Are you replacing the grille on your 4th generation (2009-2019) Dodge RAM? We’ll walk you through the first step: removing the grille.

Ram oem grille

This tutorial is for all 4th generation Dodge Ram trucks, including:

  • Dodge Ram 1500 (light duty)
  • Dodge Ram 2500 (heavy duty)
  • Dodge Ram 3500 (heavy duty)
  • Dodge Ram 4500 (heavy duty)

Please note that the grilles on the 2009-2012 RAM pickups look different from those on 2013-2019 RAM pickups. You can remove both types of grilles the same way, though.

Without further ado, here are the steps to take:

Remove The Plastic Valance Panel

When you open the hood, you’ll see a black plastic panel covering the gap between the grille and the radiator. That’s the plastic valance panel. With a flathead screwdriver, remove all the plastic push pins holding the panel in place. Be careful not to break the plastic pins. They break easily.

Remove The 4 Bolts

With the plastic valance panel off, you can now see where the grille is bolted to the grille support beam. There are 4 10mm bolts attaching the grille to the beam. Remove all those bolts.

Remove The Grille

With the bolts out, the grille will appear about ready to fall off. IMPORTANT: Do not pull the grille from the top. If you do that, you will break the speed clips that are on the bottom of the grille.

Instead, do this:

  1. Reach down behind the grille.
  2. Push on one lower corner until it comes free.
  3. Pull the grille from the loose side and then swing it sideways, sort of like opening a door.

The grille should be free now.

If you’re more a visual person, here’s a video of the grille removal process:

How to Remove RAM Grille Inserts

Removing the grille inserts is pretty straightforward but requires a little finesse. You'll be flexing some plastic tabs, so we recommend that you do this somewhere where the grille can be at room temperature.

To remove the inserts:

  • Set the grille upside down on a soft surface.
  • There is a plastic retaining ring that runs partway around the perimeter of the grille. Remove several 8mm bolts from it. Lift the retaining ring off.
  • You will see several plastic tab connectors around each of the grille inserts. Gently pry the release tab back and lift the insert.

How to Remove RAM Grille Crossbars

This is the fun part where you take a saw to your grille. Having a friend to hold the grille while you are making cuts is very helpful. Several types of saws can be used:

  • Die grinder
  • Air powered body saw
  • Jigsaw
  • Oscillating saw
  • Hacksaw

A die grinder is a great option if you've got one. If you don't, any of the other options will work, but may require more patience or protection of the grille. Whatever saw you use, choose a fine tooth blade.

Once you have a saw chosen, here's how to cut the crossbars:

  • Apply painter's tape to any area near where you are cutting to protect the paint from the tool. Also tape the areas where the grille will be resting when it is upside down.
  • Flip the grill over so you can cut from the inside.
  • Use a marker to draw straight lines where you will be cutting.
  • Be sure not to over-cut.  If your cut line gets into the perimeter of the grille, you will create a visible gap between it and the aftermarket grille.
  • If you're not certain you will be able to precisely follow the line, cut to the inside. You can follow up later with a hand file or sander to bring the plastic to your line.

Need A Replacement Grille?

Ram RYC grille

If you’re going to replace your RAM’s grille, why not go all out with a Royalty Core grille? Royalty Core is one of the best grilles on the market for the reasons outlined here.

Royalty Core has a line of grilles designed for Dodge RAM trucks. You can see them here. Check out some of our best sellers:

Got any questions about removing your 4th generation RAM’s grille? We’ll be happy to help.  Just contact us!