2016 Ram 2500 Safety Report

2016 RAM 2500 Safety Report

250Complaints
14Recalls
85/100Reliability Score
14Crash Reports
3Fire Reports
10Injuries
1Deaths
Most reported components: Power Train (36)Steering (31)Engine (19)Service Brakes (18)Unknown Or Other (16)Power Train,Engine (8)Electrical System (7)Air Bags (6)Structure (6)Tires (5)

Safety Decision Cockpit for the 2016 Ram 2500

This page is the hub for deciding what to inspect next on the 2016 Ram 2500. It connects recall campaigns, owner complaint patterns, service bulletins, sibling model years, component issue hubs, and the model buying guide so a shopper or owner can move from a single report into the wider safety graph.

2016 Ram 2500 Safety Signal Summary
SignalValueWhat to inspect next
Recall burdenHigh (14)Review campaign numbers, affected components, and dealer remedies below.
Owner complaintsHigh (250)Scan complaint narratives for recurring symptoms, mileage, crashes, fires, injuries, and dates.
Crash and fire reports17Treat any crash, fire, injury, or fatality-linked pattern as a priority pre-purchase inspection item.
Primary component hubPower TrainCompare power train issues across vehicles.
Cleaner nearby model year2021Compare against the 2021 Ram 2500 with 99 complaints and 8 recalls.
Riskier nearby model year2018Check the 2018 Ram 2500 before buying across this generation.

Ram 2500 Year-by-Year Comparison

The safest purchase decision usually comes from comparing neighboring model years, not reading a single page in isolation. The table below uses only validated Ram 2500 years already present in the cleaned NHTSA dataset, so each comparison links to a real vehicle safety report rather than a generated combination.

Nearby Ram 2500 Model Years
Model YearComplaintsRecallsUse case
2017 Ram 2500 649 12 Inspect as a potentially higher-complaint year.
2015 Ram 2500 211 15 Compare as a potentially cleaner alternative.
2018 Ram 2500 2377 10 Inspect as a potentially higher-complaint year.
2019 Ram 2500 176 12 Compare as a potentially cleaner alternative.
2020 Ram 2500 157 10 Compare as a potentially cleaner alternative.
2021 Ram 2500 99 8 Compare as a potentially cleaner alternative.

2016 Ram 2500 Complaint Theme Map

Complaint counts become more useful when they are grouped into inspection themes. For the 2016 Ram 2500, these are the component areas with the clearest NHTSA complaint signals. Use each link to jump from this single vehicle into broader component hubs and make-specific issue pages.

Power Train

36 owner complaints mention this component in the current safety profile.

All Power Train issues Ram only

Steering

31 owner complaints mention this component in the current safety profile.

All Steering issues Ram only

Engine

19 owner complaints mention this component in the current safety profile.

All Engine issues Ram only

Service Brakes

18 owner complaints mention this component in the current safety profile.

All Service Brakes issues Ram only

Unknown Or Other

16 owner complaints mention this component in the current safety profile.

All Unknown Or Other issues Ram only

Power Train,Engine

8 owner complaints mention this component in the current safety profile.

All Power Train,Engine issues Ram only

AI Safety Analysis for the 2016 Ram 2500

The 2016 RAM 2500 has accumulated 250 complaints and 14 recalls in the NHTSA database. Among the complaints, 14 involved crashes and 3 involved fires. There have been 10 reported injuries and 1 reported deaths. The most frequently reported problem areas are power train (36 complaints), steering (31 complaints), engine (19 complaints). Power train issues and steering problems are common, with recalls for air bags and electrical system failures. Tailgate latches and structural body issues have also been reported. Engine and power train recalls are frequent, with the power train and engine being the most affected. Electrical system failures and steering issues are also common. Key known issues to be aware of include Air Bags, Electrical System, Steering. Be aware of common issues with air bags, steering, and electrical systems. Check for recalls and address any known problems promptly.

Reliability Score

The 2016 Ram 2500 receives a reliability score of 85 out of 100 based on analysis of NHTSA complaint data, recall history, crash reports, and safety ratings. This indicates above-average reliability relative to comparable vehicles.

