2020 Ram 4500 Safety Report
2020 RAM 4500 Safety Report
Safety Decision Cockpit for the 2020 Ram 4500
This page is the hub for deciding what to inspect next on the 2020 Ram 4500. 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 (10) | Review campaign numbers, affected components, and dealer remedies below. |
| Owner complaints | Low (3) | Scan complaint narratives for recurring symptoms, mileage, crashes, fires, injuries, and dates. |
| Crash and fire reports | 0 | Treat any crash, fire, injury, or fatality-linked pattern as a priority pre-purchase inspection item. |
| Primary component hub | Visibility | Compare visibility issues across vehicles. |
| Cleaner nearby model year | 2024 | Compare against the 2024 Ram 4500 with 1 complaints and 2 recalls. |
| Riskier nearby model year | 2018 | Check the 2018 Ram 4500 before buying across this generation. |
Ram 4500 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 4500 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 |
|---|---|---|---|
| 2019 Ram 4500 | 6 | 10 | Inspect as a potentially higher-complaint year. |
| 2022 Ram 4500 | 3 | 4 | Use as a comparable safety baseline. |
| 2018 Ram 4500 | 8 | 7 | Inspect as a potentially higher-complaint year. |
| 2017 Ram 4500 | 3 | 7 | Use as a comparable safety baseline. |
| 2024 Ram 4500 | 1 | 2 | Compare as a potentially cleaner alternative. |
| 2016 Ram 4500 | 1 | 7 | Compare as a potentially cleaner alternative. |
2020 Ram 4500 Complaint Theme Map
Complaint counts become more useful when they are grouped into inspection themes. For the 2020 Ram 4500, 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.
Visibility
1 owner complaint mention this component in the current safety profile.
All Visibility issues Ram onlyFuel System, Diesel,Visibility
1 owner complaint mention this component in the current safety profile.
All Fuel System, Diesel,Visibility issues Ram onlyFuel/Propulsion System
1 owner complaint mention this component in the current safety profile.
All Fuel/Propulsion System issues Ram onlyAI Safety Analysis for the 2020 Ram 4500
Reliability Score
The 2020 Ram 4500 receives a reliability score of 87 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 2020 Ram 4500
The following issues have been identified from NHTSA complaint data and owner reports for the 2020 Ram 4500:
| Issue | Severity | Frequency | Typical Mileage |
|---|---|---|---|
| Windshield Wiper/Washer Linkages Chrysler (FCA US, LLC) is recalling certain 2019-2020 Ram 2500 and Ram 3500 vehicles due to potential issues with windshield wiper/washer linkages. |
Medium | Occasional | 30k-60k miles |
| Fuel Pump Chrysler (FCA US, LLC) is recalling certain 2019-2020 Ram 2500, 3500 pickup trucks, and Ram 3500, 4500 vehicles due to potential issues with the fuel pump. |
Medium | Occasional | 30k-60k miles |
| Service Brakes, Hydraulic: Hoses, Lines/Piping, And Fittings Chrysler (FCA US, LLC) is recalling certain 2019-2020 Ram 4500 and 5500 Cab Chassis vehicles due to potential issues with service brakes, hydraulic hoses, lines/piping, and fittings. |
High | Common | 30k-60k miles |
| Engine And Engine Cooling: Engine: Oil/Lubrication Chrysler (FCA US, LLC) is recalling certain 2019-2020 Ram 3500, 4500, and 5500 cab chassis vehicles due to potential issues with engine and engine cooling, specifically oil/lubrication. |
Medium | Occasional | 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 2020 Ram 4500:
23% of the issues reported are related to service brakes, hydraulic foundation components, hoses, lines/piping, and fittings.
Recall Details for the 2020 Ram 4500
The following 10 recalls have been issued for the 2020 Ram 4500 by NHTSA:
Summary: Chrysler (FCA US, LLC) is recalling certain 2019-2020 Ram 4500 and 5500 Cab Chassis vehicles. The rear brake hose inside diameter may be too small, which could cause the hose to rupture. As such, these vehicles fail to comply with the requirements of Federal Motor Vehicle Safety Standard number 106, "Brake Hoses."
