Understanding the Discontinued Dodge RAM APPS Sensors
The 53032456AE and 53032455AD are part numbers for the Accelerator Pedal Position Sensor (APPS) used in certain 2003-2004 Dodge RAM trucks. These sensors are critical components that communicate the driver's accelerator pedal input to the engine control module, allowing for proper throttle response.
Both of these part numbers have been discontinued by Chrysler/Mopar, leaving owners of these trucks with limited options when these sensors fail. This page explains the differences, similarities, and history of these parts, as well as our solution to this obsolescence problem.
53032456AE vs 53032455AD: The Key Differences
Many Dodge RAM owners wonder about the differences between these two part numbers and whether they're interchangeable. Here's what you need to know:
| Feature | 53032456AE | 53032455AD | Our Retrofit Kit |
|---|---|---|---|
| Application | 2003-2004 Dodge RAM trucks with under-battery APPS | 2003-2004 Dodge RAM trucks with under-battery APPS | Direct replacement for both part numbers |
| Physical Appearance | Black plastic housing with Mercedes logo | Black plastic housing with Mercedes logo | Similar form factor with updated design |
| Connector Type | 6-pin connector | 6-pin connector | Different connector (adapter harness included) |
| Current Availability | Discontinued - no longer manufactured | Discontinued - no longer manufactured | In stock and ready to ship |
| Superseded By | No official replacement from Mopar | No official replacement from Mopar | Our engineered retrofit solution |
| Warranty | None (used parts only) | None (used parts only) | 1-year warranty |
The Bottom Line: The 53032456AE and 53032455AD are essentially the same part with different part numbers that may have been assigned for inventory or manufacturing batch purposes. They are functionally identical and completely interchangeable. Our retrofit kit replaces either part number with equal effectiveness.
Vehicle Compatibility for 53032456AE and 53032455AD
These APPS sensors were used in specific Dodge RAM models during a limited production period. Here's a detailed breakdown of compatible vehicles:
Dodge RAM 1500 (2003-2004)
- ✓ 5.7L Hemi V8 (All transmissions)
- ✓ 5.9L V8 (2003 model year only)
- Only for trucks with APPS located under the battery tray
Dodge RAM 2500 (2003-2004)
- ✓ 5.7L Hemi V8 (All transmissions)
- ✓ 5.9L Cummins Diesel (Manual transmission only)
- Only for trucks with APPS located under the battery tray
Dodge RAM 3500 (2003-2004)
- ✓ 5.7L Hemi V8 (All transmissions)
- ✓ 5.9L Cummins Diesel (Manual transmission only)
- Only for trucks with APPS located under the battery tray
Not Compatible With
- 2005 and newer Dodge RAM trucks
- 2003-2004 Dodge RAM with 5.9L Cummins Diesel and automatic transmission
- Any truck with pedal-mounted APPS (rather than under-battery location)
Note: If you're unsure whether your vehicle uses the 53032456AE or 53032455AD sensor, the key indicator is the location of the APPS. If it's mounted under the battery tray (accessed by removing the driver's side wheel or battery tray), our retrofit kit will work for your vehicle.
The DaimlerChrysler Connection: Why These Parts Are Discontinued
The story behind the discontinuation of the 53032456AE and 53032455AD parts is directly tied to the corporate history of Chrysler and explains why these parts will never be manufactured again through official channels.
Daimler-Benz AG (manufacturer of Mercedes-Benz vehicles) merges with Chrysler Corporation to form DaimlerChrysler AG. This merger created one of the world's largest automakers and opened the door for significant parts sharing between the German and American brands.
During the development of the 2003-2004 Dodge RAM trucks, DaimlerChrysler implemented cost-saving measures that included sourcing certain components from existing Mercedes-Benz parts bins. The APPS sensor was one such component, originally designed for Mercedes vehicles but adapted for use in Dodge trucks.
Dodge RAM trucks from these model years were produced with Mercedes-sourced APPS sensors (part numbers 53032456AE and 53032455AD). These sensors featured the Mercedes-Benz logo molded into the plastic casing, a clear indication of their origin. The sensors were specifically designed for the under-battery mounting position used in these RAM trucks.
Dodge redesigned the RAM trucks for the 2005 model year, moving the APPS sensor to a different location and using a completely different design. This change meant the 53032456AE and 53032455AD parts were only used for a limited two-year production run.
DaimlerChrysler sells Chrysler to Cerberus Capital Management, effectively ending the partnership between Daimler (Mercedes-Benz) and Chrysler. This corporate split severed the supply chain connection that had made the Mercedes-sourced APPS sensors available for Dodge vehicles.
As existing inventory of 53032456AE and 53032455AD parts was depleted, Chrysler did not arrange for continued production of these components, likely due to the relatively small number of affected vehicles and the lack of a supply chain connection to the original manufacturer.
