A Fix For The Ram 1500 “Digital Key” Is On The Way

For more than two years, Ram truck owners have been waiting on a feature that was promised, advertised, and showcased—but never fully delivered. The Ram Digital Key, a tech-forward convenience feature meant to modernize how owners access and start their trucks, has remained stuck in limbo. Now, according to a recent report by Tim Esterdahl of Pickup Truck & SUV Talk, a fix is finally on the way.

When Ram announced its updated technology suite for the refreshed Ram 1500, the Digital Key was positioned as a major selling point. In a November 2023 press release for the 2025 Ram 1500, the brand confidently stated:

“Ram owners can now add a digital key to their smartphone or watch to access and start their vehicle.”

The release went on to explain that after enrolling in Ram Connect and downloading the Ram app, owners would be able to store digital keys in their phone’s wallet, unlock and start the truck without removing their device from their pocket, and even share digital access with others. Ram also emphasized redundancy, noting:

“An NFC-based smart card is provided to users as a backup. This can be used to unlock and start the vehicle in cases where the smartphone is not available.”

On paper, the system sounded polished and competitive—similar to digital key systems long familiar to owners of electric vehicles (EVs) from brands like Tesla and Rivian. In reality, owners quickly discovered the feature simply didn’t work as advertised.

Despite marketing images on Ram’s U.S. website showing a smartwatch unlocking a Ram 1500, real-world functionality was limited or completely absent. Owners attempting to activate the feature were often met with confusion, vague responses, or no solution at all from customer service. For many, the frustration ran deep—especially for buyers who cited the Digital Key as a deciding factor in purchasing their truck.

That frustration resurfaced recently when a Ram owner reached out to me after participating in a Reddit thread filled with other owners trying to figure out what went wrong. In response, we reached out directly to Ram for clarity.

According to a statement provided by the Ram communication team, the issue is acknowledged, and progress is underway:

“Digital Key currently has limited function enabled on Ram trucks as we work to ensure quality and consistency of the feature for our customers. The RFID card customers receive with their truck, however, should maintain it’s full functionality.”

More importantly, Ram confirmed that a fix is coming via software—not hardware:

“Digital Key will be fully enabled on applicable trucks via an over-the-air update in the near future.”

Once enabled, the Digital Key will apply to specific Ram 1500 trims when equipped with the proper technology packages. These trucks include:

• 2025+ Laramie equipped with the Level 2 Equipment Group
• 2025+ Rebel equipped with the Level 2 Equipment Group
• 2025+ RHO equipped with the Level 1 Equipment Group
• 2025+ Limited equipped with the Level A Equipment Group
• 2025+ Tungsten comes standard with it
• 2027 TRX will come standard with it

The Ram 1500 isn’t the only Stellantis product affected by Digital Key issues. Early builds of vehicles like the Dodge Charger Daytona and Jeep® Wagoneer S initially shipped with RFID cards. However, dealers were later instructed to remove those cards prior to delivery due to system problems. As of now, there’s been no official confirmation on whether those models will receive similar OTA fixes.

For Ram owners, the key takeaway is clear. The Digital Key hasn’t been abandoned, and Ram has now publicly committed to finishing what it started. After two years of waiting, execution will matter more than promises—but at least now, there’s finally a path forward.

Source: Pickup Truck & SUV Talk