Consequence: A brake hose rupture can cause a loss of braking ability, increasing the risk of a crash.
Remedy: Dealers will replace the rear brake hoses, free of charge. Owner notification letters were mailed April 27, 2023. Owners may contact FCA US, LLC customer service at 1-800-853-1403. FCA US, LLC's number for this recall is ZA5.
Summary: Chrysler (FCA US, LLC) is recalling certain 2019-2020 Ram 2500 and Ram 3500 vehicles, Ram 3500 Cab Chassis, 4500 Cab Chassis, 5500 Cab Chassis and 3500 Cab Chassis with a gross vehicle weight rating (GVWR) of less than 10,000 lbs. The windshield wiper arms may loosen, possibly causing the wipers to function improperly and reduce the driver's visibility in certain weather conditions.
Consequence: Reduced visibility increases the risk of a crash.
Remedy: Dealers will tighten the wiper nuts, free of charge. Owner notification letters were mailed February 15, 2022. This recall is an expansion of recall number 20V-208. Owners may contact FCA US, LLC customer service at 1-800-853-1403. FCA US, LLC's number for this recall is Z08.
Summary: Chrysler (FCA US, LLC) is recalling certain 2019-2020 Ram 2500, 3500 pickup trucks, and Ram 3500, 4500, and 5500 cab chassis vehicles equipped with Cummins 6.7L Turbo Diesel engines. The High Pressure Fuel Pump (HPFP) may fail, resulting in a sudden engine stall without warning.
Consequence: An engine stall increases the risk of a crash.
Remedy: Dealers will replace the HPFP, update the Powertrain Control Module (PCM) software, and inspect and replace additional fuel system components as necessary, free of charge. Interim owner notification letters to inform owners of the safety recall were mailed on January 4, 2022. Owner notification letters were mailed on May 17, 2022. Phase 2 owner notification letters are expected to be mailed on ...
Summary: Chrysler (FCA US, LLC) is recalling certain 2019-2020 Ram 3500, 4500, and 5500 cab chassis vehicles equipped with a Cummins 6.7L High Output engine. The engine calibration software may not warn about low oil volume.
Consequence: Low oil can damage the engine, causing an oil leak or a punctured engine block, increasing the risk of a fire.
Remedy: Dealers will update the engine calibration software, free of charge. Owner notification letters were mailed June 25, 2021. Owners may contact FCA US LLC customer service at 1-800-853-1403. FCA US LLC's number for this recall is Y21.
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: Excellance, Inc (Excellance) is recalling certain 2019-2020 Excellance-modified RAM 4500/5500 vehicles to be equipped with CLASS Suspension Systems. In the affected suspension systems, the rear brake caliper flexible line may have been routed so that it contacts a suspension component, possibly causing excessive wear and a loss of rear brakes.
Consequence: A worn rear brake caliper flexible line may cause brake fluid leakage which may result in a partial or complete loss of the rear brakes, increasing the risk of a crash.
Remedy: Excellance will notify owners, and dealers will install a kit to remedy any damage and to prevent any future damage, free of charge. The manufacturer has not yet provided a schedule for recall notification. Owners may contact Excellance customer service at 1-800-882-9799.
Summary: Custom Truck And Body Works is recalling certain 2020 Dodge 4500 and 5500 vehicles. In the affected suspension systems, the rear brake caliper flexible line may have been routed so that it contacts a suspension component, possibly causing excessive wear and a loss of rear brakes.
Consequence: A worn rear brake caliper flexible line may cause brake fluid leakage, which may result in a partial or complete loss of the rear brakes, increasing the risk of a crash.
Remedy: Custom Truck And Body Works will notify owners, and dealers will repair the affected suspension systems, and rear brake caliper flexible line, free of charge. Owners may contact Custom Truck And Body Works customer service at 1-706-553-9178. Custom Truck And Body Works number for this recall is 20E-031.
Summary: Braun Northwest (Braun Northwest) is recalling certain 2019-2020 RAM 4500/5500 vehicles equipped with Liquid Spring rear suspension systems. In the affected suspension systems, the rear brake caliper flexible line may have been routed so that it contacts a suspension component, possibly causing excessive wear and a loss of rear brakes.