NHTSA Safety Ratings for the 2016 Ram 2500

The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) evaluates vehicles through controlled crash tests and assigns star ratings from 1 to 5, with 5 being the safest.

Rollover
★★★★☆
4/5

Known Issues for the 2016 Ram 2500

The following issues have been identified from NHTSA complaint data and owner reports for the 2016 Ram 2500:

IssueSeverityFrequencyTypical Mileage
Air Bags
Chrysler (FCA US, LLC) is recalling certain 2016-2019 Ram 3500, Ram 1500, 2016-2020 Ram 2500, and 2015-2020 Ram 1500 Classic, 2015-2016 Ram 3500, and Ram 2500 trucks for potential air bag inflator issues.
Medium Common 30k-60k miles
Electrical System
Chrysler (FCA US LLC) is recalling certain 2014-2018 Dodge Journey, Charger and Durango, RAM 2500, 3500, and 3500 Chassis Cab and 2013-2018 Ram 3500 and 2014-2018 Ram 3500 Chassis Cab for potential electrical system issues.
Low Common 30k-60k miles
Steering
Chrysler (FCA US LLC) is recalling certain 2013-2018 Ram 3500 and 2014-2018 Ram 3500 Chassis Cab and 2015-2017 Ram 1500, 2500 and 3500 pickup trucks equipped for potential steering issues.
Medium Common 30k-60k miles
Tailgate Latches
Chrysler (FCA US LLC) is recalling certain 2015-2017 RAM 1500, 2500, and 3500 pickup trucks equipped for potential tailgate latch issues.
Medium Common 30k-60k miles

Common Problems Reported by Owners

Based on NHTSA complaint data, the following components account for the majority of reported issues with the 2016 Ram 2500:

Steering 23% of complaints

Steering issues are a common problem, with 23% of reported issues.

Air Bags 18% of complaints

Air bag issues are a common problem, with 18% of reported issues.

Electrical System 7% of complaints

Electrical system issues are a common problem, with 7% of reported issues.

Power Train 8% of complaints

Power train issues are a common problem, with 8% of reported issues.

Recall Details for the 2016 Ram 2500

The following 14 recalls have been issued for the 2016 Ram 2500 by NHTSA:

Air Bags:Side/Window:Curtain:Inflator
Campaign #25V010000 16/01/2025

Summary: Chrysler (FCA US, LLC) is recalling certain 2016-2019 Ram 3500, Ram 1500, 2016-2020 Ram 2500, and 2016 Ram 3500 Cab Chassis vehicles. The right and left side curtain air bag inflators may rupture due to a manufacturing defect.

Consequence: An inflator rupture may result in sharp metal fragments striking occupants, resulting in injury.

Remedy: Dealers will replace one or both side curtain air bags, as necessary, free of charge. Owner notification letters were mailed February 13, 2025. Owners may contact FCA customer service at 1-800-853-1403. FCA's numbers for this recall are 05C, 09C, and 10C.

Manufacturer: Chrysler (FCA US, LLC)
Air Bags:Side/Window:Curtain:Inflator
Campaign #21V632000 12/08/2021

Summary: Chrysler (FCA US, LLC) is recalling certain 2015-2020 Ram 1500 Classic, 2015-2016 Ram 3500, and Ram 2500 vehicles, and 2016 Ram 3500 Cab Chassis with a gross vehicle weight rating less than 10,000 lbs. The side air bag inflatable curtain (SABIC) inflator end cap may detach from the inflator, or the inflator sidewall may rupture.

Consequence: A separated inflator end cap or inflator rupture can allow compressed gas to escape, resulting in the end cap or other components being propelled into the vehicle, increasing the risk of injury or crash.

Remedy: Dealers will inspect and replace as necessary, the SABIC assemblies, free of charge. Interim owner notification letters were mailed on October 4, 2021. Owner notification letters were mailed on May 26, 2022. Owners may contact FCA US, LLC customer service at 1-800-853-1403. FCA US, LLC's number for this recall is Y55.

