2015 Ram 3500 Safety Report
2015 RAM 3500 Safety Report
Safety Decision Cockpit for the 2015 Ram 3500
This page is the hub for deciding what to inspect next on the 2015 Ram 3500. 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.
| Signal | Value | What to inspect next |
|---|---|---|
| Recall burden | High (16) | Review campaign numbers, affected components, and dealer remedies below. |
| Owner complaints | High (135) | Scan complaint narratives for recurring symptoms, mileage, crashes, fires, injuries, and dates. |
| Crash and fire reports | 8 | Treat any crash, fire, injury, or fatality-linked pattern as a priority pre-purchase inspection item. |
| Primary component hub | Power Train | Compare power train issues across vehicles. |
| Cleaner nearby model year | 2021 | Compare against the 2021 Ram 3500 with 59 complaints and 9 recalls. |
| Riskier nearby model year | 2018 | Check the 2018 Ram 3500 before buying across this generation. |
Ram 3500 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 3500 years already present in the cleaned NHTSA dataset, so each comparison links to a real vehicle safety report rather than a generated combination.
| Model Year | Complaints | Recalls | Use case |
|---|---|---|---|
| 2016 Ram 3500 | 130 | 16 | Compare as a potentially cleaner alternative. |
| 2017 Ram 3500 | 296 | 13 | Inspect as a potentially higher-complaint year. |
| 2018 Ram 3500 | 743 | 11 | Inspect as a potentially higher-complaint year. |
| 2019 Ram 3500 | 132 | 14 | Compare as a potentially cleaner alternative. |
| 2020 Ram 3500 | 111 | 11 | Compare as a potentially cleaner alternative. |
| 2021 Ram 3500 | 59 | 9 | Compare as a potentially cleaner alternative. |
2015 Ram 3500 Complaint Theme Map
Complaint counts become more useful when they are grouped into inspection themes. For the 2015 Ram 3500, 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
13 owner complaints mention this component in the current safety profile.
All Power Train issues Ram onlyService Brakes
12 owner complaints mention this component in the current safety profile.
All Service Brakes issues Ram onlyWheels
10 owner complaints mention this component in the current safety profile.
All Wheels issues Ram onlySteering
10 owner complaints mention this component in the current safety profile.
All Steering issues Ram onlyEngine
8 owner complaints mention this component in the current safety profile.
All Engine issues Ram onlyUnknown Or Other
7 owner complaints mention this component in the current safety profile.
All Unknown Or Other issues Ram onlyAI Safety Analysis for the 2015 Ram 3500
Reliability Score
The 2015 Ram 3500 receives a reliability score of 73 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.
Known Issues for the 2015 Ram 3500
The following issues have been identified from NHTSA complaint data and owner reports for the 2015 Ram 3500:
| Issue | Severity | Frequency | Typical Mileage |
|---|---|---|---|
| Air Bags Chrysler (FCA US, LLC) is recalling certain 2015-2020 Ram 1500 Classic, 2015-2016 Ram 3500, and Ram 3500 Cab Chassis. |
Medium | Common | 30k-60k miles |
| Steering Linkages Chrysler (FCA US LLC) is recalling certain 2013-2018 Ram 3500 and 2014-2018 Ram 3500 Chassis Cab and 3500 Chassis Cab. |
Medium | Common | 30k-60k miles |
| Trailer Braking System Voltage Output voltage to the trailer braking system is low, only 7.5 volts. |
Low | Common | 30k-60k miles |
| Tailgate Latch Chrysler (FCA US LLC) is recalling certain 2015-2017 Ram 1500, 2500 and 3500 pickup trucks equipped. |
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 2015 Ram 3500:
Steering issues, including shuddering and abnormal popping, are common.
Power train issues, such as low trailer braking system voltage, are frequent.
Wheels and lug nuts are a common issue, with recalls for these components.
Air bag recalls are common, affecting the safety of the vehicle.
Recall Details for the 2015 Ram 3500
The following 16 recalls have been issued for the 2015 Ram 3500 by NHTSA:
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.
Summary: Chrysler (FCA US, LLC) is recalling certain 2012-2021 RAM 3500, 3500 Cab Chassis, 4500 Cab Chassis, and 5500 Cab Chassis vehicles. Incorrect information in the Service and Owner's Manuals may cause the flanged lug nuts to be over-tightened, which could result in a broken wheel stud and possible wheel separation.
Consequence: Wheel separation can cause a vehicle crash.
