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Dodge Ram 1500 1994–2001 problems by year and mileage

2nd generation (BR/BE)

NHTSA data through 24 September 20263,743 complaints, 1,911 with mileageMethod

Which year is yours? Tap it to see what breaks on it.

• 1994—too few
• 1995118kmedian
• 1996122kmedian
• 199799kmedian
• 199895kmedian
• 199985kmedian
• 200078kmedian
• 200170kmedian

Each tile shows the median mileage at which that model year’s failures were reported. The 1996 reports latest and the 2001 earliest, but part of that gap is age: the 1996 has had 5 more years on the road to accumulate mileage. 1 of these years carries fewer than 30 reports with an odometer reading and shows no median at all, rather than one computed from a handful.

The short answer

“Is the 1994–2001 Dodge Ram 1500 reliable?”

Median of reported failures

83,000 mi

90% of reports came by

159,000 mi

Reports with mileage

1,911

Recalls

48

Most reported

1. Body structure34.4% of complaints · median 80,000 mi
2. Transmission and driveline11.5% of complaints · median 66,000 mi
3. Airbag system8.0% of complaints · median 89,000 mi

When each system fails ↓

Documented problems

• Transmission (46RE/46RH)1994–2001
• Interior1994–2001
• Front Suspension / Driveline1994–2001

What each one is ↓

Owners filed 3,743 complaints with NHTSA about the 1994–2001 Dodge Ram 1500; body structure leads with 34.4% of them, and half of the 1,911 that record an odometer reading came by 83,000 miles. A count like this can’t rate reliability on its own: NHTSA records what owners chose to report, not how many of each car were sold.

Failures are spread across the mileage range, with the middle half between 53,000 and 116,000 miles.

Before-you-buy checklist ↓At your mileage ↓Check this VIN — NHTSA ↗

How many miles does a 1994–2001 Dodge Ram 1500 last?

Figure 1 · Dodge Ram 1500 1994–2001 · 1,911 reports with mileage

Mileage at failure

Complaints per 5,000-mile bin, 0 to 200,000 miles, equal bins on a linear scale. Tallest bar = 103 complaints.

1037752260

5.4% of all reports fall between 50,000 and 55,000 miles

25k50k75k100k125k150k175k200k

• Rest of the range
• Median
• 200,000+ — 69 complaints (3.6%), plotted separately

10%

35,000

25%

53,000

Median

82,760

75%

116,064

90%

159,000

Tallest bin: 103 complaints between 50,000 and 55,000 miles. Based on 1,911 complaints that record mileage. Bin width 5,000 miles.

Show the numbers

Complaints by mileage bin

Mileage	Complaints	Share
0–5,000	32	1.7%
5,000–10,000	13	0.7%
10,000–15,000	19	1.0%
15,000–20,000	15	0.8%
20,000–25,000	34	1.8%
25,000–30,000	32	1.7%
30,000–35,000	45	2.4%
35,000–40,000	75	3.9%
40,000–45,000	59	3.1%
45,000–50,000	69	3.6%
50,000–55,000	103	5.4%
55,000–60,000	70	3.7%
60,000–65,000	99	5.2%
65,000–70,000	73	3.8%
70,000–75,000	78	4.1%
75,000–80,000	80	4.2%
80,000–85,000	90	4.7%
85,000–90,000	85	4.4%
90,000–95,000	90	4.7%
95,000–100,000	86	4.5%
100,000–105,000	81	4.2%
105,000–110,000	46	2.4%
110,000–115,000	50	2.6%
115,000–120,000	26	1.4%
120,000–125,000	57	3.0%
125,000–130,000	32	1.7%
130,000–135,000	42	2.2%
135,000–140,000	36	1.9%
140,000–145,000	39	2.0%
145,000–150,000	17	0.9%
150,000–155,000	34	1.8%
155,000–160,000	15	0.8%
160,000–165,000	33	1.7%
165,000–170,000	17	0.9%
170,000–175,000	14	0.7%
175,000–180,000	13	0.7%
180,000–185,000	15	0.8%
185,000–190,000	8	0.4%
190,000–195,000	9	0.5%
195,000–200,000	11	0.6%
200,000+	69	3.6%

Source: NHTSA Office of Defects Investigation, public domain. Complaint counts reflect what owners reported and are not a measure of failure rate per vehicle sold.

What this can and cannot tell you: these are complaints owners chose to file, not a failure rate. Popular models accumulate more of them simply by being common. How this is built.

Common Ram 1500 problems, and when they happen

Figure 2 · Dodge Ram 1500 1994–2001

When each system fails

Bar spans the middle half of reports; the notch inside each bar is the median. Miles at failure on a proportional scale — equal distances are equal ratios, not equal miles.

System0–12,000 mi factory-defect window12,000 mi and beyond wear and service lifeMedian

1. Suspension242 reports61,00042,000–101,000Suspension: 242 reports, median 61,000 miles, middle half 42,000 to 101,000 miles.
2. Transmission and driveline429 reports66,00050,000–100,000Transmission and driveline: 429 reports, median 66,000 miles, middle half 50,000 to 100,000 miles.
3. Hydraulic brake circuit297 reports74,00048,000–107,000Hydraulic brake circuit: 297 reports, median 74,000 miles, middle half 48,000 to 107,000 miles.
4. Problems owners could not categorise286 reports79,00050,000–110,000Problems owners could not categorise: 286 reports, median 79,000 miles, middle half 50,000 to 110,000 miles.
5. Body structure1,287 reports80,00055,000–107,000Body structure: 1,287 reports, median 80,000 miles, middle half 55,000 to 107,000 miles.
6. Airbag system301 reports89,00050,000–118,000Airbag system: 301 reports, median 89,000 miles, middle half 50,000 to 118,000 miles.
7. Electrical system286 reports96,00060,000–130,000Electrical system: 286 reports, median 96,000 miles, middle half 60,000 to 130,000 miles.

