Overview

If your 2024 Ram 1500 keeps having the same serious problem and the dealer can’t fix it, you may have a New Jersey Lemon Law claim. This law can force the manufacturer to buy back or replace your truck.

Examples owners report include transmission hesitation or shudder , Uconnect screen freezes/blackouts , electrical or eTorque/stop‑start faults , steering warnings , rear window leaks , and repeat check‑engine lights . Your case depends on your records, not just the type of issue.

Do You Qualify?

  • Timing: The defect appears and is reported within the first 2 years or 24,000 miles (whichever comes first) from the truck’s original delivery.
  • Type of problem: A defect that substantially impairs use, value, or safety and is not caused by abuse, neglect, or unauthorized modifications.
  • Repair attempts: The dealer has made 3 or more attempts for the same defect, or the truck has been out of service 20+ cumulative days for any defects, or there’s a serious safety defect that persists after 1 attempt .
  • Final chance to repair: You sent the manufacturer a written certified‑mail notice giving a last chance, and they had up to 10 days to fix it.
  • NJ connection: The Ram 1500 was purchased, leased, or registered in New Jersey for personal use.

How NJ Law Applies

New Jersey’s New Car Lemon Law covers new and leased vehicles (including personal‑use pickup trucks). If you qualify, you can get a refund or replacement . A refund usually includes the purchase price minus a reasonable use allowance , plus eligible taxes and fees.

Before filing a state Lemon Law case, NJ requires you to give the manufacturer a final repair opportunity by certified mail. If the manufacturer has a state‑certified informal dispute program , you may need to use it first. You can then file with the NJ Lemon Law Unit for an administrative hearing.

Step-by-Step: What to Do

  1. Document everything: Keep all repair orders , warranty printouts, tow/rental receipts, and a timeline of symptoms and dates. Make sure each repair order lists the specific complaint you reported and the mileage.
  2. Send the final repair notice: Mail a certified letter, return receipt requested to Ram/Stellantis at the address in your warranty booklet. State the defect, repair history, and that you are providing a final opportunity to repair under NJ Lemon Law. Make the truck available; the manufacturer has up to 10 days to fix it.
  3. File your claim in NJ: If the defect persists, file with the NJ Division of Consumer Affairs – Lemon Law Unit . Submit the application, copies of repair orders, sales/lease contract, registration, and your timeline. Pay the $50 filing fee . You may also need to try the manufacturer’s certified dispute program first, if one exists.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

  • Not sending certified notice: Skipping the final repair letter can sink your case.
  • Poor documentation: Missing or vague repair orders make it hard to prove repeat defects or days out of service.
  • Waiting too long: Claims outside 2 years/24,000 miles are much harder.
  • Refusing the final repair attempt: You must give the manufacturer the last chance.
  • Aftermarket mods: Modifications that affect the system at issue can let the manufacturer blame the defect on you.
  • Stopping payments/insurance: Keep paying and insuring the truck until your case is resolved.

What You Should Do Next

Gather your repair records and send the final repair opportunity letter now. If the issue remains, file with the NJ Lemon Law Unit and consider speaking with a New Jersey lemon law attorney for help preparing evidence and the hearing.

Also check for recalls and TSBs that match your symptoms at nhtsa.gov/recalls . For forms and instructions, visit the NJ Division of Consumer Affairs Lemon Law page or call their Lemon Law Unit for guidance.