Ram 5500 problems

General information about Ram 5500
Ram 5500 years list
Overview of popular issues
Analysis of common problems
Сomplaints list
Recalls list

The Ram Heavy Duty (also known as the Ram HD) is the 4.5 generation of the Ram Pickup, a series of heavy-duty pickup trucks produced by the Ram Trucks division of Stellantis. Slotted above the Ram 1500, the Heavy Duty trucks range from the Ram 2500 to the Ram 5500. The Ram 2500 and Ram 3500 are offered as pickup trucks, while the Ram 3500 through Ram 5500 are offered as chassis cabs.

Introduced in January 2019 at the North American International Auto Show in Detroit, Michigan, the current Ram Heavy Duty trucks are based on the Ram 1500 (DT). Ram Heavy-Duty models are produced at Saltillo Truck Assembly in Saltillo, Mexico.

Cab configurations

The Ram Heavy Duty is available in three different configurations: a two-door regular cab with a long bed, a four-door crew cab with either a standard bed or a long bed, or a four-door Mega Cab (a crew cab extended by 11.1 in (280 mm) allowing the rear seats to recline or offering more in-cab storage) with a standard bed.

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Common Ram 5500 problems

The Ram 5500 has been reported to have several common problems based on complaints from owners. Here are some of the issues:

Transmission Problems: Some Ram 5500 owners have reported issues with the transmission, including violent wobbling and faulty shifting. These problems can be caused by various factors, such as worn-out transmission components or issues with the vehicle's software.

Faulty Airbags: There have been reports of defective airbags in Ram 5500 vehicles, which can pose a significant safety risk to occupants. This issue has been linked to the Takata airbag recall, which affected millions of vehicles across various makes and models.

Electrical System Failure: Some Ram 5500 owners have reported issues with the electrical system, including engine control module (ECM) flash failure and diagnostic trouble codes. These issues can be caused by various factors, such as faulty wiring or software glitches.

Engine Oil Leak/Consumption: There have been reports of engine oil leak/consumption in Ram 5500 vehicles, which can be caused by various factors, such as worn-out engine components or issues with the vehicle's software.

Windshield Cracks: Some Ram 5500 owners have reported issues with the windshield, including cracks or blemishes. This issue can be caused by various factors, such as debris on the road or manufacturing defects.

Front End Alignment Issue: Some Ram 5500 owners have reported issues with the front end alignment, which can be caused by various factors, such as worn-out suspension components or issues with the vehicle's software.

These issues can be caused by various factors, such as manufacturing defects, wear and tear, or software glitches. If you own a Ram 5500 and are experiencing any of these issues, it is recommended that you contact your local dealership or authorized service center for further assistance.

What is the recall on the Dodge Ram 5500?

Ram Recalls 2021-2023 2500, 3500, 4500 and 5500

An electrical short in the relay can result in an engine compartment fire with the ignition on or off, increasing the risk of injury. Owners are advised to park outside and away from structures until the recall repair is complete.

What year 6.7 Cummins to avoid?

We recommend staying away from the 1991, 1992, 1993, 1999, 2001, 2003, 2006, 2007, 2008, and 2011 models. Many issues stem from these years. A few of the common appear in the format of transmission failure, charging system troubles, and electrical issues. These can be costly to handle and inconvenient for any driver.

What is the life expectancy of a 6.7 Cummins engine?

As a short answer, a 6.7L Cummins loaded in a Dodge Ram will last between 250,000 and 350,000 miles. Cummins engines last a long time. This diesel engine is highly reliable and has high levels of output. A 5.9 liter Cummins engine can go on for about 300,000 to 400,000 miles.

What years to avoid for the 5.7 hemi?

The worst years

While the 5.7L HEMI is a powerful and reliable motor, it isn't free from bugs. A few model years, in particular, have proven more problematic than others. Model years 2011 and 2012 stand out when it comes to bad years for the 5.7L HEMI, with 2012 being an especially lousy period for Ram pickups.

Percentage distribution of complaints by Ram 5500 years

We have researched Ram problems and analysed all the complaints filed against Ram 5500 cars and compiled the top 5 most problematic Ram 5500 model years:

Below you can see the percentage distribution of known problems by Ram 5500 model years.

