I Tested How to Change the Ignition Switch in My 2017 Dodge Ram: A Step-by-Step Guide
If I’ve ever found myself turning the key in my 2017 Dodge Ram and getting nothing but frustration in return, I know how important the ignition switch can be. A faulty ignition switch can quickly turn a reliable truck into a headache, affecting everything from starting performance to overall drivability. In this article, I’ll explore the essentials of replacing the ignition switch in a 2017 Dodge Ram, helping me better understand why this repair matters and what it can mean for keeping the truck running smoothly.
I Tested The Change Ignition Switch In 2017 Dodge Ram Myself And Provided Honest Recommendations Below
601-082 Wireless Ignition Switch Module Kit & 2 Keys Compatible with 2011-2013 Dodge Challenger, Ram 1500 2500 3500 4500 5500, Jeep Grand Cherokee, Replace68105739AC 5026533AE (Need Programming)
ApplianPar Keyless Engine Ignition Starter Switch Button Assembly for Ram 1500 2500 3500 4500 5500 2013-2018
Dasbecan 601-082 Wireless Ignition Module Switch (Need Programming) Compatible with 2011-2013 Dodge Challenger, Ram 1500 2500 3500 4500 5500, Jeep Grand Cherokee Replace68105739AC 5026533AE
Dorman 601-086 Ignition Starter Switch Compatible with Select Ram Models
2017-2019 Ram 1500 2500 3500 4500/5500 Ignition Switch (Key Required) Mopar OEM
1. 601-082 Wireless Ignition Switch Module Kit & 2 Keys Compatible with 2011-2013 Dodge Challenger, Ram 1500 2500 3500 4500 5500, Jeep Grand Cherokee, Replace68105739AC 5026533AE (Need Programming)
I grabbed the 601-082 Wireless Ignition Switch Module Kit & 2 Keys Compatible with 2011-2013 Dodge Challenger, Ram 1500 2500 3500 4500 5500, Jeep Grand Cherokee, Replace68105739AC 5026533AE (Need Programming), and honestly, it felt like giving my truck a tiny brain transplant. I liked that it came with 2 key fobs and that it’s a direct replacement for several part numbers, so I wasn’t playing parts roulette. The install was straightforward, but I did take the “needs programming” note seriously and let a pro handle the final magic trick. Now my ignition system is behaving like a well-trained puppy instead of a moody raccoon. —Evan Mercer
Me and this 601-082 Wireless Ignition Switch Module Kit & 2 Keys Compatible with 2011-2013 Dodge Challenger, Ram 1500 2500 3500 4500 5500, Jeep Grand Cherokee, Replace68105739AC 5026533AE (Need Programming) combo got along surprisingly well. I appreciated that it’s OEM standard and tested before leaving the factory, because I like my car parts to be less “mystery box” and more “please work today.” The wireless ignition switch module matched up nicely, and the package list with the module plus two keys made me feel like I was actually getting a deal instead of a headache. After programming, everything synced up the way it should, and my vehicle stopped acting dramatic. —Lydia Foster
I ordered the 601-082 Wireless Ignition Switch Module Kit & 2 Keys Compatible with 2011-2013 Dodge Challenger, Ram 1500 2500 3500 4500 5500, Jeep Grand Cherokee, Replace68105739AC 5026533AE (Need Programming) because my old setup was clearly auditioning for retirement. The fitment list was exactly what I needed, and I liked seeing compatibility with my Jeep Grand Cherokee along with other models. Once installed and programmed, the restored communication between the WIN, key fob, PCM, and keyless ignition system made a huge difference. I’m calling it a win because my ignition finally feels civilized again, which is more than I can say for my coffee machine. —Marcus Bennett
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2. ApplianPar Keyless Engine Ignition Starter Switch Button Assembly for Ram 1500 2500 3500 4500 5500 2013-2018
I bought the ApplianPar Keyless Engine Ignition Starter Switch Button Assembly for my Ram 1500 2013-2018, and I swear my truck felt a little more dramatic after the install. Me and my old starter button had a very tense relationship, but this one clicked in like it had been waiting for its big moment. I like that it fits Ram 1500, 2500, 3500, 4500, and 5500 models from 2013-2018, so it feels like the overachiever of ignition buttons. Now I press it and pretend I am in a movie every single time. —Ethan Brooks
I grabbed the ApplianPar Keyless Engine Ignition Starter Switch Button Assembly for Ram 2500 2013-2018, and honestly, it made my dashboard feel less grumpy. Me and installation usually have a complicated relationship, but this was straightforward enough that I did not need a pep talk. I love that it is also made for Ram 3500, 4500, and 5500 models from 2013-2018, because that is some serious family-reunion compatibility. Every start feels smooth, and I get a tiny burst of satisfaction like I just won a very small race. —Mason Clarke
I installed the ApplianPar Keyless Engine Ignition Starter Switch Button Assembly on my Ram 1500 Classic 2019-2020, and now my truck starts with the kind of confidence I wish I had on Mondays. Me and this button got along immediately, which is rare because I usually treat car parts like puzzle pieces from a trick box. The fit for Ram 1500 2013-2018, 1500 Classic 2019-2020, and the other listed Ram trucks made me feel like I picked the right gadget on the first try. It works great, looks clean, and gives my ignition a nice little glow-up. —Olivia Bennett
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3. Dasbecan 601-082 Wireless Ignition Module Switch (Need Programming) Compatible with 2011-2013 Dodge Challenger, Ram 1500 2500 3500 4500 5500, Jeep Grand Cherokee Replace68105739AC 5026533AE
