2019 Ram 3500 Safety Report

2019 Ram 3500: High Complaint Volume and Extensive Recalls Raise Safety Concerns

132Complaints
14Recalls
55/100Reliability Score
10Crash Reports
5Fire Reports
8Injuries
Most reported components: Fuel System, Diesel (24)Power Train (12)Engine (10)Tires (10)Fuel/Propulsion System (10)Structure (5)Electrical System (4)Wheels (4)Service Brakes (4)Engine And Engine Cooling,Electrical System (3)

AI Safety Analysis for the 2019 Ram 3500

The 2019 Ram 3500 presents a mixed safety picture, with a significant number of complaints and recalls impacting its overall safety profile. While NHTSA crash test ratings are not available for this heavy-duty truck, the complaint data reveals 132 total complaints, including 10 related to crashes, 5 to fires, and 8 to injuries. The most frequently cited issues involve the fuel system (24 complaints), powertrain (12 complaints), and engine (10 complaints). This suggests potential concerns with the vehicle's core mechanical and fuel delivery systems. The recall history is extensive, with 14 recalls issued. Notable recalls include issues with side curtain airbag inflators that could rupture, a tailgate that may not latch properly, ABS control module software, windshield wiper linkages, high-pressure fuel pumps, engine oil lubrication leading to potential fire risks, and wheel lug nuts. These recalls address critical safety systems, including occupant protection, vehicle control, and fire prevention. The combination of numerous complaints, particularly those involving crashes and fires, and a high volume of safety-critical recalls, indicates a need for careful consideration by potential buyers.

Reliability Score

The 2019 Ram 3500 receives a reliability score of 55 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 2019 Ram 3500

The following issues have been identified from NHTSA complaint data and owner reports for the 2019 Ram 3500:

IssueSeverityFrequencyTypical Mileage
Fuel System Failures
Numerous complaints and recalls related to the diesel fuel system, including high-pressure fuel pump failures and potential engine oil leaks leading to fire risks, are a significant concern.
High Common N/A miles
Airbag Inflator Rupture
Recalls address the potential rupture of side curtain airbag inflators, which could send metal fragments into the cabin, posing a serious injury risk.
High Occasional N/A miles
Engine Issues
Complaints and recalls indicate potential engine problems, including knocking, locking up, and oil lubrication issues that could lead to engine damage or fire.
High Common N/A miles
Tailgate Latching Failure
A recall exists for tailgates that may not latch properly, potentially leading to unintended opening and loss of cargo.
Medium Occasional N/A miles
Electronic Stability Control (Esc) Malfunction
Recalls address ABS control module software that may lead to ESC malfunctions, increasing the risk of a crash.
High Occasional N/A miles
Water Intrusion And Electrical Corrosion
Complaints describe water intrusion through the firewall/wiper cowl leading to electrical corrosion and loss of vehicle communication (CAN bus).
Medium Occasional N/A miles
Wheel Lug Nut Issues
Recalls mention incorrect information in manuals regarding wheel lug nuts, which could lead to wheel separation and a crash.
High Rare N/A miles
Transmission Shifting Problems
Some owners report transmission issues, including erratic shifting and the transmission locking up in park.
Medium Occasional N/A miles

Common Problems Reported by Owners

Based on NHTSA complaint data, the following components account for the majority of reported issues with the 2019 Ram 3500:

Fuel System, Diesel 24% of complaints

The most frequently reported component issue, with numerous complaints and recalls related to fuel pumps and potential fire risks from oil leaks.

Power Train 12% of complaints

A significant number of complaints related to the powertrain, suggesting potential issues with transmission or drivetrain components.

Engine 10% of complaints

Engine-related complaints are common, including reports of knocking, locking up, and other serious mechanical failures.

Tires 10% of complaints

Complaints regarding tire issues, such as belt separation, have been noted.

Fuel/Propulsion System 10% of complaints

Overlaps with Fuel System, indicating widespread concerns in this area.

Structure 5% of complaints

Complaints related to structural components, including chassis welds and tailgate issues.

Electrical System 4% of complaints

Issues with the electrical system, including corrosion due to water intrusion and battery charging problems.

Wheels 4% of complaints

Concerns related to wheels, including lug nut issues highlighted in recalls.

Service Brakes 4% of complaints

Complaints related to the service brakes, potentially linked to ABS module recalls.

Engine And Engine Cooling 3% of complaints

Specific complaints related to engine cooling systems and potential oil leaks.

Frequently Asked Questions About the 2019 Ram 3500

Is the 2019 Ram 3500 safe?

Based on NHTSA data, the 2019 Ram 3500 has a high number of complaints, including those related to crashes and fires, and a significant number of safety recalls. While specific crash test ratings are unavailable, these factors suggest potential safety concerns that warrant careful consideration.

What are common problems with the 2019 Ram 3500?

The most reported issues include problems with the fuel system (especially diesel), powertrain, and engine. Other common complaints involve tires, structural components, and the electrical system.

Are there any major recalls for the 2019 Ram 3500?

Yes, there are 14 recalls for the 2019 Ram 3500. Key recalls address potential airbag inflator ruptures, faulty tailgate latches, ABS control module software, and fuel system issues that could lead to engine stalls or fires.

What are the risks associated with the fuel system complaints and recalls?

The fuel system issues, particularly with the diesel engine, are a significant concern. Recalls involve high-pressure fuel pumps and engine oil lubrication problems that can lead to engine stalls, damage, or even increase the risk of fire.

Should I be concerned about the airbag recalls?

Yes, the recalls concerning side curtain airbag inflator ruptures are a serious safety matter. A rupture could cause metal fragments to enter the vehicle cabin, leading to occupant injury.

Buyer Advice

Our recommendation: Given the high volume of complaints and numerous safety recalls, particularly concerning the fuel system and airbags, potential buyers should thoroughly investigate the maintenance history and ensure all recalls have been addressed before purchasing a 2019 Ram 3500.

NHTSA Data Summary for 2019 Ram 3500

This safety report is based on a comprehensive analysis of data from the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) for the 2019 Ram 3500. The data includes 132 consumer complaints filed by vehicle owners, 14 manufacturer-initiated safety recalls, 10 reported crashes, 5 fire incidents, 8 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.