5001k2k5k10k20k50k100k200k

• Your odometer — appears after you enter it in “Where your car sits”

Ordered by median mileage, earliest first. The first 12,000 miles are shaded: that is the boundary this site uses between a manufacturing defect and ordinary wear, not a property of the world.

Source: NHTSA Office of Defects Investigation, public domain.

All systems in a table

Complaints by vehicle system

System	Complaints	Share	Median	25–75%
Body structure	1,287	34.4%	80,000	55,000–107,000
Transmission and driveline	429	11.5%	66,000	50,000–100,000
Airbag system	301	8.0%	89,000	50,000–118,000
Hydraulic brake circuit	297	7.9%	74,000	48,000–107,000
Electrical system	286	7.6%	96,000	60,000–130,000
Problems owners could not categorise	286	7.6%	79,000	50,000–110,000
Suspension	242	6.5%	61,000	42,000–101,000
Engine and its cooling system	220	5.9%	64,000	36,000–91,000
Steering	209	5.6%	80,000	46,000–120,000
Tyres	133	3.6%	93,000	54,000–136,000

System by system, in words

Complaints about this generation are not spread evenly across the vehicle, and the systems that generate the most of them do not all fail at the same point in a car's life. The median failure across all systems here is 83,000 miles; the figures below show which parts of the car run ahead of that and which run behind.

Body structure accounts for 34.4% of complaints (1,287 reports, 847 of them with a mileage figure), with a median of 80,000 miles, close to the vehicle's overall pattern. The middle half of these reports falls between 55,000 and 107,000 miles.

A single system taking 34.4% of all complaints is a concentration worth noting. It means that for this generation, most of what owners reported came back to one area of the car rather than being distributed across many small faults.

The transmission and driveline accounts for 11.5% of complaints (429 reports, 178 of them with a mileage figure), with a median of 66,000 miles, close to the vehicle's overall pattern. The middle half of these reports falls between 50,000 and 100,000 miles.

The airbag system accounts for 8.0% of complaints (301 reports, 130 of them with a mileage figure), with a median of 89,000 miles, close to the vehicle's overall pattern. The middle half of these reports falls between 50,000 and 118,000 miles.

The hydraulic brake circuit accounts for 7.9% of complaints (297 reports, 85 of them with a mileage figure), with a median of 74,000 miles, close to the vehicle's overall pattern. The middle half of these reports falls between 48,000 and 107,000 miles.

The electrical system accounts for 7.6% of complaints (286 reports, 143 of them with a mileage figure), with a median of 96,000 miles, close to the vehicle's overall pattern. The middle half of these reports falls between 60,000 and 130,000 miles.

Problems owners could not categorise accounts for 7.6% of complaints (286 reports, 166 of them with a mileage figure), with a median of 79,000 miles, close to the vehicle's overall pattern. The middle half of these reports falls between 50,000 and 110,000 miles.

Known problems with the 1994–2001 Ram 1500

Before you buy a 1994–2001 Ram 1500: the 3-minute check

Generated from 1,911 mileage-tagged complaints, 48 recall campaigns, 3 documented problem areas. Print this page — the checklist survives print.

For a buyer, failures on this generation are spread rather than concentrated: the middle half falls between 53,000 and 116,000 miles, with a median of 83,000. There is no single mileage threshold to watch, which means condition and maintenance records are more informative than the odometer.

On inspection, body structure and the transmission and driveline are where this generation's reports concentrate, so those are the areas worth a specific look. The transmission and driveline in particular shows a median failure mileage of 66,000, which gives a concrete number to compare against the odometer of any car you are considering.

None of this is a substitute for a pre-purchase inspection on the individual car. Aggregate patterns describe a population; the example in front of you has its own history.

Ram 1500 problems by mileage: where your car sits

Type your odometer reading, or read the common mileages in the table. Your marker lands on the timing chart above and on the curve below.

Your odometer, milesGo

Figure 3 · Dodge Ram 1500 1994–2001 · 1,911 reports with mileage

Share of reports below each mileage

Share of mileage-tagged reports filed at or below each odometer reading. Steps rise only at bin edges, by exact counted shares.

100%75%50%25%0%

25k50k75k100k125k150k175k200k

• 60,000 mi — 30% of reports below
• 90,000 mi — 56% of reports below
• 120,000 mi — 76% of reports below
• 150,000 mi — 88% of reports below
• 200,000 mi — 96% of reports below
• Median — the staircase crosses the 50% line here
• Your odometer — appears after you enter it above

The staircase tops out at 96%: the remaining 3.6% of reports (69) came above 200,000 miles.

Nothing is smoothed or interpolated. Linear axis, same as Figure 1.

Source: NHTSA Office of Defects Investigation, public domain.

1994–2001 Dodge Ram 1500 recalls (48)

NHTSA records 48 recall campaigns covering vehicles in this generation. A recall means the manufacturer or the regulator concluded there was a safety defect or a standard was not met, and that a free remedy is owed to owners — including second and later owners.

