My Dodge RAM 1500 Won't Start
by Melanie Fleury
The Dodge Ram 1500 is a large and powerful truck. It can be frustrating when it doesn't start properly. Such problems can be general in nature or can be specific to the Ram. Over the years, there have been several reasons why the Ram has been recalled that may explain why yours doesn't start as it should.
Step 1
Turn the key in your Dodge Ram to the "on" position, but do not start the vehicle. Once the key is in the ignition and properly placed, check to see that your headlights or wipers are working. If they do not work, the battery has drained or died and will need to be recharged or replaced accordingly.
Step 2
Turn the key to start the truck. If you hear a clicking noise, the starter is faulty and will need to be replaced. If the starter works but the engine will not crank, then the fuel line or its components may be the source of the problem.
Step 3
Check the fluid levels. Doing so can alert you to a leak, which can cause the engine to seize and no longer start. In 2004, the Dodge Ram 1500 was recalled because of problems with transmission fasteners that caused the transmission fluid to leak.
Step 4
Pour in additional gas. While the Dodge Ram 1500 is equipped with a fuel indicator on the instrument panel, the gauge can be faulty at times. The 1500 holds 26 gallons of regular unleaded fuel. Pour in at least one gallon and attempt to start the truck again.
Step 5
Remove the spark plugs and then pull off the spark plug wire. Touch the wire to a metal surface and watch for a spark. If it does not spark, the plugs are not firing the engine properly. In this case, the spark plugs will need to be replaced.
References
Writer Bio
Melanie Fleury has been writing professionally since 1995. She has written for various educational websites such as Edhelper.com and is the educational consultant at the Knowledge Tree Center for Education. She enjoys creating curriculum for children with various learning styles. Fleury holds a master's degree in education specializing in early childhood from Ashwood University.