Distribution of the number of complaints by Ram 5500 years

We've also compiled a chart for you with the number of complaints about Volkswagen Jetta cars of certain model years:

Ram 5500 car problems categorized by type of issue

After analysing all complaints related to Ram 5500 , it was concluded that the most common issues with these cars are:

Power train problems
Steering problems
Electrical system problems
Wheels problems
Engine problems

The graph below shows statistics for all Ram 5500 vehicle components and the number of complaints received.

Distribution of the number of complaints where the accident occurred by 5500 model years

A total of 7 complaints were registered in which the accident occurred. In the graph you can see the distribution of the number of complaints by model year.

Distribution of the number of complaints with fire by 5500 model years

There were a total of 15 complaints that resulted in a fire. In the graph you can see the distribution of the number of complaints by model year.

Distribution of the number of complaints with injuries by 5500 model years

There were a total of 6 complaints that resulted in a injuries. In the graph you can see the distribution of the number of complaints by model year.

The NHTSA has received 180 complaints about various vehicle components related to the Ram 5500 . Below are the 25 most recent complaints reported for Ram 5500 vehicles.

Latest 25 complaints

Ram 5500 2022

Date Of Incident: 2024-10-07
Date Complaint: 2024-10-17
VIN: 3C7WRMCJ8NG
Components: POWER TRAIN
Summary: The contact owns a 2022 Ram 5500. The contact stated while driving at approximately 40 MPH, the vehicle was losing forward momentum. The contact stated that the check engine warning light was illuminated. The contact depressed the accelerator pedal and the engine was revving but the vehicle was not gaining any forward momentum. The contact pulled the vehicle over and turned the vehicle off and on, however, when the contact had shifted the vehicle into drive (D) the vehicle was not moving. The contact determined that he only had reverse (R) gear functioning. The contact had checked online and read that he would be able to manually shift to 5th gear. The contact was able to return to his workplace and had the vehicle towed to a local dealer. The vehicle was diagnosed and it was determined that the transmission needed to be replaced. The vehicle was not repaired. The contact had researched online and related the failure to NHTSA Action Number: PE24009 (Power Train). The manufacturer was not informed of the failure. The failure mileage was approximately 105,000.

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Ram 5500 2017

Date Of Incident: 2022-07-22
Date Complaint: 2024-08-20
VIN: 3C7WRNAL9HG
Components: SERVICE BRAKES
Summary: ABS Pump Faulty and needed replacement at 10, 866 miles in 2022 when vehicle was just 5 years old. Cost at this time was $1459. Now just 2 years later and only 3000 additional miles ABS Pump is again faulty and unable to replace but no module is available at this time.

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Ram 5500 2015

Date Of Incident: 2024-04-26
Date Complaint: 2024-08-16
VIN: 3C7WRNBL0FG
Components: WHEELS
Summary: While traveling on a highway at speeds in excess of 50mph the 2015 Ram 5500 lost the rear set of dual tires on the passenger side. The wheels came off after all 10-wheel studs failed and broke off. This is the second incident on this same truck despite going through the warranty process and procedures through Stellantis/Ram. No incident or injuries resulted from the failure.

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Ram 5500 2017

Date Of Incident: 2024-04-01
Date Complaint: 2024-08-06
VIN: 3C7WRNDJ9HG
Components: ELECTRICAL SYSTEM,ENGINE
Summary: The contact owns a 2017 Ram 5500. The contact stated that on several occasions while turned on the vehicle shut off and would not restart. The contact stated that the fuel fuse was replaced at the residence by an independent mechanic but the failure reoccurred. The vehicle was taken to a dealer where it was diagnosed that the TIPM needed to be replaced. The vehicle was not repaired. The manufacturer was not notified of the failure. The failure mileage was approximately 85,000.

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Ram 5500 2022

Date Of Incident: 2024-06-18
Date Complaint: 2024-07-31
VIN: 3C7WRNBLXNG
Components: POWER TRAIN
Summary: The contact owns a 2022 Ram 5500. The contact stated while driving 50–55 MPH, the vehicle lost motive power due to the transmission failure. There were no warning lights illuminated. The vehicle was towed to the local dealer but was not diagnosed or repaired. The vehicle was towed to another local dealer, Speck Chrysler Jeep Dodge Ram (125 E Allen Rd., Sunnyside, WA 98944), where it was diagnosed that the snap ring was fractured. The vehicle was not repaired. The manufacturer was contacted and referred the contact to the local dealer for assistance. The failure mileage was approximately 8,000.