Manufacturer: Chrysler (FCA US, LLC)
Latches/Locks/Linkages:Tailgate:Latch
Campaign #19V347000 09/05/2019

Summary: Chrysler (FCA US LLC) is recalling certain 2015-2017 Ram 1500, 2500 and 3500 pickup trucks equipped with an 8 foot bed and a power locking tailgate. Chrysler is also recalling all 2013-2014 and 2018 Ram 1500, 2500 and 3500 pickup trucks built before April 1, 2018 with a 6 or 8 foot bed and a power locking tailgate. On August 29, 2019 Chrysler expanded the recall to include an additional 693,128 model year 2013-2014 Ram 1500, 2500 and 3500 pickup trucks. The tailgate actuator limiter tab may f...

Consequence: If the tailgate opens while the vehicle is being driven, cargo may fall out the vehicle and create a road hazard, increasing the risk of crash.

Remedy: Chrysler will notify owners, and dealers will repair the tailgate latch, free of charge. The recall began May 23, 2019. Chrysler is expected to notify owners of the expanded population on October 18, 2019. Owners may contact FCA US customer service at 1-800-853-1403. FCA US's number for this recall is V44. Note: 2015-2017 MY Ram 1500 pickup trucks with truck beds other than 8 foot, are curren...

Manufacturer: Chrysler (FCA US LLC)
Steering:Linkages:Drag:Link:Connection
Campaign #19V021000 25/01/2019

Summary: Chrysler (FCA US LLC) is recalling certain 2013-2018 Ram 3500 and 2014-2018 Ram 3500 Chassis Cab and Ram 2500 vehicles. The outboard steering linkage jam nut may loosen, allowing one end of the drag link to separate.

Consequence: A drag link separation can cause a loss of steering control, increasing the risk of crash.

Remedy: Chrysler will notify owners, and dealers will check the steering linkage jam nut tightness, replacing the drag link assembly or welding the nut to the adjuster sleeve, free of charge. The recall began March 22, 2019. Owners may contact Chrysler customer service at 1-800-853-1403. Chrysler's number for this recall is V06.

Manufacturer: Chrysler (FCA US LLC)
Structure:Body:Tailgate
Campaign #18V486000 27/07/2018

Summary: Chrysler (FCA US LLC) is recalling certain 2015-2017 RAM 1500, 2500, and 3500 pickup trucks equipped with a power locking tailgate and either a 5 foot, 7 inch or 6 foot, 4 inch bed. The tailgate actuator limiter tab may fracture and cause the tailgate to unlatch and open while driving.

Consequence: If the tailgate latch releases and the tailgate opens while driving, cargo may fall out, creating a road hazard and increasing the risk of a crash.

Remedy: Chrysler will notify owners, and dealers will repair the vehicle, free of charge. The recall began September 17, 2018. Owners may contact Chrysler customer service at 1-800-853-1403. Chrysler's number for this recall is U74.

Manufacturer: Chrysler (FCA US LLC)
Electrical System:Wiring
Campaign #18V332000 17/05/2018

Summary: Chrysler (FCA US LLC) is recalling certain 2014-2018 Dodge Journey, Charger and Durango, RAM 2500, 3500, 3500 Cab Chassis (more than 10,000lb), 4500 Cab Chassis and 5500 Cab Chassis, Jeep Cherokee and Grand Cherokee and Chrysler 300, 2014-2019 RAM 1500, 2015-2018 Dodge Challenger, 2015-2017 Chrysler 200, 2016-2018 RAM 3500 Cab Chassis (less than 10,000 lb), 2017-2018 Chrysler Pacifica and 2018 Jeep Wrangler vehicles. These vehicles are being recalled to address a defect that could prevent the c...

Consequence: If the vehicle maintains its speed or accelerates despite attempts to deactivate the cruise control, there would be an increased risk of a crash.

Remedy: Chrysler will notify owners, and dealers will inspect the software, and perform a software flash on the engine or powertrain control module, free of charge. The recall began June 4, 2018. Owners may contact Chrysler customer service at 1-800-853-1403. Note: Owners are advised to stop using cruise control until the software update has been performed. In the event that cruise control cannot be d...