The campaigns cluster around the suspension (7), the electrical system (4), the hydraulic brake circuit (3). Several campaigns against one area can mean a remedy that did not hold, or separate defects in parts filed under the same heading; the summaries below name each defect.

Recall status is specific to the individual vehicle, not the model. Checking a VIN against NHTSA's lookup is free and takes under a minute, and it is the only way to know whether a particular car has had the work done.

Recall repairs are free at an authorized dealer, for any owner. Summaries below shorten NHTSA’s own wording. Some of these campaigns are filed under the shared name “RAM”, which NHTSA also uses for heavy-duty trucks; they are marked below, and the VIN decides whether one applies.

1. Apr 2004 · 1998–2001 · Service Brakes, Hydraulic filed under the shared nameThis may allow development of a short circuit in the connector, which could eventually lead to a fire.

   The defect. On certain van and wagon vehicles equipped with 4-wheel antilock brake systems (ABS), aftermarket batteries may leak electrolyte onto the ABS control module connector, which can compromise sealing integrity of the connector.

   What can happen. This may allow development of a short circuit in the connector, which could eventually lead to a fire.

   The free fix. Dealers will inspect the ABS control module connector for electrolyte damage and replace the connector as necessary. The recall will begin on september 27, 2004. Owners should contact daimlerchrysler…

   NHTSA campaign 04V-185 (2004-04-12).

2. Dec 2003 · 2000–2001 · TiresOn certain 4x4 pickup trucks equipped with the snow plow preparation package, the tires supplied on some…

   On certain 4x4 pickup trucks equipped with the snow plow preparation package, the tires supplied on some vehicles may have gross axle weight ratings that slightly exceed the maximum tire load capacity as defined in federal motor vehicle safety standard no. 120, "Tire selection and rims for motor vehicles other than…

   The free fix. Dealers will provide replacement p245/75r16 tires to meet the load carrying capacity specified on the vehicle certification label and accommodate the addition of a commercially available snow plow…

   NHTSA campaign 03V-504 (2003-12-10).

3. Jun 2002 · 1997–1998 · Vehicle Speed Control filed under the shared nameThis could potentially result in a loss of throttle control, increasing the risk of a crash.

   The defect. On certain pickup trucks equipped with diesel engines only, the throttle linkage joints can corrode and cause the throttle to bind or stick.

   What can happen. This could potentially result in a loss of throttle control, increasing the risk of a crash.

   The free fix. Dealers will replace the rod ends and ball studs. Owner notification began july 29, 2002. Owners who take their vehicles to an authorized dealer on an agreed upon service date and do not receive the…

   NHTSA campaign 02V-161 (2002-06-14).

4. Feb 2002 · 2001 · Electrical System filed under the shared nameThis could cause a vehicle fire.

   The defect. On certain pickup trucks, the alternator wire connection to the power distribution center (pdc) can loosen.

   What can happen. This could cause a vehicle fire.

   The free fix. Dealers will inspect the installation of the alternator wire connection to the pdc and if necessary, reposition the wire so that the crimp connection will face upward and tighten the fastener to the…

   NHTSA campaign 02V-042 (2002-02-07).

5. Sep 2001 · 2001 · Tires filed under the shared nameThis could cause a tire to blow out if the vehicle is operated at the maximum gross vehicle weight.

   The defect. Vehicle description: certain 2500 wagons were equipped with incorrect load range tires.

   What can happen. This could cause a tire to blow out if the vehicle is operated at the maximum gross vehicle weight. .

   The free fix. Dealers will replace the load range 'd' tires with correct load range 'e' tires. Owner notification began september 24, 2001. Owners who take their vehicles to an authorized dealer on an agreed upon…

   NHTSA campaign 01V-289 (2001-09-10).

6. Aug 2001 · 2000–2001 · Electrical System filed under the shared nameIf the circuit breaker cycles for an extended period of time, heat could build up in the connector, possibly…

   The defect. Vehicle description: vans and wagons not equipped with power front seats. In the presence of road salt, water, and possibly other debris, the power seat connector located beneath the driver's seat could develop a high resistive short circuit that cycles the…

   What can happen. If the circuit breaker cycles for an extended period of time, heat could build up in the connector, possibly resulting in a fire.

   The free fix. Owners will receive instructions for removing the circuit breaker from the fuse panel. If an owner desires, their dealer can perform the repair. Owner notification began august 27, 2001. Owners who…

   NHTSA campaign 01V-253 (2001-08-02).

7. Jun 2001 · 2001 · Wheels filed under the shared nameImproper wheel lug nut torque could allow a wheel to loosen and cause a crash without warning.

   The defect. Vehicle description: vans. A substitute wheel lug nut tightening process may not have been sufficient to assure proper torque of the lug nuts.

   What can happen. Improper wheel lug nut torque could allow a wheel to loosen and cause a crash without warning.

   The free fix. Dealers will inspect the wheel lug nuts for proper torque and correct if necessary. Owner notification began june 4, 2001. All owners have been contacted.

   NHTSA campaign 01V-184 (2001-06-05).

8. May 2001 · 2000–2001 · Air BagsWhen this occurs, the material could interfere with the clockspring ribbon and cause an open circuit.

   The defect. Vehicle description: pickup trucks. Sound deadener material inside the steering wheel could become detached from the cover and housing. Note: the RAM pickup trucks were built at the warren assembly plant ("s" in the 11th VIN position) from may 16, 2000…

   What can happen. When this occurs, the material could interfere with the clockspring ribbon and cause an open circuit. The driver air bag system will become disabled, and the air bag warning lamp will illuminate on…

   The free fix. Dealers will replace the clockspring assembly. Owner notification began june 18, 2001. Also some 1997-200 model year vehicles that, according to warranty records, have had a suspect replacement…

   NHTSA campaign 01V-153 (2001-05-08).

