2017 Ram 3500 Safety Report

2017 RAM 3500 Safety Report

296Complaints
13Recalls
85/100Reliability Score
9Crash Reports
2Injuries
Most reported components: Service Brakes (80)Service Brakes, Hydraulic (37)Wheels (14)Electrical System,Service Brakes (14)Vehicle Speed Control,Service Brakes (12)Engine (12)Steering (11)Power Train (10)Unknown Or Other (9)Electrical System,Vehicle Speed Control,Service Brakes (8)

Safety Decision Cockpit for the 2017 Ram 3500

This page is the hub for deciding what to inspect next on the 2017 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.

2017 Ram 3500 Safety Signal Summary
SignalValueWhat to inspect next
Recall burdenHigh (13)Review campaign numbers, affected components, and dealer remedies below.
Owner complaintsHigh (296)Scan complaint narratives for recurring symptoms, mileage, crashes, fires, injuries, and dates.
Crash and fire reports9Treat any crash, fire, injury, or fatality-linked pattern as a priority pre-purchase inspection item.
Primary component hubService BrakesCompare service brakes issues across vehicles.
Cleaner nearby model year2021Compare against the 2021 Ram 3500 with 59 complaints and 9 recalls.
Riskier nearby model year2018Check 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.

Nearby Ram 3500 Model Years
Model YearComplaintsRecallsUse case
2018 Ram 3500 743 11 Inspect as a potentially higher-complaint year.
2016 Ram 3500 130 16 Compare as a potentially cleaner alternative.
2019 Ram 3500 132 14 Compare as a potentially cleaner alternative.
2015 Ram 3500 135 16 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.

2017 Ram 3500 Complaint Theme Map

Complaint counts become more useful when they are grouped into inspection themes. For the 2017 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.

Service Brakes

80 owner complaints mention this component in the current safety profile.

All Service Brakes issues Ram only

Service Brakes, Hydraulic

37 owner complaints mention this component in the current safety profile.

All Service Brakes, Hydraulic issues Ram only

Wheels

14 owner complaints mention this component in the current safety profile.

All Wheels issues Ram only

Electrical System,Service Brakes

14 owner complaints mention this component in the current safety profile.

All Electrical System,Service Brakes issues Ram only

Vehicle Speed Control,Service Brakes

12 owner complaints mention this component in the current safety profile.

All Vehicle Speed Control,Service Brakes issues Ram only

Engine

12 owner complaints mention this component in the current safety profile.

All Engine issues Ram only

AI Safety Analysis for the 2017 Ram 3500

The 2017 RAM 3500 has accumulated 296 complaints and 13 recalls in the NHTSA database. Among the complaints, 9 involved crashes and 0 involved fires. There have been 2 reported injuries and 0 reported deaths. The most frequently reported problem areas are service brakes (80 complaints), service brakes, hydraulic (37 complaints), wheels (14 complaints). Service brakes, hydraulic: Chrysler (FCA US, LLC) is recalling certain 2017-2018 Ram 2500 Pickup, Ram 3500 Pickup, 3500 Cab Chassis, and 2017-2018 Ram 3500 Chassis Cab and 3500 Chassis Cab. Issues include loss of ABS, traction control, and cruise control, as well as audible distractions and warning messages. Wheels: Chrysler (FCA US, LLC) is recalling certain 2012-2021 RAM 3500, 3500 Cab Chassis, 4500 Cab Chassis, and 2017-2018 Ram 3500 Chassis Cab and 3500 Chassis Cab. Issues include lug nuts, bolts, and studs that may become loose or missing, leading to potential wheel separation. Key known issues to be aware of include Service Brakes, Hydraulic, Wheels, Electrical System, Service Brakes. Ensure the vehicle is up to date with all recalls and service recommendations to maintain safety and performance.

Reliability Score

The 2017 Ram 3500 receives a reliability score of 85 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 2017 Ram 3500

The following issues have been identified from NHTSA complaint data and owner reports for the 2017 Ram 3500:

IssueSeverityFrequencyTypical Mileage
Service Brakes, Hydraulic
Recalled due to issues with the hydraulic service brake control unit, leading to loss of ABS, traction control, and cruise control. Warning lights may illuminate.
Medium Common 30k-60k miles
Wheels
Recalled due to potential issues with lug nuts, bolts, and studs, which may become loose or missing, leading to potential wheel separation.
Medium Common 30k-60k miles
Electrical System, Service Brakes
Recalled due to possible grounding issues, including inoperative seat heat, steering wheel buttons, and interior lights, as well as incorrect response from hands-free functions.
Low Common 30k-60k miles
Steering
Recalled due to issues with steering linkages, causing a sudden decrease in speed and rear-end collisions.
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 2017 Ram 3500:

Service Brakes, Hydraulic 23% of complaints

Issues with the hydraulic service brake control unit leading to loss of ABS, traction control, and cruise control.

