Hands On Steering Wheel Message In EVIC
full bulletin at NHTSA ↗2015 RAM 1500 steering problems
moderate Owners of the 2015 RAM 1500 have filed 336 NHTSA complaints about the steering, typically surfacing around 76,551 miles at roughly $700 to repair (U.S. federal records, as of July 2026). Source: NHTSA Office of Defects Investigation. See steering across all vehicles →
Failure mileage
Complaints
336
Recalls
0
Avg fix
$700
| Model year | steering complaints |
|---|---|
| 2013 1500 | 620 |
| 2014 1500 | 490 |
| 2015 1500 (this page) | 336 |
| 2016 1500 | 302 |
| 2017 1500 | 220 |
| 2018 1500 | 78 |
| 2019 1500 | 334 |
10crashes
3injuries
When does it fail?
Of the 336 steering complaints filed for the 2015 RAM 1500, here's the actual mileage breakdown — failures cluster heaviest at 50,000-75,000 mi.
0-25k
25-50k
50-75k
75-100k
100-125k
125-150k
150k+
Each bar shows the share of total complaints filed at that mileage range. Peak failure window highlighted. Some owners report problems earlier; some make it well past 150,000 miles symptom-free. Maintenance habits and driving conditions shift the curve as much as mileage alone.
What stands out
Owners have filed 336 steering complaints with NHTSA against this vehicle, but no formal recall covers the issue — the federal record reflects what manufacturers have admitted, not everything owners are reporting.
Among the 11 model years of RAM 1500 in our records for steering problems, this one ranks #3 by owner-complaint volume.
Is there a fix? Manufacturer service bulletins
The manufacturer has issued service bulletins covering steering on this vehicle — documented repair instructions, service campaigns, or warranty extensions sent to dealers. A TSB isn't a recall (it's not a free safety remedy), but it's the manufacturer acknowledging the issue and how to fix it.
SUMMARY TO BE PROVIDED ON A FUTURE DATE.
full bulletin at NHTSA ↗Title 68245351AB: Switch - Steering Wheel Lt Start Date: 10/27/2015 7:00 AM End Date Message You have been identified as either having stock, or have stock in transit to your dealership. Please return all suspect stock of follow ing part number: 68245351AB. See the attached file for identifying suspect material. Please return suspect parts back to your facing depot using Return Code 02, before 17 November, 2015. Return any open orders in process too. Direct all questions via email to mopardmail@fcagroup.com.
full bulletin at NHTSA ↗Pump - Power Steering Hydraulic NOTE: This Tech Tip is for gasoline engine JK vehicles only, manufactured before August 26, 2015. If the power steering pump is being replaced because the power steering fluid flow or pressure readings are below specification, the power steering fluid reservoir and cap assembly should also be replaced. Power steering reservoir and cap assembly 52126151AG or later should be used.
full bulletin at NHTSA ↗RG2 Or RJ2 Radio Software Enhancements This bulletin involves updating the radio's software. A customer may experience one or more of the following: ? Not able to change state of heated seats and/or steering wheel during stop event on Stop/Start vehicles. ? Touchscreen confirmation beep may be too loud. ? The radio does not allow selection of the Polish language. ? The radio fan continually runs at high speed. ? Customer perception may be the radio fan is too loud. Improvements: ? Only allow vehicle settings to be changed in run mode. To help insure settings are properly saved. ? Always gray out text message soft keys for non-supporting devices. ? Voice Recognition (VR) improved accuracy.
full bulletin at NHTSA ↗Source: NHTSA manufacturer communications. Bring the bulletin number to your dealer or shop.
The failure pattern owners describe
Electronic power steering is the dominant complaint. Owners describe sudden, total loss of assist while driving—steering wheel becomes rock-hard or locks mid-turn, forcing them to fight the wheel with both hands or coast to safety. Some failures come with a delayed or no warning light; others happen during cold starts and clear after warm-up. One owner lost power steering on a highway at 60 mph with traffic around him. Another's steering locked 90 degrees left during a 5-mph right turn, nearly plunging him into a building.
Intermittent failures are common: power steering cuts out during turns, returns without warning, or vanishes only to work again after restart. The unpredictability is the real hazard—you can't plan for when the assist will vanish.
A second major issue is steering wheel lockup at cold startup, especially in northern climates. Owners warm their trucks 45–60 minutes before the steering unlocks. A few describe hard steering in general—sluggish assist, steering that doesn't return to center after turns—that worsens over time.
Cold temperature failures are well-documented; power steering fails below ~45°F and returns once the engine warms.
