2021 Ram 1500 Safety Report
2021 RAM 1500: Strong Crash Test Scores Mask Numerous Recalls and Engine/Electrical Complaints
AI Safety Analysis for the 2021 Ram 1500
Reliability Score
The 2021 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 2021 Ram 1500
The following issues have been identified from NHTSA complaint data and owner reports for the 2021 Ram 1500:
| Issue | Severity | Frequency | Typical Mileage |
|---|---|---|---|
| Airbag Non-Deployment Multiple recalls and complaints indicate driver's side, frontal, and side curtain airbags may not deploy as intended in a crash, increasing injury risk. |
High | Occasional | all miles |
| Engine Stall/Failure (Etorque, Oil Pressure, Fuel Pump) Complaints and recalls point to engine stalls due to powertrain control module software, high-pressure fuel pump failure, and issues like low oil pressure leading to catastrophic engine damage. |
High | Common | 30000-60000 miles |
| Electrical System Failures (Alternator, Battery, Wiring) Frequent complaints about alternator failure (with long backorders), battery drain, and wiring shorts affecting lights. |
Medium | Common | 20000-50000 miles |
| Electronic Stability Control (Esc) Disablement A recall indicates a software malfunction in the ABS control module can disable the ESC system, increasing crash risk. |
High | Occasional | all miles |
| Rearview Camera/Display Malfunction Multiple recalls address software errors preventing the rearview image from displaying, reducing driver visibility. |
Medium | Occasional | all miles |
| Power Steering Failure Complaints describe sudden loss of power steering, making the vehicle difficult to control. |
High | Occasional | 80000-90000 miles |
| Tailgate Latch Malfunction A recall indicates misaligned tailgate strikers can cause the tailgate to open unexpectedly, leading to cargo loss and road hazards. |
Medium | Occasional | all miles |
| Exhaust Leaks Into Cabin Complaints describe exhaust manifold cracks leading to fumes entering the cabin, posing a health hazard. |
Medium | Occasional | 40000-70000 miles |
Common Problems Reported by Owners
Based on NHTSA complaint data, the following components account for the majority of reported issues with the 2021 Ram 1500:
Frequent reports of engine stalls, low oil pressure, lifter failures, and eTorque system malfunctions.
Common issues include alternator failures, battery drain, and wiring problems affecting lights and other components.
Problems related to automatic transmission control modules, engine stalls, and eTorque generator failures.
Multiple recalls and complaints regarding airbags failing to deploy in crashes.
Issues with high-pressure fuel pump failure leading to engine stalls.
Reports of sudden loss of power steering.
Recall for ABS control module disabling electronic stability control.
Recalls for rearview camera display malfunctions.
Complaints about shattered rear windows, water leaks, and tailgate latch issues.
Frequently Asked Questions About the 2021 Ram 1500
Is the 2021 RAM 1500 safe?
Based on NHTSA data, the 2021 RAM 1500 received excellent crash test ratings (5-star overall). However, it has 14 recalls and 625 complaints, including 25 crashes and 24 injuries, indicating significant real-world safety and reliability concerns, particularly with airbags, engine, and electrical systems.
What are common problems with the 2021 RAM 1500?
The most reported issues are related to the ENGINE (78 complaints), ELECTRICAL SYSTEM (42 complaints), and POWER TRAIN (41 complaints). Specific common problems include engine stalls, alternator failures, airbag non-deployment, and issues with the electronic stability control system.
How many recalls does the 2021 RAM 1500 have?
The 2021 RAM 1500 has 14 recalls issued by NHTSA. These recalls address critical components such as airbags, ABS/ESC, powertrain control modules, rearview cameras, and tailgates.
Are there airbag issues with the 2021 RAM 1500?
Yes, there are significant airbag issues. Multiple recalls (e.g., for frontal, driver's side, and side curtain airbags) and complaints indicate that airbags may not deploy as intended in a crash, increasing the risk of injury.
Does the 2021 RAM 1500 have engine problems?
Yes, engine problems are a common concern. There are 78 complaints related to the engine, including reports of stalls, low oil pressure, lifter failures, and issues with the eTorque system. A recall also addresses powertrain control module software that can cause engine stalls.
Buyer Advice
Our recommendation: Given the high number of recalls and complaints, particularly concerning critical safety and powertrain components, potential buyers should thoroughly investigate the vehicle's service history to ensure all 14 recalls have been addressed and be prepared for potential engine or electrical issues.
NHTSA Data Summary for 2021 Ram 1500
This safety report is based on a comprehensive analysis of data from the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) for the 2021 Ram 1500. The data includes 625 consumer complaints filed by vehicle owners, 14 manufacturer-initiated safety recalls, 25 reported crashes, 3 fire incidents, 24 reported injuries, and safety rating assessments associated with this vehicle.
The NHTSA has assigned the 2021 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.