Wheels 14% of complaints

Potential issues with lug nuts, bolts, and studs, which may become loose or missing.

Electrical System, Service Brakes 14% of complaints

Possible grounding issues, including inoperative seat heat, steering wheel buttons, and interior lights.

Steering 11% of complaints

Issues with steering linkages causing a sudden decrease in speed and rear-end collisions.

Recall Details for the 2017 Ram 3500

The following 13 recalls have been issued for the 2017 Ram 3500 by NHTSA:

Air Bags:Side/Window:Curtain:Inflator
Campaign #25V010000 16/01/2025

Summary: Chrysler (FCA US, LLC) is recalling certain 2016-2019 Ram 3500, Ram 1500, 2016-2020 Ram 2500, and 2016 Ram 3500 Cab Chassis vehicles. The right and left side curtain air bag inflators may rupture due to a manufacturing defect.

Consequence: An inflator rupture may result in sharp metal fragments striking occupants, resulting in injury.

Remedy: Dealers will replace one or both side curtain air bags, as necessary, free of charge. Owner notification letters were mailed February 13, 2025. Owners may contact FCA customer service at 1-800-853-1403. FCA's numbers for this recall are 05C, 09C, and 10C.

Manufacturer: Chrysler (FCA US, LLC)
Service Brakes, Hydraulic:Antilock/Traction Control/Electronic Limited Slip:Control Unit/Module
Campaign #24V896000 27/11/2024

Summary: Chrysler (FCA US, LLC) is recalling certain 2017-2018 Ram 2500 Pickup, Ram 3500 Pickup, 3500 Cab Chassis, 4500 and 5500 Cab Chassis vehicles. The hydraulic control unit (HCU) may fail, which can cause the anti-lock brake (ABS), electronic stability control (ESC), and traction control systems to fail.

Consequence: A loss of anti-lock brakes, electronic stability control, or traction control can increase the risk of a crash.

Remedy: Dealers will replace the brake HCU, or replace the HCU motor, free of charge. Interim notification letters, notifying owners of the safety risk, were mailed January 9, 2025. Some owner notification letters were mailed January 9, 2025. The remaining owner notification letters will be mailed at a future date, anticipated July 2026. Owners may contact FCA customer service at 1-800-853-1403. FCA'...

Manufacturer: Chrysler (FCA US, LLC)
Wheels:Lugs/Nuts/Bolts/Studs
Campaign #21V398000 27/05/2021

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...

Manufacturer: Chrysler (FCA US, LLC)
Latches/Locks/Linkages:Tailgate:Latch
Campaign #19V347000 09/05/2019

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...

Manufacturer: Chrysler (FCA US LLC)
Steering:Linkages:Drag:Link:Connection
Campaign #19V021000 25/01/2019

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.

Manufacturer: Chrysler (FCA US LLC)
Structure:Body:Tailgate
Campaign #18V486000 27/07/2018

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.

Manufacturer: Chrysler (FCA US LLC)
Electrical System:Wiring
Campaign #18V332000 17/05/2018

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...

Manufacturer: Chrysler (FCA US LLC)
Power Train:Automatic Transmission
Campaign #18V100000 08/02/2018

Summary: Chrysler (FCA US LLC) is recalling certain 2017-2018 RAM 1500, 2500, 3500, 3500 Cab Chassis, 4500 Cab Chassis, and 5500 Cab Chassis vehicles, 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 open position, the transmission can be shifted out of PARK into any gear without pushing the brake pedal or having the key ...

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 Body Control Module software. Dealers will also test the BTSI operation, replacing the solenoid as necessary. The recall began February 26, 2018. Owners may contact Chrysler customer service at 1-800-853-1403. Chrysler's number for this recall is U11.

Manufacturer: Chrysler (FCA US LLC)
Steering:Linkages
Campaign #18E096000 16/10/2018

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.