Engine stalls coinciding with power steering loss are reported by several owners, sometimes with multiple warning lights illuminating and loss of both steering and braking simultaneously.
Air suspension system failures also appear, especially in winter. The compressor takes in moisture during self-checks and freezes; costs $1,200+ to replace and fails again each winter unless the system is replaced entirely with coil springs.
Crucially, many owners say their VINs don't qualify for existing recalls—Campaign 16V167000 (2015–2016) and reopened investigation RQ23003—despite matching symptoms and build dates. Dealers repeatedly deny coverage. Parts are frequently on backorder, suggesting demand exceeds supply.
Same RAM 1500 steering reports on nearby years: 2013 · 2014 · 2016 · 2017 · 2018
Failure modes owners describe
Electronic Power Steering (EPS) Module Failure – Complete Loss
EPS unit fails completely, leaving driver with no power assist. Steering wheel becomes extremely heavy or locks up entirely, making vehicle difficult or impossible to steer. Can occur without warning or with delayed 'Service Power Steering' light. Many owners report recurring failure after restart.
When: Occurs across mileage ranges from 29,379 to 148,000 miles; often early in vehicle life (under 60k); some failures on cold startup or after extended idle
Symptoms owners cite: Complete loss of power steering assist; steering wheel becomes extremely heavy; Steering wheel locks or seizes mid-turn; Steering wheel jerks or snaps back to center; Inability to steer vehicle; requires 40–50 lbs force to turn wheel; Vehicle coasts uncontrolled when EPS fails while turning; 'Service Power Steering' warning light (sometimes delayed or absent); Intermittent failures; may restore function after restart or engine warming
Codes mentioned: C2217 (power steering unit failure), Fault codes for steering failure (retrieved by independent mechanics; some scanners show no codes), No communication with EPS module
Repairs/costs cited: Dealer diagnosis typically requires EPS unit replacement; some owners cite part costs $1,800–$3,700 for EPS rack and pinion or full module. Multiple owners report parts on backorder, suggesting widespread demand. One owner paid $2,327.75 for part alone; dealer later said parts unavailable. Limited warranties (e.g., $1,800 part with limited warranty) expire quickly, forcing repeat replacement at full cost.
Recalls/TSBs owners mention: Recalls issued for some 2015–2016 model years (NHTSA Campaign 16V167000, reopened investigation RQ23003). However, many affected owners report their VINs excluded from recalls despite identical symptoms and production dates. Owners told recalls apply only to vehicles manufactured before September 2015 or specific production runs. Dealers often state 'no recall on your VIN' or 'your vehicle not included.' Chrysler/RAM opened cases but later denied coverage. Some TSBs (Technical Service Bulletins) exist but not widely publicized.
Cold Temperature Power Steering Failure
EPS fails to function on cold startup, below approximately 45–65°F. Steering extremely difficult or locked until engine fully warms (30–60 minutes) and vehicle is restarted. Can occur repeatedly during cold seasons.
When: Winter mornings and cold weather conditions; below 45–65°F outside temperature; typically resolves after engine warm-up and restart
Symptoms owners cite: Power steering inoperative on cold startup; 'Service Power Steering' warning light; Steering wheel extremely stiff; difficult to turn; System returns to normal after engine warm-up and restart; Recurring each cold morning
Codes mentioned: None typically retrieved; system resets after warming
Repairs/costs cited: Dealer estimate for full EPS module replacement $2,900–$3,700. One owner opted against repair because system works fine once warm. No permanent fix documented except full module replacement.
Recalls/TSBs owners mention: Dealers recommend full EPS unit replacement; no recalls or TSBs specific to cold-weather EPS failure in narratives. Owners report dealer lacks clear guidance.
Intermittent Power Steering Loss During Driving
Power steering cuts in and out while driving, often triggered by turning or changes in demand. System may suddenly regain function mid-maneuver or after restart, creating unpredictable steering assist.
When: Occurs while driving at any speed (5–75 mph reported); may happen multiple times per day or intermittently over weeks
Symptoms owners cite: Power steering cuts out during turns, then returns; Steering becomes unpredictably hard or easy; Steering wheel jerks or snaps back to center mid-turn; Difficulty making turns due to loss of assist; Intermittent 'Service Power Steering' light or no warning; System may return to normal after restart
Codes mentioned: No communication with EPS module (reported by independent mechanics), OBD scanner unable to retrieve relevant codes in some cases
Repairs/costs cited: Independent mechanic quoted $3,500 for steering system diagnosis and repair. Some owners report dealership costs $6,000+ for full EPS replacement. Multiple independent shops unable to diagnose intermittent failures.