Manufacturer: Chrysler (FCA US LLC)
Steering:Linkages
Campaign #18E096000 16/10/2018

Summary: Streetcar ORV LLC (Streetcar) is recalling certain American Expedition Vehicles (AEV) 3" Dualsport aftermarket suspension kits, part numbers N0436000 and N0436001, sold for installation on 2013-2018 RAM 2500 and 3500HD trucks. Improper installation and machining of the original equipment steering knuckle may weaken the joint between the steering drag link and knuckle.

Consequence: The weakened connection may result in a fractured steering drag link, causing a loss of steering and increasing the risk of a crash.

Remedy: Streetcar will notify owners and dealers will inspect and install a new steering knuckle, free of charge. The recall began December 3, 2018. Owners may contact AEV customer service at 1-248-926-0256, extension 500.

Manufacturer: Streetcar ORV LLC
Equipment
Campaign #17V824000 21/12/2017

Summary: Chrysler (FCA US LLC) is recalling various Dodge, Chrysler, and RAM vehicles equipped with Kidde Plastic-Handle or Push Button 'Pindicator' Fire Extinguishers. A list of the affected trailer models is available at: https://static.nhtsa.gov/odi/rcl/2017/RMISC-17V824-0103.pdf. These extinguishers may become clogged, preventing the extinguisher from discharging as expected or requiring excessive force to activate the extinguisher. Additionally, in certain models, the nozzle may detach from the v...

Consequence: If the fire extinguisher does not function properly, it can increase the risk of injury in the event of a fire.

Remedy: Chrysler will notify owners instructing them to contact Kidde for a replacement fire extinguisher, free of charge. The recall began February 14, 2018. Owners may contact Chrysler customer service at 1-800-853-1403 or Kidde customer service service toll-free at 1-855-262-3540, or online at www.kidde.com and click on "Product Safety Recall" for more information. Chrysler's number for this recall i...

Manufacturer: Chrysler (FCA US LLC)
Power Train:Automatic Transmission:Lever And Linkage:Column Shift
Campaign #17V821000 20/12/2017

Summary: Chrysler (FCA US LLC) is recalling certain 2016-2017 Ram 3500 Cab Chassis with a Gross Vehicle Weight Rating (GVWR) of less than 10,000 lbs, 2011-2017 Ram 3500, 4500 and 5500 Cab Chassis vehicles, 2009-2017 Ram 1500 and 2010-2017 Ram 2500 and 3500 pickup trucks, all equipped with a column shifter. Pushing the brake pedal for prolonged periods when the vehicle is running and in PARK may cause the Brake Transmission Shift Interlock (BTSI) pin to stick in the open position. With the pin in the op...

Consequence: Being able to shift the transmission without pushing the brake pedal and/or without a key in the ignition can increase the risk of an unintended vehicle rollaway that may result in personal injury or a crash.

Remedy: Chrysler will notify owners, and dealers will update the vehicle software, inspect the BTSI, and, as necessary, replace it, free of charge. The recall began February 26, 2018. Owners may contact Chrysler customer service at 1-800-853-1403. Chrysler's number for this recall is T79.

Manufacturer: Chrysler (FCA US LLC)
Engine And Engine Cooling:Engine:Diesel
Campaign #17V562000 12/09/2017

Summary: Chrysler (FCA US LLC) is recalling certain 2013-2017 RAM 2500, 3500, 3500 Cab Chassis, 4500 Cab Chassis, and 5500 Cab Chassis vehicles, equipped with Cummins 6.7L Turbo Diesel engines that have Concentric-brand water pumps without a vent hole. These water pumps may leak coolant.

Consequence: The leaking water pump can increase the risk of an engine compartment fire.

Remedy: Chrysler will notify owners, and dealers will replace the water pumps, free of charge. The recall began February 26, 2018. Owners may contact Chrysler customer service at 1-800-853-1403. Chrysler's number for this recall is T51.

Manufacturer: Chrysler (FCA US LLC)
Wheels
Campaign #17V499000 10/08/2017

Summary: Streetcar ORV LLC, dba American Expedition Vehicles (AEV) is recalling certain 2013-2017 RAM 2500 and 3500 heavy duty trucks, modified by AEV to be equipped with cast aluminum Katla 8.5" road wheels. The outer surface of the wheel may fracture, resulting in rapid air loss.

