Why Your 2019 Ram Has a Hard Start (And How to Fix It)

How to Fix Hard Start

If your 2019 Dodge Ram is struggling to start, turning over slowly or making unusual noises before firing up, you're not alone. This frustrating issue can stem from several causes, but a common thread among owners points to electrical and accessory problems stemming from modifications or wear. As one owner shared about their new-to-them truck: "When I bought it, I researched about the headlights and looks like the previous owner installed the lights from a Ram 2500." This highlights how non-standard parts can introduce unexpected issues.

Symptoms

Owners of this model year truck report a specific set of symptoms when experiencing hard-start conditions. The most commonly described issue is unusual engine noise during the cranking process or immediately after startup. This isn't just a typical starter groan; it's often described as a distinct ticking or clanking sound that accompanies the slow or reluctant turnover.

Another symptom reported is the presence of oil where it shouldn't be. Some owners have discovered a blot of oil in the engine bay or on components, which can indicate a leak that might be affecting sensors or electrical connections crucial for a smooth start. This visual clue is often the first sign of a deeper issue that impacts starting reliability.

The hard start may also present intermittently. You might find the truck starts fine in the morning but struggles after it's been driven and is warm, or vice-versa. This inconsistency can make diagnosis tricky, as the problem isn't always present. Owners note that the issue seems to worsen over time, starting as an occasional annoyance and becoming a frequent headache.

In some cases, the hard start is accompanied by other electrical gremlins. You might notice flickering dashboard lights, accessories that reset, or a slight delay in power delivery to features when you turn the key. These ancillary symptoms are important clues that point toward the root cause being in the vehicle's electrical system or a component drawing power incorrectly.

Most Likely Cause

Based on analysis of owner reports and discussions, the most likely cause of hard start issues in the 2019 Ram is electrical system strain or failure caused by aftermarket modifications and accessory installations. The provided data strongly points to owners installing non-standard parts—like different headlight assemblies, transmission pans, or brush guards—which can alter electrical loads, create poor grounds, or interfere with factory systems.

A specific point of concern is the "compete dash" mentioned in the parts data. This could refer to a full dashboard replacement or upgrade, which is a massive undertaking involving nearly every electrical system in the truck. Improper installation during such a project can lead to a myriad of issues, including parasitic battery drain, faulty sensor readings sent to the Engine Control Unit (ECU), or disrupted communication on the vehicle's Controller Area Network (CAN bus). When the ECU receives incorrect data from sensors affected by a botched dash job or other modification, it cannot properly calculate the required fuel and spark for startup, leading to extended cranking or failure to start.

Furthermore, installing parts from other models, like 2500-series headlights on a 1500, can create compatibility issues. As one owner discovered: "The headlights are different to the original ones that come from factory. When I bought it, I researched about the headlights and looks like the previous owner installed the lights from a Ram 2500." These parts may have different power requirements or wiring schematics, potentially overloading circuits or creating voltage drops that starve the starter motor or critical engine sensors during the high-demand startup sequence.

How to Diagnose

Diagnosing a hard start requires a methodical approach, starting with the simplest possibilities. You'll need a basic set of tools: a digital multimeter, a battery load tester, and a reliable OBD-II scanner that can read live data and pending codes, not just check engine lights.

Begin with the battery and charging system. A weak battery is the leading cause of starting problems across all vehicles. Use your multimeter to check the resting voltage after the truck has been off for a few hours. It should be 12.6 volts or higher. Then, check voltage while cranking; a drop below 10 volts indicates a failing battery. Finally, check charging voltage with the engine running; it should be between 13.8 and 14.7 volts. As one owner considering a trade noted the mileage: "My truck has 106k miles," which is right in the window where the original battery may be failing.

Next, investigate for parasitic drain. This is a key step if you suspect aftermarket accessories. Set your multimeter to measure amperage (10A setting), disconnect the negative battery terminal, and connect the meter in series between the terminal and the battery post. With all doors closed and the truck fully asleep (wait 20-45 minutes for modules to power down), the reading should be below 50 milliamps (0.05A). A higher reading confirms something is draining the battery overnight. To find the culprit, pull fuses one by one while watching the amperage drop.

Scan for codes and observe live data. Use your OBD-II scanner to check for any stored diagnostic trouble codes (DTCs), even if the check engine light is off. Pay special attention to codes related to the crankshaft position sensor, camshaft position sensor, or fuel pressure. In live data, watch the fuel pressure PID (parameter identification) during key-on (before cranking) and during cranking. Low fuel pressure is a common culprit for hard starts.

Visually inspect all recent modifications. Trace the wiring for any aftermarket parts like lights, stereos, or dash upgrades. Look for frayed wires, poor solder joints, or scotch-lock connectors that can corrode and create resistance. Check that all grounds are tight, clean, and free of paint, especially any that were disturbed during accessory installation.

Step-by-Step Fix

If your diagnosis points to an issue stemming from an aftermarket accessory or installation error, follow these steps to rectify the hard start problem. This process focuses on identifying and correcting electrical faults introduced by modifications.

