For 2019, Ram pickups were available with either 8.4- or 12-inch Uconnect infotainment screens. Unfortunately, a number of problems have been reported by owners, like the display going blank, showing error messages, and more. A recall was also issued due to the reverse image remaining even when in Drive.
Key Points
- Ram adds a new 12-inch Uconnect infotainment center with 2019 introduction of the model’s fifth generation.
- 2019 Ram pickup owners report problems with both the earlier 8.4-inch screen as well as the new 12-inch upgrade.
- Most commonly, the 12-inch option may randomly go blank but is often solved by simply cycling the vehicle off and then on.
- A recall was issued against the 2019 Ram over the backup image remaining even when shifted to Drive.
- Several other glitches have been reported, like the radio changing without input and random error messages. Regardless, Ram’s Uconnect system is one of the best infotainment screens currently on offer.
The Ram Pickup Was Refreshed for 2019, Offers New 12-inch Touchscreen, and While Nice, Owners Report Some Bizarre Behavior
2019 marks the fifth generation of the Ram pickup, including the 1500, 2500 HD, and heavier models. While earlier variants featured an optional 8.4-inch center screen, those from 2019 onward also offered a massive 12-inch Uconnect system.
Packed with neat, functional features and a rocking stereo? Absolutely, but unfortunately, a number of owners report issues with the new infotainment system, as well as with the earlier 8.4-inch option.
Most commonly, the screen randomly goes blank. A recall was also issued over the reverse image remaining on display even once shifted to Drive. Other issues include radio stations changing without input, screens only half displaying, and more.
2019 Ram’s 12-inch Uconnect Infotainment Screen Randomly Goes Blank, Often Resets by Cycling the Pickup Off and On
You’ll find one of the most prominent discussions about the 12-inch Uconnect screen at Ram Forums.
“Anyone have issues with the 12-inch screen not turning on? Screen is just black. No radio, backup camera, etc.,” says one 2019 Ram owner. “I turned the truck off and re-started it and it came on… 23,000 miles on it.”
A stream of replies echo the same story, all from Rams from the fifth generation onward with the 12-inch screen. “I have had the black screen twice now. Both times, it just disappeared randomly,” shares one owner. “Yep,” agrees another 2019 Ram owner. “Happens now and again. Believe me, you’re not alone.”
Is there a recall for these Dodge Ram screen problems? Nope, not yet, but there has been a recall issued for another screen issue.
2019 Ram Pickup Recalled Over Rearview Image Remaining While in Drive, Affects Both the 8.4- and 12-inch Touchscreens
Simply put, a software error can cause the rearview camera image to remain displayed after the vehicle has been shifted out of reverse, reports the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration.
The standard requires the reverse image to not display for longer than 10 seconds, as it can be distracting for drivers as they fidget with the controls.
Owners can bring their pickups to a local service center to resolve the issue. Additionally, Ram offers an over-the-air fix for added convenience.
Slew of Random Screen Problems Have Been Reported in 2019 Ram Pickup, and Unfortunately, No Fix Has Yet Been Issued
“My Uconnect 12 has done all manner of wacky stuff, including freezing up, BSOD (blue screen of death), showing cameras not selected, changing radio sources spontaneously, etc.,” shares an owner on another popular forum, HD Rams.
There are currently four pages of replies, all stating similar experiences, “Having the same issues with my 2019 Ram 1500. Screen freezes. Can’t do anything. Yesterday it started going on and off. Can’t access a lot of the features.”
Scrolling through the forum, you’ll see that many owners are sharing screenshots of the issues. These range from error messages, lines of code, or screens that are black or only half displaying.
Reports are still coming in as recent as February 2022, and no fix has been issued since.
Should You Avoid the 2019 Ram Because of Possible Screen Problems? Nah, but Don’t Be Too Surprised if You Experience the Occasional Glitch
Yes, Ram Pickups from 2019 forward have a few issues with their touchscreens. Should you avoid the model because of them? No. In fact, the Uconnect system is one of the best compared to Sync in the Ford F-150 or Infotainment3/MyLink in the Chevy Silverado.
Whether you opt for the earlier 8.4-inch screen or the latest 12-inch offering, don’t be too surprised if you see the occasional glitch. In many cases, cycling the vehicle off and on should set things straight.
Photos: Stellantis
