2021 Ram 2500 Safety Report
2021 RAM 2500: Numerous Recalls for Fire and Airbag Issues, Limited Crash Test Data, and Concerning Electrical/Engine Complaints
AI Safety Analysis for the 2021 Ram 2500
Reliability Score
The 2021 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 2021 Ram 2500
The following issues have been identified from NHTSA complaint data and owner reports for the 2021 Ram 2500:
| Issue | Severity | Frequency | Typical Mileage |
|---|---|---|---|
| Electrical System Fires Multiple recalls and complaints indicate electrical shorts in relays leading to engine compartment fires, even when the vehicle is off. Several complaints describe vehicles catching fire. |
High | Common | all miles |
| Transmission Failure Numerous complaints about transmission failure, including not shifting out of first gear, whining noises, and complete failure, sometimes leaving drivers stranded. One recall addresses transmission fluid leaks that could cause fires. |
High | Common | 60000-80000 miles |
| Airbag Non-Deployment/Improper Deployment Recalls for driver's side airbag not deploying and side curtain airbags deploying improperly. One complaint mentions airbags failing to deploy in a crash. |
High | Occasional | all miles |
| Tailgate Malfunction Recall for misaligned tailgate strikers causing the tailgate to open unexpectedly while driving, potentially leading to loss of cargo and road hazards. Complaints confirm this issue persists even after recall repairs. |
Medium | Occasional | all miles |
| Engine Camshaft/Lifter Failure Multiple complaints about camshaft and lifter failure, leading to knocking noises and requiring multiple replacements, sometimes resulting in metal in the oil system. |
High | Common | 30000-71000 miles |
| Brake System Issues Complaints about seized brake calipers due to faulty hoses and integrated brake controller failure, leading to insufficient trailer braking. |
Medium | Occasional | all 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 2500:
Frequent complaints and multiple recalls related to electrical shorts, wiring issues, and relays leading to vehicle fires.
Common issues include camshaft and lifter failures, engine fires, and other engine-related malfunctions.
Combined issues affecting both power train and electrical systems, often related to transmission and electrical shorts.
Primarily related to tailgate latching issues and potential dash delamination affecting airbag deployment.
Significant number of complaints regarding transmission failures, including not shifting and fluid leaks.
Issues with brake calipers, hoses, and integrated brake controller malfunctions.
Complaints about seat belts becoming stuck or retractors failing, trapping occupants.
Frequently Asked Questions About the 2021 Ram 2500
Is the 2021 RAM 2500 safe?
Based on NHTSA data, the 2021 RAM 2500 has significant safety concerns, evidenced by 8 recalls addressing critical issues like airbag deployment, electrical fires, and transmission fluid leaks. While NHTSA crash test ratings are largely 'N/A' for frontal and side impacts, the rollover rating is 3 stars. The 99 total complaints, including 8 fires and 2 injuries, highlight real-world safety risks.
What are common problems with the 2021 RAM 2500?
The most reported issues for the 2021 RAM 2500 are related to the ELECTRICAL SYSTEM (12 complaints), ENGINE (10 complaints), and POWER TRAIN (6 complaints). Specific common problems include electrical shorts leading to fires, transmission failures, camshaft and lifter failures, and tailgate malfunctions.
Are there any fire risks with the 2021 RAM 2500?
Yes, there are significant fire risks. The 2021 RAM 2500 has 8 reported fires in NHTSA complaints and three separate recalls specifically address electrical shorts in relays that can cause engine compartment fires, even when the ignition is off. Another recall addresses transmission fluid leaks that could contact an ignition source and cause a fire.
How does the 2021 RAM 2500 perform in crash tests?
The 2021 RAM 2500 has limited NHTSA crash test data. It received an 'N/A' rating for Overall, Frontal, and Side crash tests. Its rollover rating is 3 stars. This lack of comprehensive data makes a full assessment of its crashworthiness difficult.
What recalls affect the 2021 RAM 2500?
The 2021 RAM 2500 has 8 recalls. These include issues with frontal and side airbags, multiple recalls for electrical shorts causing engine fires, transmission fluid leaks leading to fire risk, misaligned tailgates, and ABS control module software problems affecting electronic stability control.
Buyer Advice
Our recommendation: Given the numerous critical recalls, particularly for fire and airbag issues, and a high volume of complaints regarding engine and transmission failures, potential buyers should proceed with caution and ensure all recall repairs have been completed and verified.
NHTSA Data Summary for 2021 Ram 2500
This safety report is based on a comprehensive analysis of data from the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) for the 2021 Ram 2500. The data includes 99 consumer complaints filed by vehicle owners, 8 manufacturer-initiated safety recalls, 6 reported crashes, 8 fire incidents, 2 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.