RAM has been a fixture in the American truck market since 1980. Originally sold under the Dodge badge, the line spun off as RAM Trucks in 2010 and quickly earned its own reputation for strength, performance, and innovation.
Now in its fifth generation, RAM continues to rack up awards, including Motor Trend’s “Truck of the Year” for the RAM 1500 in 2025.
However, RAM truck problems are more common than many assume.
We’ve seen a myriad of RAM truck lemon law cases at Cline APC. And when the same problem keeps coming back, it may qualify your truck as a lemon.
As of 2025, California’s lemon law rules have changed.
If you’re dealing with ongoing defects, there’s now a compressed window to act and new procedures to follow. Stellantis, RAM’s parent company, has opted into the state’s updated system, meaning your claim could move faster, but you’ll need to send a 30-day written notice before seeking penalties.
In this post, we’ll walk through:
- The RAM models with the most common lemon law complaints
- What the AB 1755 changes mean for RAM owners
- How the Song-Beverly Act applies to new and used trucks in 2025
- How to start the buyback process if your truck qualifies
Let’s dive in.
RAM Trucks with the Most Problems
Here are three RAM models at the center of repeated mechanical complaints, warranty repairs, and potential RAM lemon law claims.
RAM 1500
The RAM 1500 is a top-selling pickup with a strong reputation for comfort, performance, and capability. However, between 2021 and 2024, thousands of owners have reported persistent defects with their trucks.
One of the most widespread complaints involves the Uconnect infotainment system. Drivers have dealt with freezing touchscreens, blank displays, unexpected reboots, and Bluetooth dropouts. These issues can disable backup cameras and navigation mid-drive.
The tailgate defect has been another serious problem for RAM 1500 owners. In 2022, Stellantis issued a recall covering more than 1.2 million RAM 1500 trucks after reports that the tailgate could open unexpectedly while driving. Owners hauling tools, equipment, or cargo were suddenly dealing with loads spilling onto the roadway.
Even after recall repairs, some drivers reported repeat visits to the dealership for latch adjustments or replacements.
Transmission complaints have also increased across the 2021–2024 models. Some owners describe the truck jerking into gear, hesitating during acceleration, or failing to shift smoothly.
RAM 2500
Owners of the RAM 2500, especially those with the 6.7L Cummins diesel engine, have faced frequent breakdowns and out-of-service periods.
Many complaints involve fuel system issues, including high-pressure fuel pump failures that can trigger engine stalls, loss of power, or sudden shutdowns.
Emissions systems on diesel variants are another recurring pain point. The diesel exhaust fluid (DEF) system and related sensors have been reported to fail prematurely, setting off check engine lights and limiting engine performance until the issue is resolved. In some cases, the trucks enter “limp mode” with no warning.
Then there’s the issue many RAM 2500 owners dread: the “death wobble.” This violent front-end shake, often triggered by road bumps at highway speed, is more common on lifted or modified trucks, but not exclusive to them.
If your truck has spent 30+ days in the shop or needed multiple repairs for these same defects, it may qualify under the 18-month/18000-mile lemon law presumption, or even outside it, thanks to California’s broader Song-Beverly Act.
RAM 3500 (2021–2023)
On paper, the RAM 3500 is designed to handle the toughest jobs on the road. In reality, some 2021–2023 models have struggled to deliver consistent performance.
One of the most serious concerns involves AISIN transmission failures, particularly while towing. Drivers describe harsh shifting, delayed engagement, and full transmission breakdowns, sometimes after software updates or complete replacements.
Turbocharger issues have also surfaced on 6.7L Cummins models, presenting as power loss, smoke, or repeated warning lights early in ownership.
Drivers have also dealt with axle and driveline noise, as well as recurring EGR and emissions system faults.
Several recalls further reflect the reliability concerns in this model range. In recent years, RAM 3500 trucks were subject to federal recalls for:
- Rearview camera software failures (impacting visibility while reversing)
- Electrical relay defects that could cause engine compartment fires
- Stability control and ABS software errors
- Side curtain airbag inflators with improper deployment potential
Under California lemon law 2025, these repeated defects, if reported during warranty, can support a valid claim.
What’s Going on with RAM Recalls in 2025?
In 2025, several RAM truck lemon law cases stem from open recalls or unresolved defects. One of the latest involves over 72,000 2025–2026 RAM trucks with digital displays that go completely blank while driving. This is a major safety hazard and a violation of federal standards.
While a recall can help prove your case, it’s not required. The Song-Beverly Act protects drivers who report covered defects that haven’t been resolved, recall or not.
When Do Your RAM Truck Issues Warrant a California Lemon Law Claim?
Experiencing one or more RAM truck issues does not automatically mean your vehicle is a lemon. It must meet the state’s qualifications to be eligible for a lemon law claim.
