2019 Ram 1500 Classic Has A Check Engine Light

Resolve Check Engine Light Issues in Your 2019 Ram 1500 Classic

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Reviewed by
Andrew Hajjar
Written by RepairPal Car Genius
Updated January 14, 2025
0%
40% chance it's the
Emissions System
0%
60% chance it's
Something else
The most common reasons a 2019 Ram 1500 Classic has a check engine light are an emissions system component, a sensor, or a catalytic converter.
  • Emissions System: A faulty emissions system component, such as an oxygen sensor or EGR valve, can lead to increased emissions and trigger the check engine light.
Proper diagnosis will determine the exact cause of your symptom, saving you money on unnecessary repairs. The diagnostic experts at RepairPal Certified shops have the right tools and experience to solve any symptom.

How much does it cost to fix a 2019 Ram 1500 Classic has a check engine light?

Common Repairs

The total repair cost will vary based on the condition of your vehicle and the number of repairs needed to fix your symptom. Proper diagnosis will save you money by finding the exact repairs needed to fix your car right the first time.

A faulty oxygen sensor is one of the most common causes of a check engine light. Symptoms may include a decrease in fuel mileage, hesitation or misfiring from the engine, rough idling or even stalling. A faulty sensor may cause the vehicle to fail an emissions test.

Any time there is an emissions fault the check engine light will be displayed. The purpose of the check engine light is to inform the driver that an emission related fault has been found, and that there are on-board diagnostic (OBD) trouble codes stored in the powertrain or engine control module. Additionally, since the emissions systems are so intertwined into engine control and transmission control systems, symptoms may include nearly any sort of drivability concerns. This may include harsh shifting, failure to shift, hesitation on acceleration, jerking, engine failure to start or run, loss of power, or any number of other drivability issues.

Due to the nature of electrical systems on modern vehicles, the range of problems these can cause are nearly limitless. However, there is a way to categorize them in two ways. Permanent and intermittent problems. Permanent problems appear and remain. This may be the vehicle will not start, the radio does not work, or the door chime will not turn off among many, many others. These problems are more straight-forward to diagnose since they present themselves at all time. This means there will always be a fault to find. Intermittent electrical problems, however, can be difficult or impossible to locate, since they appear then disappear without warning. The best case scenario for an intermittent issue is when replicating the problem is easily accomplished and understood. This allows a technician to make an issue semi-permanent, allowing them to find the fault. Other issues that come and go without warning and cannot be replicated on demand must occur when the technician is servicing the vehicle, otherwise there is no problem to correct. It is most important to understand that electrical system faults always require inspection, and can include the vehicle working in any manner, or not working at all.

Like we noted in the last section, general diagnosis symptoms are the most vague of the bunch. There are several diagnostic spectrums, electrical diagnosis, drivability diagnostics, engine diagnostics, transmission diagnostics, and the list could continue for about 5 or 10 more spectrums of diagnostics. The most important take-away here, is that general diagnostics are diagnostics that have no other spectrum in which they fit, or the problem is unknown. This means that any vehicle left outside of a repair facility with the keys and an authorization to perform diagnosis will be diagnosed under the general diagnosis spectrum.

When the Check Engine Light comes on, you may experience engine performance issues such as poor acceleration, rough idling, or an engine that won't start. In some cases, no abnormal symptoms will be experienced. Other systems like the transmission or ABS can cause the Check Engine Light to illuminate and lights for those systems can come on at the same time. Similar lights may say "Check Engine Soon", "Malfunction Indicator Light" or just "Check". In rare case the engine can overheat.

What are the initial diagnostic steps to take for a check engine light on a 2019 Ram 1500 Classic?

When faced with a check engine light on your 2019 Ram 1500 Classic, it's essential to approach the diagnosis methodically. Start by checking the gas cap; a loose or damaged cap is a common culprit that can easily trigger the light. Next, take a moment to scan the dashboard for any additional warning lights, as they may provide further insight into the problem. Utilizing an OBD-II scanner is a crucial step; it allows you to retrieve specific error codes that can pinpoint the issue more accurately. Additionally, inspect your vehicle's fluid levels, including oil, coolant, and transmission fluid, as low levels can also activate the check engine light. Don't overlook the condition of your spark plugs, as worn or faulty plugs can lead to engine performance issues. If these initial steps do not resolve the problem, it may be time to consult a qualified mechanic for a thorough diagnosis. By following this structured approach, you can effectively identify and address the cause of the check engine light, ensuring your vehicle runs smoothly.

What are the common problems that could cause the check engine light to activate in a 2019 Ram 1500 Classic?

When the check engine light illuminates in a 2019 Ram 1500 Classic, it often signals a range of common issues that can affect the vehicle's performance. One frequent culprit is a loose gas cap, which can disrupt the fuel system and trigger the warning light. Another common problem is a faulty oxygen sensor, which not only affects fuel efficiency but can also lead to increased emissions. Additionally, issues with the catalytic converter, such as inefficiency or failure, can cause the check engine light to activate, indicating a need for immediate attention. Worn or malfunctioning spark plugs can also impact engine performance, leading to misfires and the light turning on. Furthermore, problems with the mass airflow sensor can disrupt the air-fuel mixture, while malfunctioning ignition coils can result in engine misfiring. Addressing these issues promptly is crucial to maintaining the vehicle's health and performance, and it is advisable to consult a qualified mechanic for a thorough diagnosis and resolution.

How urgent is it to address the check engine light in a 2019 Ram 1500 Classic?

When the check engine light illuminates in your 2019 Ram 1500 Classic, it signals a potential issue that requires immediate attention. Ignoring this warning can lead to a cascade of problems, including reduced fuel efficiency and performance degradation, which can ultimately result in costly repairs. The onboard diagnostics system in modern vehicles, including your Ram, is designed to help you identify the root cause of the issue, making it easier to troubleshoot. However, while DIY diagnostics can be a rewarding endeavor, it’s crucial to recognize that some problems may pose safety risks or lead to significant engine damage if left unaddressed. Therefore, while you may be tempted to delay action, addressing the check engine light promptly not only preserves your vehicle's performance but also ensures your safety on the road. If you’re not equipped to handle the diagnosis or repair, seeking professional assistance is advisable to prevent further complications and maintain the reliability of your vehicle.

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