Chrysler files for bankruptcy and emerges as part of Fiat Chrysler Automobiles (FCA), further distancing the company from its former DaimlerChrysler connections.
FCA merges with PSA Group to form Stellantis, completing the corporate evolution that has left the original DaimlerChrysler partnership as a distant memory. With no business connection between Stellantis and Daimler, there is no possibility of resuming production of the Mercedes-designed APPS sensors for these older Dodge trucks.
This corporate history explains why these parts became permanently discontinued. The combination of limited production run (only two model years), corporate separation between the original manufacturer (Mercedes/Daimler) and the vehicle brand (Dodge/Chrysler), and subsequent corporate restructurings has left owners of 2003-2004 RAM trucks without an official source for these critical components.
Our Solution: A Permanent Fix for 53032456AE and 53032455AD Obsolescence
We've developed an engineered solution that permanently solves the problem of the discontinued 53032456AE and 53032455AD sensors. Our retrofit kit uses a readily available sensor that has been specifically adapted to work with your 2003-2004 Dodge RAM truck.
Key Advantages of Our Retrofit Kit:
- Permanent solution: No need to hunt for increasingly rare used parts
- Complete kit: Includes everything needed for installation
- Engineered compatibility: Specifically designed to match the electrical and mechanical requirements of your truck
- Detailed instructions: Step-by-step guidance for straightforward installation
- Expert support: Assistance available if you encounter any installation challenges
- 1-year warranty: Peace of mind with purchase protection not available with used parts
Our kit was developed by an engineer with over 30 years of experience in technology solutions who faced this exact problem with his personal Dodge RAM. What began as a personal solution has now been refined into a product that has helped many truck owners solve this frustrating parts availability issue.
Don't Struggle with Discontinued Parts
Our retrofit kit for the 53032456AE and 53032455AD APPS sensors provides a reliable, long-term solution to keep your 2003-2004 Dodge RAM running properly.
Get Your Retrofit Kit TodayAlternative Options (And Why They Fall Short)
Before developing our retrofit kit, we explored all possible alternatives for replacing the 53032456AE and 53032455AD sensors. Here's why other options are problematic:
Used Parts from Junkyards or Online Marketplaces
- Increasingly difficult to find as these trucks age
- Unknown wear and remaining lifespan
- These sensors were known to fail frequently when new - used ones may fail quickly
- No warranty protection
- Often priced high due to scarcity
Conversion to 2005+ Style APPS
- Requires extensive fabrication of metal parts
- Complex wiring harness modifications
- Even the 2005+ style APPS sensors are now also discontinued by Mopar
- Time-consuming process requiring specialized tools and skills
- No standardized instructions or support
Generic Aftermarket Sensors
- Not designed specifically for Dodge RAM applications
- Require extensive modification to fit
- Often have electrical compatibility issues
- May cause check engine lights or driveability problems
- No specific installation instructions for your vehicle
Dealer Service
- Dealers can no longer order the original parts
- Many dealers will refer you to the aftermarket or suggest vehicle replacement
- Some dealers may attempt to install used parts at premium prices
- No long-term solution offered
Our retrofit kit was developed specifically to address these shortcomings and provide a reliable, long-term solution that's accessible to the average truck owner without requiring specialized skills or equipment.
Technical Specifications Comparison
For those interested in the technical details, here's how the original 53032456AE/53032455AD sensors compare to our retrofit solution:
| Specification | Original 53032456AE/53032455AD | Our Retrofit Solution |
|---|---|---|
| Signal Type | Variable resistance (potentiometer) | Variable resistance (potentiometer) |
| Operating Voltage | 5V reference | 5V reference |
| Output Signal Range | 0.5V to 4.5V (approx.) | 0.5V to 4.5V (calibrated) |
| Mounting Position | Under battery tray | Under battery tray (same location) |
| Connection Method | Direct plug to truck harness | Via included adapter harness |
| Durability | Known wear issues | Improved durability design |
| Parts Availability | Discontinued - never to be produced again | Readily available |
The most important point is that our retrofit solution matches the electrical characteristics of the original sensors while providing improved durability and ongoing parts availability.
Forum Discussions About 53032456AE and 53032455AD
The discontinuation of these parts has been a widely discussed topic in Dodge RAM owner communities. Here are some of the discussions where owners have shared their frustration and attempted solutions:
- "03-04 5.7L APPS obsolete" on RAM Forum
- "APPS Needs Replaced" on RAM Forum
- "Mopar part #53032456AE" on Cummins Forum
- "Can I change my '04.5 under battery apps to '05 style apps" on Cummins Forum
These discussions highlight the ongoing problem faced by owners of these trucks and the lack of good solutions before our retrofit kit became available.
The Definitive Solution for 53032456AE and 53032455AD Replacement
Our engineer-developed retrofit kit provides a permanent fix for the discontinued APPS sensors in your 2003-2004 Dodge RAM truck.
Complete kit includes sensor, wiring harness, connectors, and detailed instructions.