2016 Ram 4500 Safety Report
2016 RAM 4500: Low complaints, but 7 recalls address critical safety components.
AI Safety Analysis for the 2016 Ram 4500
Reliability Score
The 2016 Ram 4500 receives a reliability score of 65 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 2016 Ram 4500
The following issues have been identified from NHTSA complaint data and owner reports for the 2016 Ram 4500:
| Issue | Severity | Frequency | Typical Mileage |
|---|---|---|---|
| Wheel Separation Due To Incorrect Manual Information Incorrect information in service/owner's manuals could lead to improper wheel lug nut torque, potentially causing wheel separation. |
High | Rare | N/A miles |
| Cruise Control Unable To Deactivate A wiring issue could prevent cruise control deactivation, leading to unintended acceleration and increased crash risk. |
High | Rare | N/A miles |
| Unintended Vehicle Movement Due To Transmission Shift Ability to shift transmission without brake pedal or key in ignition increases risk of unintended vehicle movement. |
High | Rare | N/A miles |
| Engine Compartment Fire Risk From Water Pump Leaking water pump in Cummins 6.7L Turbo Diesel engines can increase the risk of an engine compartment fire. |
High | Rare | N/A miles |
| Loss Of Motive Power From Fractured Transfer Case Output Shaft Fractured main output shaft in the transfer case can cause loss of motive power or inability to place vehicle in park. |
High | Rare | N/A miles |
| Engine Stall Without Warning Certain 6.7L Cummins engines may stall without warning, increasing the risk of a crash. |
High | Rare | N/A miles |
| Fractured Wheel Wells One complaint reported fractured wheel wells over the rear tires, a structural integrity concern. |
Medium | Rare | 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 2016 Ram 4500:
The only reported complaint involved fractured wheel wells, indicating a potential structural integrity issue.
Frequently Asked Questions About the 2016 Ram 4500
Is the 2016 RAM 4500 safe?
Based on NHTSA data, the 2016 RAM 4500 has a very low number of consumer complaints (1 total), with no reported crashes, fires, injuries, or deaths. However, it has been subject to 7 safety recalls addressing critical components like wheels, electrical systems, powertrain, and engine, which indicates potential safety issues identified and addressed by the manufacturer. NHTSA crash test ratings are not available for this vehicle.
What are common problems?
The most reported issue in NHTSA complaints for the 2016 RAM 4500 is related to the 'STRUCTURE' component, with one complaint specifically mentioning fractured wheel wells. Beyond complaints, recalls have addressed issues such as potential wheel separation, cruise control malfunction, unintended transmission shifts, engine compartment fire risk from water pump leaks, loss of motive power due to transfer case failure, and engine stalling.
How many recalls does the 2016 RAM 4500 have?
The 2016 RAM 4500 has 7 safety recalls issued by NHTSA. These recalls cover a range of issues from incorrect manual information leading to wheel separation to potential engine stalls and transmission problems.
Are there any engine-related recalls for the 2016 RAM 4500?
Yes, there are two engine-related recalls for the 2016 RAM 4500. One recall addresses a leaking water pump in Cummins 6.7L Turbo Diesel engines that can increase the risk of an engine compartment fire. Another recall concerns certain 6.7L Cummins engines that may stall without warning, increasing crash risk.
What should I check before buying a used 2016 RAM 4500?
Before buying a used 2016 RAM 4500, ensure all 7 safety recalls have been completed. Specifically, verify that the wheel lug nut torque information is correct, any cruise control wiring issues are resolved, transmission shift mechanisms are functioning properly, the water pump has been inspected/replaced if affected, the transfer case output shaft is sound, and any engine stall issues have been addressed. Also, inspect for structural issues like the reported fractured wheel wells.
Buyer Advice
Our recommendation: Given the low complaint volume but significant recall history, prioritize verifying all 7 recalls have been completed and conduct a thorough pre-purchase inspection, especially for structural integrity and powertrain components.
NHTSA Data Summary for 2016 Ram 4500
This safety report is based on a comprehensive analysis of data from the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) for the 2016 Ram 4500. The data includes 1 consumer complaints filed by vehicle owners, 7 manufacturer-initiated safety recalls, 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.