2015 Ram 2500 Safety Report
2015 RAM 2500: Numerous Recalls and Steering/Powertrain Complaints Raise Safety Concerns
AI Safety Analysis for the 2015 Ram 2500
Reliability Score
The 2015 Ram 2500 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 2015 Ram 2500
The following issues have been identified from NHTSA complaint data and owner reports for the 2015 Ram 2500:
| Issue | Severity | Frequency | Typical Mileage |
|---|---|---|---|
| Steering Linkage Separation/Loosening Outboard steering linkage jam nut may loosen or drag link may separate, leading to loss of steering control. Multiple recalls (e.g., 19V021000, 18V332000) address this. |
High | Common | unknown miles |
| Airbag Inflator Rupture Side/window curtain airbag inflator end cap or inflator may rupture, propelling components into the cabin (NHTSA 20V023000). |
High | Occasional | unknown miles |
| Tailgate Latch Failure Power locking tailgate may open unexpectedly while driving, causing cargo to fall out and creating a road hazard (NHTSA 19V811000, 17V741000). |
Medium | Occasional | unknown miles |
| Cruise Control Malfunction Vehicle may maintain or accelerate speed despite attempts to deactivate cruise control, increasing crash risk (NHTSA 18V332000). |
High | Occasional | unknown miles |
| Engine Compartment Fire Risk (Diesel) Leaking water pump in Cummins 6.7L Turbo Diesel engines can increase the risk of an engine compartment fire (NHTSA 17V541000). |
High | Rare | unknown miles |
| Transmission Shifting Without Brake/Key Ability to shift transmission without depressing the brake pedal or having a key in the ignition increases risk of unintended vehicle movement (NHTSA 17V541000). |
High | Rare | unknown miles |
| Abs Hydraulic Control Unit Failure ABS system activation issues, leading to loss of control or brake malfunction, with associated warning lights and transmission problems. |
High | Occasional | unknown miles |
| Death Wobble Violent front end shaking at highway speeds after hitting a bump, making the vehicle hard to control. |
High | 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 2015 Ram 2500:
Frequent complaints about steering issues, including loss of control, 'death wobble,' and problems after recall repairs, accounting for 28 complaints.
Issues with transmission failure, shifting problems, and loss of motive power, with 25 complaints.
Reports of engine failure, cracked exhaust manifolds, and turbo actuator issues, totaling 20 complaints.
Problems with cruise control, blower motor, and general electrical power loss, with 13 complaints.
Malfunctions where cruise control disengages or fails to deactivate, leading to 13 complaints.
ABS system failures, brake line ruptures, and integrated trailer brake control issues, accounting for 10 complaints.
Complaints regarding tire sidewall cracking and rapid wear, with 10 complaints.
Airbag warning lights, clock spring failures, and system service messages, with 6 complaints.
Frequently Asked Questions About the 2015 Ram 2500
Is the 2015 RAM 2500 safe?
Based on NHTSA data, the 2015 RAM 2500 has a significant number of complaints (211 total) and 15 recalls, indicating several safety-related issues. While it has a 3-star rollover rating, frontal and side crash test ratings are not available, making a comprehensive safety assessment challenging. Key concerns include steering control loss, airbag malfunctions, and powertrain issues.
What are common problems with the 2015 RAM 2500?
The most reported issues for the 2015 RAM 2500 are related to STEERING (28 complaints), POWER TRAIN (25 complaints), and ENGINE (20 complaints). Specific problems include steering linkage separation, transmission failures, engine compartment fires (diesel), and cruise control malfunctions.
Has the 2015 RAM 2500 been recalled?
Yes, the 2015 RAM 2500 has been subject to 15 recalls. These recalls address critical components such as AIR BAGS (inflator rupture), LATCHES/LOCKS/LINKAGES (tailgate opening), STEERING (drag link separation), ELECTRICAL SYSTEM (cruise control), and ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING (water pump fire risk).
What are the crash test ratings for the 2015 RAM 2500?
The 2015 RAM 2500 has a NHTSA Rollover rating of 3 out of 5 stars. However, Overall, Frontal, and Side crash test ratings are not available from NHTSA for this specific model year.
Are there any fire risks with the 2015 RAM 2500?
Yes, NHTSA data shows 3 reported fires for the 2015 RAM 2500. Additionally, one recall (NHTSA 17V541000) specifically addresses an increased risk of an engine compartment fire due to a leaking water pump in vehicles equipped with Cummins 6.7L Turbo Diesel engines.
Buyer Advice
Our recommendation: Given the numerous recalls and consistent complaints regarding steering, powertrain, and engine issues, potential buyers should prioritize a thorough pre-purchase inspection, especially focusing on recall completion and steering component integrity.
NHTSA Data Summary for 2015 Ram 2500
This safety report is based on a comprehensive analysis of data from the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) for the 2015 Ram 2500. The data includes 211 consumer complaints filed by vehicle owners, 15 manufacturer-initiated safety recalls, 13 reported crashes, 3 fire incidents, 12 reported injuries, and safety rating assessments associated with this vehicle.
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.