Consequence: If the wheel fractures, a loss of vehicle control can occur, increasing the risk of a crash.

Remedy: AEV will notify owners, and dealers will replace the wheels with wheels of similar value, free of charge. The recall began on August 30, 2017. Owners may contact AEV customer service at 1-248-926-0256 extension 500.

Manufacturer: Streetcar ORV LLC
Air Bags
Campaign #17V302000 09/05/2017

Summary: Chrysler (FCA US LLC) is recalling certain model year 2013-2016 Ram 1500, Ram 2500, and 2014-2016 Ram 3500 vehicles. Certain driving conditions, such as driving off-road or debris striking the vehicle may cause the roll rate sensor to trigger a fault within the Occupant Restraint Controller (ORC). If this fault occurs, the rollover side curtain air bag and the seat belt pretensioner will be disabled from deploying.

Consequence: If the rollover side curtain air bags and seat belt pretensioners are disabled, there is an increased risk of injury to the vehicle occupants in the event of a crash that necessitates activation of these safety systems.

Remedy: Chrysler will notify owners, and dealers will update the ORC software, free of charge. The recall began June 26, 2017. Owners may contact Chrysler customer service at 1-800-853-1403. Chrysler's number for this recall is T25.

Manufacturer: Chrysler (FCA US LLC)
Equipment
Campaign #16E041000 16/05/2016

Summary: Chrysler (FCA US LLC) is recalling aftermarket Mopar Canvas Seat Covers for certain 2012-2016 RAM 1500, 2500, and 3500 trucks. These Mopar canvas seat covers were sold through Chrysler dealerships beginning October 15, 2015. The seat covers can impede the deployment of the seat thorax airbags.

Consequence: If the seat cover impedes the air bag deployment, the seat thorax air bags may not provide adequate protection in the event of a crash, increasing the risk of a injury.

Remedy: Chrysler will notify owners to remove the front seat covers and return them for a full refund. The recall began on July 1, 2016. Owners may contact Chrysler customer service at 1-800-853-1403. Chrysler's number for this recall is S30.

Manufacturer: Chrysler (FCA US LLC)
Engine And Engine Cooling:Engine
Campaign #15V592000 23/09/2015

Summary: Chrysler (FCA US LLC) is recalling certain model year 2016 Ram 2500, 3500, 3500 Cab Chassis and 4500/5500 Cab Chassis trucks manufactured July 31, 2015, to August 13, 2015 and equipped with a 6.7L Cummins Diesel engine. In the affected vehicles, the Engine Control Module (ECM) may short circuit, causing the engine to stall without warning.

Consequence: An engine that stalls without warning increases the risk of a crash.

Remedy: Chrysler will notify owners, and dealers will replace the ECM, free of charge. The recall began on December 21, 2015. Owners may contact Chrysler customer service at 1-800-853-1403. Chrysler's number for this recall is R52.

Manufacturer: Chrysler (FCA US LLC)

NHTSA Complaint Summaries for the 2016 Ram 2500

Below are complaint narratives filed by owners of the 2016 Ram 2500 with the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration. 1 complaint involved crashes.

Crash Reports: 1
Engine
02/17/2026

Adding to form 11717793

ODI #11718528
Power Train,Unknown Or Other
02/14/2026

Got into my truck after letting it warm up and the shifter broke out of the handle. It’s a known problem cause the design is flawed by putting so much pressure on the part. So in the end it breaks and then you can’t get your vehicle out of park or whatever gear it broke in. I was charged 718.00 for it to get fixed when I think this should be a recall or tsb.

ODI #11718053
Engine
02/13/2026

The vgt actuator failed the truck only has 127000 miles on it ram extended the warranty for 2015 trucks but not 2016. The part to replace it from ram has almost doubled in a years time. It is now $2170. For this part whose internal computer components have failed. The files uploaded was just for the part. I can upload the repair cost when done. I am just trying to get everyone to see how corrup...

