2020 Ram 1500 Safety Report
2020 RAM 1500: Strong Crash Ratings, but Numerous Recalls and eTorque-Related Power Loss Complaints Raise Concerns
AI Safety Analysis for the 2020 Ram 1500
Reliability Score
The 2020 Ram 1500 receives a reliability score of 55 out of 100 based on analysis of NHTSA complaint data, recall history, crash reports, and safety ratings. This indicates average reliability — some notable concerns exist that prospective buyers should be aware of.
Known Issues for the 2020 Ram 1500
The following issues have been identified from NHTSA complaint data and owner reports for the 2020 Ram 1500:
| Issue | Severity | Frequency | Typical Mileage |
|---|---|---|---|
| Etorque System Failure Failures of the eTorque system (belt starter generator/48-volt hybrid system) leading to sudden loss of engine power, vehicle stalling, and electrical issues while driving. This is a recurring theme in complaints. |
High | Common | 60000-140000 miles |
| Fueling Issues / Rollover Valve Failure Difficulty fueling the vehicle, with the pump shutting off prematurely or fuel splashing back, often attributed to a faulty rollover valve in the fuel tank. A TSB (14-001-22) exists for this. |
Medium | Common | unknown miles |
| Air Bag Non-Deployment / Warning Light Recalls indicate potential issues with driver's side air bag connection and side curtain airbag diffuser, leading to improper deployment. Owner complaints also mention air bag warning lights. |
High | Occasional | unknown miles |
| High-Pressure Fuel Pump (Hpfp) Failure Failure of the HPFP in 3.0L diesel engines, causing engine stalls. This was subject to recall 22V-767 and some owners report repeat failures even after recall repairs. |
High | Occasional | unknown miles |
| Tailgate Latch Failure Tailgate may not latch properly due to misaligned strikers, potentially opening unexpectedly while driving, leading to cargo loss. Subject to recall. |
Medium | Occasional | unknown miles |
| Rearview Camera Display Failure A radio software error can prevent the rearview image from displaying, reducing visibility and increasing crash risk. Subject to recall. |
Medium | Occasional | unknown miles |
| Rear Sliding Window Leaks Cracks in the plastic frame of the rear sliding window allowing water intrusion into the cabin. |
Low | Occasional | unknown miles |
Common Problems Reported by Owners
Based on NHTSA complaint data, the following components account for the majority of reported issues with the 2020 Ram 1500:
A significant portion of complaints fall into this general category, often encompassing complex electrical or system failures not easily categorized.
Issues include engine stalling, misfires, complete engine failure (e.g., valve breaking), and problems related to the eTorque system's impact on engine operation.
Problems range from general electrical failures, warning lights, loss of power, to specific issues with the media hub and charging system related to eTorque.
Includes issues with rearview mirrors detaching, rearview camera display failures, and general visibility concerns.
Complaints related to steering issues, sometimes linked to power loss affecting power steering.
Encompasses fuel pump failures, fueling difficulties (rollover valve), and other propulsion-related problems.
Issues like tailgate latch failures and water leaks from the rear window.
General power train issues, potentially overlapping with engine and electrical system complaints related to power delivery.
Frequently Asked Questions About the 2020 Ram 1500
Is the 2020 RAM 1500 safe?
The 2020 RAM 1500 received excellent NHTSA crash test ratings, including a 5-star overall rating. However, it has a high number of owner complaints (578 total) and 13 recalls addressing significant safety defects like air bag issues, fuel pump failures, and rearview camera problems. While it performs well in controlled crash tests, the numerous recalls and complaints, particularly concerning sudden power loss due to eTorque system failures, suggest potential reliability and safety concerns in real-world driving.
What are common problems with the 2020 RAM 1500?
The most reported issues for the 2020 RAM 1500 include failures of the eTorque system leading to sudden loss of engine power, fueling difficulties often linked to a faulty rollover valve, and various electrical system malfunctions. Other common problems highlighted by recalls and complaints involve air bag deployment issues, high-pressure fuel pump failures (especially in diesel models), rearview mirror detachment, and tailgate latch problems.
How many recalls does the 2020 RAM 1500 have?
The 2020 RAM 1500 has 13 recalls issued by NHTSA. These recalls address critical safety components such as air bags, rearview mirrors, tailgate latches, fuel pumps, rearview cameras, seat belts, and accelerator pedals.
Are there issues with the eTorque system in the 2020 RAM 1500?
Yes, there are significant and common issues reported with the eTorque system (belt starter generator/48-volt hybrid system) in the 2020 RAM 1500. Numerous complaints describe failures leading to sudden loss of engine power, vehicle stalling, and electrical system malfunctions while driving, posing a high safety risk. Some owners report long backorders for replacement parts.
What are the crash test ratings for the 2020 RAM 1500?
The 2020 RAM 1500 received strong crash test ratings from NHTSA: a 5-star Overall Safety Rating, 4 stars for Frontal Crash, 5 stars for Side Crash, and 4 stars for Rollover.
Buyer Advice
Our recommendation: Given the strong crash test performance but numerous recalls and recurring complaints, particularly regarding eTorque system failures, potential buyers should ensure all 13 recalls have been addressed and consider an extended warranty, especially if purchasing a model with the eTorque system.
NHTSA Data Summary for 2020 Ram 1500
This safety report is based on a comprehensive analysis of data from the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) for the 2020 Ram 1500. The data includes 578 consumer complaints filed by vehicle owners, 13 manufacturer-initiated safety recalls, 23 reported crashes, 6 fire incidents, 14 reported injuries, and 1 fatalities associated with this vehicle.
The NHTSA has assigned the 2020 Ram 1500 an overall safety rating of 5 out of 5 stars, with a frontal crash rating of 4 stars, a side crash rating of 5 stars, and a rollover rating of 4 stars. These ratings are determined through controlled crash testing conducted by the NHTSA.
All data presented in this report is sourced from public NHTSA databases. Our AI analysis identifies patterns across complaint narratives, correlates them with recall history, and produces the safety assessment above. This analysis is updated as new complaints and recalls are filed with the NHTSA.
Consumers are encouraged to report vehicle safety problems to the NHTSA at nhtsa.gov. If your vehicle is subject to a recall, contact your dealer to schedule the free repair.