Manufacturer: Streetcar ORV LLC
Equipment
Campaign #17V824000 21/12/2017

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...

Manufacturer: Chrysler (FCA US LLC)
Power Train:Automatic Transmission:Lever And Linkage:Column Shift
Campaign #17V821000 20/12/2017

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.

Manufacturer: Chrysler (FCA US LLC)
Engine And Engine Cooling:Engine:Diesel
Campaign #17V562000 12/09/2017

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.

Manufacturer: Chrysler (FCA US LLC)
Wheels
Campaign #17V499000 10/08/2017

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.

Manufacturer: Streetcar ORV LLC

NHTSA Complaint Summaries for the 2017 Ram 3500

Below are complaint narratives filed by owners of the 2017 Ram 3500 with the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration. 1 complaint involved crashes.

Crash Reports: 1
Service Brakes, Hydraulic
03/17/2026

The contact owns a 2017 Ram 3500. The contact received notification of NHTSA Campaign Number: 24V896000 (Service Brakes, Hydraulic); however, the part to do the recall repair was not yet available. The local dealer was contacted. The contact stated that the manufacturer had exceeded a reasonable amount of time for the recall repair. The manufacturer was made aware of the issue. The contact had no...

ODI #11724886
Service Brakes, Hydraulic
03/12/2026

See Attached Letter federal safety recall #c4b/nhtsa 24v-896 paid to have repairs done over two years ago the part was the old defect one took months to get paid still waiting for new improved part for 2017 and 2018 ram pickups alarm sounds and light flashes different times this is a anti lock back part and is a safety hazard in winter. please contact fca us llc and get this problem taken care of

ODI #11723767
Service Brakes
03/05/2026

While driving loss of abs/traction control. Loss of cruise control. Audible distraction ding while driving with warning messages.

ODI #11722328
Seats,Unknown Or Other
03/02/2026

Possible grounding issue. Seat heat inoperative, steering wheel buttons inoperative or incorrect response. Interior lights flickering. Hands free function engaged without prompts.

ODI #11721394
Service Brakes, Hydraulic
02/06/2026

The contact owns a 2017 Ram 3500. While the contact’s wife was driving into the driveway, the ABS and the traction control warning lights illuminated. Additionally, the brakes locked up while depressing the brake pedal. The dealer was notified of the failure and informed the contact that the VIN was not included in NHTSA Campaign Number: 24V896000 (Service Brakes, Hydraulic). The vehicle was not d...

ODI #11716138
Service Brakes
02/05/2026

I have been trying to get a ram dealer to fix the hcu unit under recall. All I get is no remedy available, im driving a truck with an open “ safety recall” that’s been a recall for over a year. I never stop listening to warning buzzers and flashing alarm lights.

ODI #11715944
Service Brakes, Hydraulic
01/27/2026

The contact owns a 2017 Ram 3500. The contact received notification of NHTSA Campaign Number: 24V896000 (Service Brakes, Hydraulic). The contact had been calling the local dealer and the manufacturer and was informed that the part was not yet available. The contact stated that in 2024, the ABS warning light intermittently illuminated, and in October 2025, there was an abnormally loud whirring soun...

ODI #11713554
Vehicle Speed Control,Service Brakes
01/19/2026

While driving on interstate 20 and then on I65 my cruise control dropped off causing the vehicle to sudden decrease in speed. Rear end collision narrow avoided due to commercial vehicles, following, quick action saved a disaster. This loss of cruise control, is/was caused by the warning ️ of recall C4B/NHTSA 24V-896. We are now experiencing a total loss of safety (service electronic...

ODI #11711839
Service Brakes, Hydraulic
01/16/2026

The contact owns a 2017 Ram 3500. The contact received notification of NHTSA Campaign Number: 24V896000 (SERVICE BRAKES, HYDRAULIC); however, the part to do the recall repair was not yet available. The local dealer was contacted. The contact stated that the manufacturer had exceeded a reasonable amount of time for the recall repair. The manufacturer was made aware of the issue. The contact had not...

ODI #11711452
Service Brakes, Hydraulic
01/12/2026

The contact owns a 2017 Ram 3500. The contact received notification of NHTSA Campaign Number: 24V896000 (Service Brakes, Hydraulic). The contact stated that the ABS malfunction light was illuminated. The local dealer was contacted and confirmed the repair status. The vehicle was not diagnosed or repaired. The manufacturer was contacted and confirmed the recall status. The failure mileage was appro...