Remedy: Dealers will update the torque specification in the owner's manual and other published service documents. Dealers will also inspect the vehicle's wheel studs, replacing them if necessary, free of charge. Owner notification letters were mailed on November 30, 2021. Campaign Y36 owner notification letters were mailed on November 30, 2021. Campaign Y26 owner notification letters were mailed on De...
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...
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.
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.
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...
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.
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...
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.
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.
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.
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.
Summary: Chrysler (FCA US LLC) is recalling certain model year 2015 RAM 2500 trucks, and RAM 3500 trucks and cab chassis. The affected vehicles may have inadequate welds securing the front track bar frame brackets, possibly resulting in the bracket components separating from the frame.
Consequence: If the bracket components separate from the frame, the vehicle may have a reduced response to steering input, increasing the risk of a crash.
Remedy: Chrysler will notify owners, and dealers will weld on a new track bar frame bracket or replace the frame of the vehicle, free of charge. The recall began on September 14, 2016. Owners may contact Chrysler customer service at 1-800-853-1403. Chrysler's number for this recall is S58.
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.
Summary: Chrysler (FCA US LLC) is recalling certain model year 2013-2015 Ram 1500, 2500, 3500, 4500, and 5500, 2015 Chrysler 200, Chrysler 300, Dodge Charger, and Dodge Challenger, 2014-2015 Jeep Grand Cherokee, Cherokee, and Dodge Durango, and 2013-2015 Dodge Viper vehicles. The affected vehicles are equipped with radios that have software vulnerabilities that can allow third-party access to certain networked vehicle control systems.
Consequence: Exploitation of the software vulnerability may result in unauthorized remote modification and control of certain vehicle systems, increasing the risk of a crash.
Remedy: Chrysler will notify and mail affected owners a USB drive that includes a software update that eliminates the vulnerability, free of charge. Optionally, owners may download the update to their own USB drive from http://www.driveuconnect.com/software-update/ or take their vehicle to a Chrysler dealer for immediate installation. In an effort to mitigate the effects of this security vulnerability, ...
Summary: Chrysler (FCA US LLC) is recalling certain model year 2013-2015 Ram 1500, 2500, and 3500 trucks manufactured June 20, 2012, to January 26, 2015. In the affected vehicles, the side impact sensor calibrations may be overly sensitive, and as a result, the side air bag inflatable curtains and seat air bags may unexpectedly deploy and the seat belt pre-tensioners may activate.
Consequence: Air bags that unexpectedly deploy increase the risk of a crash or injury.
Remedy: Chrysler will notify owners, and dealers will update the Occupant Restraint Control module calibration, free of charge. The recall began on September 8, 2015. Owners may contact Chrysler customer service at 1-800-853-1403. Chrysler's number for this recall is R23.
NHTSA Complaint Summaries for the 2015 Ram 3500
Below are complaint narratives filed by owners of the 2015 Ram 3500 with the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration. 1 complaint involved crashes. 2 involved fires.
The output voltage to the Trailer Braking system is low, only 7.5 volts. Other owners have the same problem. From what I understand there is an issue with the computer that keeps the Original Equipment trailer brake controller from delivering full power at speeds below 30 MPH. This is a safety hazard in stop and go driving. There are many complaints about this same problem in the Ram Forumz. Ram s...
humming from the hydroboost pump, actual issue is the high pressure steering line has a nylon tube inside the hose that breaks apart and moves throughout the system. Dodge had one revision of the hose on the early model years but this issue has gone unresolved. I am afraid if i cant get it fixed it may possibly cause the brakes or steering assistance to fail.
The contact owns a 2015 Ram 3500. The contact stated while driving approximately 70 MPH in the left lane, the check engine warning light illuminated, and the vehicle simultaneously went into LIMP Mode. The contact was able to pull over to the shoulder of the roadway. The contact was able to continue driving, but the vehicle failed to exceed 5 MPH. Upon arriving to the residence, the vehicle was sc...
There was a recall forced by the NTSB for a condition where the track bar adjustment nut would come loose and the truck would lose steering. The recall on the track bar was rectified by the dealer by welding the nut on the track bar. Now that the nut has been welded a proper alignment can not be preformed. There is no longer adjustment available due to the welded nut. The only way to properl...
