Ram Reliability & Common ProblemsRecalls, complaints & model-by-model NHTSA data
Is Ram reliable? We aggregated 232 NHTSA owner complaints and 19 recall campaigns across 1 models so you can compare models, spot problem years, and know what to check before buying used.
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Brand stats show fleet-wide patterns. A VIN check shows the accident history, odometer records, and open recalls of the one you're actually looking at.
Based on NHTSA complaint data, Ram has 232 owner complaints and 19 safety recalls across the 1 models tracked on VinSpectorAI. The most commonly reported issue area is Transmission.
- Brand
- Ram
- Reliability tier
- Below Average
- Safety score (0–100)
- 62
- Total NHTSA complaints (tracked models)
- 232
- Total safety recalls (tracked models)
- 19
- Models analyzed
- 1
- Top reported issues
- Transmission, Electrical System, Brake System
Live NHTSA data
Ram: which years to avoid and which to buy
Aggregated from official NHTSA owner complaints and recall campaigns across all tracked Ram models (2015–2026).
These model years had the most NHTSA complaints across all Ram models.
Fewest recorded complaints — generally the safest years to buy used.
Complaint trend (2015–2026)
Top complaint components
Analysis
Ram reliability analysis
AI AnalysisRAM's Promaster City model shows a high volume of complaints concentrated in engine, electrical, and transmission systems, with 232 complaints and 19 recalls across 2015-2026. The 2015 model year accounts for the most complaints, while later years like 2018 and 2020 have very few, suggesting possible improvements over time.
Used-car buyers should prioritize a thorough inspection of the engine and electrical systems, especially on 2015-2017 models. Check for open recalls and ensure transmission service records are available.
Top reported issues
Based on 232 NHTSA complaints collected 2015–2026. Source: nhtsa.gov.
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Look up any Ram, year by year
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Before you buy a used Ram, run the VIN
The data above shows brand-wide patterns. Enter a VIN to check the exact accident history, odometer records, open recalls, and title status of the specific Ram you’re considering.
Ram reliability — frequently asked questions
Is Ram a reliable car brand?
Ram has a Below Average reliability rating based on NHTSA data, with approximately 4,800 owner complaints and 65 recalls. RAM trucks separated from the Dodge brand in 2009 and have improved reliability since. The Ram 1500 competes effectively with F-150 and Silverado in both sales and reliability metrics. The 3.0L EcoDiesel had issues in early model years but newer versions are much improved.
What are common Ram problems?
Most reported issues for Ram: Transmission, Electrical System, Brake System.
Should I buy a used Ram?
The 2019+ Ram 1500 redesign brought significant quality improvements. Verify EcoDiesel recall status on 2014-2016 models. The 5.7L Hemi remains the most proven and reliable engine choice in the Ram lineup.