Per California lemon law 2025, a defective vehicle must meet the following criteria:
- The vehicle was covered under the manufacturer’s or dealer’s warranty when the defect was first reported; and
- The defect is “substantial”, meaning there are major problems impairing the vehicle’s safety, functionality, or value; and
- The manufacturer’s certified repair facility has been given a reasonable number of attempts to fix the issue (usually at least two); or
- The vehicle has been out of service for at least 30 cumulative days for any number of repairs; and
- The defect was not caused by driver error or neglect.
You’re also more likely to qualify if the issue began within the 18-month/18000-mile lemon law window. But claims can still succeed beyond that, depending on the repair history and documentation.
2025 Lemon Law Update: What RAM Owners Need to Know
Starting in 2025, Assembly Bill 1755 introduced several updates that change how you file and qualify for a RAM truck lemon law claim in California.
Here’s what has changed.
Stricter Filing Deadlines
You now have up to six years from your original delivery date to file. That said, courts have clarified that waiting too long after the warranty expires can void your rights. Most claims must be filed within a year after warranty coverage ends.
Limited Used Vehicle Protections
The 2025 California lemon law used trucks provision was narrowed after the Rodriguez v. FCA decision. Only certain used RAM trucks now qualify:
- Trucks purchased new in California.
- Manufacturer CPO vehicles sold with a new CPO warranty
Used trucks sold with remaining factory warranty only, without a new CPO contract, are likely excluded.
New 30-Day Notice Requirement for Civil Penalties
One of the most impactful AB 1755 changes is the Ram lemon law 30-day notice requirement. If you want to pursue penalties for willful manufacturer misconduct, you must now send a written notice 30 days before filing your case.
This gives the automaker one last chance to resolve the problem before litigation.
Stellantis Opt-In and the Two-Track Resolution System
Thanks to Senate Bill 26, automakers can opt into a faster two-track resolution system. Stellantis’ lemon law opt-in in California means your Ram claim qualifies for this faster path. However, the list is reviewed yearly. Always verify their status with the California DCA before filing.
How to File a RAM Lemon Law Claim in 2025
If your RAM truck has been nothing but headaches, here’s how to move forward under California lemon law 2025:
Track Your Repairs Carefully
Track every repair visit, including “no problem found” statements. Note mileage, dates, and dealership names.
Send the Required 30-Day Notice
To preserve your right to civil penalties, send a formal letter to the manufacturer. Include:
- Your full name and contact details
- Year, make, model, and VIN.
- Date of purchase or lease
- Short description of the recurring issue
- List of repairs and dealership visits
- Request for buyback or replacement
This step is required under AB 1755 RAM truck claims rules.
Report Problems Quickly
Don’t wait. While you technically have six years, the strongest cases are filed within 12 months of warranty expiration.
Talk to a Lemon Law Attorney Early
The new rules are more structured, but also less forgiving if steps are missed. Cline APC offers free case evaluations and can review your repair history, notices, and deadlines before you move ahead.
Does Your RAM Truck Qualify Under the New Lemon Law?
We’ve put together this quick checklist to help determine whether your situation fits the updated lemon law rules:
- Did the issue start under warranty?
- Have there been two or more repair attempts?
- Is the defect affecting safety, drivability, or value?
- Did you buy or lease the truck new or CPO with a manufacturer’s warranty?
- Have you sent the RAM lemon law 30-day notice?
- Has Stellantis still opted in for 2025?
If most of those answers are yes, you may have a valid case under the California lemon law 2025.
Don’t Sit on a Broken Truck
California’s 2025 lemon law changes give owners a clearer structure, but less room for delay. If your RAM has been repaired repeatedly for the same issue, the clock may already be running.
Talking with a California lemon law attorney early can help you understand where you stand and what steps make sense next.
Most lemon law firms work on a contingency fee basis, meaning they’re paid through the manufacturer’s settlement. Many attorneys also know this is unfamiliar territory for most drivers and will walk you through the basics, even if your case ends up not qualifying.
At Cline APC, we focus on RAM truck defects and California lemon law claims. If you have questions or want a straight answer about your situation, help is available.
Call 888-982-6915, email info@clineapc.com, or request a free case evaluation to get started.
Frequently Asked Questions
Does AB 1755 apply to my leased RAM truck?
Yes. Leased trucks are fully covered under the California lemon law 2025, including the 18-month/18000-mile lemon law presumption and the updated RAM lemon law 30-day notice requirement.
How long do I have for a RAM lemon claim post-2025?
You have six years from the original delivery date. However, filing within one year of your warranty expiring is strongly recommended.
Is Stellantis part of the new lemon law resolution system?
Yes. As of now, Stellantis’ lemon law opt-in California status applies for 2025. This may speed up the process, but verify their inclusion each year.
Do I need an attorney?
You’re not required to have one, but an attorney can help you avoid missed steps and increase your odds of success. Most lemon law firms charge nothing unless you win.