At about 3,000 miles I noticed a periodical head light flicker and intermittent radio issues. Shortly after that the truck has presented with periodical brake issues. My front brakes parodically drag and get hot. Typically on one front side or the other. However on [XXX] my wife and I took the truck out for a drive and both front brakes began dragging and heated up. I had to be towed 40+ miles bac...
the instrument panel dash cluster went black and now I have no information like tire pressure, mph, engine oil temp, coolant temp, cruise control,parking sensor alert, ect. I have tried everything to reboot or see if there is loose connections and have come up with nothing. this could be a hazard.
The contact owns a 2015 Ram 3500. The contact stated while driving 60 MPH, the steering started shuddering and the vehicle made an abnormal popping sound. The contact then noticed that the front driver's side wheel was wobbling. The contact pulled over to the side of the road and inspected the wheel. The contact noticed that two of the wheel studs of the front driver's side wheel had fractured. Th...
I am filing this report to highlight ongoing safety and warranty issues with my 2015 Dodge Ram 3500, which is severely impacted by Recall 67A. This recall was intended to address emissions tampering, involving significant obligations for Stellantis/Cummins Inc. under the emissions extended warranty, termed the "Special Extended Warranty." Since the completion of the recall in January 2024, my veh...
ABS and Traction control warning lights are on display. Cruise control and 4x4 will not engage due to this issue. Also causing malfunction while towing a trailer.
The contact owns a 2015 Ram 3500. The contact stated while driving 35-40 MPH, the vehicle started wiggling and wobbling abnormally. The contact was able to pull to the side of the road, where he noticed that the outer rear wheel had separated from the vehicle. Additionally, the contact noticed that the inner rear wheel had separated and pinched the axle, causing the wheel to support the vehicle. T...
The contact owns a 2015 Ram 3500. The contact received notification of NHTSA Campaign Number: 17V821000 (Power Train). The contact had experienced the failure and paid for the repair before receiving the recall notification. The contact stated he received the notification in January 2024 and took the vehicle, the notification, and the receipt for the repair to the dealer to be reimbursed. The con...
The contact owns a 2015 Ram 3500. The contact stated that the gooseneck ball hitch failed to remain secured. No warning light was illuminated. The vehicle was taken to dealer. The dealer confirmed the failure with the gooseneck ball hitch was related to the recall but did not replace the gooseneck ball hitch. The contact referenced NHTSA Campaign Number: 18E028000 (Trailer Hitches) as a possible s...
Backing up 11/20/23 in our driveway, the tailgate fell down, shut it and it occurred 2 more times before it could be re-parked.
ABS Module / HCU (Hydraulic Control Unit Failure) causing abs MIL on. Fault code C0020
The contact owns a 2015 Ram 3500. The contact stated that after his wife started the vehicle, the transmission failed to shift into the intended gear because the gear shifter was loose. The vehicle was towed to the dealer, where the gear shifter bolt was tightened; however, after the repair was performed, the gear shifter detached while the contact was shifting into gear. The vehicle was not repai...
The contact owns a 2015 Ram 3500. The contact stated while driving at approximately 30 MPH, the driver's front and driver's side rear wheels detached from the vehicle. The contact became aware of nine broken wheel studs. There was no warning light illuminated. The contact referenced the failure to NHTSA Campaign Number: 21V398000 (Wheels) however, the VIN was not included in the recall. The contac...
ABS Module failed and is not reading rear wheel speed. Shop isolated issue to ABS module, and hydraulic control unit. Four safety components are no longer working as a result: ABS braking, traction control, 4wd, and rear back up sensors. This appears to be a common issue with Rams HD trucks as the parts are on back order causing me to drive my vehicle with no safety features.
Driving down turnpike my truck went up in flames, mopar sent investigator to determine cause of fire at dealership never called me to give me a report they emailed me to badly burnt to determine cause of fire.
After I brought my truck in for recall Y26 they inspected the studs and said they were fine (not stretched which is what the recall is for). I took a trip and put 6,700 after the inspection and the dealer re-torqued the wheels. When I got back there seemed to be something wrong with the brakes and so I brought it back to the same dealer that inspected it before and verified the studs were not st...
The contact owns a 2015 Ram 3500. The contact had initially received notification of NHTSA Campaign Number: 21V398000 (Wheels). The vehicle was then taken to a dealer where the recall repair was performed. The contact stated that approximately 6,600 miles after the recall repair was performed, the vehicle started vibrating while driving at various speeds. Additionally, the contact mentioned that t...
Showing 20 of 135 complaints. Additional complaints are available via the NHTSA database.
NHTSA Defect Investigations for the 2015 Ram 3500
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.
