How to Replace Starter: 2009-2018 Dodge RAM 1500

Watch this video to learn how to replace the starter on a 2009-2018 Dodge RAM 1500.

Replacing Starter on a 2009-2018 Dodge RAM 1500: What You Need

Ready to perform this DIY replacement job? Remember that all the parts in this guide can be found on CarParts.com. Check out all the products that fit your vehicle right here.

Parts Checklist

• Starter

Tightening Torques

• Starter mounting bolts: 50 Ft-lbs

Tools Checklist

Here’s the toolbox we recommend to repair your Dodge RAM 1500: HM85 85 Piece Ratchet and Socket Set

List of tools:

• Ratchet
• Extender
• 10mm socket
• 8mm socket
• Fork
• 13mm wrench
• Gimbal
• 15mm socket
• Torque wrench
  • 20 to 250 Ft-lbs
  • 100 to 600 Ft-lbs

Step-by-Step Instructions

Step 1: Vehicle Preparation

• Turn off your vehicle’s ignition.
• Set the parking brake.
• Pull the hood release handle and open the hood.
• For safety reasons, disconnect the battery.

Step 2: Front Wheel Access

• Loosen the lugs on the driver’s side front wheel.
• Lift the front of your vehicle.
• Place the vehicle on the jack stands.

Step 3: Wheel Removal

• To change the starter, remove the wheel for full access.
• Don’t forget to place the wheel under the vehicle!

Step 4: Mudguard Removal

• Unclip the ABS sensor cable retaining clip behind the mudguard.
• Using a ratchet and an 8mm socket, unscrew the 3 mudguard retaining screws.
• Remove the mudguard.

Step 5: Locate the Starter

• The starter is located under the junction point between the engine block and the catalytic converter.
• Position yourself under the vehicle.

Step 6: Disconnecting Components

• Using a fork, disconnect the ignition connector.
• Using a 13mm wrench, unscrew the positive terminal retaining nut.
• Remove the positive terminal.

Step 7: Starter Removal

• The starter retaining bolts are difficult to access.
• Using a ratchet, an extender, a gimbal, and a 15mm socket, unscrew the 2 starter retaining bolts.
• Remove the starter from underneath the vehicle.

Step 8: Installing the New Starter

• Take the new starter and put it in its place.
• Screw the 2 retaining bolts back in.
• Finish tightening the bolts with a torque wrench.

Step 9: Reconnecting Components

• Put the positive terminal back on the new starter.
• Screw the retaining nut back in.
• Reconnect the ignition connector.
• Reconnect the battery.
• Start your vehicle to ensure it is running properly.

Step 10: Mudguard Replacement

• Put the mudguard back in place.
• Tighten all the screws.
• Clip the ABS sensor connector back inside the mudguard.

Step 11: Final Steps

• Put the wheel back on your vehicle.
• Put your vehicle back on the ground.
• Properly fix the wheels in place.
• Ensure all components are properly secured.
• Test your vehicle to confirm the starter replacement was successful.

Compatible Vehicles

The operation and tools displayed in the video should be available on the following vehicles:

• 2009 Dodge Ram 1500
• 2010 Dodge Ram 1500
• 2011 Ram 1500
• 2012 Ram 1500
• 2013 Ram 1500
• 2014 Ram 1500
• 2015 Ram 1500
• 2016 Ram 1500
• 2017 Ram 1500
• 2018 Ram 1500

Important Reminders

For safety reasons, we advise you to disconnect the battery.

The starter is located under the vehicle, on the driver side, under the junction point between the engine block and the catalytic converter.

Disclaimer:

This video is for entertainment purposes only. CarParts.com, Inc. disclaims all damages including, but not limited to, actual, consequential, and/or punitive, for any liability, claim, or any other injury or cause related to or arising from any information or lack thereof posted in this video. No information contained in this video shall create any expressed or implied warranty or guarantee of any particular result. All mechanical car projects entail some risk. It is the sole responsibility of the viewer to assume this risk. If you are in doubt, please consult a licensed mechanic in your area.