NHTSA (USA)High Risk
At a glance
What can fail
The hydraulic control unit that manages braking systems may fail, disabling anti-lock brakes, electronic stability control, and traction control.
This page covers 7 recalls and 19 owner complaints for the 2017 Ram 5500.
The dominant complaint pattern for the 2017 Ram 5500 centers on the powertrain and related control systems. Owners most frequently report ABS pump failures, describing warning lights for ABS unavailability and disabled four-wheel drive, with several owners noting the hydraulic control unit required replacement. A recurring frustration across these reports is parts availability, multiple owners describe being told by dealers that replacement modules or pumps simply aren't in stock, leaving vehicles unrepaired for extended periods. A separate thread involves the totally integrated power module (TIPM), with owners reporting unexpected engine shutoffs and no-restart conditions traced to that component. Tire and steering complaints also appear, though at lower volume and without a clear repeating symptom pattern. The ABS pump failure issue stands out because several owners report the pump failing more than once on the same vehicle within a few years and low mileage.
19
Total Complaints
2
Fire-Related
By System
The 2017 RAM 5500 has 7 recalls, the most serious being a leaking diesel engine water pump that can allow coolant to contact hot engine components and start an engine compartment fire.
Two separate transmission recalls affect trucks with a column shifter. In one, the shift interlock pin can stick after prolonged brake pedal use, and in the other, the transmission can be shifted without pressing the brake or having a key in the ignition. Both allow the truck to roll away unintended. There is also a wheel stud concern: incorrect torque specifications in the owner's manual can lead to over-tightened lug nuts that crack a wheel stud and allow a wheel to separate from the truck while driving. A software defect can cause the cruise control to maintain or increase vehicle speed even when the driver tries to cancel it. On the braking side, the hydraulic control unit can fail and knock out anti-lock brakes, electronic stability control, and traction control at the same time. Rounding out the list, certain trucks were equipped with Kidde fire extinguishers that may not discharge properly when needed.
At a glance
What can fail
The hydraulic control unit that manages braking systems may fail, disabling anti-lock brakes, electronic stability control, and traction control.
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Complaints are owner-reported and reflect individual experiences, not confirmed defects. They are distinct from recalls. Data sourced from the national vehicle safety complaint database. See trending complaints →
What the fix does
Dealers will replace the hydraulic control unit or its motor at no cost to you.
Summarized — see the official notice for exact wording, dates, and contacts.
At a glance
What can fail
The owner's manual contains incorrect torque specifications for wheel lug nuts. Following these specs can cause over-tightening, which may break wheel studs and lead to wheel separation.
What the fix does
Dealers will correct the torque specifications in the owner's manual and service documents, and inspect and replace wheel studs as needed at no charge.
Summarized — see the official notice for exact wording, dates, and contacts.
At a glance
What can fail
A wiring short circuit can prevent cruise control from disengaging. When engaged, you may not be able to turn it off by braking or using manual controls, causing the vehicle to maintain speed or accelerate unexpectedly.
What the fix does
Dealers will update the engine or powertrain control module software at no cost to fix the cruise control disengagement issue.
Summarized — see the official notice for exact wording, dates, and contacts.
At a glance
What can fail
Holding the brake pedal down for extended periods while the engine is running and the vehicle is in PARK can cause the brake transmission shift interlock pin to stick open. This allows the transmission to shift out of PARK into any gear without pressing the brake pedal or turning on the ignition.
What the fix does
Dealers will update the body control module software, test the shift interlock system, and replace the solenoid if needed.
Summarized — see the official notice for exact wording, dates, and contacts.
At a glance
What can fail
The fire extinguisher may clog and fail to spray, or require excessive force to use. In some models, the nozzle may separate from the valve assembly with enough force to cause injury and make the extinguisher unusable.
What the fix does
Chrysler will provide a replacement fire extinguisher at no cost. Contact Kidde or Chrysler to arrange the replacement.
Summarized — see the official notice for exact wording, dates, and contacts.
At a glance
What can fail
Holding the brake pedal down for extended periods while parked may cause the Brake Transmission Shift Interlock pin to stick open, allowing the transmission to shift out of Park without pressing the brake or turning on the ignition.
What the fix does
Dealers will update the software, inspect the Brake Transmission Shift Interlock, and replace it if needed, at no cost.
Summarized — see the official notice for exact wording, dates, and contacts.
At a glance
What can fail
The water pump may leak coolant because it lacks a vent hole, potentially causing engine overheating.
What the fix does
Dealers will replace the water pump at no cost to restore proper cooling system function.
Summarized — see the official notice for exact wording, dates, and contacts.