ODI #11710404
Service Brakes
01/10/2026

The problem with the ABS module started in 2019 when the truck had 43000 miles. The dealership told mee what the problem was but didn't have the parts to repair it. I've been driving it since then with no anti lock brakes, traction control, and no cruise control. This seems unsafe to me and all other drivers. I have contacted the dealership and there is still no remedy for the issue. Please co...

ODI #11710084
Electrical System
01/08/2026

Odometer Fraud. The contact purchased a 2017 Ram 3500. The contact stated that while attempting to register the vehicle, it was discovered that there was a mileage discrepancy. The vehicle was a private sale from Facebook. At the time of purchase, the vehicle mileage was 234,000, and at the time of registration, it was discovered that the mileage was 380,000. A Police report was filed.

ODI #11709698
Service Brakes, Hydraulic
01/06/2026

The contact owns a 2017 Ram 3500. The contact stated that upon starting the vehicle, the traction control, ABS, and several other warning lights were illuminated on the instrument panel. In addition, the contact stated that a warning chime intermittently sounded while driving at various speeds. The vehicle was taken to a dealer and was diagnosed with a defective HCU (Hydraulic Control Unit), which...

ODI #11709069
Vehicle Speed Control,Service Brakes
01/05/2026

No cruise control, ding ding ding no traction control ding ding ding no abs ding ding ding

ODI #11708928
Service Brakes, Hydraulic
01/02/2026

The contact owns a 2017 Ram 3500. The contact stated that while driving approximately 40 MPH, the ABS and ESC warning lights illuminated. The contact depressed the brake pedal but was unable to stop the vehicle. The contact had a snowplow attached to the front of the vehicle and lowered the plow to stop the vehicle. The contact was having the vehicle towed to a dealer, but the vehicle was not yet ...

ODI #11708388
Vehicle Speed Control,Service Brakes
12/23/2025

It has been over 1year now and chrysler still doesn't have a fix for the anti lock brake system. How long can this go on? the truck keeps kicking out the cruise control and the traction controls. I have been contacting the dealers but there isn't a fix WTF!

ODI #11706880
Service Brakes, Hydraulic
12/23/2025

The contact owns a 2017 Ram 3500. The contact received notification of NHTSA Campaign Number: 24V896000 (Service Brakes, Hydraulic); however, the part to do the recall repair was not yet available. The local dealer was made aware of the issue and confirmed that parts were not yet available. The contact stated that the manufacturer had exceeded a reasonable amount of time for the recall repair. The...

ODI #11706742
Service Brakes
Crash 12/11/2025

The contact owns a 2017 RAM 3500. The contact stated that while driving at an undisclosed speed, the service brakes activated, and the vehicle slid and crashed into a deer. The contact stated that the deer appeared instantly. The brake pedal was depressed; however the vehicle failed to stop, and the vehicle crashed into the deer. The ABS and traction control warning lights were illuminated. The co...

ODI #11704470
Service Brakes, Hydraulic
12/04/2025

The contact owns a 2017 Ram 3500. The contact stated that while driving 50-70 MPH, the message "Check Brake System" was displayed and the traction control warning light illuminated, causing the cruise control mode to disengage, and the vehicle was almost rear-ended. The contact stated that the failure also occurred while driving at 75 MPH. The vehicle was taken to the dealer, where it was diagnose...

ODI #11703011
Fuel System, Diesel,Engine
11/14/2025

The contact owns a 2017 Ram 3500. The contact stated that the vehicle had undergone the regeneration process. There were no warning lights illuminated. The contact stated that the vehicle was performing the DPF regeneration cycle constantly while driving. The vehicle was taken to the local dealer, who informed the contact that the SCR catalytic converter was on backorder. The vehicle was not repai...

ODI #11699454

Showing 20 of 296 complaints. Additional complaints are available via the NHTSA database.

NHTSA Defect Investigations for the 2017 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.

Post Recall Remedy Brake Transmission Shift Interlock (BTSI) Failure
NHTSA RQ25003 Open

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...