ODI #11717792
Engine And Engine Cooling
02/12/2026

The contact owns a 2016 Ram 2500. The contact stated that while driving at various speeds, the check engine warning light illuminated, and the vehicle lost motive power and went into LIMP Mode. The contact stated that the failure was intermittent but also occurred while towing a 30-foot trailer or a 24-foot trailer. Occasionally, after pulling over, turning off, and restarting the vehicle, the veh...

ODI #11717651
Service Brakes
02/09/2026

ITBM Integrated Trailer Brake Module not outputting correct breaking voltage to trailer.

ODI #11716646
Steering
01/22/2026

Drag link issue led to not being able to get an alignment, dealership and RAM support refused to fix it, as it was completed but they did not do it correctly the first time and it is dangerous

ODI #11712751
Steering
01/12/2026

The low pressure power steering hose is leaking and can't get part for it. Been having to invest in tons of power steering fluid and want to know if this is gonna be a recall. It is very frustrating that we can't get parts for the problem.

ODI #11710332
Electrical System,Vehicle Speed Control,Service Brakes
12/30/2025

ABS FAILURE, WHICH TURNS OFF TRACTION CONTROL AND CRUISE CONTROL. This is a known issue for the HCU to fail. How is this not a recall on 2016 but it is on 17 and 18. Same parts.... have replace front hubs with new ABS sensors and rear ABS sensors, still on. It has to be the HCU or the module.

ODI #11707920
Power Train
11/10/2025

Incident Report – Gear Shift Failure Date of Incident: 11/10/2025 Vehicle: 2016 Ram 2500 Pickup Truck VIN [XXX] Mileage: [Insert Mileage] Location: [Insert Location of Incident] Description of Incident While attempting to shift the vehicle from Park (P) into Drive (D), the shift lever suddenly went limp and lost all resistance. Upon applying slight additional pressure to engage the transmissio...

ODI #11698580
Power Train
10/13/2025

I previously had recall 17V-821 work completed. This recall was for The Brake Transmission Shift Interlock (BTSI) locking pin may become stuck in the open position. I have the same issue now and see that NHTSA is investigating failed recall fixes. I have taken this to the dealer and an independent shop and am now trying to figure out how to get this repaired.

ODI #11693040
Power Train
09/29/2025

The contact owns a 2016 Ram 1500. The contact stated that the shift solenoid change message was displayed. The vehicle was taken to the local dealer for a recall repair. Upon retrieving the vehicle, the vehicle failed to shift and had no power. The vehicle was diagnosed with a faulty shift solenoid. The replacement parts were on backorder. The local dealer later informed the contact that the trans...

ODI #11690345
Unknown Or Other
09/19/2025

The grab handle or left interior a arm part broke and fell of in my lap while I was driving luckily it did not fall off when I entered the vehicle or I would have been flat on my back. I contacted Stelantis got the typical run around. Tried to order new part but part has been discontinued. Now I am driving with airbag not covered and exposed. The part number for my truck is 5RM911XAC you can check...

ODI #11688411
Power Train
07/14/2025

Transmission gear selector lever can be moved from park to reverse, neutral, and drive without having the brake pedal depressed. This is the way the transmission gear selector currently operates. This is not a one-time incident. I bought this vehicle recently and noticed this transmission gear selector lever issue about a month ago.

ODI #11673363
Engine
05/29/2025

Towing my trailer with my 2016 Ram 2500, at 48,000 miles I experienced complete turbo failure in heavy traffic at highway speeds. Power was reduced to minimums causing hazardous conditions. The "check engine" light illuminated. I maintained control and eventually had the codes scanned at both a local auto parts store and Larry Miller Dodge/Ram in Sandy, Utah. The codes identified were for the turb...

ODI #11663742
Power Train,Engine
05/28/2025

It is the Water pump We have the Concentric brand with out a vent hole picture attached ( which is the one under recall but doesn’t come up on our vin) Yes A Mechanic No No

ODI #11663422
Steering,Suspension
05/22/2025

I received an NHTSA recall notice V06/NHTSA 19V-021 on or about April 2023, I brought this vehicle to Stat Line Jeep Dodge RAM located in Somerset, MA early April to fix the vehicle pursuant to the recall notice for a Drag Link problem/defect. Upon arrival the service department stated they had not received a welding machine necessary to fix the problem and to call for another appointment, On o...