9. Apr 2001 · 1999 · Seat Belts filed under the shared nameIf the retractor does not work properly, it will not adequately protect occupants in the event of a crash.

   The defect. Vehicle description: certain van, wagon, pickup trucks, passenger and sport utility vehicles, fail to comply with requirements of fmvss no. 209, "Seat belt assemblies." The front seat belt retractor may not comply with the requirements of the standard.

   What can happen. If the retractor does not work properly, it will not adequately protect occupants in the event of a crash.

   The free fix. Dealers will replace the seat belt retractor. Owner notification began august 20, 2001. Owners who take their vehicles to an authorized dealer on an agreed upon service date and do not receive the…

   NHTSA campaign 01V-119 (2001-04-11).

10. Feb 2001 · 1994–1999 · Latches/Locks/Linkages filed under the shared nameIf the primary latch is not engaged, the hood could open unexpectedly.

    The defect. On certain pickup trucks originally sold in or currently registered in the following "salt belt" states: maine, new hampshire, vermont, massachusetts, rhode island, connecticut, new york, new jersey, pennsylvania, delaware, maryland, the district of columbia…

    What can happen. If the primary latch is not engaged, the hood could open unexpectedly.

    The free fix. Dealers will replace the secondary hood latch. Owner notification began september 17, 2001. Owners who take their vehicles to an authorized dealer on an agreed upon service date and do not receive…

    NHTSA campaign 01V-040 (2001-02-12).

11. Feb 2001 · 2000 · Service Brakes, Hydraulic filed under the shared nameThis could ultimately result in wire damage and/or a hole in the brake line, affecting brake effectiveness…

    The defect. Vehicle description: pickup trucks equipped with an anti-lock braking system (ABS). Some vehicles may have inadequate clearance between the front tire/wheel and the brake hose/ABS sensor wire assembly. During full lock turns, it is possible for the tire or…

    What can happen. This could ultimately result in wire damage and/or a hole in the brake line, affecting brake effectiveness, increasing the risk of a crash.

    The free fix. Dealers will replace the front brake hose assemblies, and the ABS sensor wire will be inspected and replaced if necessary. Owner notification began march 8, 2001. Owners who take their vehicles to an…

    NHTSA campaign 01V-038 (2001-02-12).

12. Feb 2001 · 1994–1996 · Vehicle Speed Control filed under the shared nameA throttle that does not return to idle could result in unexpected acceleration, increasing the risk of a…

    The defect. Vehicle description: pickup trucks equipped with diesel engines. The throttle cable could unravel (fray) or break resulting in loss of throttle control.

    What can happen. A throttle that does not return to idle could result in unexpected acceleration, increasing the risk of a crash.

    The free fix. Dealers will inspect and replace the throttle cable and upper bell crank lever. Owner notification began august 3, 2001. Owners who take their vehicles to an authorized dealer on an agreed upon…

    NHTSA campaign 01V-037 (2001-02-12).

13. Jan 2001 · 2001 · Suspension filed under the shared nameThe soft joint could cause the rear axle u-bolts to lose clamp load, resulting in displacement of the rear…

    The defect. Vehicle description: quad cab pickup trucks equipped with a camper package and overload springs. The rear axle spacer plate could lead to deformation of the upper spring plate during assembly of the axle to the vehicle resulting a soft joint.

    What can happen. The soft joint could cause the rear axle u-bolts to lose clamp load, resulting in displacement of the rear axle and a loss of vehicle control. This could increase the risk of a crash.

    The free fix. Dealers will remove the spacer plates and the spring plates will be replaced. Owner notification began february 5, 2001. Owners who take their vehicles to an authorized dealer on an agreed upon…

    NHTSA campaign 01V-008 (2001-01-05).

14. Nov 2000 · 2001 · Child Seat filed under the shared nameIn the event of a crash, the child seat may not be properly attached increasing the risk of injury to the…

    The defect. Vehicle description: certain passenger vehicles, pickup trucks and sport utility vehicles fail to comply with the requirements of fmvss no. 225, "Child restraint anchorage systems." Some of the owner's manuals for these vehicles are missing instructions that…

    What can happen. In the event of a crash, the child seat may not be properly attached increasing the risk of injury to the child.

    The free fix. Owners will be provided with an addendum to the owner's manuals.

    NHTSA campaign 00V-366 (2000-11-09).

15. Oct 2000 · 2001 · Suspension filed under the shared nameThis rotation could twist the steering linkage and possibly separate the brake lines, increasing the risk of…

    The defect. Vehicle description: quad cab pickup trucks. The upper control arms attached with cadmium coated nuts can cause the bolts to stretch due to the application of a higher than specified clamp load. Breakage of the upper control arm fasteners could cause the axle…

    What can happen. This rotation could twist the steering linkage and possibly separate the brake lines, increasing the risk of a crash.

    The free fix. Dealers will replace the upper control arm bolts and nuts.

    NHTSA campaign 00V-307 (2000-10-12).

16. May 2000 · 1994–1996 · Electrical System filed under the shared nameThis could cause the ignition switch and wiring to overheat.

    The defect. Vehicle description: light duty pickup trucks. The affected vehicles were built with an ignition switch and wiring that could overheat. High electrical current loads pass through the switch when the blower motor is operated on high for an extended periods of…

    What can happen. This could cause the ignition switch and wiring to overheat.

