2020 Ram 5500 problems

General information about Ram-5500
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 2020 Ram 5500 problems

Based on the complaints from owners of the 2020 Ram 5500, several common problems have been reported:

Suspension Issues:
Owners have raised concerns about suspension problems with the Ram 5500. This issue can manifest as vibrations, instability, or discomfort while driving. Suspension issues can impact the overall driving experience and safety of the vehicle.
Vacuum Leaks:
Vacuum leaks in the Ram 5500 can lead to high RPM at idle or surges in engine performance. Over time, vacuum hoses can deteriorate, causing leaks that affect engine efficiency and emissions control. Addressing vacuum leaks promptly is crucial to maintain optimal engine performance.
Aftermarket Items Interference:
Installation of aftermarket accessories like alarms or exhaust systems can sometimes cause electrical issues or drain the battery in the Ram 5500. Poorly installed aftermarket parts may trigger the check engine light or even prevent the vehicle from starting. Ensuring proper installation of aftermarket items is essential to avoid unnecessary damage.
Spark Plug and Wire Problems:
Defective or worn-out spark plugs and plug wires can result in reduced engine performance, starting difficulties, or rough idling in the Ram 5500. These components are vital for igniting the air/fuel mixture in the combustion chamber, affecting the overall efficiency and power output of the engine.
Check Engine Light Concerns:
The check engine light in the Ram 5500 can illuminate due to various issues, ranging from minor concerns like a loose gas cap to more severe problems affecting engine performance. A flashing check engine light indicates a critical issue that requires immediate attention to prevent further damage and ensure safe operation of the vehicle.

These reported problems highlight the importance of regular maintenance, prompt repairs, and attention to warning signs in the 2020 Ram 5500. Addressing these issues promptly can help maintain the vehicle's performance, reliability, and safety on the road.

What is the problem with the 2020 Ram 5500?

Recall summary

The fuel pump may fail and generate debris, which could clog up the whole fuel system. This starves the engine of fuel and causes the truck to stall.

Is the RAM 5500 reliable?

Ram 5500 Reliability Problems. 5500 owners have made 5 complaints over 5 model years. Using our PainRank™ system we've ranked it 1st in overall reliability out of 9 Ram models , with real electrical and wheels concerns.

Is there a recall on Dodge Ram 5500?

The Details. Vehicles recalled: About 306,165 Ram 2500 and 3500 diesel pickup trucks and Ram 3500, 4500, and 5500 diesel cab chassis trucks from the 2021 through 2023 model years. The problem: A heater-grid relay could overheat, increasing the risk of a fire.

What is the recall on Cummins 2020?

Chrysler (FCA US, LLC) is recalling certain 2019-2020 Ram 2500, 3500 pickup trucks, and Ram 3500, 4500, and 5500 cab chassis vehicles equipped with Cummins 6.7L Turbo Diesel engines. The High Pressure Fuel Pump (HPFP) may fail, resulting in a sudden engine stall without warning.

2020 Ram 5500 car problems categorized by type of issue

After analyzing all complaints sent to the NHTSA and researching popular Ram 5500 problems, we found that the most common problems with these 2023 model year vehicles are:

Seat belts problems
Service brakes problems
Hydraulic problems
Unknown or other problems

The graph below shows statistics for all 2020 Ram 5500 vehicle components and the number of complaints received.

2020 Ram 5500 complaints

The NHTSA has received 4 complaints about various vehicle components related to the 2020 Ram 5500.

2023-11-07

SEAT BELTS PROBLEM

Date Of Incident: 2023-10-07
VIN: 3C7WRMDJ9LG
Components: SEAT BELTS
Summary: The contact owns a 2020 Ram 5500. The contact stated that while driving at an undisclosed speed and slamming on the brakes, the front driver's side seat belt failed to retract. The contact stated that the failure had been recurring while driving. The vehicle was taken to an unknown dealer, where the seat belt was inspected, and the contact was informed that the seat belt needed to be replaced. Additionally, the dealer informed the contact that the vehicle could not be repaired free of charge because the warranty had expired. The manufacturer was notified of the failure and made the same assessment. The vehicle was not repaired. The failure mileage was approximately 2,000.