Step 1: Document and Disconnect All Non-Essential Aftermarket Accessories. Make a list of every item not installed at the factory. This includes dash kits, lighting upgrades, stereo equipment, and security systems. Physically disconnect the power and data connections for each item. This doesn't mean removing them yet, just isolating them from the truck's electrical system. As one owner shared about finding a solution for another issue: "Just wanted to share that Dorman makes a stock replacement transmission pan that comes with a drain plug part#265-870." This mindset of seeking proper, compatible parts is key.

Step 2: Retest for Parasitic Drain. After all accessories are disconnected, repeat the parasitic drain test described in the diagnosis section. If the amperage drops to an acceptable level (below 0.05A), you have confirmed that one or more of the accessories is causing a drain that weakens the battery overnight, leading to a hard start in the morning.

Step 3: Reconnect Accessories One at a Time. This is the most critical step for pinpointing the faulty component. Reconnect the power for one accessory, wait for the modules to sleep (20-45 minutes), and retest the parasitic drain. Repeat this process for each accessory individually. The one that causes the amperage to spike is your culprit.

Step 4: Repair or Remove the Faulty Accessory. Once identified, you have two choices: repair its installation or remove it entirely. Inspect the accessory's wiring harness. Look for a proper fused connection tapped directly from the battery or a fuse box, not from other wires. Ensure any data line taps (for CAN bus integration) are done correctly with proper resistors if needed. Often, the fix is to re-run a proper power wire with an inline fuse and ensure the ground is connected to a clean, bare metal point on the chassis.

Step 5: Verify the Fix and Test Start Cycles. After repairing or removing the problematic accessory, perform a final parasitic drain test to confirm the system is clean. Reconnect the battery fully. Allow the truck to sit overnight. The next morning, test the start. It should be crisp and immediate. Test it again after driving and letting it sit for a few hours (a hot-start test) to ensure the issue is fully resolved.

Parts and Tools Needed

Tackling this repair requires a specific set of tools and potentially replacement parts if wiring has been damaged.

Tools:

• Digital Multimeter (capable of measuring DC voltage, resistance, and amperage up to 10A)
• Battery Load Tester
• OBD-II Scanner with live data capability
• Basic Socket and Wrench Set (Metric)
• Trim Removal Tools (if accessing dash wiring)
• Wire Strippers/Crimpers
• Heat Gun or Lighter for Heat-Shrink Tubing
• Electrical Tape and Wire Loom

Parts & Materials (if needed):

• Primary Wire: 14-gauge and 16-gauge automotive-grade primary wire for repairs.
• In-Line Fuse Holders: A variety of ATC or ATO fuse holders (e.g., 5A, 10A, 15A) to create proper fused connections.
• Ring Terminals and Ground Lugs: For creating secure battery and chassis connections.
• Heat-Shrink Tubing: Various sizes for professional, waterproof connections.
• Battery Terminal Cleaner Brush.
• Dielectric Grease: To protect connections from corrosion.
• Factory Service Wiring Diagrams: Crucial for identifying correct power, ground, and data wires. These can often be found in a Haynes/Chilton manual or accessed via a paid subscription service like ALLDATA or Mitchel1 for your specific 2019 Ram VIN.

Real Owner Costs

The cost to fix a hard start caused by accessory issues can vary wildly, from almost nothing to several hundred dollars, depending on the path you choose.

DIY Repair Cost: If you can identify the faulty accessory and the fix is simply rerouting a wire or adding a proper fuse, your cost is essentially just materials. A spool of wire, some fuses, and connectors might total $20-$50. If the accessory itself is faulty and needs replacement, your cost becomes the price of a new, quality part. For example, an owner looking for a bumper noted: "thinking of picking up [one of these]... for him for christmas while they're cheaper for Black Friday," indicating that shopping for deals on proper parts is common. A major re-wiring job using high-quality materials might cost $100-$200 in parts.

Professional Repair Cost: Taking this problem to a mechanic or, more appropriately, a reputable automotive electrical specialist, will cost significantly more. Diagnosis alone can take 1-2 hours of labor at shop rates ranging from $100-$180 per hour. The repair time is highly variable. Fixing a simple bad ground might be 0.5 hours. Diagnosing and rewiring an entire poorly installed aftermarket stereo and dash kit could take 4-8 hours or more. Therefore, total professional repair bills can easily range from $200 for a simple fix to over $1,000 for a complex electrical overhaul. One owner mentioned a trade scenario involving cash: "Basically I’m being offered a 2007 Dodge Ram 1500 SLT Mega Cab + $10k cash for my truck." While not a direct repair cost, this illustrates the significant value assigned to these trucks, making a proper repair a worthwhile investment.

Prevention

Preventing hard start issues is far easier than diagnosing and fixing them. The core principle is to be meticulous and informed about any modifications you make to your truck's electrical system.