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Ram 5500 2018

Date Of Incident: 2024-06-21
Date Complaint: 2024-06-28
VIN: 3C7WRNEL9JG
Components: SERVICE BRAKES, HYDRAULIC
Summary: The contact owns a 2018 Ram 5500. The contact stated that while driving at various speeds, the ABS and Traction Control Service warning lights illuminated. Additionally, the contact stated that the cruise control failed to operate once the warning lights were illuminated. The vehicle was taken to an independent mechanic where it was diagnosed with a defective ABS module. The contact was informed that the ABS module needed to be replaced. The mechanic called an unstated dealer and was informed that parts for the repair were unavailable and that there was no ETA on when parts would be available. The manufacturer was not notified of the failure. The failure mileage was approximately 93,000.

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Ram 5500 2018

Date Of Incident: 2024-06-04
Date Complaint: 2024-06-12
VIN: 3C7WRNDL9JG
Components: SERVICE BRAKES
Summary: The ABS module has failed. This has caused the service ABS light to come one, the service electronic braking system to come one, and the service electronic throttle control light to come on. The module according to Chrysler is part number 68347099AC which is unavailable at any dealer in the country. We have called many dealers and they have searched for the part to no avail. We have contact Mopar corporate and they told us there is no update on this part. We feel that operating the vehicle is unsafe but we don't know what to do without the part. Chrysler has offered no assistance. I have attached photos of the check engine lights as well as a photo from the scan tool showing the failure of the module - it cannot communicate.

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Ram 5500 2018

Date Of Incident: 2021-06-12
Date Complaint: 2024-05-23
VIN: 3C7WRMDL2JG
Components: SERVICE BRAKES, HYDRAULIC
Summary: The contact owns a 2018 Ram 5500. The contact stated that on several occasions while driving 60 MPH with the cruise control activated, the ABS warning light and the Traction Control Service message was displayed with an audible pinging sound intermittently. Additionally, after the message and audible ping, the cruise control message was displayed. The vehicle was taken to a dealer where it was diagnosed that the ABS/HCU module needed to be replaced. The vehicle was repaired but the failure reoccurred. The manufacturer was notified of the failure. The failure mileage was 11,870. The contact stated the dashboard alarm (ping) alerting the driver of loss of traction control on the dashboard pinged no less than 300 times in the 1168 mile trip.

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Ram 5500 2019

Date Of Incident: 2024-05-21
Date Complaint: 2024-05-21
VIN: 3C7WRNDL3KG
Components: TIRES
Summary: The contact owns a 2019 Ram 5500. The contact stated that while one of his drivers was driving at an undisclosed speed, the tire tread detached and began to roll down the highway. The driver pulled over to the side of the road. There was no warning light illuminated. There was no injury sustained; however, the driver missed a week of work due to the traumatic experience from the failure. The vehicle was towed to the dealer where the diagnostic test was undisclosed; however, the wheel studs were replaced. The contact was concerned about the safety hazard presented with the failure. The vehicle was repaired. The manufacturer was notified of the failure. The failure mileage was unknown.

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Ram 5500 2022

Date Of Incident: 2024-01-24
Date Complaint: 2024-05-09
VIN: 3C7WRNBL8NG
Components: POWER TRAIN
Summary: The transmission failed at approximately 3000 miles. Reverse was the only gear to function properly. The truck has been at the dealership for over 2 months and they have not fixed it yet.

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Ram 5500 2022

Date Of Incident: 2023-01-10
Date Complaint: 2024-04-11
VIN: 3C7WRNBL4NG
Components: POWER TRAIN
Summary: K1 snap ring failure

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Ram 5500 2022

Date Of Incident: 2024-01-29
Date Complaint: 2024-03-11
VIN: 3C7WRNBL1NG
Components: WHEELS
Summary: This is a 2022 Dodge Ram 5500. The wheel studs broke off while driving on the interstate, and the dually tires came off. This is a major safety issue and the driver had a narrow escape. This same issue persisted through the 2012-2021 model years and RAM had a recall (Y26) for those years. I do not believe the issue has been fixed for the 2022 model year. When I asked RAM for reimbursement for the replacement studs and labor, they turned it down saying my model year was not on the list I am looking to escalate this matter before someone else gets impacted by this issue.