Recalls/TSBs owners mention: Most dealers state 'no recall on your VIN.' Owners researched NHTSA Campaign 16V167000 and found recalls for identical symptoms but excluded VINs. No TSBs or troubleshooting procedures cited by owners.
Steering Wheel Locks Up After Cold Start
Steering wheel locks in place on startup, typically in morning or after extended cold idle. Lock releases after 15–60 minutes of engine warm-up or after engine restart. Transmission temperature appears to trigger unlock (around 190°F).
When: Cold starts, morning startups, after extended idle; clears as transmission temperature rises or after restart
Symptoms owners cite: Steering wheel completely locked and unmovable on startup; Requires 45–60 minutes idle time for engine to warm before steering unlocks; Can occur mid-drive if vehicle cools; 'Power Steering Maintenance Required' warning light; Lock releases suddenly after warm-up or restart
Repairs/costs cited: No repair costs cited in narratives; one owner reported dealer advised TSB or estimate but requested owner pay for diagnosis first before deciding on warranty coverage.
Recalls/TSBs owners mention: Chrysler/RAM acknowledged owner awareness of similar issues from other customers at same dealer (Planet Dodge reported multiple similar complaints). Suggested owner pay for dealer estimate to submit to company for warranty decision. No proactive TSB or recall mentioned for this specific failure mode.
Hard Steering / Reduced Power Assist (Gradual or Intermittent)
Power steering provides inconsistent or sluggish assist, making steering wheel difficult to turn. May occur during turns or be persistent. Steering may not return smoothly to center after turning. Progressive degradation over weeks or months.
When: Occurs from low mileage (17,000 miles) through high mileage (113,000+ miles); some progressive over months, others sudden
Symptoms owners cite: Steering wheel heavy and difficult to turn; Sluggish steering; slow response to input; Steering wheel does not return to center after turns; Requires both hands and extra force to steer; Intermittent; may clear temporarily and return; Worse during sharp turns or parking
Repairs/costs cited: One owner quoted $3,500 for shop diagnosis and repair. Dealer estimates not provided in narratives for this mode. One owner with 109,000 miles noted early air suspension failure already addressed (coil conversion); now second major system failure.
Recalls/TSBs owners mention: One owner cited ongoing NHTSA investigation (opened August 2023) but no recalls issued for their vehicle. Owner felt manufacturer should be held accountable for major system failure at 109,000 miles.
Steering Vibration / Shaking (Wheel Vibration at Speed)
Steering wheel and/or front-end vibration that increases with speed. Begins around 17,000–19,000 miles and progressively worsens. May indicate loose front-end components or steering gear defect.
When: Becomes noticeable around 17,000–19,000 miles; progressive; worse at higher speeds (73+ mph)
Symptoms owners cite: Steering wheel vibration at 73 mph, increasing with speed; Front-end shaking or vibration; Progressive worsening over weeks/months; May threaten to loosen front-end mechanism if allowed to continue
Repairs/costs cited: No repair cost cited; one owner queried dealership and reported second recall letter but parts unavailable at dealership. Awaiting recall service.
Recalls/TSBs owners mention: Two recall letters issued to owner; dealership advised waiting for parts availability. Dealership claimed to have no parts in stock and no ETA on availability.
Engine Stall / Loss of Power Coinciding with Steering Failure
Engine stalls, loses power, or shuts down without warning while driving, often coinciding with or immediately preceding power steering loss. Multiple warning lights illuminate (Check Engine, ABS, power steering, electronic throttle, transmission). Vehicle loses both steering assist and braking. Crank Position Sensor (CPS) failure suspected by some dealers.
When: Occurs at any speed (30–70 mph reported); after recent recall reflash in one case; can recur repeatedly
Symptoms owners cite: Engine stalls abruptly without warning; Dashboard lights up with multiple warning codes (engine, ABS, power steering, throttle, transmission, shifter); Loss of power steering assist simultaneously; Loss of power brakes or braking assist; Vehicle coasts uncontrolled; difficult to steer to safety; Engine will not restart or takes extended time; May occur in middle of turn, making vehicle uncontrollable
Codes mentioned: Crank Position (CPS) sensor failure (diagnosed after 4-week delay in one case), Tone wheel failure, Multiple simultaneous fault codes
Repairs/costs cited: First dealership took 4 weeks to diagnose CPS/tone wheel failure. Second dealership had vehicle for 11 weeks with no diagnosis. One owner waited months without resolution. Repair cost not cited (vehicle still in shop).