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2023-11-07

SEAT BELTS PROBLEM

Date Of Incident: 2022-05-07
Components: SEAT BELTS
Summary: The contact owns a 2020 Ram 5500. The contact stated that while driving and slamming on the brakes, the front driver's side seat belt failed to retract. The contact stated that the failure had been recurring while driving. The vehicle was taken to an unknown dealer, where the seat belt was inspected, and the contact was informed that the seat belt needed to be replaced. Additionally, the dealer informed the contact that the vehicle could not be repaired free of charge because the warranty had expired. The manufacturer was notified of the failure and made the same assessment. The vehicle was not repaired. The failure mileage was approximately 25,000. The VIN was unavailable.

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2023-09-06

SERVICE BRAKES, HYDRAULIC PROBLEM

Date Of Incident: 2023-07-15
VIN: 3C7WRNFL1LG
Components: SERVICE BRAKES, HYDRAULIC
Summary: The contact owns a 2020 Ram 5500. The contact received notification of NHTSA Campaign Number: 22V759000 (Service Brakes, Hydraulics). The contact stated that while driving at an undisclosed speed and towing a trailer, while attempting to stop the vehicle, the contact noticed that the vehicle failed to stop within a reasonable amount of time. The contact stated that the vehicle had lost proper braking functionality. Several unknown warning lights were illuminated. The vehicle was not taken to the dealer or an independent mechanic. The vehicle was not repaired. The manufacturer was notified of the failure, and a case was opened. The failure mileage was 150,000.

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2021-07-15

UNKNOWN OR OTHER PROBLEM

Date Of Incident: 2021-07-15
Fire: 1
VIN: 3C7WRNAL3LG
Components: UNKNOWN OR OTHER
Summary: 2020 DODGE RAM 5500. CONSUMER WRITES IN REGARDS TO Y26 STUDS SAFETY RECALL. CONSUMER WOULD LIKE TO KNOW WHEN PARTS WILL BE AVAILABLE TO PERFORM THIS RECALL. THE CONSUMER STATED THE VEHICLE HAD AN EXHAUST FIRE. THE VEHICLE SMOKED FOR 20 MINUTES. * (RECALL RELATED INCIDENT) TS

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2020 Ram 5500 recalls

The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) has issued 10 recalls for different components of the 2020 Ram 5500.

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.

2022-01-27

Manufacturer: Chrysler (FCA US, LLC)
Components: VISIBILITY:WINDSHIELD WIPER/WASHER:LINKAGES
Summary: Chrysler (FCA US, LLC) is recalling certain 2019-2020 Ram 2500 and Ram 3500 vehicles, Ram 3500 Cab Chassis, 4500 Cab Chassis, 5500 Cab Chassis and 3500 Cab Chassis with a gross vehicle weight rating (GVWR) of less than 10,000 lbs. The windshield wiper arms may loosen, possibly causing the wipers to function improperly and reduce the driver's visibility in certain weather conditions.
Consequence: Reduced visibility increases the risk of a crash.
Remedy: Dealers will tighten the wiper nuts, free of charge. Owner notification letters were mailed February 15, 2022. This recall is an expansion of recall number 20V-208. Owners may contact FCA US, LLC customer service at 1-800-853-1403. FCA US, LLC's number for this recall is Z08.

