2022 Ram 4500 Safety Report

The 2022 RAM 4500 presents a mixed safety picture, primarily due to a concerning recall history despite a low number of consumer complaints. With only 3 total complaints filed with NHTSA, and no reported crashes, fires, injuries, or deaths, the vehicle appears to have a low incidence of immediate safety failures from a consumer perspective. However, all 3 complaints are related to the POWER TRAIN, specifically transmission issues, which is a critical component for vehicle operation and safety. These complaints describe significant failures such as loss of forward gears and inability to move, occurring at relatively low mileages (e.g., 35,500 miles). Compounding this, the vehicle has been subject to 4 safety recalls. Two of these recalls, affecting the electrical system, specifically warn of an increased risk of engine compartment fires due to electrical shorts in relays. Another critical recall addresses a potential loss of drive power due to an engine control module issue, which directly increases the risk of a crash. The fourth recall concerns the driver's side airbag, where a module defect could prevent deployment, increasing injury risk in a crash. NHTSA has not provided overall, frontal, side, or rollover crash test ratings for the 2022 RAM 4500, which means there is no independent data on its crashworthiness. While the low complaint count is positive, the nature of the complaints (transmission failure) and the serious implications of the recalls (fire, loss of power, airbag non-deployment) suggest potential significant safety risks that buyers should be aware of. The recalls indicate design or manufacturing flaws that could lead to dangerous situations.

Our recommendation: Given the serious nature of the 4 safety recalls (fire, loss of power, airbag) and the consistent consumer complaints about transmission failure, potential buyers should ensure all recall repairs have been completed and consider an extended warranty for the powertrain.