ODI #11662561
Service Brakes,Fuel/Propulsion System
04/18/2025

Def system failed ABS, track,tire pressure. Service 4 wheel drive system. 4 wheel drive system temporarily unavailable.

ODI #11655557
Engine,Fuel/Propulsion System
04/06/2025

The service engine lamp came on. When the mechanic investigated, it was determined that the problem is identical to the Warranty Bulletin titled Cummins 6.7L Turbocharger Actuator - X99 Warranty Extension that pertains to the 2015 RAM 2500 pickup. My vehicle is a 2016 and there is no warranty extension, even though it is an identical problem. The vehicle was not drivable as is and I had to replace...

ODI #11653069
Steering
02/04/2025

The contact owns a 2016 Dodge Ram 2500. The contact stated that the vehicle was included in NHTSA Campaign Number: 19V021000 (Steering) and the vehicle was taken to the dealer for the recall repair. The contact stated that the vehicle was taken for an alignment and the contact was informed that an alignment could not be completed because to the tie rods were welded together. The dealer who perform...

ODI #11640592
Air Bags,Seat Belts,Wheels
01/15/2025

Contacted FCA Recall Assistant Center on 10/23/2024 and filed a complaint against Corwin Chrysler Dodge, 3306 E. Kearney St., Springfield, MO., 65803 regarding Safety Recalls that Corwin Chrysler Dodge fraudulently checked off in the system as fixed, but they were not fixed. Case# [XXX] was assigned to the complaint. Keith is the assigned CS Manager and can be reached at 844-378-0575, ext: 3124....

ODI #11636143

Showing 20 of 250 complaints. Additional complaints are available via the NHTSA database.

NHTSA Defect Investigations for the 2016 Ram 2500

NHTSA defect investigations are higher-signal than ordinary complaints because they indicate the agency opened a formal review of a potential safety defect. Some investigations later connect to recall campaigns; others close without a recall after review.

Post Recall Remedy Brake Transmission Shift Interlock (BTSI) Failure
NHTSA RQ25003 Open

Component: Power Train:Automatic Transmission

Opened 2025-07-03

The Office of Defects Investigation (ODI) has received 14 Vehicle Owner Questionnaire (VOQ) reports and 6 EWR Death & Injury (D&I) reports describing post recall remedy failures of the brake transmission shift interlock (BTSI) system in certain Model Year (MY) 2013-2018 RAM pickup trucks.The subject vehicle models include 1500, 2500, 3500, 4500, and 5500 trucks equipped with a column mounted shift lever.The failures of the BTSI described in the VOQs occurred on vehicles that had all previously b...

Steering loss due to linkage separation
NHTSA PE18016 Closed Recall 19V021000

Component: Steering:Linkages:Drag:Link:Connection

Opened 2018-12-17 · Closed 2019-12-12

On December 17, 2018, NHTSA's Office of Defects Investigation (ODI) opened Preliminary Evaluation (PE) 18-016 to investigate the steering system on model year (MY) 2015 and 2016 Ram 2500 manufactured by FCA US, LLC (FCA). Four complaints were received alleging separation of the drag link, a steering linkage that connects between the right front steering knuckle and the pitman arm on the steering box output shaft. The failures were found to be at a threaded coupler within the drag link used for a...

Steering loss due to linkage separation
NHTSA EA19004 Closed

Component: Steering:Linkages:Drag:Link:Connection

Opened 2019-12-01 · Closed 2025-11-20

On December 17, 2018, NHTSA's Office of Defects Investigation (ODI) opened Preliminary Evaluation PE18016 to investigate alleged drag link failures in the steering system on model year (MY) 2015 and 2016 Ram 2500 trucks manufactured by FCA US, LLC (FCA).  The drag link failures were found to be due to a safety defect with the steering linkage where the drag link adjustable connector (used to adjust the steering system), held in position by two opposing jam nuts, can loosen.   The loosening of th...

