Mil On/Check Engine Lamp (CEL) On, Engine Runs Rough
full bulletin at NHTSA ↗2026 RAM 1500 engine problems
moderate 3 complaints filed with NHTSA · avg repair $3,100 · see engine across all vehicles →
Complaints
3
Recalls
0
Avg fix
$3,100
What stands out
Of the 12 model years of RAM 1500 we track for engine problems, this one has the fewest owner complaints on file (3).
Owners are still filing on this — the most recent NHTSA engine complaint for this vehicle was logged 10 days ago.
Is there a fix? Manufacturer service bulletins
The manufacturer has issued service bulletins covering engine 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.
Oil Pan Leak Customers may experience the following: SYMPTOM: ● 'Low Oil Level' message on in the Instrument Panel Cluster (IPC). ● Oil Leak. This bulletin involves replacing the engine oil pan.
full bulletin at NHTSA ↗Oil Pan Leak Customers may experience the following: SYMPTOM: ● 'Low Oil Level' message on in the Instrument Panel Cluster (IPC). ● Oil Leak. This bulletin involves replacing the engine oil pan.
full bulletin at NHTSA ↗Before replacing the starter, please follow the published diagnostics in the Service Information at 08 - Electrical / 8F - Engine Systems / Starting / Diagnosis and Testing / STANDARD STARTING SYSTEM. Updates to this procedure have been recently made and should be followed.
full bulletin at NHTSA ↗3-way valves are available in STAR Parts as two distinct components and must be selected correctly based on application. The High Temp 3-way valve (68309834AC) is located between the engine and the bulkhead at the rear of the engine compartment. The Low Temp 3-way valve (68448241AA) is located between the engine and the radiator at the front of the engine. When ordering or servicing, ensure the correct valve is identified and installed in the proper location, as incorrect part selection may lead to improper thermal system operation and repeat repairs.
full bulletin at NHTSA ↗Source: NHTSA manufacturer communications. Bring the bulletin number to your dealer or shop.
What owners are reporting 3 most recent
1st incident: approx: 4/1/26. Bought brand new , had for 2 days . Approx had 40 miles on it. Check engine light came on several times, had to bring to dealer. 2nd incident : approx: 6/15/26 driving vehicle doing appr 50 MPH, vehicle suddenly did not give gas would not move. RPM went to 6000 RPM , had to pull over.with no control 3rd incident: same issue: brought to dealer ; don't know…
Shortly after a "low oil pressure" message appeared the vehicle shutdown and coasted to a stop before a suitable place to investigate the issue could be found. Vehicle would not restart. An "low oil add two quarts message" appeared. Engine temp was ordinary. No issues observed under the hood. Oil was found to be dripping from the engine bay to the rear passenger area under the passenger side of…
Cylinder 1 misfire on accleration that Ram can not figure out and repair. Caused catalytic convertor failure prematurely due to overheating from unburnt gasoline, risk of fire. Ongoing misfire, problem continues. Problem started oct 2025, vehicle was purchased new sept 2nd, 2025.
Had engine trouble with your 2026 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 engine problem on the 2026 RAM 1500?
It's a documented issue but not catastrophic. 3 complaints have been filed. Repairs average $3,100 and most owners catch it before it causes a breakdown.
At what mileage does the engine typically fail?
Mileage data is limited for this issue. Owners report failures across a wide range, suggesting cause is more about driving conditions and maintenance than mileage alone.
What does it cost to fix?
Independent shops typically charge around $3,100 for engine 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 engine?
No active recalls currently cover engine 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/2026/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.