2021-11-12

Manufacturer: Chrysler (FCA US, LLC)
Components: FUEL SYSTEM, DIESEL:DELIVERY:FUEL PUMP
Summary: Chrysler (FCA US, LLC) is recalling certain 2019-2020 Ram 2500, 3500 pickup trucks, and Ram 3500, 4500, and 5500 cab chassis vehicles equipped with Cummins 6.7L Turbo Diesel engines. The High Pressure Fuel Pump (HPFP) may fail, resulting in a sudden engine stall without warning.
Consequence: An engine stall increases the risk of a crash.
Remedy: Dealers will replace the HPFP, update the Powertrain Control Module (PCM) software, and inspect and replace additional fuel system components as necessary, free of charge. Interim owner notification letters to inform owners of the safety recall were mailed on January 4, 2022. Owner notification letters were mailed on May 17, 2022. Phase 2 owner notification letters are expected to be mailed on March 2, 2023. Owners may contact FCA US, LLC customer service at 1-800-853-1403. FCA US, LLC's number for this recall is Y78.

2021-06-10

Manufacturer: Chrysler (FCA US, LLC)
Components: ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING:ENGINE:OIL/LUBRICATION
Summary: Chrysler (FCA US, LLC) is recalling certain 2019-2020 Ram 3500, 4500, and 5500 cab chassis vehicles equipped with a Cummins 6.7L High Output engine. The engine calibration software may not warn about low oil volume.
Consequence: Low oil can damage the engine, causing an oil leak or a punctured engine block, increasing the risk of a fire.
Remedy: Dealers will update the engine calibration software, free of charge. Owner notification letters were mailed June 25, 2021. Owners may contact FCA US LLC customer service at 1-800-853-1403. FCA US LLC's number for this recall is Y21.

2021-05-27

Manufacturer: Chrysler (FCA US, LLC)
Components: WHEELS:LUGS/NUTS/BOLTS/STUDS
Summary: Chrysler (FCA US, LLC) is recalling certain 2012-2021 RAM 3500, 3500 Cab Chassis, 4500 Cab Chassis, and 5500 Cab Chassis vehicles. Incorrect information in the Service and Owner's Manuals may cause the flanged lug nuts to be over-tightened, which could result in a broken wheel stud and possible wheel separation.
Consequence: Wheel separation can cause a vehicle crash.
Remedy: Dealers will update the torque specification in the owner's manual and other published service documents. Dealers will also inspect the vehicle's wheel studs, replacing them if necessary, free of charge. Owner notification letters were mailed on November 30, 2021. Campaign Y36 owner notification letters were mailed on November 30, 2021. Campaign Y26 owner notification letters were mailed on December 1, 2021. Owners may contact FCA US customer service at 1-800-853-1403. FCA US's numbers for this recall are Y26 and Y36.

2021-01-26

Manufacturer: Excellance, Inc
Components: SERVICE BRAKES, HYDRAULIC:FOUNDATION COMPONENTS:HOSES, LINES/PIPING, AND FITTINGS
Summary: Excellance, Inc (Excellance) is recalling certain 2019-2020 Excellance-modified RAM 4500/5500 vehicles to be equipped with CLASS Suspension Systems. In the affected suspension systems, the rear brake caliper flexible line may have been routed so that it contacts a suspension component, possibly causing excessive wear and a loss of rear brakes.
Consequence: A worn rear brake caliper flexible line may cause brake fluid leakage which may result in a partial or complete loss of the rear brakes, increasing the risk of a crash.
Remedy: Excellance will notify owners, and dealers will install a kit to remedy any damage and to prevent any future damage, free of charge. The manufacturer has not yet provided a schedule for recall notification. Owners may contact Excellance customer service at 1-800-882-9799.

2021-01-20

Manufacturer: Custom Truck And Body Works
Components: SUSPENSION:REAR
Summary: Custom Truck And Body Works is recalling certain 2020 Dodge 4500 and 5500 vehicles. In the affected suspension systems, the rear brake caliper flexible line may have been routed so that it contacts a suspension component, possibly causing excessive wear and a loss of rear brakes.
Consequence: A worn rear brake caliper flexible line may cause brake fluid leakage, which may result in a partial or complete loss of the rear brakes, increasing the risk of a crash.
Remedy: Custom Truck And Body Works will notify owners, and dealers will repair the affected suspension systems, and rear brake caliper flexible line, free of charge. Owners may contact Custom Truck And Body Works customer service at 1-706-553-9178. Custom Truck And Body Works number for this recall is 20E-031.