    The free fix. Dealers will install a relay and overlay harness.

    NHTSA campaign 00V-135 (2000-05-10).

17. Apr 2000 · 1998–2000 · Trailer Hitches filed under the shared nameBrackets built without proper material could fatigue and fracture in the area where the trailer hitch mounts…

    The defect. Vehicle description: pickup trucks equipped with optional trailer hitch. The trailer hitch side brackets were manufactured using material with insufficient strength.

    What can happen. Brackets built without proper material could fatigue and fracture in the area where the trailer hitch mounts to the frame.

    The free fix. Dealers will inspect the trailer hitches and replace any trailer hitch showing signs of fatigue cracking. If no evidence of cracking exists, the dealer will install two reinforcement brackets.

    NHTSA campaign 00V-107 (2000-04-11).

18. Jan 2000 · 2000 · Suspension filed under the shared nameIf the bracket separates the vehicle could experience reduced directional stability, braking degradation…

    The defect. Vehicle description: light duty pickup trucks. The welds at the right side lower control arm bracket to axle tube attachment may have inadequate fatigue life due to poor weld quality. This can lead to separation of the control arm bracket from the axle tube.

    What can happen. If the bracket separates the vehicle could experience reduced directional stability, braking degradation and/or vehicle pull under braking.

    The free fix. Dealers will replace the front axle with a properly welded front axle.

    NHTSA campaign 00V-007 (2000-01-11).

19. Aug 1999 · 1994–1995 · Suspension filed under the shared nameThis would create the potential for increased stopping distances.

    The defect. Vehicle description: light duty pickup trucks. (2500 And 3500 series 4x4 regular cab pickup produced before march 21, 1995; 2500 and 3500 series 4x4 club cab pickup produced before june 8, 1995; and 3500 series 4x2/4x4 chassis cab trucks produced before june…

    What can happen. This would create the potential for increased stopping distances.

    The free fix. Dealers will inspect the spring/shock tower and any vehicles exhibiting cracking will have the tower replaced. Vehicles that are do not show any cracking will have a weld-on reinforcement added.

    NHTSA campaign 99V-214 (1999-08-09).

20. Jul 1999 · 1999 · Power Train filed under the shared nameIf the line melts, hydraulic fluid can leak onto the vehicle exhaust and cause an underbody fire.

    The defect. Vehicle description: pickup trucks equipped with gasoline engines and manual transmissions. The underbody hydraulic clutch line heat shield is too short, allowing the plastic clutch line material to be directly exposed to exhaust temperatures. It is possible…

    What can happen. If the line melts, hydraulic fluid can leak onto the vehicle exhaust and cause an underbody fire.

    The free fix. Dealers will install the proper length heat shield.

    NHTSA campaign 99V-190 (1999-07-16).

21. May 1999 · 1994–1999 · Power Train filed under the shared nameThe fluid could ignite on the hot exhaust possibly resulting in a vehicle fire.

    The defect. Vehicle description: pickup trucks equipped with manual transmission, v10 engines and four-wheel-drive transfer cases. Under sustained maximum rated vehicle load, while driving up a steep grade in four-wheel-drive low range in hot ambient conditions, the…

    What can happen. The fluid could ignite on the hot exhaust possibly resulting in a vehicle fire.

    The free fix. Dealers will replace the hydraulic clutch assembly.

    NHTSA campaign 99V-115 (1999-05-06).

22. Mar 1999 · 1999 · Fuel System, Other filed under the shared nameFuel leakage in the presence of an ignition source can result in a fire.

    The defect. Vehicle description: passenger vans and wagons equipped with compressed natural gas (cng). The fuel hose that connects the left and right fuel rails may shrink and leak fuel if exposed to high engine operating temperatures.

    What can happen. Fuel leakage in the presence of an ignition source can result in a fire.

    The free fix. Dealers will replace the fuel rail assembly.

    NHTSA campaign 99V-044 (1999-03-11).

23. Feb 1999 · 1999 · Fuel System, Other filed under the shared nameThe fuel tank could move increasing the risk of a fire and/or explosion.

    The defect. Vehicle description: vans equipped with compressed natural gas (cng) fuel tanks. Incorrect fuel tank straps were installed on the small fuel tank. As a result, the fuel tank may not be securely attached to the vehicle.

    What can happen. The fuel tank could move increasing the risk of a fire and/or explosion.

    The free fix. Dealers will replace the mounting straps for the small fuel tank.

    NHTSA campaign 99V-034 (1999-02-24).

24. Feb 1999 · 1995–1997 · Air Bags filed under the shared nameDeployment of the air bag without warning could cause a driver to lose vehicle control, increasing the risk…

    The defect. Vehicle description: van and wagon model passenger vehicles. If water/road salt gets on the interior floor of the vehicle in the proximity of the air bag electronic control module (aecm), the aecm can corrode. The resulting corrosion can cause the driver side…

    What can happen. Deployment of the air bag without warning could cause a driver to lose vehicle control, increasing the risk of a crash and personal injury.

    The free fix. Dealers wil replace the aecm with an aecm that is sealed from moisture intrusion.

    NHTSA campaign 99V-023 (1999-02-05).

25. Jan 1999 · 1998 · Air Bags filed under the shared nameUnexpected air bag deployment can result in occupant injury.

    The defect. Vehicle description: vans and vans used for conversion. If a heavy object impacts the metal casing of the air bag electronic control module (aecm), located under the driver seat, the module could inadvertently deploy the air bags.