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...
Component: Electrical System:Software
Opened 2015-07-24 · Closed 2016-01-05
On July 23, 2015, Fiat Chrysler Automobiles (FCA) launched Safety Recall 15V-461 to remedy security vulnerabilities in approximately 1.4 million model year (MY) 2013 through 2015 vehicles equipped with Uconnect head units (HU) 8.4A (RA3 radio) and 8.4AN (RA4 radio) manufactured by Harman International.On July 24, 2015, the Office of Defects Investigation (ODI) opened Recall Query, RQ 15-004, to investigate HU security vulnerabilities and remedy effectiveness in the recalled population and to det...
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...
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 2015 Ram 3500
Has the 2015 RAM 3500 been recalled?
Yes, the 2015 RAM 3500 has 16 recalls on record with NHTSA. Each recall addresses a specific safety defect identified by the manufacturer or NHTSA.
How many complaints does the 2015 RAM 3500 have?
The 2015 RAM 3500 has 135 complaints filed with NHTSA. Of these, 3 involved crashes. 1 injuries and 0 deaths have been reported.
What is the safety rating for the 2015 RAM 3500?
The 2015 RAM 3500 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 2015 RAM 3500?
The most commonly reported problems with the 2015 RAM 3500 involve power train (13 complaints), service brakes (12 complaints), wheels (10 complaints). Other affected components include steering, engine, unknown or other.
How many crash reports does the 2015 RAM 3500 have?
There are 3 crash reports associated with the 2015 RAM 3500 out of 135 total complaints (2.2% of complaints involved crashes).
How many fire reports does the 2015 RAM 3500 have?
There are 5 fire reports for the 2015 RAM 3500 out of 135 total complaints. Fire reports are among the most serious safety concerns tracked by NHTSA.
Are there any deaths reported for the 2015 RAM 3500?
No deaths have been reported in NHTSA complaints for the 2015 RAM 3500.
How many injuries are reported for the 2015 RAM 3500?
1 injury has been reported in NHTSA complaints for the 2015 RAM 3500. These are self-reported by vehicle owners as part of their safety complaints.
Should I buy a 2015 RAM 3500?
Based on NHTSA data, the 2015 RAM 3500 is proceed with caution. It has 135 complaints, 16 recalls. Always have a pre-purchase inspection done by a qualified mechanic.
What components fail most on the 2015 RAM 3500?
The components with the most failures on the 2015 RAM 3500 are: 1. POWER TRAIN (13 complaints), 2. SERVICE BRAKES (12 complaints), 3. WHEELS (10 complaints), 4. STEERING (10 complaints), 5. ENGINE (8 complaints). POWER TRAIN is the single most-reported problem area with 13 complaints.
What should I know before buying a 2015 RAM 3500?
Be aware of common issues with steering, power train, wheels, and air bags. Regular maintenance and timely recalls can help mitigate these risks. The 2015 RAM 3500 has 135 NHTSA complaints and 16 recalls on record.
How reliable is the 2015 RAM 3500?
The 2015 RAM 3500 receives a reliability score of 73/100, indicating above-average reliability. This is based on 135 owner complaints, 16 recalls, and 8 crash/fire reports in the NHTSA database. Key known issues include Air bags and Steering linkages.
What are the known issues with the 2015 RAM 3500?
Known issues with the 2015 RAM 3500 include: Air bags, Steering linkages, Trailer braking system voltage, Tailgate latch. These are based on patterns found across 135 NHTSA complaints. 16 of these patterns resulted in formal recalls.
What are the most common safety issues with the 2015 RAM 3500?
Common issues include steering problems, power train issues, wheel problems, and air bag recalls.
Are there any recalls for the 2015 RAM 3500?
Yes, recalls have been issued for air bags, steering linkages, wheels, and trailer braking system voltage.
What should I do if I experience steering shuddering in my 2015 RAM 3500?
Check for loose or damaged steering components and consult a mechanic for further diagnosis and repair.
Buyer Advice
Our recommendation: Be aware of common issues with steering, power train, wheels, and air bags. Regular maintenance and timely recalls can help mitigate these risks.
NHTSA Data Summary for 2015 Ram 3500
This safety report is based on a comprehensive analysis of data from the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) for the 2015 Ram 3500. The data includes 135 consumer complaints filed by vehicle owners, 16 manufacturer-initiated safety recalls, 3 reported crashes, 5 fire incidents, 1 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.
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