Where is the starter on a 2012 Dodge Ram 1500?

The starter on a 2012 Ram 1500 is mounted to the engine block near the bell housing that connects to the transmission. In most configurations it sits on the side of the engine and is accessible from beneath with the right tools. The exact side can vary by engine, so locating the cylindrical starter with its two large cables is the reliable method.

Overview

The starter is a small electric motor that cranks the engine when you start the vehicle. On a 2012 Ram 1500, you’ll look for a compact, cylindrical unit bolted to the engine block close to where the transmission attaches. The easiest way to confirm you’ve found the right component is to locate the large battery cable (positive) and a smaller wire feeding the solenoid. If you see two hefty electrical connections, you’re likely looking at the starter.

Engine variants and starter location

Different engines in the 2012 Ram 1500 lineup place the starter on the engine block in slightly different spots, but all are near the bell housing and are reachable from under the vehicle with proper safety precautions.

• 5.7L HEMI V8: Typically mounted on the passenger side of the engine block, close to the bell housing, and accessible from the front-right area of the engine bay.


• 4.7L V8: Located on the side of the engine block near the bell housing; exact side can vary, but it is generally within reach from underneath the vehicle.


• 3.7L V6: Also mounted on the engine block near the bell housing; orientation can vary by chassis, so look for the cylindrical starter with two large cables.

Regardless of engine, the starter’s job and basic appearance are consistent: a cylindrical unit attached to the engine block with cables feeding the solenoid. If you’re having trouble locating it, follow the large battery cable from the positive terminal to its destination on the engine block near the area where the transmission attaches.

Locating the starter on your Ram 1500

To find the exact starter on your specific truck, use a systematic approach. The steps below help you visually identify the starter and confirm you’re looking at the correct component.

1. Park on a level surface, engage the parking brake, and disconnect the negative battery cable before handling electrical components.


2. With the hood open, locate the engine block and follow the transmission bell housing area—the starter is mounted to the block near this junction.


3. From underneath the vehicle (if accessible), look up at the lower side of the engine where the block and bell housing meet; seek a cylindrical metal component with two large cables attached.


4. Trace the large battery cable (positive) from the battery to the starter; the other wire from the ignition harness also feeds the solenoid on the starter.


5. Confirm by gently feeling for two mounting bolts securing the starter to the engine block and checking that the location corresponds to the bell housing edge.

Once you’ve located the starter, you can proceed with maintenance or replacement as needed, ensuring you follow all safety steps and consult the service manual for torque specs and wiring diagrams.

Tools and safety considerations

Having the right tools and following safety precautions makes locating and servicing the starter safer and easier.

• Tools: socket set (including 10–14 mm and 13–16 mm sockets), wrenches, ratchet, and a flashlight or work light.


• Safety: wear eye protection, disconnect the battery negative terminal, and support the vehicle if you need to go underneath (use jack stands on a solid surface).

With the proper tools and precautions, locating the starter on a 2012 Dodge Ram 1500 can be a straightforward task, whether you’re checking for a fault, replacing the unit, or simply confirming its position.

Summary

In short, the starter on a 2012 Dodge Ram 1500 is mounted to the engine block near the bell housing and is usually found on the side of the engine closest to the transmission. The specific side can vary by engine (5.7L HEMI, 4.7L, or 3.7L), but it is identifiable by its cylindrical shape and two large cables. Use safety precautions, follow the steps to locate it, and consult the service manual for exact torque and wiring details.

Where is the starter located?

The starter is located where the engine and transmission meet, near the flywheel or flex plate. Its exact position varies, but it's usually under the engine, often accessible from the bottom of the vehicle. To find it, you can look between the engine and transmission, and a helpful trick is to follow the main red cable from the positive terminal of the battery, as it leads directly to the starter. 
This video shows the location of the starter on a vehicle: 46sChrisFixYouTube · Jan 13, 2017
Common locations and how to find it

• Between engine and transmission: The starter is mounted to the engine block and connects to the transmission bell housing. 
• Under the engine: For most front-wheel drive vehicles, you can find it under the engine on the driver's side. 
• Near the flywheel: It is always situated close to the engine's flywheel or the flex plate. 
• Follow the battery cable: Trace the thick red cable that runs from the positive battery terminal; it will lead you straight to the starter. 
• Check under the vehicle: You will likely need to get under the car to see it, possibly by raising it with a jack and using jack stands for safety. 

You can watch this video to learn how to locate the starter by following the battery cable: 39sSell Those Flipping CarsYouTube · Sep 3, 2025

How do I know if my Dodge Ram starter is bad?

Explore the telltale signs that suggest you possess a faulty RAM starter.

1. Engine Not Cranking Despite Fully Charged Battery.
2. Clicking Noise When Turning Key But No Start.
3. Intermittent Starting Issues With No Warning Signs.
4. Burning Smell Coming From Starter Motor Area.
5. Starter Spins But Fails to Engage the Flywheel.

What side is the starter on a 5.7 Hemi?

This is the 5.7 L engine. All right so the starter for this vehicle. Once you get underneath on the passenger. Side. So right now I'm right by the tire right here.

Where is the starter on a Ram 1500?

The starter on a Ram 1500 is located on the driver's side of the engine, underneath the vehicle, behind the front axle and near the transmission bell housing. To access it, you will likely need to get under the truck and may need to remove a heat shield or skid plate for better access.
 
This video demonstrates the location of the starter on a 2009-2018 Ram 1500: 54sCarParts.comYouTube · Nov 3, 2023

• Position: Look underneath the truck, on the driver's side, generally behind the front axle. 
• Access: You will need to get under the vehicle to see it. In many models, you may need to remove a heat shield or other protective plate to get a clear view and access the mounting bolts and electrical connectors. 
• Near: It is mounted to the engine block and is near the junction with the catalytic converter and the transmission bell housing. 

You can watch this video to see the process of accessing the starter on a Ram 1500: 35sTRQYouTube · Jun 16, 2022