2022 Ram 5500 Safety Report
2022 RAM 5500 plagued by critical transmission failures and multiple safety recalls.
AI Safety Analysis for the 2022 Ram 5500
Reliability Score
The 2022 Ram 5500 receives a reliability score of 30 out of 100 based on analysis of NHTSA complaint data, recall history, crash reports, and safety ratings. This indicates below-average reliability. Significant issues have been reported by owners and should be carefully evaluated before purchase.
Known Issues for the 2022 Ram 5500
The following issues have been identified from NHTSA complaint data and owner reports for the 2022 Ram 5500:
| Issue | Severity | Frequency | Typical Mileage |
|---|---|---|---|
| Transmission Failure (K1/K2 Snap Ring, Loss Of All Forward Gears) Numerous reports of sudden and complete transmission failure, often resulting in loss of all forward gears while driving, sometimes at very low mileage (e.g., 161 miles, 850 miles, 3000 miles). Specific issues include K1 and K2 snap ring failures. |
High | Common | 161-15933 miles |
| Loss Of Steering At least one reported incident of complete loss of steering at 35 mph, leading to a crash and rollover. |
High | Rare | unknown miles |
| Electrical Short Leading To Fire Risk Two recalls (21V-842 and 22V-820) address electrical shorts in the relay for the grid heater, which can cause an engine compartment fire with the ignition on or off. |
High | Occasional | N/A miles |
| Loss Of Drive Power Due To Ecm Recall 22V-766 indicates that the engine control module (ECM) may experience an internal loss of communication, resulting in a loss of drive power. |
High | Rare | N/A miles |
| Driver'S Side Airbag Non-Deployment Recall 22V-087 states that the steering column control module may prevent the driver's side airbag from deploying as intended in a crash. |
High | Rare | N/A miles |
| Wheel Stud Breakage/Wheel Detachment One complaint details wheel studs breaking off while driving on the interstate, causing dually tires to detach, a major safety issue previously seen in earlier RAM models. |
High | Rare | unknown miles |
| Steering Linkage (Drag Link) Snapping One complaint reports the center (drag) link of the steering linkage assembly snapping at 40,000 miles, leading to loss of steering control. |
High | Rare | 40000 miles |
Common Problems Reported by Owners
Based on NHTSA complaint data, the following components account for the majority of reported issues with the 2022 Ram 5500:
The overwhelming majority of complaints (19 out of 26) are related to the power train, primarily involving transmission failures leading to loss of motive power, inability to shift, or complete inoperability.
Two complaints mention steering issues, including a complete loss of steering and a snapped steering linkage component (drag link).
One complaint directly references the electrical relay fire risk, which is also covered by two recalls.
One complaint details wheel studs breaking and dually tires detaching while driving.
Frequently Asked Questions About the 2022 Ram 5500
Is the 2022 RAM 5500 safe?
Based on NHTSA data, the 2022 RAM 5500 has significant safety concerns. It has 26 total complaints, with 19 (73%) related to power train issues, primarily transmission failures leading to sudden loss of motive power. There's also one reported crash due to steering loss. Four recalls address critical issues like airbag deployment, electrical fire risk, and loss of drive power. While NHTSA crash test ratings are unavailable, the high number of severe mechanical complaints and recalls indicate potential safety risks.
What are common problems with the 2022 RAM 5500?
The most reported issues for the 2022 RAM 5500 are related to the POWER TRAIN, accounting for 73% of all complaints. This predominantly involves transmission failures, often occurring at very low mileage, leading to a sudden loss of forward gears or complete inoperability. Other reported problems include steering issues and, less frequently, wheel stud breakage.
Are there any recalls for the 2022 RAM 5500?
Yes, the 2022 RAM 5500 has four active recalls. These include recalls for non-deploying driver's side airbags (22V-087), electrical shorts that can cause engine compartment fires (21V-842, 22V-820), and engine control module issues that can lead to a loss of drive power (22V-766).
How does the 2022 RAM 5500 perform in crash tests?
NHTSA has not provided specific crash test ratings (Overall, Frontal, Side, Rollover) for the 2022 RAM 5500. Therefore, its crash test performance is N/A.
What is the most serious safety concern for the 2022 RAM 5500?
The most serious safety concern for the 2022 RAM 5500 is the high frequency of sudden transmission failures, which can result in a complete loss of motive power while driving, as detailed in 19 out of 26 complaints. This issue, along with recalls for potential engine compartment fires and loss of drive power, presents a significant risk of crashes and injuries.
Buyer Advice
Our recommendation: Given the high incidence of critical transmission failures at low mileage and multiple safety recalls, potential buyers should exercise extreme caution and thoroughly investigate the vehicle's service history, ensuring all recalls have been addressed and the transmission has been inspected or replaced.
NHTSA Data Summary for 2022 Ram 5500
This safety report is based on a comprehensive analysis of data from the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) for the 2022 Ram 5500. The data includes 26 consumer complaints filed by vehicle owners, 4 manufacturer-initiated safety recalls, 1 reported crashes, 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.