What would cause a Dodge Ram to overheat?
The Dodge Ram overheats mainly when the cooling system can't remove heat—typically due to low coolant, a faulty thermostat, a failing water pump, a blocked radiator, or a cooling fan that won't run.
Beyond these basics, a range of other issues—from leaks and faulty radiator caps to air pockets in the system or extreme towing conditions—can push a Ram’s engine toward overheating. This article examines the most common causes and practical steps for diagnosis and safety.
Common causes of overheating in Ram trucks
These are the problems most often linked to higher-than-normal engine temperatures in Ram pickups. If any of these conditions are present, inspect or have a technician inspect the cooling system.
- Low coolant level due to leaks in hoses, radiator, heater core, or water pump
- Faulty thermostat stuck closed (or occasionally stuck open, which can cause poor heat transfer or slow warming)
- Water pump failure or a worn impeller, reducing coolant circulation
- Radiator problems such as clogging, internal corrosion, or external damage that blocks heat exchange
- Cooling fan failure: electric fan not turning on, faulty relay, blown fuse, or faulty temperature sensor; older Rams with mechanical fans can have a failing fan clutch or belt-driven fan
- Bad radiator cap causing pressure loss or air entering the cooling system
- Damaged or leaking hoses, cracked radiator, or a faulty heater core
- Air trapped in the cooling system after a service or refilling coolant
- Head gasket failure or other internal engine issues causing coolant loss or exhaust gases in the cooling system
- Severe heat conditions or heavy towing/haul loads that push the cooling system beyond its normal capacity
- Incorrect or degraded coolant mix (wrong type or insufficient concentration of antifreeze) reducing boiling point and heat transfer
- Drive belt failure on models where the water pump or radiator fan is belt-driven
Regular maintenance helps prevent many of these conditions. Keeping coolant at the proper level and composition, replacing aging components, and ensuring proper airflow through the radiator are key steps in avoiding overheating.
Ram-specific considerations
Diesel Rams (such as those with the 6.7L Cummins engine) have additional cooling needs, including the oil cooler and tighter tolerances. A failed or leaking oil cooler, or coolant swapping between the two circuits, can contribute to overheating or oil contamination of the coolant. Gasoline Ram engines share many cooling-system components, but high-load use or towing with cargas can stress the system differently. In both cases, persistent overheating should be diagnosed by a qualified mechanic to prevent engine damage.
In practice, overheating can stem from a single failing part or a combination of smaller issues. Timely diagnosis is important to avoid warped heads, blown head gaskets, or engine damage.
What to do if your Ram starts to overheat
When you notice rising temperature or steam, prioritize safety and minimize engine stress. Do not continue driving long distances to avoid severe damage. Use this quick checklist as a guide:
- Safely pull over as soon as it’s safe to do so and turn off the engine. Engage the parking brake and set the vehicle on level ground.
- Do not open the radiator cap while the engine is hot. Wait for the cooling system to depressurize and the engine to cool.
- Once the engine is cool, check the coolant level in the expansion tank or radiator and top off with the correct coolant if it’s low.
- Inspect for visible leaks under the vehicle or around hoses, the radiator, and the water pump area.
- If the engine has cooled and you’re able to drive a short distance to a repair facility, consider a tow rather than risking further damage.
- Have the cooling system pressure-tested and inspected for leaks, and verify components such as the thermostat, water pump, radiator, cooling fan, and cap are functioning properly.
These steps are general safety guidelines. If you’re unsure or the engine remains hot after cooling, contact roadside assistance or a technician for a professional diagnosis.
Summary
Engine overheating in a Dodge Ram most often points to cooling-system problems: low or degraded coolant, a stuck or failing thermostat, a weak or failing water pump, a clogged or damaged radiator, or a cooling fan that won’t operate. Additional factors include leaks, air pockets, a faulty radiator cap, and high-load conditions like heavy towing. Regular maintenance and prompt attention to rising temperature can prevent costly engine damage. If overheating occurs, pull over safely, let the engine cool, and seek professional diagnosis to identify and fix the underlying cause.