Consequence: A worn rear brake line may leak fluid, resulting in a partial or complete loss of the rear brakes, increasing the risk of a crash.
Remedy: Braun Northwest will notify owners, and dealers will install a repair kit to each rear caliper and modify the rear brake caliper flexible line mounting. Any worn rear brake caliper flexible lines will be replaced as needed, free of charge. The recall began June 8, 2020. Owners may contact Braun Northwest customer service at 1-360-748-0195.
Summary: Chrysler (FCA US LLC) is recalling certain 2019-2020 Ram 3500, 4500 and 5500 cab chassis built with a Cummins 6.7L High Output engine. Inadequate warmup protection can cause a lack of oil film on the engine connecting rod bearings while the engine is reaching operating temperature. This can result in engine damage and connecting rod failure, which could potentially puncture the engine block.
Consequence: A damaged engine block may leak oil, which can contact hot engine or exhaust components, increasing the risk of a fire.
Remedy: Chrysler will notify owners, and dealers will flash the engine calibration software to enhance the engine warm up protection, free of charge. The recall began September 10, 2020. Owners may contact Chrysler customer service at 1-800-853-1403. Chrysler's number for this recall is W57.
Summary: LiquidSpring LLC (LiquidSpring) is recalling certain Compressible Liquid Adaptive Suspension Systems (C.L.A.S.S.), part numbers DS135RS3A, DS135RS3AF, DS135RS3-DM, sold for use with 2019-2020 RAM 4500 and 5500 vehicles. In the affected suspension systems, the rear brake caliper flexible line may have been routed so that it contacts a suspension component, possibly causing excessive wear and a loss of rear brakes. As such, these parts fail to comply with Federal Motor Vehicle Safety Standard (...
Consequence: A worn rear brake caliper flexible line may cause brake fluid leakage which may result in a partial or complete loss of the rear brakes, increasing the risk of a crash.
Remedy: LiquidSpring has notified the purchasers, and the affected vehicle manufacturers will file recalls to have their dealers inspect the rear brake caliper flexible lines for wear and install a kit to modify the rear brake caliper flexible line mounting, and if necessary, a kit to replace worn brake lines, free of charge. The recall May 13, 2020. Owners may contact LiquidSpring customer service at 1...
NHTSA Complaint Summaries for the 2020 Ram 4500
Below are complaint narratives filed by owners of the 2020 Ram 4500 with the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration.
The contact owns a 2020 Ram 4500. The contact stated that while driving approximately 65 MPH during a rainstorm, the windshield wipers were activated; however, the windshield wipers failed to engage as needed. The contact attempted to activate the windshield wipers several times, but the windshield wipers stopped operating. The contact pulled over and waited out the rainstorm. The rain had not sto...
The contact owns a 2020 Ram 4500. The contact received notification of NHTSA Campaign Number: 21V880000 (Fuel System, Diesel) and 22V035000 (Visibility) however, the parts to do the recall repairs were not yet available. The local dealer was contacted. The contact stated that the manufacturer had exceeded a reasonable amount of time for the recall repairs. The manufacturer was made aware of the is...
Truck turned off while driving and died. Would not turn back on. Was towing a 40ft gooseneck trailer with a load on it. Truck was stopped blocking multiple lanes of traffic. Truck and trailer had to be towed to nearest dealership where they found the CP4 fuel pump had failed and the entire fuel system needed to be replaced.
NHTSA Defect Investigations for the 2020 Ram 4500
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: Fuel System, Diesel:Delivery:Fuel Pump
Opened 2021-10-14 · Closed 2023-04-14
The Office of Defects Investigation (ODI) opened PE21-021 on October 14, 2021 to investigate allegations of stall/loss of motive power as a result of high pressure fuel pump failures in certain model year (MY) 2019-2020 RAM 2500, 3500, 4500, and 5500 heavy duty trucks equipped with 6.7L Cummins turbodiesel engines.On November 12, 2021, FCA filed vehicle recall 21V-880 and equipment recall 21E-094 on the subject population, identifying an `internally failed component? of the high pressure fuel pu...
