why does my Ram 1500 DT (2019-Present) shake when I accelerate

Ram 1500 DT (2019-Present)

Error Codes

2-4 hours

Time

medium

Difficulty

high

Severity

3 min read

529 words

⚠️ Safety Warning

This issue requires immediate attention. If you are not experienced with automotive repairs, consult a professional mechanic. Working on critical systems can be dangerous.

Problem Statement

Learn how to diagnose and fix shaking during acceleration in Ram 1500 DT (2019-present). Step-by-step guide with diagnostic procedures and repair instructions.

Affected Component

Suspension

Estimated Time

2-4 hours

⚠️ Safety Warnings

Important safety information - read before proceeding

•Disconnect the battery before working on electrical systems.
•Ensure the vehicle is securely supported on jack stands before working underneath.

Symptoms

•Shaking or vibrating felt through the steering wheel or chassis during acceleration
•Unusual noise accompanying the vibration (e.g., clunking or grinding)
•Vibration may increase with speed or engine RPM
•Steering wheel may pull to one side
•Decreased acceleration performance

Diagnostic Steps

1
Inspect tire condition and balance; look for any uneven wear or damage.
2
Check wheel alignment; ensure that all wheels are correctly aligned.
3
Examine the driveshaft and U-joints for play or damage.
4
Inspect engine and transmission mounts for signs of wear or failure.
5
Scan for any diagnostic trouble codes (DTCs) using an OBD-II scanner.
6
Test the suspension components (shocks, struts, control arms) for wear or damage.

Solution

💡 Expert Tip

For complex repairs like this, consider taking photos at each step. This helps if you need to reverse a step or consult with a mechanic. Also, keep all removed parts organized - you may need to reference them during reassembly.

Verification

After completing the repair, verify that the issue has been resolved:

✓Test the affected component to ensure it functions correctly
✓Check for any error codes or warning lights
✓Monitor the vehicle for a few days to ensure the issue does not recur

Prevention Tips

To prevent this issue from occurring again:

•Follow the manufacturer's recommended maintenance schedule
•Address warning signs early before they develop into major issues
•Use quality parts and fluids recommended for your vehicle
•Keep detailed records of all repairs and maintenance

Tools & Equipment Required

•Socket set
•Torque wrench
•Jack and jack stands
•U-joint puller
•OBD-II scanner

Parts Required

•Tires (if damaged)
•U-joints (if worn)
•Engine/transmission mounts (if worn)
•Suspension components (if damaged)

Related Faults

Share this solution

Comments

No comments yet

Be the first to share your thoughts

Back to Generation

Diagnostic Steps

1
Inspect tire condition and balance; look for any uneven wear or damage.
2
Check wheel alignment; ensure that all wheels are correctly aligned.
3
Examine the driveshaft and U-joints for play or damage.
4
Inspect engine and transmission mounts for signs of wear or failure.
5
Scan for any diagnostic trouble codes (DTCs) using an OBD-II scanner.
6
Test the suspension components (shocks, struts, control arms) for wear or damage.

Solution

1. Preparation

Gather tools and parts necessary for the repair.
Park the vehicle on a flat surface and engage the parking brake.
Disconnect the battery to ensure safety during repairs.

2. Tire Inspection and Balancing

Remove the wheels from the vehicle using a socket set.
Inspect tires for uneven wear or damage; replace if necessary.
Take the wheels to a tire shop for balancing or balance them yourself using a wheel balancer.
Reinstall the wheels and torque the lug nuts to manufacturer specifications (typically 100-140 ft-lbs).

3. Driveshaft and U-Joint Inspection

Raise the vehicle securely on jack stands.
Visually inspect the driveshaft for any signs of damage or excessive play.
Check U-joints for stiffness or excessive movement; replace U-joints if necessary by:
- Removing the driveshaft from the differential and transmission.
- Using a U-joint puller to replace the faulty U-joint.

4. Engine and Transmission Mounts Inspection

Inspect the mounts visually for cracks or deterioration.
Replace any damaged mounts by:
- Supporting the engine/transmission with a jack.
- Removing the fasteners from the mounts and replacing them with new ones.
- Torque to specifications.

5. Suspension Check

Inspect all suspension components for signs of wear or damage.
Replace any worn shocks, struts, or control arms as necessary by:
- Removing the old component using a socket set.
- Installing the new component and torqueing bolts to specifications.