Fixing common Ram eTorque problems

The Ram 1500 eTorque system has three recurring failure points: PCM software causing V8 eTorque trucks to stall (covered by NHTSA recall 23V-258 for 131,700 2021 model year 5.7L V8 eTorque trucks), 48-volt battery pack degradation that triggers “Stop/Start Unavailable” and “eTorque System Service Required” messages, and motor generator unit (MGU) failures that have created dealer backlogs since late 2024. All three are covered under the 8-year/80,000-mile Federal Emissions Warranty.

If your eTorque is acting up, the first step is checking for open recalls at NHTSA’s VIN lookup. The second is reading codes with a scan tool (Autel, Launch or BlueDriver). Most eTorque issues throw stored codes even when no dash light is on.

What eTorque actually is

A belt-driven motor generator unit replaces the alternator. It charges a 48V/430Wh lithium-ion nickel manganese cobalt battery in addition to the 12V battery, and at takeoff it adds about 90 lb-ft of torque on the 5.7L V8 (130 lb-ft on the 3.6L V6) to smooth stop-start and improve acceleration. It is a mild hybrid, not a full hybrid. The truck will not move on electric power alone.

The eTorque hardware sits on the engine front under the alternator’s old spot, with the 48V battery mounted behind the rear seats in most trucks.

Recalls and investigations to know about

NHTSA 23V-258 (April 2023): 131,700 2021 Ram 1500 trucks with the 5.7L V8 eTorque engine recalled for a PCM software fault that could cause sudden engine shutdown. Symptoms: engine stalls while driving, dash goes dark briefly, ACC may engage. The fix is a PCM reflash at the dealer, free.

NHTSA ODI 2024 investigation: ~150,000 2022 Ram 1500 (DT) and 2022 Jeep Wagoneer trucks under active investigation for stalling and power loss, with 80+ complaints logged. No recall as of May 2026 but a service bulletin (TSB 18-094-22) addresses some cases.

MGU backlog: Dealers nationwide have reported customer waits since November 2024 for motor generator unit replacements. Stellantis has not issued a formal recall, but the part is on extended back-order in many regions. If you need an MGU replaced, expect 4 to 12 weeks at a dealer in mid-2026.

Problem: truck stalls or shuts off while driving

This is the marquee eTorque complaint. Some shutdowns are protective (the system commands an engine-off because it detected a fault) and some are failures.

For 2021 5.7L V8 eTorque trucks: check VIN against NHTSA recall 23V-258. If open, get the PCM reflash at a dealer. This is free regardless of warranty status.

For 2022-2024 trucks: scan for codes. P0303, P0316, P0700 and U0100 all appear in eTorque stall cases. Common causes include a failing MGU, low 48V battery state of charge, or a corroded 48V battery harness connector.

In the immediate moment, pulling over, shutting down for 30 to 60 seconds, then restarting clears the no-start condition in most cases. Don’t keep driving if it keeps happening. Tow it to a dealer.

Problem: “eTorque System Service Required” or “Stop/Start Unavailable”

The truck still drives but with no hybrid assist and no stop-start function. Most common cause: the 48V battery pack has degraded enough that the system can’t sustain the assist current.

Symptoms include:

• Stop/Start disabled message (intermittent at first, then permanent)
• Inconsistent throttle response from a stop
• Warning lights only in hot or cold weather
• Rough idle until the system shuts itself off
• Dim interior lights for a moment when the engine restarts

The fix is a 48V battery pack replacement under warranty if you’re inside 8 years/80,000 miles. Out of warranty, expect $1,800 to $2,800 plus labor. The pack mounts behind the rear seats and is a 1- to 2-hour job.

Problem: eTorque “won’t engage” when AC or ventilated seats are on

This is a 2020 model year quirk reported across owner forums. The AC compressor draws enough load that some early eTorque calibrations disabled hybrid assist while the AC was active. Newer model years and PCM updates resolved it.

If your 2020 Ram still does this, ask the dealer about TSB 18-002-20 and 18-006-20 (related software updates). A reflash usually fixes it.

Problem: motor generator unit (MGU) failure

The MGU is the belt-driven hybrid motor. When it fails, you’ll see:

• Clattering or whining noise from the front of the engine
• “Service eTorque” warning
• Stop-start disabled
• 48V system disconnected error codes

MGU replacement under warranty: free. Out of warranty: $3,500 to $5,500 parts and labor at a dealer.

The MGU is technically a Federal Emissions Warranty component, which covers it for 8 years or 80,000 miles regardless of original owner. That’s longer than the standard powertrain warranty. If a dealer tells you the MGU isn’t covered, push back and reference the Federal Emissions Warranty.

Problem: 12V battery dies repeatedly

The 12V battery on eTorque trucks is an H8 AGM with higher reserve capacity than a normal lead-acid. If it’s been replaced with a standard battery, the eTorque system overworks itself trying to keep up with start-stop cycles and the new battery dies in months. Always replace with the correct AGM spec.

Maintenance and longevity

The 48V battery has a stated service life of 8 to 10 years or 80,000 to 150,000 miles. Owners in extreme heat (Phoenix, Houston, southern Texas) report faster degradation. Garage-kept trucks last longer.

Things that help battery life:

• Drive the truck regularly. Sitting 2+ weeks lets the battery sulfate.
• Park in shade in summer where possible.
• Replace the 12V battery with the correct AGM only.
• Keep the 48V battery connections clean (visible under the rear seat cushion).

Things that hurt:

• Letting the truck sit for a month with the battery disconnect off
• Frequent very short trips (1 to 3 miles)
• Aftermarket head units that pull current after engine-off

Should you buy an eTorque truck?

For 2025 and 2026 model year Ram 1500s with current PCM software, eTorque is more reliable than it was in 2020-2022. The Hurricane inline-six replaced the 5.7L Hemi for 2025, and that engine pairs with a refined eTorque setup with fewer reported issues. The classic Hemi V8 eTorque (2019-2024) has the most field complaints.

Used market 2020-2022 V8 eTorque trucks are cheaper than non-eTorque equivalents because buyers know the issues. If you buy one, get a CPO or extended warranty.

Quick reference

Sources:

• 2021 Ram 1500 eTorque Recall, NHTSA
• RAM 1500 eTorque Battery Problems, Redwater Dodge
• Ram 1500 E-Torque System Failures, Texas Lemon Law Firm