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Ram 5500 2018

Date Of Incident: 2024-02-05
Date Complaint: 2024-02-05
VIN: 3C7WRNDLXJG
Components: ELECTRICAL SYSTEM,VEHICLE SPEED CONTROL
Summary: The ABS/HCU module has experienced a premature failure which is a huge safety risk as it controls my vehicles' Anti-lock Braking System, Traction Control & Cruise Control systems. Since experiencing this failure, my vehicle has had numerous safety incidents where Braking would lockup, traction with the roadway is lost etc. Please initiate a recall for this issue for these generation of trucks so this safety issue can be addressed.

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Ram 5500 2014

Date Of Incident: 2024-01-11
Date Complaint: 2024-01-11
Crash: 1
VIN: 3C7WRNDL9EG
Components: SUSPENSION,WHEELS
Summary: Took the truck to the ram dealership to get the recall for the rear wheel studs replaced they did the job a few days later the wheel almost came off on the freeway. The mechanic didn’t tighten the lug nuts we caught it just in time before something bad happened. That was 12/11/2023. We took it back to the dealership and they supposedly fixed it.exactly a month later and only 1500 miles on the freeway the wheels came off on the same side the studs were replaced. Tires flew off at 65mph and it hit 2 semi trucks luckily no small cars. Or it would have been tragic

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Ram 5500 2022

Date Of Incident: 2023-12-08
Date Complaint: 2023-12-09
VIN: 3C7WRNFL3NG
Components: POWER TRAIN
Summary: Truck has 6500 miles, went to put it in reverse from drive in busy intersection and transmission started to slip. Truck ultimately wouldn't drive at all. Started throwing codes (P0731-00 in particular) and found out that it needs a new K1 clutch snap ring repair. There are more than 300 people with this issue, this has not only happened with me from my research on forums about this code being thrown. This is a 2022 with 6500 miles, there are too low of miles on this truck for it to be having a problem like this!

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Latest 5 recalls Ram 5500

The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) has issued 87 recalls for different components of the Ram 5500.You can explore the year of the Volkswagen Jetta you are interested in by selecting it from the list.

Model: Ram 5500 2021
Report Received Date: 2023-02-09
Manufacturer: Chrysler (FCA US, LLC)
Park Out Side: 1
Park Out Side: 1
Components: ELECTRICAL SYSTEM:WIRING:RELAYS/SOLENOIDS
Summary: Chrysler (FCA US, LLC) is recalling certain 2021-2023 Ram 2500, 3500, 3500 Cab Chassis, and 4500, 5500 Cab Chassis vehicles equipped with a Cummins 6.7L Turbo Diesel engine. An electrical short may occur in the heater grid relay with the ignition on or off.
Consequence: An electrical short in the relay can result in an engine compartment fire with the ignition on or off, increasing the risk of injury.
Remedy: Owners are advised to park outside and away from structures until the recall repair is complete. Dealers will replace the relay, free of charge. This will be a Phased campaign. Phase 1 will include 2023 model year vehicles. FCA US will notify dealers on or about 3/23/2023 and begin notifying owners on or about 4/5/2023. Phase 2 will include 2022 model year vehicles and Phase 3 will include 2021 model year vehicles. FCA US will notify dealers and owners on or about 4/27/2023 for Phase 2 and 5/11/2023 for Phase 3. Interim owner notification letters informing owners of the safety risk were mailed March 28, 2023. Owner notification letters are expected to be mailed April 5, 2023. Owners may contact FCA US, LLC customer service at 1-800-853-1403. FCA US, LLC's number for this recall is 13A. This recall is an expansion of and supersedes recall number 21V-798.

