Engine Cooling	8
Power Train	6
Service Brakes, Hydraulic	5
Air Bags	4
Electrical System	4
Steering	4
Visibility	4
Vehicle Speed Control	3
Suspension	3
Fuel System, Other	2
Seat Belts	2

Most reported parts

Air Bags › Frontal — 3
Service Brakes, Hydraulic › Foundation Components › Disc › Rotor — 3
Visibility › Defroster/Defogger/Hvac System — 3
Power Train › Automatic Transmission — 3
Fuel System, Gasoline › Fuel Injection System — 2
Structure › Body › Door — 2
Engine and Engine Cooling › Engine — 2
Steering › Hydraulic Power Assist › Hose, Piping, and Connections — 2

Typical mileage at the time of the problem: 49,500 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 2003 Dodge RAM complaints

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

Visibility · at 65,000 miles · reported Aug 27, 2012

The ventilation system failed as is common with these vehicles. Due to weal parts, the, "doors" that control air flow through the ventilation ducts broke. I have slowly replace each of the four doors as they failed. As they went out it affected every aspect of ventilation, including the defrost. After doing some research it is evident dodge was fully aware of this issue but made no improvements to the system, continuing to sell these vehicles to an unsuspecting public for several years.

Vehicle Speed Control · at 168,000 miles · reported Jul 3, 2012

The contact owns a 2003 dodge ram. The contact stated that while driving 55 MPH and attempting to brake, the vehicle hesitated to come to a full stop. The contact released the brake pedal and the vehicle accelerated independently. The electronic throttle control warning light was also illuminated. The vehicle was inspected by a mechanic who advised that the failure was related to the electronic control throttle. The manufacturer was made aware of the issue however no further assistance was provided. The VIN was unavailable. The current and the failure mileage was 168,000.

Structure · at 70,000 miles · reported Feb 15, 2012

The contact owns a 2003 dodge ram 1500. The contact stated that the dashboard was fractured, causing small fragments to fall into the vents. Once the ventilation system was activated, the contact stated that those small fragments would fly out of the vents and into her eyes. The dealer did not offer any assistance. The manufacturer failed to offer any assistance either since there were no recalls addressing the failure. No repairs were performed. The failure mileage was 70,000 and the current mileage was 180,000.

Structure · reported Feb 1, 2012

Dash board on 2003 dodge ram 2500 is cracked in multiple areas. Windshield defroster vent panels have crumbled and fallen into the air handler system causing defroster to stop functioning.

Structure · at 60,000 miles · reported Jan 10, 2012

The dashboard in my 2003 has alot of cracks and now pieces are falling into the vents. This is a safety hazard to have pieces of the dashboard breaking off,it's just a matter of time before the entire dashboard caves in.

Other Dodge RAM years

2011 2010 2009 2008 2007 2006 2005 200420032002 2001 2000

Compare all Dodge RAM years · All Dodge models

Frequently asked questions

Does the 2003 Dodge RAM have any recalls?

Yes — NHTSA lists 2 recalls for the 2003 Dodge RAM: 04V-185 (service brakes, hydraulic), 03V-033 (vehicle speed control). Not every vehicle is affected, so check your VIN at nhtsa.gov/recalls.

What is the most common problem with the 2003 Dodge RAM?

Owners report structure problems most often (8 reports), followed by engine and engine cooling (8). The typical mileage when problems were reported is about 49,500 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.