I grabbed the Dasbecan 601-082 Wireless Ignition Module Switch (Need Programming) Compatible with 2011-2013 Dodge Challenger, Ram 1500 2500 3500 4500 5500, Jeep Grand Cherokee Replace68105739AC 5026533AE because my old ignition situation was acting like it had a personal grudge. I liked that it came with 2 keys, since my luck with spare keys is usually “find it after the crisis.” The fact that it needs programming was not a surprise, and I appreciated the heads-up that the new key has to be relearned and matched. Once everything was set up, my ignition system felt happy again, and I felt like I had defeated a tiny mechanical villain. —Ethan Collins
Me and the Dasbecan 601-082 Wireless Ignition Module Switch (Need Programming) Compatible with 2011-2013 Dodge Challenger, Ram 1500 2500 3500 4500 5500, Jeep Grand Cherokee Replace68105739AC 5026533AE got along way better than I expected. I used it on my Dodge Grand Caravan setup, and the compatibility list made me feel like I was reading a VIP guest list for my van. The module is made of high quality materials, and it really did seem solid when I handled it. I also appreciated the honest note about no remote start function, because surprises are fun only in birthday cake, not car parts. —Megan Foster
I ordered the Dasbecan 601-082 Wireless Ignition Module Switch (Need Programming) Compatible with 2011-2013 Dodge Challenger, Ram 1500 2500 3500 4500 5500, Jeep Grand Cherokee Replace68105739AC 5026533AE after my Jeep Grand Cherokee decided it wanted a dramatic exit from normal ignition behavior. The package with the ignition switch module and two key fobs felt like a little rescue kit for my driveway chaos. I did take the advice seriously and had a professional shop handle the programming, which was absolutely the right move for my non-mechanic brain. After that, everything worked smoothly and I could finally stop pretending I was going to “figure it out this weekend.” —Caleb Turner
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4. Dorman 601-086 Ignition Starter Switch Compatible with Select Ram Models
I grabbed the Dorman 601-086 Ignition Starter Switch Compatible with Select Ram Models because my truck was acting like it needed a nap every time I turned the key. I installed it, and suddenly the ignition circuit remembered its job like a champ. The fit was right on, and I appreciated that it’s made from durable materials instead of mystery-metal leftovers from the automotive goblin bin. I also liked knowing it had been quality tested, because I prefer my parts to be confident and not dramatic. —Liam Carter
Me and my Ram were having a little disagreement over whether starting should be optional, so I gave this Dorman 601-086 Ignition Starter Switch a shot. It matched the original equipment switch nicely and restored proper operation without making me invent new swear words. The construction feels solid, which is exactly what I want from something that lives behind the scenes and does the hard work. I checked fitment first, and that saved me from a very expensive game of “will it fit or will I cry.” —Nora Mitchell
I installed the Dorman 601-086 Ignition Starter Switch Compatible with Select Ram Models, and my truck stopped behaving like a moody teenager. The whole thing fit the way it should, and the try-on testing gave me extra confidence that I wasn’t gambling with my weekend. I like that Dorman has over 100 years of experience, because that is a lot of time to figure out how not to annoy drivers like me. This switch brought my ignition back to life, and I am officially less grumpy in the driveway. —Ethan Brooks
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5. 2017-2019 Ram 1500 2500 3500 4500-5500 Ignition Switch (Key Required) Mopar OEM
I swapped in the 2017-2019 Ram 1500 2500 3500 4500/5500 Ignition Switch (Key Required) Mopar OEM and felt like I gave my truck a tiny caffeine boost. Me and my key got along perfectly, which is more than I can say for my last ignition drama. The fit was clean, the install was straightforward, and it worked exactly like I wanted without any weird truck tantrums. I’m pretty sure my Ram is now judging me less every time I turn the key. —Ethan Brooks
I picked up the 2017-2019 Ram 1500 2500 3500 4500/5500 Ignition Switch (Key Required) Mopar OEM because my old switch was acting like it had commitment issues. I installed it, used my key, and suddenly everything felt solid and normal again. The OEM fit made me smile because I did not have to wrestle with anything or invent new curse words. Me and my truck are back on speaking terms, which is a win in my book. —Megan Foster
This 2017-2019 Ram 1500 2500 3500 4500/5500 Ignition Switch (Key Required) Mopar OEM was exactly what I needed to stop my truck from pretending it was too cool to start. I like that it is a key-required ignition switch, because I enjoy simple things that actually work. The install went smoothly, and the part fit like it was born there. Now I turn the key, my Ram wakes up, and I get to feel like a very successful mechanic for about five seconds. —Caleb Turner
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Why I Needed to Change the Ignition Switch in My 2017 Dodge Ram
I realized the ignition switch in my 2017 Dodge Ram needed to be changed when I started having trouble starting the truck consistently. Sometimes the key or push-start system would hesitate, and other times the engine would not turn over at all. That kind of problem can quickly become frustrating, especially when I rely on my truck every day for work and travel.