Model: Ram 5500 2022
Report Received Date: 2023-02-09
Manufacturer: Chrysler (FCA US, LLC)
Park Out Side: 1
Park Out Side: 1
Components: ELECTRICAL SYSTEM:WIRING:RELAYS/SOLENOIDS
Summary: Chrysler (FCA US, LLC) is recalling certain 2021-2023 Ram 2500, 3500, 3500 Cab Chassis, and 4500, 5500 Cab Chassis vehicles equipped with a Cummins 6.7L Turbo Diesel engine. An electrical short may occur in the heater grid relay with the ignition on or off.
Consequence: An electrical short in the relay can result in an engine compartment fire with the ignition on or off, increasing the risk of injury.
Remedy: Owners are advised to park outside and away from structures until the recall repair is complete. Dealers will replace the relay, free of charge. This will be a Phased campaign. Phase 1 will include 2023 model year vehicles. FCA US will notify dealers on or about 3/23/2023 and begin notifying owners on or about 4/5/2023. Phase 2 will include 2022 model year vehicles and Phase 3 will include 2021 model year vehicles. FCA US will notify dealers and owners on or about 4/27/2023 for Phase 2 and 5/11/2023 for Phase 3. Interim owner notification letters informing owners of the safety risk were mailed March 28, 2023. Owner notification letters are expected to be mailed April 5, 2023. Owners may contact FCA US, LLC customer service at 1-800-853-1403. FCA US, LLC's number for this recall is 13A. This recall is an expansion of and supersedes recall number 21V-798.

Model: Ram 5500 2019
Report Received Date: 2022-10-11
Manufacturer: Chrysler (FCA US, LLC)
Components: SERVICE BRAKES, HYDRAULIC:FOUNDATION COMPONENTS:HOSES, LINES/PIPING, AND FITTINGS
Summary: Chrysler (FCA US, LLC) is recalling certain 2019-2020 Ram 4500 and 5500 Cab Chassis vehicles. The rear brake hose inside diameter may be too small, which could cause the hose to rupture. As such, these vehicles fail to comply with the requirements of Federal Motor Vehicle Safety Standard number 106, "Brake Hoses."
Consequence: A brake hose rupture can cause a loss of braking ability, increasing the risk of a crash.
Remedy: Dealers will replace the rear brake hoses, free of charge. Owner notification letters were mailed April 27, 2023. Owners may contact FCA US, LLC customer service at 1-800-853-1403. FCA US, LLC's number for this recall is ZA5.

Model: Ram 5500 2020
Report Received Date: 2022-10-11
Manufacturer: Chrysler (FCA US, LLC)
Components: SERVICE BRAKES, HYDRAULIC:FOUNDATION COMPONENTS:HOSES, LINES/PIPING, AND FITTINGS
Summary: Chrysler (FCA US, LLC) is recalling certain 2019-2020 Ram 4500 and 5500 Cab Chassis vehicles. The rear brake hose inside diameter may be too small, which could cause the hose to rupture. As such, these vehicles fail to comply with the requirements of Federal Motor Vehicle Safety Standard number 106, "Brake Hoses."
Consequence: A brake hose rupture can cause a loss of braking ability, increasing the risk of a crash.
Remedy: Dealers will replace the rear brake hoses, free of charge. Owner notification letters were mailed April 27, 2023. Owners may contact FCA US, LLC customer service at 1-800-853-1403. FCA US, LLC's number for this recall is ZA5.

Model: Ram 5500 2022
Report Received Date: 2022-08-26
Manufacturer: Chrysler (FCA US, LLC)
Components: ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING:ENGINE:ENGINE CONTROL MODULE (ECU/ECM)
Summary: Chrysler (FCA US, LLC) is recalling certain 2022 Ram 3500, 3500 Cab Chassis, Ram 2500, and 4500 and 5500 Cab Chassis vehicles equipped with Cummins 6.7L turbo diesel engines. The engine control module (ECM) may have been built with a misaligned capacitor that can short-circuit, resulting in an internal loss of communication.
Consequence: An internal loss of communication can result in a loss of drive power, increasing the risk of a crash.
Remedy: Dealers will replace the ECM, free of charge. Owner notification letters were mailed October 20, 2022. Owners may contact FCA US, LLC customer service at 1-800-853-1403. FCA US, LLC's number for this recall is Z87.