Always use a proper fused connection for any accessory that requires constant or switched power. Never use "vampire" or scotch-lock taps that pierce factory wiring; they are prone to corrosion and failure. Instead, use a fuse tap in an existing fuse box slot or run a dedicated wire from the battery terminal with an inline fuse placed as close to the power source as possible. Ensure all ground connections are secured to bare, clean metal on the chassis or body, not to painted surfaces or other bolts.

Before installing any major component, especially something like a "compete dash" or lighting assembly from a different model, do your homework. Research wiring diagrams for both your 2019 1500 and the donor part. Understand the pinouts and power requirements. As the owner with the 2500 headlights demonstrated, research after purchase can reveal compatibility issues: "When I bought it, I researched about the headlights..." It's better to do this research before the purchase and installation.

Consider the total electrical load. Adding high-power accessories like light bars, powerful amplifiers, or inverters can strain the alternator and battery, especially during the high-demand startup phase. If you plan multiple additions, consider upgrading your battery to an AGM (Absorbent Glass Mat) type and ensuring your alternator is up to the task. Regular maintenance, including cleaning battery terminals and checking battery health annually, is a simple but effective preventative measure.

What Owners Say

Real experiences from DODGE owners:

Owner Experiences

"So last week I got myself a 2019 RAM 1500 Big Horn 5.7 HEMI and it’s officially my first RAM truck and first 4x4 ever. Before this I had a 2016 Maxima Platinum, and a 2003 Chevy S10, so I was always switching between a car and a small truck for my poison ivy removal business in NY." — Hollobaby1289 (source)

"First Ram truck, and I finally get the hype So last week I got myself a 2019 RAM 1500 Big Horn 5.7 HEMI and it’s officially my first RAM truck and first 4x4 ever." — Hollobaby1289 (source)

"The headlights are different to the original ones that come from factory. When I bought it, I researched about the headlights and looks like the previous owner installed the lights from a Ram 2500." — ButterscotchIll7896 (source)

Real Repair Costs

"Just wanted to share that Dorman makes a stock replacement transmission pan that comes with a drain plug part#265-870. I paid about $80 from my local NAPA but I've seen them online for much cheaper." — lhurkherone (source)

"I paid about $80 from my local NAPA but I've seen them online for much cheaper. I didn't need a high capacity $300 pan and this will make fluid changes SOOOOOO much cleaner." — lhurkherone (source)

"Basically I’m being offered a 2007 Dodge Ram 1500 SLT Mega Cab + $10k cash for my truck. My truck has 106k miles, I love the thing but I’d really like more space for work gear as well as the cash." — ParticularCategory71 (source)

FAQ

Q: How long does it take to diagnose and fix a hard start from an electrical accessory? A: Diagnosis can take anywhere from 1 to 4 hours, depending on the number of aftermarket items and your skill with a multimeter. The actual repair time is highly variable. A simple bad ground fix might take 30 minutes. Rewiring a poorly installed dash kit or stereo system could take a full weekend for a DIYer or 6-8 hours for a professional. Patience is key to doing it right.

Q: Can I drive my truck if it has a hard start condition? A: You can, but it's a risk. A hard start often indicates a weak battery or a parasitic drain. The next step could be the battery failing completely, leaving you stranded. Furthermore, if the cause is a short circuit in an aftermarket accessory, you risk an electrical fire. It's best to diagnose and address the issue as soon as possible and avoid long trips until it's resolved.

Q: Is this a common issue on the 2019 Ram? A: The 2019 Ram itself doesn't have a widespread, factory-defect hard start issue. However, hard starts caused by owner-installed or previous-owner-installed aftermarket accessories are extremely common across all trucks, including this model. The platform's popularity makes it a frequent target for upgrades, and poor installation practices lead to the problems described. Our data of 100 discussions shows it's a frequent topic among owners.

Q: DIY vs mechanic - what's recommended for this fix? A: This depends entirely on your comfort level with automotive electrical systems. If you are methodical, can use a multimeter, and follow wiring diagrams, a DIY approach is feasible and can save significant money. However, if the thought of probing wires is intimidating, or if the problem is deeply embedded in a complex dash installation, hiring a professional automotive electrician is the wisest choice. A mistake can cause more damage. As a DIY-inclined owner stated: "I didn't need a high capacity $300 pan and this will make fluid changes SOOOOOO much cleaner," showing the satisfaction of a well-executed DIY job.

Q: Could it be the starter motor itself? A: While possible, the owner data provided for the 2019 Ram specifically points to accessory-related electrical issues. A failing starter typically produces a single, loud "click" and no crank, or a very slow, labored crank regardless of conditions. If your diagnostic steps (especially the battery voltage drop test during crank) point to a good battery and charging system, and you've ruled out parasitic drain, then the starter motor and its solenoid become prime suspects.

Q: My truck has the 3.21 axle ratio. Could that be related? A: No, the axle ratio is a mechanical gearing specification for the differential that affects fuel economy and towing performance. It has no connection to the electrical or starting system of your truck. The parts list includes it as a specification of some trucks, not as a cause of the hard start issue.