2017 Ram 2500 Safety Report
2017 RAM 2500: Strong Crash Ratings Undermined by Numerous Recalls and Persistent Braking System Complaints
AI Safety Analysis for the 2017 Ram 2500
Reliability Score
The 2017 Ram 2500 receives a reliability score of 45 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 2017 Ram 2500
The following issues have been identified from NHTSA complaint data and owner reports for the 2017 Ram 2500:
| Issue | Severity | Frequency | Typical Mileage |
|---|---|---|---|
| Hydraulic Control Unit (Hcu) Failure The HCU may fail, leading to a loss of anti-lock brakes, electronic stability control, or traction control, increasing crash risk. This is a subject of recall 24V896000, with many owners reporting parts unavailability. |
High | Common | unknown miles |
| Steering Linkage Loosening/Separation The outboard steering linkage jam nut may loosen, potentially causing a drag link separation and loss of steering control, as addressed by a recall. |
High | Occasional | unknown miles |
| Side Curtain Airbag Inflator Rupture Right and left side curtain airbag inflators may rupture, potentially striking occupants with metal fragments, as per a recall. |
High | Rare | unknown miles |
| Tailgate Latch Failure Tailgate latches may release, causing cargo to fall out and create a road hazard, addressed by multiple recalls. |
Medium | Occasional | unknown miles |
| Unintended Vehicle Movement (Transmission) Ability to shift transmission without pushing the brake pedal or without a key in the ignition can lead to unintended vehicle movement, subject to recall. |
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 2017 Ram 2500:
The most frequently reported issue, with 209 complaints, often related to ABS/traction control warning lights, HCU failure, and reduced braking effectiveness. This is a major recall item.
Directly related to the HCU recall, with 64 complaints detailing issues like ABS/traction control lights and brake system malfunctions.
48 complaints indicating electrical issues impacting the braking system, often manifesting as warning lights.
31 complaints, including issues related to steering linkages and control, consistent with a recall for loosening steering linkage jam nuts.
22 complaints, with some mentioning intermittent PCM failure leading to stalling or limp mode.
27 complaints, often linked to cruise control becoming inoperable when brake system warnings illuminate.
Frequently Asked Questions About the 2017 Ram 2500
Is the 2017 RAM 2500 safe?
The 2017 RAM 2500 has strong NHTSA crash test ratings (4-star Overall, 5-star Side), suggesting good occupant protection in a crash. However, it has 649 owner complaints and 12 recalls, with a significant number related to critical safety components like the braking and steering systems. The high volume of complaints, particularly regarding the hydraulic control unit (HCU) and steering linkages, indicates potential real-world safety risks that may not be fully captured by crash tests alone. Many owners report issues with ABS/traction control and even brake failure.
What are common problems with the 2017 RAM 2500?
The most reported issues for the 2017 RAM 2500 are overwhelmingly related to the 'SERVICE BRAKES' (209 complaints) and 'SERVICE BRAKES, HYDRAULIC' (64 complaints), often involving the Hydraulic Control Unit (HCU) failure, ABS/traction control warning lights, and reduced braking effectiveness. Other common problems include 'ELECTRICAL SYSTEM,SERVICE BRAKES' (48 complaints), 'STEERING' (31 complaints), and 'ENGINE' (22 complaints).
Are there any recalls for the 2017 RAM 2500?
Yes, the 2017 RAM 2500 has had 12 recalls. Key recalls include issues with side curtain airbag inflators, hydraulic control unit (HCU) failure affecting brakes (NHTSA Campaign Number: 24V896000), tailgate latch failures, loosening steering linkage jam nuts, and unintended vehicle movement due to transmission shifter issues. Many owners have reported difficulties getting the HCU recall repaired due to parts unavailability.
How does the 2017 RAM 2500 perform in crash tests?
The 2017 RAM 2500 received favorable NHTSA crash test ratings: a 4-star Overall rating, 4 stars for Frontal crash, 5 stars for Side crash, and 4 stars for Rollover. These ratings suggest good performance in controlled crash scenarios.
Should I be concerned about the brakes on a 2017 RAM 2500?
Yes, there is significant concern regarding the brakes on the 2017 RAM 2500. 'SERVICE BRAKES' is the top complaint category with 209 reports, and there's a critical recall (24V896000) for the Hydraulic Control Unit (HCU) which can lead to a loss of ABS, ESC, or traction control. Many owners have experienced warning lights, reduced braking, and frustration over the lack of available parts for the recall repair.
Buyer Advice
Our recommendation: Given the high number of recalls, particularly for critical safety components like brakes and steering, and numerous owner complaints, thoroughly investigate if all 12 recalls have been addressed, especially the HCU brake recall (24V896000), before purchasing a 2017 RAM 2500.
NHTSA Data Summary for 2017 Ram 2500
This safety report is based on a comprehensive analysis of data from the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) for the 2017 Ram 2500. The data includes 649 consumer complaints filed by vehicle owners, 12 manufacturer-initiated safety recalls, 11 reported crashes, 6 fire incidents, 10 reported injuries, and safety rating assessments associated with this vehicle.
The NHTSA has assigned the 2017 Ram 2500 an overall safety rating of 4 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.