    What can happen. Unexpected air bag deployment can result in occupant injury.

    The free fix. Dealers will replace the aecm with a module that incorporates revised hardware and software on all affected vehicles.

    NHTSA campaign 99V-002 (1999-01-07).

26. Sep 1998 · 1998 · Engine and Engine Cooling filed under the shared nameThis creates a signal which is misinterpreted by the engine control software, causing a high idle speed…

    The defect. Vehicle description: light duty pickup trucks equipped with 5.9L - 24 valve diesel engine. An intermittent high engine idle condition can occur due to a malfunction of the vehicle speed sensor.

    What can happen. This creates a signal which is misinterpreted by the engine control software, causing a high idle speed condition.

    The free fix. Dealers will replace the engine controller software to correct erroneous speed sensor signals.

    NHTSA campaign 98V-209 (1998-09-08).

27. Sep 1998 · 1998 · Structure filed under the shared nameThis condition can allow the cab to separate from the frame increasing the risk of a crash.

    The defect. Vehicle description: light duty pickup trucks. These vehicles may have been built with bolts that were not properly hardened. The bolts were used to attach the cab and the core support to the frame.

    What can happen. This condition can allow the cab to separate from the frame increasing the risk of a crash.

    The free fix. Dealers will replace these bolts with properly hardened bolts.

    NHTSA campaign 98V-208 (1998-09-08).

28. Sep 1998 · 1998 · Engine and Engine Cooling filed under the shared nameThis condition can allow fuel to leak.

    The defect. Vehicle description: light duty pickup trucks equipped with 5.9L - 24 valve diesel engine. The low pressure diesel fuel supply tube located in the engine compartment between the filter and the high pressure pump can fracture.

    What can happen. This condition can allow fuel to leak. In the presence of an ignition source, fuel leakage can result in a fire.

    The free fix. Dealers will replace the low pressure diesel fuel supply tube.

    NHTSA campaign 98V-207 (1998-09-08).

29. Aug 1998 · 1998 · Fuel System, Gasoline filed under the shared nameFuel leakage in the presence of an ignition source can result in a fire.

    The defect. Vehicle description: light duty trucks equipped with either a 8.0L v-10 engine or a 5.9L v-8 heavy duty gasoline engine. An exhaust system heat shield attaching screw is too close to the underbody fuel line. The line can rub against the screw, possibly…

    What can happen. Fuel leakage in the presence of an ignition source can result in a fire.

    The free fix. Dealers will remove the underbody heat shield attaching screw and replace it with rubber adhesive. The chassis fuel line will be inspected for signs of wear and any tubes indicating wear will be…

    NHTSA campaign 98V-182 (1998-08-06).

30. May 1998 · 1998 · Seat Belts filed under the shared nameIn the event of a vehicle crash, the seat belt assembly would have reduced strength, increasing the risk of…

    The defect. Vehicle description: passenger vehicles. The front seat belt buckles were not properly riveted to the support strap.

    What can happen. In the event of a vehicle crash, the seat belt assembly would have reduced strength, increasing the risk of personal injury.

    The free fix. Dealers will replace the front outer seat belt buckles with buckles that have been properly riveted.

    NHTSA campaign 98V-105 (1998-05-14).

31. Apr 1998 · 1998 · Service Brakes, Air filed under the shared nameThis fracture can result in crack propagation around the wheel mounting bolt circule ultimately resulting in…

    The defect. Vehicle description: light duty pickup trucks. The brake rotor material strength is not sufficient causing a hub fatigue fracture.

    What can happen. This fracture can result in crack propagation around the wheel mounting bolt circule ultimately resulting in a wheel separation.

    The free fix. Dealers will inspect the brake rotors and if necessary, replace these rotors.

    NHTSA campaign 98V-075 (1998-04-08).

32. Nov 1997 · 1994–1996 · Fuel System, Gasoline filed under the shared nameFuel leakage could result in a fire if an ignition source was present.

    The defect. Vehicle description: light duty pickup trucks equipped with gasoline engines. The fuel tank mounted rollover valve can allow liquid fuel to leak onto the ground under certain vehicle operating conditions.

    What can happen. Fuel leakage could result in a fire if an ignition source was present.

    The free fix. Dealers will replace the fuel tank rollover valve with a float type rollover valve.

    NHTSA campaign 97V-199 (1997-11-13).

33. Aug 1997 · 1997 · Other or unspecified filed under the shared nameIf the exhaust pipe generates sufficient heat, the pad material can smolder and ignite adjacent materials…

    The defect. Vehicle description: light duty trucks equipped with diesel engines. The exhaust pipe contacts or is in close proximity to the outer dash panel silencer pad.

    What can happen. If the exhaust pipe generates sufficient heat, the pad material can smolder and ignite adjacent materials resulting in a vehicle fire.

    The free fix. Dealers will remove the dash silencer pad adjacent to the exhaust pipe and replace this pad with a thermal heat shield on the exhaust pipe.

    NHTSA campaign 97V-126 (1997-08-18).

34. May 1997 · 1994–1997 · Power Train filed under the shared nameWhen these temperatures occur, the fluid line will not stay connected with the transmission and fluid can…

    The defect. Under certain high load operating conditions, the transmission fluid temperature can exceed the melting point of the material used in the connector to retain the fluid line to the transmission.

    What can happen. When these temperatures occur, the fluid line will not stay connected with the transmission and fluid can spray onto the exhaust manifold, resulting in smoke or fire.

