Summary
The RAM 2500 has 44 recalls spanning 2003 through 2026, with the most serious recent issue being a software error on 2025 models where the occupant restraint controller can prevent the driver's airbag and seatbelt pretensioner from deploying in a crash while also disabling the electronic stability control system.
On 2025 models, there are two additional concerns: a gear selection display that can show the wrong gear due to a software error, potentially causing unexpected vehicle movement, and a compliance label that may list incorrect weight ratings, which can lead to overloading and handling or tire problems. The 2026 model year has a steering column control module that can cause the electronic stability control system to stop functioning without warning.
Looking at 2021-2022 production, the Cummins 6.7L diesel-equipped models have an electrical relay that can short circuit and start a fire with the ignition on or off. The 2022 model year adds an engine control module that can internally short circuit and cut drive power, and a separate software issue that can disable electronic stability control. Side curtain airbags on 2021-2022 vehicles may have been filled with the wrong amount of compressed gas, causing them to deploy incorrectly in a crash. The 2022 model also has a radio software problem that can prevent the rearview camera image from appearing while backing up.
From 2019-2020, automatic-transmission diesel models have a transmission that can build pressure and push fluid out of the dipstick tube onto the hot turbocharger, creating a fire risk. The 2019 model year specifically also has a fuel heater connection that can overheat and leak diesel fuel near ignition sources, and the side curtain airbag inflators on 2019 models can rupture and send metal fragments into the cabin. Wiper arms on 2019-2020 trucks can loosen and fail to clear the windshield properly, and accessory bed steps on 2019-2020 vehicles can break under side-loading and drop the user.
The 2015-2020 range has a side curtain airbag inflator end cap that can detach or the inflator sidewall can rupture, projecting components into the cabin. On 2015 models specifically, a power tailgate latch can release while driving and allow cargo to fall onto the road. A drag link jam nut on 2013-2018 models can loosen and let the drag link separate, causing a sudden loss of steering.
Going back further, 2017-2018 column-shift models have a brake-transmission shift interlock that can stick in the open position, allowing the transmission to be shifted without pressing the brake pedal and raising the risk of unintended rollaway. The 2016 model year has an engine control module that can short internally and cut drive power. On 2013 models, an engine cover can trap heat and cause an underhood fire, and the high-beam headlights on some of those trucks did not meet lighting standards.
The 2008-2011 4x4 models have a left tie rod ball stud that can fail and cause loss of directional control at the front wheels. On 2010 models with the 6.7L diesel, a fuel heater electrical connection can overheat and produce a fuel leak and fire risk.