Loss of Brake Performance
NHTSA PE22012 Closed

Component: Service Brakes, Hydraulic:Antilock/Traction Control/Electronic Limited Slip:Control Unit/Module

Opened 2022-11-28 · Closed 2025-03-03

The Office of Defects Investigation (ODI) opened this investigation on November 28, 2022, after receiving 134 reports from consumers alleging an intermittent or permanent loss of braking performance in certain 2017-2018 Ram 2500-3500 pickup trucks manufactured by Fiat Chrysler Automobiles (FCA). The alleged failures continued to occur at a steady rate across both models, at all speeds, with limited detectability.  Consumers complained that the Anti-lock Braking System (ABS) warning light illumin...

Steering loss due to linkage separation
NHTSA PE18016 Closed Recall 19V021000

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...

Steering loss due to linkage separation
NHTSA EA19004 Closed

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 2017 Ram 3500

Has the 2017 RAM 3500 been recalled?

Yes, the 2017 RAM 3500 has 13 recalls on record with NHTSA. Each recall addresses a specific safety defect identified by the manufacturer or NHTSA.

How many complaints does the 2017 RAM 3500 have?

The 2017 RAM 3500 has 296 complaints filed with NHTSA. Of these, 9 involved crashes. 2 injuries and 0 deaths have been reported.

What is the safety rating for the 2017 RAM 3500?

The 2017 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 2017 RAM 3500?

The most commonly reported problems with the 2017 RAM 3500 involve service brakes (80 complaints), service brakes, hydraulic (37 complaints), wheels (14 complaints). Other affected components include electrical system,service brakes, vehicle speed control,service brakes, engine.

How many crash reports does the 2017 RAM 3500 have?

There are 9 crash reports associated with the 2017 RAM 3500 out of 296 total complaints (3.0% of complaints involved crashes).

How many fire reports does the 2017 RAM 3500 have?

There are no fire reports for the 2017 RAM 3500 in the NHTSA database.

Are there any deaths reported for the 2017 RAM 3500?

No deaths have been reported in NHTSA complaints for the 2017 RAM 3500.

How many injuries are reported for the 2017 RAM 3500?

2 injuries have been reported in NHTSA complaints for the 2017 RAM 3500. These are self-reported by vehicle owners as part of their safety complaints.

Should I buy a 2017 RAM 3500?

Based on NHTSA data, the 2017 RAM 3500 is proceed with caution. It has 296 complaints, 13 recalls. Always have a pre-purchase inspection done by a qualified mechanic.

What components fail most on the 2017 RAM 3500?

The components with the most failures on the 2017 RAM 3500 are: 1. SERVICE BRAKES (80 complaints), 2. SERVICE BRAKES, HYDRAULIC (37 complaints), 3. WHEELS (14 complaints), 4. ELECTRICAL SYSTEM,SERVICE BRAKES (14 complaints), 5. VEHICLE SPEED CONTROL,SERVICE BRAKES (12 complaints). SERVICE BRAKES is the single most-reported problem area with 80 complaints.

What should I know before buying a 2017 RAM 3500?

Ensure the vehicle is up to date with all recalls and service recommendations to maintain safety and performance. The 2017 RAM 3500 has 296 NHTSA complaints and 13 recalls on record.

How reliable is the 2017 RAM 3500?

The 2017 RAM 3500 receives a reliability score of 85/100, indicating above-average reliability. This is based on 296 owner complaints, 13 recalls, and 9 crash/fire reports in the NHTSA database. Key known issues include Service Brakes, Hydraulic and Wheels.

What are the known issues with the 2017 RAM 3500?

Known issues with the 2017 RAM 3500 include: Service Brakes, Hydraulic, Wheels, Electrical System, Service Brakes, Steering. These are based on patterns found across 296 NHTSA complaints. 13 of these patterns resulted in formal recalls.

What are the main safety concerns with the 2017 RAM 3500?

Main concerns include service brake hydraulic issues and wheel lug nut problems, leading to potential loss of ABS, traction control, and cruise control, as well as wheel separation.

How can I check if my 2017 RAM 3500 is affected by recalls?

Check with your dealership or visit the NHTSA website for recall information specific to your vehicle.

What should I do if I experience warning lights while driving?

Pull over safely, turn off the vehicle, and contact your dealership for inspection and repair.

Buyer Advice

Our recommendation: Ensure the vehicle is up to date with all recalls and service recommendations to maintain safety and performance.

NHTSA Data Summary for 2017 Ram 3500

This safety report is based on a comprehensive analysis of data from the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) for the 2017 Ram 3500. The data includes 296 consumer complaints filed by vehicle owners, 13 manufacturer-initiated safety recalls, 9 reported crashes, 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.

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