    The free fix. Dealers will replace the high temperature side of the transmission fluid cooler line connector fittings with connectors that incorporate a stainless steel retainer.

    NHTSA campaign 97V-084 (1997-05-05).

35. Apr 1997 · 1995–1996 · Service Brakes, Hydraulic filed under the shared nameReduced power brake assist can result increasing the risk of a vehicle crash.

    The defect. Vehicle description: pickup trucks equipped with diesel engines. The engine driven vacuum pump can allow engine oil into the vacuum hoses due to the absence of an internal check valve. The oil can cause the hose to deteriorate and partially collapse, reducing…

    What can happen. Reduced power brake assist can result increasing the risk of a vehicle crash.

    The free fix. Dealers will add a vacuum pump check valve to the vacuum pump. In addition, the vacuum hose connected to the vacuum pump will be replaced with a hose that is engine oil resistant.

    NHTSA campaign 97V-068 (1997-04-28).

36. Nov 1996 · 1994–1995 · Steering filed under the shared nameIf the lower steering shaft separates from the upper shaft, loss of vehicle control can occur increasing the…

    The defect. If the plastic pins and metal clip that retain the lower steering shaft in the upper shaft break, the lower steering shaft can separate from the upper shaft.

    What can happen. If the lower steering shaft separates from the upper shaft, loss of vehicle control can occur increasing the risk of a vehicle accident.

    The free fix. Dealers will add a restraining sleeve to the intermediate steering shaft to limit the amount of axial steering column shaft moving in the event the plastic pins and metal clip are broken.

    NHTSA campaign 96V-230 (1996-11-18).

37. Feb 1996 · 1996 · Equipment filed under the shared nameConsequence of non-compliance: the smaller tires would not have sufficient load capacity for the vehicles…

    The defect. The involved vehicles have tire/wheel specification information on the vehicle certification label which indicates a smaller size tire than required. This does not comply with label requirements of fmvss no. 120, "Tire selection and rims for motor vehicles…

    What can happen. Consequence of non-compliance: the smaller tires would not have sufficient load capacity for the vehicles specified gross weight rating, increasing the potential for a premature tire failure and an…

    The free fix. Owners will be mailed an overlay label with the correct tire/wheel certification information and instructions for installing the label on their vehicles. If owners prefer, their dealer can install…

    NHTSA campaign 96V-027 (1996-02-05).

38. Dec 1995 · 1996 · Electrical System filed under the shared nameThis condition can potentially cause a fire in the engine compartment.

    The defect. The fasteners which secure the generator cartridge fuse to the power distribution center may have an improper clamp load. Improper clamping can result in arcing at the connection.

    What can happen. This condition can potentially cause a fire in the engine compartment.

    The free fix. Dealers will tighten the generator cartridge fuse fasteners properly.

    NHTSA campaign 95V-237 (1995-12-12).

39. May 1995 · 1994–1995 · Steering filed under the shared nameThis condition can hamper the steering wheel return orcause the ignition to be turned off, resulting in loss…

    The defect. While making a turn, the extra keys on a vehicle operator's key ring can become temporarily lodged in the screw access holes in the back cover of the steering wheel.

    What can happen. This condition can hamper the steering wheel return orcause the ignition to be turned off, resulting in loss of vehicle control and an accident.

    The free fix. Dealers will replace the steering wheel back cover with a redesigned cover.

    NHTSA campaign 95V-088 (1995-05-12).

40. Mar 1995 · 1994–1995 · Latches/Locks/Linkages filed under the shared nameThis condition can cause the hood to fly up obstructing the driver's vision increasing the potential for a…

    The defect. The secondary hood latch rod can bind on the guide bracket and prevent engagement of the secondary latch.

    What can happen. This condition can cause the hood to fly up obstructing the driver's vision increasing the potential for a vehicle accident.

    The free fix. Dealers will replace the secondary hood latch bracket.

    NHTSA campaign 95V-056 (1995-03-21).

41. Feb 1995 · 1994 · Visibility filed under the shared nameConsequence of non-compliance: the images presented in the mirror are closer than they appear which may cause…

    The defect. The right outside rearview mirror contains convex glass rather than flat. Therefore, these vehicles fail to comply with fmvss no. 111, "Rearview mirrors."

    What can happen. Consequence of non-compliance: the images presented in the mirror are closer than they appear which may cause the driver to misjudge the distance from the object to the rear of the vehicle, and could…

    The free fix. Dealers will replace the right outside rearview mirror with a mirror having a flat surface.

    NHTSA campaign 94V-025 (1995-02-14).

42. Jan 1995 · 1994 · Seat Belts filed under the shared nameThe passenger would not be properly restrained and could be injured in the event of a sudden stop or accident.

    The defect. The cinch bar component within the passenger side safety belt buckle assembly shatters causing the belt to release.

    What can happen. The passenger would not be properly restrained and could be injured in the event of a sudden stop or accident.

    The free fix. Dealers will replace the cinch bar with a newly designed part.

    NHTSA campaign 95V-005 (1995-01-18).

43. Oct 1994 · 1994 · Suspension filed under the shared nameThis can result in loss of steering control and an accident.

    The defect. The front suspension track bar bracket attachment has inadequate fatigue strength and can fail, causing front axle vibration.

    What can happen. This can result in loss of steering control and an accident.

    The free fix. A front suspension track bar bracket reinforcement strut will be installed.

    NHTSA campaign 94V-202 (1994-10-18).