Recalls/TSBs owners mention: Owner given recall service notice for 'controller reflash,' completed two weeks before first failure. No TSB or known issue communicated. Dealerships unable to diagnose cause within weeks; extended timeline without solution suggests limited technical guidance from manufacturer.
Air Suspension System Failure (Compressor Failure; Moisture Ingestion)
Air suspension compressor fails, particularly in winter/cold climates. System performs self-check on startup and purges/ingests outside air; moisture enters compressor and freezes, causing premature failure. Failure causes sudden loss of ride height, affecting steering alignment and handling. System can fail while driving, creating safety hazard.
When: Winter months; cold climate regions; compressor failure occurs repeatedly if not replaced with non-OEM suspension (coil springs)
Symptoms owners cite: Air suspension system fails to inflate on cold startup; Ride height drops suddenly; System displays 'IMMEDIATE REPAIR' warning while driving; Blown fuses from electrical short in system; Compressor fails; system cannot maintain pressure; Recurring failure each winter if OEM air suspension parts used
Repairs/costs cited: Air suspension compressor replacement costs $1,200. Owner states same cycle repeats and system fails again within months. Only permanent fix is replacement with traditional coil spring suspension (costly; requires full conversion).
Recalls/TSBs owners mention: Chrysler/RAM aware of air suspension issues per TSBs and multiple customer care cases. Owner reports manufacturer refuses to issue recall despite widespread documented complaints. Case opened by Chrysler but later denied. Owner found ~1.26 million search results for 'Chrysler air suspension failure,' indicating systemic issue. Most problematic for cold-climate owners.
Synthesized from 336 NHTSA owner complaints — unverified consumer allegations, summarized for patterns. The verbatim filings appear below.
What owners are reporting 4 most recent
Driving at 55 MPH and making a sweeping right hand turn the vehicle locked the steering wheel and caused the vehicle to enter the ditch. When towed to the dealer they found a failed electric power steering gear. There is a recall from Ram regarding eps system failure ,but this unit was not affected.
Power Steering Assist is random. The steering is difficulty randomly changes between easy to difficult causing unexpected steering changes. This Electronic Power Steering (EPS) unit is NOT part of a similar recall (NHTSA Campaign Number: 16V167000); however, the symptoms are identical. This EPS unit serial number is TIC3394C5021
The air suspension on my 2015 Ram 1500 has been failing (blowing fuses while driving, freezing up and failing to inflate before startup) each winter for the past three years. As mentioned above, the system can fail while operating the vehicle, due to blown fuses from an electrical short in the system. It also can just fail to inflate on cold days. The system apparently was not installed with…
Tl* the contact's girlfriend owns a 2015 Ram 1500. While driving various speeds, the power assist failed to operate without warning. The contact stated that the power assist would only operate intermittently. The contact took the vehicle to lafontaine Chrysler Dodge Jeep Ram of clinton (1111 w michigan ave, clinton, mi 49236) where it was diagnosed that the power steering assist was faulty. The…
Had steering trouble with your 2015 RAM 1500?
File a complaint with NHTSA → It's free, official, and how every report above got here — owner filings are the federal safety record this page is built on.
Common questions
How serious is the steering problem on the 2015 RAM 1500?
It's a documented issue but not catastrophic. 336 complaints have been filed. Repairs average $700 and most owners catch it before it causes a breakdown.
At what mileage does the steering typically fail?
Across the 150 complaints that reported odometer mileage, most steering failures cluster between 53,600 and 105,930 miles, with the median around 76,551. A quarter of owners report trouble before 53,600; a quarter make it past 105,930. Maintenance history matters more than the odometer alone — this is the reported failure window, not a guarantee.
What does it cost to fix?
Independent shops typically charge around $700 for steering repairs on this vehicle. Dealer pricing tends to run 20-40% higher. The exact figure depends on the specific failure mode, parts availability, and your local labor rates. If you're outside factory warranty, an extended service contract often covers this category.
Are there any recalls related to steering?
No active recalls currently cover steering issues on this vehicle. The complaints filed represent owner-reported failures that haven't risen to the level of a manufacturer-issued recall — but they're still worth knowing about before you buy or budget for repairs.
Related
Complaint and recall data sourced from the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA)
public records database. Verify the raw federal record at
nhtsa.gov/vehicle/2015/RAM/1500.
Severity ratings are derived from reported crashes, fires, injuries, and fatalities. Repair cost estimates are
independent-shop national averages and may differ in your area. Some links on this page are affiliate links.