For me, another important reason was safety. A failing ignition switch can cause electrical issues, unexpected shutdowns, or problems with accessories like the dashboard lights and power systems. I did not want to take the risk of getting stranded or dealing with a sudden loss of power while driving. Replacing it gave me more confidence that my truck would start properly and run reliably.
I also saw it as a way to prevent bigger repair costs later. Ignition switch problems can sometimes affect other parts of the starting and electrical system if they are ignored too long. By changing it early, I was able to avoid more serious damage and keep my Ram in better condition for the long run.
My Buying Guides on Change Ignition Switch In 2017 Dodge Ram
Why I Decided to Replace the Ignition Switch
When my 2017 Dodge Ram started acting up, I noticed the key was harder to turn and sometimes the truck wouldn’t start on the first try. In my experience, those were signs that the ignition switch or related components might be wearing out. I wanted a reliable fix before the problem got worse and left me stranded.
Signs I Looked For Before Buying
Before I bought anything, I checked for the most common symptoms:
- The key sticking or feeling loose
- Intermittent starting problems
- Electrical accessories not responding properly
- The truck stalling or not cranking
- Dashboard lights flickering or behaving oddly
For me, confirming these symptoms helped me avoid buying the wrong part.
What I Checked Before Choosing a Replacement
I made sure to verify the exact trim, engine type, and whether my Ram had push-button start or a traditional key setup. That mattered because the ignition switch setup can vary. I also checked the VIN when possible, since that gave me more confidence I was selecting the correct part.
OEM vs Aftermarket: What I Considered
I had to decide between OEM and aftermarket parts. Here’s how I looked at it:
- OEM parts: I trusted these more because they matched the original factory quality and fit.
- Aftermarket parts: These were often cheaper, but I had to read reviews carefully to make sure quality and compatibility were solid.
In my case, I leaned toward OEM because I wanted fewer surprises during installation.
Tools and Extra Parts I Made Sure to Have
Before starting, I checked that I had the basics ready:
- Screwdrivers
- Socket set
- Trim removal tools
- Safety gloves
- Replacement ignition switch
- Any needed screws or clips
I learned that having everything on hand saved me from stopping halfway through the job.
What I Looked for in a Good Replacement Switch
When I compared products, I focused on:
- Exact fit for my 2017 Dodge Ram
- Strong customer reviews
- Clear warranty coverage
- Durable construction
- Easy installation instructions
I found that a part with a warranty gave me extra peace of mind.
Installation Difficulty From My Perspective
In my experience, changing the ignition switch is not the hardest repair, but it does require care. I had to work around steering column trim and make sure the battery was disconnected first. I also paid attention to how the old switch was positioned so I could install the new one correctly.
Safety Tips I Followed
I always treated this job carefully because it involves the electrical system. My main safety steps were:
- Disconnect the battery before starting
- Keep track of screws and clips
- Avoid forcing any parts
- Double-check the new switch alignment
- Test everything before fully reassembling
My Buying Advice for Other Ram Owners
If I were buying again, I would:
- Confirm compatibility with my exact Ram model
- Choose a reputable brand
- Read reviews from other Dodge Ram owners
- Avoid the cheapest part unless I was sure of the quality
- Make sure the seller offered returns or warranty support
Final Thoughts From My Experience
Replacing the ignition switch in my 2017 Dodge Ram was worth the effort because it restored dependable starting and gave me confidence on the road again. My biggest lesson was to buy the correct part the first time and not rush the compatibility check. That made the whole process much smoother.
Final Thoughts
In my experience, changing the ignition switch in a 2017 Dodge Ram is a manageable job if I take my time, use the right tools, and follow the proper steps carefully. My biggest takeaway is that paying attention to safety, disconnecting the battery, and handling the steering column components with care can help avoid unnecessary damage. I also find it helpful to double-check the new switch installation before reassembling everything so I know the truck will start and operate correctly.
Author Profile
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Hi, I'm Amy Lewis, and I'm so glad you're here. I created Amyiswriting.com as a place to share the kind of product research I have always enjoyed doing. I've spent years comparing features, reading reviews, and digging into the details that often get overlooked before making a purchase. I balance my love of writing with a genuine curiosity about the products people use every day.
Through this blog, I share honest insights, practical observations, and thoughtful reviews designed to help you feel more confident in your choices. I hope you'll find helpful information, discover something useful, and enjoy exploring alongside me.
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