Ram 1500 2013–2018: Common Problems and What to Check First
Covers 2013–2018 Ram 1500. Engines: 3.6L V6, 5.7L Hemi V8, 3.0L EcoDiesel V6.
This generation covers three very different engines, so start by knowing which one you have. The two things owners of the 5.7L Hemi report most are valvetrain tick and exhaust manifold noise.
Ticking and misfire on the 5.7L Hemi
A ticking or tapping noise on the 5.7L Hemi is commonly reported, often traced to a worn lifter or camshaft in the system that shuts off cylinders to save fuel. As it progresses, owners report a misfire on one cylinder and sometimes a flashing check engine light.
What you might notice
- A tick that gets faster with engine speed and does not fade as the engine warms
- A misfire code for one cylinder, or a random misfire code
- Rough running or a flashing check engine light
What to check
- Check the oil level and condition, and note how long since the last change.
- Read the codes and note which cylinder is named.
- Swap that cylinder's ignition coil with another cylinder's. If the misfire moves, it is the coil. If it stays, suspect a mechanical cause such as a lifter.
- If the light is flashing, stop driving soon, since a failing lifter can wear the camshaft.
Related: P0300, P0301, Engine Ticking Noise: Causes and What to Do, Check Engine Light Flashing: What to Do, Rough Idle: Causes and What to Check
Ticking that fades as the engine warms: exhaust manifold leak
A tick that is loudest on a cold start and fades as the engine warms is commonly caused by a broken exhaust manifold bolt letting exhaust leak near the cylinder head. It sounds like the valvetrain problem above but behaves differently.
What you might notice
- A tick on cold start that quiets down or disappears when warm
- Soot streaks or a burnt smell near the manifolds
- No misfire code or rough running
What to check
- Compare the sound cold versus fully warm. A tick that fades points toward an exhaust leak.
- With the engine cool, look at the manifolds and their joints for black soot streaks.
- Ask a shop to check for broken manifold bolts. It is a repair that gets harder if put off.
Related: Engine Ticking Noise: Causes and What to Do, Clicking Noise When Starting the Car
Recalls by model year
Checking NHTSA's recall database…
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Which of these applies depends on your engine, mileage and how the vehicle has been maintained. Describe what you are seeing and CaliperAI will help narrow down the likely causes for your 1500.
These are patterns commonly reported by owners of this vehicle, written as general information. They are not drawn from a repair database or manufacturer service bulletins, and they are not a diagnosis of your specific vehicle. Safety-critical work such as brakes, fuel and airbags is best left to a qualified mechanic.