Five problems related to ignition switch have been reported for the 1996 Dodge Ram 2500. The most recently reported issues are listed below.
Several years back ignition switch was recalled for burning up. At that time had replaced ignition switch twice previously. Dodge paid for the switches and labor and replaced ignition switch with new and improved ignition switch. Now approx. 5 to 7 years later ignition switch burning up again taking out door lock, windows, air bag, and abb lights are all on and you cannot operate either window or door lock. Took into shop in spring, texas called rileys of rayford road in spring, texas where they informed me that the ignition switch causing all of these problems and needs replaced again! called demontron Dodge in conroe, texas to see about switch replacement. Nothing yet!.
The steering column on this truck has gotten very hot under the ignition switch area. So hot in fact that the wires and plastic column cover have smoked and melted through. I feel there may be a fire soon. The dealership says nothing is wrong with my model year but the melted hole in my steering column says otherwise I've read there was a recall of this nature but was told in no uncertain terms that they would not be helping me. Help. . .
Dt: consumer stated he filed a complaint on 7-16-05 odi # 10129534. He has not heard anything from this yet. He wanted to file another complaint because he says there is a recall on the following component: electrical system: ignition: switch . Recall #00v135000. He said someone from Chrysler came out on 7-22-05 and took some pictures and asked him a lot of questions. He has been calling the manufacturer all day and he can not reach anyone his truck is located at national Dodge in jacksonville, nc . He wants to get his vehicle fixed and returned to him.
Contact states there is recall 875 for the wiring harness/ignition switch. Consumer stated while driving vehicle caught on fire. There was a popping noise and smoke started coming from the steering column. The fire originated from the steering column ignition switch. The wiring was melted from the ignition switch to the firewall. The service dealer stated they were not responsible for covering the damage that was caused by the fire. However, they will replace the ignition switch and ignition wiring overlay.
When a/c or heater is on the ignition switch will overheat and steering column start smoking, consumer had to buy another switch, and dealer put it on. Original switch could not take all the power coming from all the circuitry.