Frequently Asked Questions About the 2016 Ram 2500

Has the 2016 RAM 2500 been recalled?

Yes, the 2016 RAM 2500 has 14 recalls on record with NHTSA. Each recall addresses a specific safety defect identified by the manufacturer or NHTSA.

How many complaints does the 2016 RAM 2500 have?

The 2016 RAM 2500 has 250 complaints filed with NHTSA. Of these, 14 involved crashes. 10 injuries and 1 deaths have been reported.

What is the safety rating for the 2016 RAM 2500?

The 2016 RAM 2500 does not have an NHTSA safety rating on file. This can happen for newer model years, specialty vehicles, or models that have not been crash-tested.

What are the most common problems with the 2016 RAM 2500?

The most commonly reported problems with the 2016 RAM 2500 involve power train (36 complaints), steering (31 complaints), engine (19 complaints). Other affected components include service brakes, unknown or other, power train,engine.

How many crash reports does the 2016 RAM 2500 have?

There are 14 crash reports associated with the 2016 RAM 2500 out of 250 total complaints (5.6% of complaints involved crashes).

How many fire reports does the 2016 RAM 2500 have?

There are 3 fire reports for the 2016 RAM 2500 out of 250 total complaints. Fire reports are among the most serious safety concerns tracked by NHTSA.

Are there any deaths reported for the 2016 RAM 2500?

Yes, 1 death has been reported in NHTSA complaints for the 2016 RAM 2500. These are self-reported by complainants and do not imply the vehicle caused the death.

How many injuries are reported for the 2016 RAM 2500?

10 injuries have been reported in NHTSA complaints for the 2016 RAM 2500. These are self-reported by vehicle owners as part of their safety complaints.

Should I buy a 2016 RAM 2500?

Based on NHTSA data, the 2016 RAM 2500 is proceed with caution. It has 250 complaints, 14 recalls. Note: 1 death(s) have been reported. Always have a pre-purchase inspection done by a qualified mechanic.

What components fail most on the 2016 RAM 2500?

The components with the most failures on the 2016 RAM 2500 are: 1. POWER TRAIN (36 complaints), 2. STEERING (31 complaints), 3. ENGINE (19 complaints), 4. SERVICE BRAKES (18 complaints), 5. UNKNOWN OR OTHER (16 complaints). POWER TRAIN is the single most-reported problem area with 36 complaints.

What should I know before buying a 2016 RAM 2500?

Be aware of common issues with air bags, steering, and electrical systems. Check for recalls and address any known problems promptly. The 2016 RAM 2500 has 250 NHTSA complaints and 14 recalls on record.

How reliable is the 2016 RAM 2500?

The 2016 RAM 2500 receives a reliability score of 85/100, indicating above-average reliability. This is based on 250 owner complaints, 14 recalls, and 17 crash/fire reports in the NHTSA database. Key known issues include Air Bags and Electrical System.

What are the known issues with the 2016 RAM 2500?

Known issues with the 2016 RAM 2500 include: Air Bags, Electrical System, Steering, Tailgate Latches. These are based on patterns found across 250 NHTSA complaints. 14 of these patterns resulted in formal recalls.

What are the most common issues with the 2016 RAM 2500?

Common issues include steering problems, air bag recalls, and electrical system failures.

Are there any recalls for the 2016 RAM 2500?

Yes, there are recalls for air bags and electrical system issues.

What should I do if I experience steering issues?

Check for recalls and consult a mechanic to address the issue.

Buyer Advice

Our recommendation: Be aware of common issues with air bags, steering, and electrical systems. Check for recalls and address any known problems promptly.

NHTSA Data Summary for 2016 Ram 2500

This safety report is based on a comprehensive analysis of data from the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) for the 2016 Ram 2500. The data includes 250 consumer complaints filed by vehicle owners, 14 manufacturer-initiated safety recalls, 14 reported crashes, 3 fire incidents, 10 reported injuries, and 1 fatalities 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.

Disclaimer: This analysis is AI-generated from NHTSA public data and does not constitute professional automotive or safety advice. Always verify recall status at NHTSA.gov and consult a qualified mechanic.

Analysis last updated: 2026-05-16