44. Jul 1994 · 1994 · Interior Lighting filed under the shared nameThe overheating and fires caused by the neon transformer can result in damage to the lightbeam assembly, the…

    The defect. The transformer used to power the neon center lightbeam can overheat and catch on fire.

    What can happen. The overheating and fires caused by the neon transformer can result in damage to the lightbeam assembly, the roof of the vehicle, and could result in a vehicle fire.

    The free fix. Mark iii dealers will modify the assemblies to eliminate the neon lighting fixture in the vehicle and replace it with incandescent lights operating directly from the vehicle 12-volt battery.

    NHTSA campaign 94V-128 (1994-07-11).

45. Jun 1994 · 1994 · Fuel System, Gasoline filed under the shared nameConsequence of non-compliance: the vehicle s have an increased risk of a fuel spill in the event of a rear…

    The defect. These vehicles do not meet the rear impact test requirements of fmvss 301, "fuel system integrity."

    What can happen. Consequence of non-compliance: the vehicle s have an increased risk of a fuel spill in the event of a rear end collision.

    The free fix. Dealers will strengthen the left frame rail by installing a frame rail reinforcement bracket.

    NHTSA campaign 94V-113 (1994-06-20).

46. May 1994 · 1994 · Suspension filed under the shared nameFailure of the track bar can result in front axle vibration and loss of steering control.

    The defect. The front suspension track bar has inadequate fatigue strength.

    What can happen. Failure of the track bar can result in front axle vibration and loss of steering control.

    The free fix. Dealers will replace the front suspension track bar.

    NHTSA campaign 94V-097 (1994-05-20).

47. Dec 1993 · 1994 · Seats filed under the shared nameIn the event of a sudden stop or accident the forces onthe seat back may subject seat occupants to an…

    The defect. The seat back latch lever pivot rivets are susceptible to distortion. The distorted assemblies allow the seat back release latch lever to remain in the released position which is in non-compliance with fmvss no. 207, "Seating systems."

    What can happen. In the event of a sudden stop or accident the forces onthe seat back may subject seat occupants to an increased risk of injury.

    The free fix. Dealers will replace the suspect seat back latch assembly with a revised assembly.

    NHTSA campaign 93V-213 (1993-12-14).

48. Oct 1993 · 1994 · Suspension filed under the shared nameLoss of the track bar attachment can cause axlevibration and directional control difficulty which could…

    The defect. Front suspension track bar attachment to the axle may not be adequately tightened.

    What can happen. Loss of the track bar attachment can cause axlevibration and directional control difficulty which could result in loss ofvehicle control and an accident.

    The free fix. Tighten front suspension track bar axle attachment to the specified torque.

    NHTSA campaign 93V-173 (1993-10-22).

Crashes, fires and injuries owners reported

What owners reported alongside the failure itself, out of 3,743 complaints against this generation:

Crashes

305 (8.1%)

Fires

130

Injury reports

246

Fatality reports

10

These flags are self-reported by complainants and unverified by NHTSA; one report can carry several flags, so the counts overlap and do not sum to a total. They are not adjusted for how many of these vehicles are on the road. No chart is drawn here on purpose: overlapping counts spanning very different magnitudes cannot be honestly encoded as lengths.

Ram 1500 problems by model year

The 2001 drew the most complaints of this generation, 1,112, most of them about body structure, and the 1994 the fewest, 116. A typical year drew about 437.

That makes the 2001 stand out at roughly 2.5 times a typical year. A count like this follows how many cars of each year were sold and how long they have been on the road as much as how often they failed, so it is not by itself evidence of a worse year; what each year's reports name, in its card and row, is the useful part.

What Ram 1500 owners reported

The contact owned a 2001 Dodge Ram 1500. The contact stated that while exiting a parking lot and attempting to depress the brake pedal, the brake pedal floored, causing the contact to roll to a stop on the side of the road. The ABS and Brake Warning lights illuminated. The contact was able to drive at 2 MPH to their…

2001 · 259,000 miles · Hydraulic brake circuit

The contact owns a 1996 Dodge Ram 1500. The contact stated while driving 45 MPH, the hood flew open and struck the windshield. The contact immediately veered to the side of the road. The contact stated that the hood was bent, and the windshield was cracked due to the failure. The contact was able to drive to the…

1996 · 152,000 miles · Latches and locks

The contact owns a 2001 Dodge Ram 1500. The contact stated while driving 45 MPH, the contact was making a turn and heard a loud grinding noise coming from the vehicle. The contact pulled the vehicle to the side of the road and took the vehicle out of gear and heard the grinding sound again. The contact was able to…

2001 · 220,000 miles · Steering

the contact owns a 2001 Dodge Ram 1500. The contact stated while driving 55 MPH, the vehicle stalled. There was no warning light illuminated. The vehicle was taken to an independent mechanic where it was diagnosed with the engine control unit needing to be replaced. The vehicle had been repaired twice however, the…

2001 · 198,000 miles · Engine

Built from 1,911 NHTSA complaints with mileage · snapshot 2026-09-26 · open data · how it is built

Other Ram 1500 generations

• Ram 1500 2002–2008 3,932 reports with mileage, most about the airbag system
• Ram 1500 2009–2010 911 reports with mileage, most about the transmission and driveline

Other full-size pickups from the same years

• Chevrolet Silverado 1500 1988–1998
• Ford F-150 1997–2003
• GMC Sierra 1500 1999–2006
• Toyota Tundra 2000–2006