Does the Ram 1500 have electric power steering?
Yes. The Ram 1500's current-generation trucks use electric power steering (EPS).
To understand what that means, this article explains how EPS works in the Ram 1500, how steering systems have evolved across model years, and how you can tell which system your specific truck uses. It also covers the practical implications for driving, maintenance, and verification when shopping for a used Ram 1500.
How EPS works in the Ram 1500
Electric power steering uses an electric motor to provide steering assist, rather than a hydraulic pump driven by the engine. In the Ram 1500, EPS typically offers variable assist that changes with vehicle speed, improving maneuverability at low speeds while providing steadier, more controlled feel at highway speeds. It also reduces the need for hydraulic fluid and a power steering pump, contributing to better fuel economy and simplified maintenance.
Below is a quick overview of EPS benefits and characteristics as they pertain to the Ram 1500:
- Variable assist: steering effort adapts to speed and steering input for easier low-speed maneuvering and steadier high-speed stability
- Improved efficiency: no hydraulic pump or fluid required in the power steering loop, which can reduce drag and fuel use
- Electronic integration: EPS can work with stability control, lane-keeping, and other driver-assistance features
- Potentially configurable feel: some model years offer drive-mode or setting adjustments that subtly alter steering feel
In summary, the Ram 1500’s current models rely on electric power steering, aligning with the broader industry shift toward EPS for efficiency and advanced vehicle integration.
Historical timeline: steering systems in the Ram 1500 over the years
Understanding when Ram shifted to EPS helps explain why some older Ram 1500s behaved differently from today’s trucks. The following overview outlines the general evolution across generations:
- Pre-EPS era (earlier Ram 1500 generations): Hydraulic power steering (HPS) with a traditional pump and fluid reservoir
- Transition period (mid-2010s): Gradual move toward electric assist in newer trims and refreshes, with EPS becoming more common
- Current generation (2019–present and later refreshes): EPS standard across nearly all trims, with full integration into vehicle electronics
Shopper guidance: if you’re buying a used Ram 1500, verify the steering system by model year and trim, since earlier vehicles may still use hydraulic assist.
How to verify if your Ram 1500 has EPS
If you want to confirm whether a specific Ram 1500 uses EPS, use these checks before or after a test drive:
- Check the owner’s manual or the window sticker (Monroney label) for language indicating “Electric Power Steering” or “EPS”
- Inspect under the hood for a hydraulic power steering pump, hoses, and reservoir (presence usually means hydraulic; absence with a modern rack often indicates EPS)
- Look at the steering components: an electric motor may be visible near the steering column or along the steering rack in EPS designs
- VIN or build sheet: have a dealership or Ram’s official resources confirm the steering type for the exact vehicle
- Test-drive feel: EPS typically provides lighter steering at low speeds and more stable feel at speed, with no hydraulic pump noise or fluid behavior
By using these verification steps, you can confidently determine whether a given Ram 1500 uses EPS, which is especially relevant when evaluating used pickups or newer pre-owned inventory.
Summary
The Ram 1500 currently relies on electric power steering across its latest models, delivering variable steering assist, improved efficiency, and tighter integration with vehicle electronics. Older Ram 1500 generations used hydraulic power steering, so the system you have depends on the model year and trim. When shopping or servicing a Ram 1500, check the paperwork or inspect for the absence of a hydraulic pump to confirm EPS, and enjoy the benefits of the modern steering system.
Does a 2015 Ram 1500 have electronic power steering?
And we noted that the steering column coupler was exceptionally rusted.
Does RAM have electric power steering?
And in this vehicle uses an electric power steering system. So the testing and diagnosis is different than it would be for a hydraulic system.
Does a 2013 Ram 1500 have electric power steering?
Dodge Ram 2013-2018 1500 Electric Power Steering Rack and Pinion Assembly.
Does the 2019 Ram 1500 have electric power steering?
The Problem: The trucks may have been built with a contaminated electric power steering gear that may short-circuit, potentially resulting in an intermittent loss of power steering assist and an inconsistent steering effort, especially during lower speed maneuvers, increasing the risk of a crash.
