2020 Ram 2500 Safety Report
2020 RAM 2500 faces numerous recalls and significant fuel system/powertrain complaints, lacking full NHTSA crash test data.
AI Safety Analysis for the 2020 Ram 2500
Reliability Score
The 2020 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 2020 Ram 2500
The following issues have been identified from NHTSA complaint data and owner reports for the 2020 Ram 2500:
| Issue | Severity | Frequency | Typical Mileage |
|---|---|---|---|
| Fuel System, Diesel: High-Pressure Fuel Pump (Hpfp) Failure Recall for HPFP failure in Cummins 6.7L Turbo Diesel engines, leading to engine stall. Complaints also mention DPF failure due to HPFP metal shavings. |
High | Common | unknown miles |
| Automatic Transmission Fluid Leak And Fire Risk Two recalls (2020-2023 Ram 2500 and 2019-2020 Ram 2500/3500) for transmission fluid leaks due to pressure/heat buildup, potentially contacting an ignition source and causing fire. |
High | Common | unknown miles |
| Air Bag Inflator Rupture Recall for right and left side curtain air bag inflators that may rupture, potentially striking occupants with metal fragments. |
High | Occasional | unknown miles |
| Brake System Malfunctions (Spongy Pedal, Unexpected Emergency Braking) Complaints describe excessive brake pedal travel, spongy feel, difficulty stopping, and random activation of emergency braking. One recall for ABS control module software. |
High | Common | new-30000 miles |
| Steering Power Assist Failure Complaints of power steering assist failing while driving at highway speeds, making the vehicle difficult to control. |
High | Occasional | unknown miles |
| Engine Grid Heater Bolt Failure Complaints about the diesel intake heater core bolt coming loose and potentially falling into the cylinder, causing catastrophic engine damage or fire. |
High | Occasional | 38000 miles |
| Tailgate Latch Malfunction Recall for misaligned tailgate strikers causing the tailgate to not latch properly, potentially opening while driving and creating a road hazard. |
Medium | Occasional | unknown miles |
| Rearview Camera Lingering Image Recall for rearview image lingering after shifting out of reverse, which can distract the driver. |
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 2500:
Numerous complaints and a recall related to the High-Pressure Fuel Pump (HPFP) failure, leading to engine stalls and DPF issues.
General fuel system issues, often overlapping with diesel-specific complaints, including pump failures and related engine problems.
Multiple recalls for automatic transmission fluid leaks and fire risk, along with complaints of transmission failures (e.g., reverse going out).
Combined engine and fuel system issues, including catastrophic engine damage from fuel system failures and grid heater bolt issues.
Complaints of power steering assist failure, making the vehicle difficult to control, especially at speed.
Issues like random emergency braking activation, traction control malfunctions, and electrical fires reported.
Complaints of spongy brake pedal, excessive travel, and difficulty stopping, despite a recall for ABS software.
Recalls for tailgate latch issues and accessory bed step failure, along with complaints of hood coming loose while driving.
Frequently Asked Questions About the 2020 Ram 2500
Is the 2020 RAM 2500 safe?
Based on NHTSA data, the 2020 RAM 2500 has 10 recalls addressing significant safety concerns like air bag inflator ruptures, transmission fire risks, and fuel pump failures. While NHTSA provides a 3-star rollover rating, overall crash test ratings are not available. There are 157 total complaints, including 5 crashes and 4 fires, indicating notable safety issues.
What are common problems with the 2020 RAM 2500?
The most reported issues for the 2020 RAM 2500 are related to the FUEL SYSTEM, DIESEL (25 complaints), FUEL/PROPULSION SYSTEM (17 complaints), and POWER TRAIN (9 complaints). Specific problems include High-Pressure Fuel Pump (HPFP) failures, transmission fluid leaks with fire risk, and brake system malfunctions like a spongy pedal or unexpected emergency braking.
Are there any recalls for the 2020 RAM 2500?
Yes, the 2020 RAM 2500 has 10 recalls. These include recalls for air bag inflator ruptures, transmission fluid leaks that can cause fires, fuel pump failures leading to engine stalls, tailgate latch issues, ABS control module software problems, and power steering assist failures.
How does the 2020 RAM 2500 perform in crash tests?
NHTSA has not provided overall, frontal, or side crash test ratings for the 2020 RAM 2500. It received a 3 out of 5-star rating for rollover resistance, indicating an average risk of rollover in a single-vehicle crash.
What should I look out for when buying a used 2020 RAM 2500?
When considering a used 2020 RAM 2500, pay close attention to the fuel system, transmission, and braking components. Ensure all 10 recalls have been addressed, especially those related to the HPFP, transmission fluid leaks, and air bags. Check for any signs of oil or fluid leaks, unusual engine noises, or brake pedal issues during a test drive.
Buyer Advice
Our recommendation: Given the numerous recalls for critical safety components and a high volume of complaints related to the fuel system, powertrain, and brakes, potential buyers should proceed with caution and ensure all recalls have been completed and thoroughly inspect these key areas.
NHTSA Data Summary for 2020 Ram 2500
This safety report is based on a comprehensive analysis of data from the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) for the 2020 Ram 2500. The data includes 157 consumer complaints filed by vehicle owners, 10 manufacturer-initiated safety recalls, 5 reported crashes, 4 fire incidents, 3 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.