2021-01-13

Manufacturer: Braun Northwest
Components: SERVICE BRAKES, HYDRAULIC:POWER ASSIST:VACUUM:HOSES, LINES/PIPING, AND FITTINGS
Summary: Braun Northwest (Braun Northwest) is recalling certain 2019-2020 RAM 4500/5500 vehicles equipped with Liquid Spring rear suspension systems. In the affected suspension systems, the rear brake caliper flexible line may have been routed so that it contacts a suspension component, possibly causing excessive wear and a loss of rear brakes.
Consequence: A worn rear brake line may leak fluid, resulting in a partial or complete loss of the rear brakes, increasing the risk of a crash.
Remedy: Braun Northwest will notify owners, and dealers will install a repair kit to each rear caliper and modify the rear brake caliper flexible line mounting. Any worn rear brake caliper flexible lines will be replaced as needed, free of charge. The recall began June 8, 2020. Owners may contact Braun Northwest customer service at 1-360-748-0195.

2020-08-27

Manufacturer: Chrysler (FCA US LLC)
Components: ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING:ENGINE:OIL/LUBRICATION
Summary: Chrysler (FCA US LLC) is recalling certain 2019-2020 Ram 3500, 4500 and 5500 cab chassis built with a Cummins 6.7L High Output engine. Inadequate warmup protection can cause a lack of oil film on the engine connecting rod bearings while the engine is reaching operating temperature. This can result in engine damage and connecting rod failure, which could potentially puncture the engine block.
Consequence: A damaged engine block may leak oil, which can contact hot engine or exhaust components, increasing the risk of a fire.
Remedy: Chrysler will notify owners, and dealers will flash the engine calibration software to enhance the engine warm up protection, free of charge. The recall began September 10, 2020. Owners may contact Chrysler customer service at 1-800-853-1403. Chrysler's number for this recall is W57.

2020-05-13

Manufacturer: LiquidSpring LLC
Components: SUSPENSION:REAR
Summary: LiquidSpring LLC (LiquidSpring) is recalling certain Compressible Liquid Adaptive Suspension Systems (C.L.A.S.S.), part numbers DS135RS3A, DS135RS3AF, DS135RS3-DM, sold for use with 2019-2020 RAM 4500 and 5500 vehicles. In the affected suspension systems, the rear brake caliper flexible line may have been routed so that it contacts a suspension component, possibly causing excessive wear and a loss of rear brakes. As such, these parts fail to comply with Federal Motor Vehicle Safety Standard (FMVSS) number 105, "Hydraulic and Electric Brake Systems."
Consequence: A worn rear brake caliper flexible line may cause brake fluid leakage which may result in a partial or complete loss of the rear brakes, increasing the risk of a crash.
Remedy: LiquidSpring has notified the purchasers, and the affected vehicle manufacturers will file recalls to have their dealers inspect the rear brake caliper flexible lines for wear and install a kit to modify the rear brake caliper flexible line mounting, and if necessary, a kit to replace worn brake lines, free of charge. The recall May 13, 2020. Owners may contact LiquidSpring customer service at 1-765-474-7816, extension 1.

Additional sources

More sources of information about 2020 Ram 5500 problems:

Q&A: Common 2020 Ram 3500 Issues - P0299 Code, DPF Filter ...

https://www.justanswer.com/car/iprqr-issues-truck-2020-ram-3500.html

Feb 11, 2022 ... This will not set a p0299, Underboost fault means that the ECM detected less air pressure on the charge air pressure side than what the turbo ...

people who have bought the ram 5500, how is the truck doing? : r ...

https://www.reddit.com/r/whatcarshouldIbuy/comments/kix9tg/people_who_have_bought_the_ram_5500_how_is_the/

Dec 23, 2020 ... The transmission/transfer case explosion was a bit odd, as it was driving fine and heard a explosion, then every light in the dash went off. It ...