2023 Ram 2500 Safety Report

The 2023 RAM 2500 presents a mixed safety picture, characterized by a notable number of recalls for a relatively new model year and several concerning complaint patterns, despite a lack of formal NHTSA crash test ratings. With 44 total complaints, including 4 crashes and 1 fire, the vehicle has demonstrated some critical safety failures. A significant concern is the 7 recalls issued, addressing serious issues such as potential loss of drive power or park function due to transmission control unit welds, non-deployment of airbags, and engine compartment fires from electrical shorts in the Cummins diesel engine's grid heater relay. These recalls directly correlate with several consumer complaints, including reports of airbags failing to deploy in a 55-60 MPH head-on collision and an engine compartment fire. Common complaint patterns highlight issues with the ENGINE (9 complaints), EXTERIOR LIGHTING (5 complaints), and POWER TRAIN (4 complaints). Specific engine complaints include visible smoke, ticking noises, and catastrophic engine failure due to the grid heater bolt, which is also the subject of a recall. Power train complaints frequently mention harsh shifting, RPM flares, delayed engagement, and sudden lurching, aligning with the transmission-related recalls. Furthermore, issues with SERVICE BRAKES (3 complaints) describe soft pedals and brakes going to the floor, indicating potential braking system deficiencies. The lack of NHTSA crash test ratings (Overall, Frontal, Side, Rollover all N/A) means there is no independent data to assess its structural crashworthiness, making the airbag non-deployment complaints particularly alarming. The recall history is extensive for a 2023 model, covering critical safety systems. Two recalls address POWER TRAIN issues, one for transmission fluid leaks leading to loss of drive power/park function, and another for pressure build-up causing fluid leaks and fire risk. Two recalls relate to BACK OVER PREVENTION due to rearview camera display failures. The AIR BAGS recall for the driver clockspring/spiral cassette directly addresses the non-deployment issue reported by consumers. An ELECTRICAL SYSTEM recall for the Cummins diesel engine's grid heater relay is particularly concerning, as it can lead to an engine compartment fire, a scenario reported in one complaint. The STEERING recall for control module issues affecting turn signals and high beams also poses a risk to road safety. The sheer volume and severity of these recalls, coupled with the nature of consumer complaints, suggest that while the vehicle has potential, there are significant areas requiring attention and verification of recall completion.

Our recommendation: Given the high number of critical recalls and concerning safety complaints, potential buyers should proceed with extreme caution, verify all recall repairs have been completed, and consider an independent pre-purchase inspection focusing on engine, transmission, and braking systems.