Component: Fuel System, Diesel:Delivery:Fuel Pump
Opened 2023-03-17
The Office of Defects Investigation (ODI) opened PE21-021 on October 14, 2021, to investigate incidents alleging a stall/loss of motive power as a result of high-pressure fuel pump failures in certain model year (MY) 2019-2020 Ram 2500, 3500, 4500, and 5500 heavy duty trucks equipped with 6.7L Cummins turbodiesel engines. During the investigation, ODI sought to determine if the related defect allegation was limited in scope to the recalled population. After review of information request response...
Frequently Asked Questions About the 2020 Ram 4500
Has the 2020 RAM 4500 been recalled?
Yes, the 2020 RAM 4500 has 10 recalls on record with NHTSA. Each recall addresses a specific safety defect identified by the manufacturer or NHTSA.
How many complaints does the 2020 RAM 4500 have?
The 2020 RAM 4500 has 3 complaints filed with NHTSA. None of the complaints involved crashes. No injuries or deaths have been reported.
What is the safety rating for the 2020 RAM 4500?
The 2020 RAM 4500 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 2020 RAM 4500?
The most commonly reported problems with the 2020 RAM 4500 involve visibility (1 complaints), fuel system, diesel,visibility (1 complaints), fuel/propulsion system (1 complaints).
How many crash reports does the 2020 RAM 4500 have?
There are no crash reports associated with the 2020 RAM 4500 in the NHTSA database.
How many fire reports does the 2020 RAM 4500 have?
There are no fire reports for the 2020 RAM 4500 in the NHTSA database.
Are there any deaths reported for the 2020 RAM 4500?
No deaths have been reported in NHTSA complaints for the 2020 RAM 4500.
How many injuries are reported for the 2020 RAM 4500?
No injuries have been reported in NHTSA complaints for the 2020 RAM 4500.
Should I buy a 2020 RAM 4500?
Based on NHTSA data, the 2020 RAM 4500 is research thoroughly before purchasing. It has 3 complaints, 10 recalls. Always have a pre-purchase inspection done by a qualified mechanic.
What components fail most on the 2020 RAM 4500?
The components with the most failures on the 2020 RAM 4500 are: 1. VISIBILITY (1 complaints), 2. FUEL SYSTEM, DIESEL,VISIBILITY (1 complaints), 3. FUEL/PROPULSION SYSTEM (1 complaints). VISIBILITY is the single most-reported problem area with 1 complaints.
What should I know before buying a 2020 RAM 4500?
Be aware of potential visibility and fuel system issues. Regular maintenance is crucial to ensure the safety and reliability of your 2020 RAM 4500. The 2020 RAM 4500 has 3 NHTSA complaints and 10 recalls on record.
How reliable is the 2020 RAM 4500?
The 2020 RAM 4500 receives a reliability score of 87/100, indicating above-average reliability. This is based on 3 owner complaints, 10 recalls, and 0 crash/fire reports in the NHTSA database. Key known issues include Windshield Wiper/Washer Linkages and Fuel Pump.
What are the known issues with the 2020 RAM 4500?
Known issues with the 2020 RAM 4500 include: Windshield Wiper/Washer Linkages, Fuel Pump, Service Brakes, Hydraulic: Hoses, Lines/Piping, and Fittings, Engine and Engine Cooling: Engine: Oil/Lubrication. These are based on patterns found across 3 NHTSA complaints. 10 of these patterns resulted in formal recalls.
Are there any recalls for the 2020 RAM 4500?
Yes, there are recalls related to the fuel system and visibility issues.
What should I do if I experience issues with my windshield wipers?
Check the recall information and contact the manufacturer for further assistance.
Can the fuel system issues affect the performance of my truck?
Yes, fuel system issues can affect the vehicle's performance and safety.
Buyer Advice
Our recommendation: Be aware of potential visibility and fuel system issues. Regular maintenance is crucial to ensure the safety and reliability of your 2020 RAM 4500.
NHTSA Data Summary for 2020 Ram 4500
This safety report is based on a comprehensive analysis of data from the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) for the 2020 Ram 4500. The data includes 3 consumer complaints filed by vehicle owners, 10 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.
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