Reliability
Dodge

Ram (3rd)

2002-2008 · Full-Size Truck · 13 engines

Verdict The 5.9L Cummins alone logs 2,509 complaints, 36 fires and 10 deaths; the 3.7L V6 has 357 complaints and no deaths, though it tows far less. On any 4x4 2500 or 3500, inspect the steering box, pitman arm and front linkage.

11,281 NHTSA Complaints
51 Recalls
183 Fire Reports
814 Crash Reports
Data covers 12 NHTSA model names
RAMRAM 1500RAM 2500RAM 3500RAM 4500RAM 5500RAM CLUB CABRAM PICKUPRAM QUAD CABRAM SRT-10RAM VANRAM WAGON
View all 3 generations of the Dodge Ram → Inspection checklist

Reliability Score

6.6 / 10

Reliability score

About as many owner complaints as similar full-size trucks

The class average is 7.0. Based on complaints owners filed with NHTSA about the engine, transmission or drivetrain.

Owners filed 3,011 powertrain complaints. A typical full-size truck fleet of this size and age would have drawn about 2,602.

Scores this low have often eased: the three years after looked about 0.8 points better in the typical case.

Breakdown
Complaints overall3,011 complaints against about 2,602 for similar vehicles
6.6
Last three years40 complaints against about 27 for similar vehicles
6.2
Engine, transmission or drive unit failed or replaced221 complaints against about 324 for similar vehicles
7.9
Oil consumption, fuel in the oil or overheating51 complaints against about 48 for similar vehicles
6.9

Each line scores one view of the same complaints the same way, so the lines overlap. The mark on each bar is the class average. A line needs 20 expected complaints to show a number.

By model year
  • 20027.5
  • 20037.5
  • 20046.0
  • 20054.5
  • 20067.6
  • 20077.5
  • 20087.2

Diesel: about 45% more owner complaints than the gas version (227 complaints, 237,812 built)

Similar vehicles are others in the same class, compared at the same age and in the same years. The score counts complaints owners filed with NHTSA, per vehicle built, which is different from the share of vehicles that fail. How the score is worked out

On the record · from NHTSA's files, not reviewed by hand

Recall14V796
Power Train, Driveline, Differential Unit · 257,065 vehicles (10% of those built)
Engineering analysisEA04025
False park · opened 2004, closed 2005, led to recall 05V462

Complaints by Engine Code

Show

5.9T-I6-Diesel

5.9L 6-cyl Turbo
2,509 complaints 346.1 per year Diesel
36 fire reports 10 fatalities
View details

Dodge Ram Unidentified Engine

1,886 complaints 269.4 per year
40 fire reports 5 fatalities
View details

Complaint Breakdown

body
316
steering
257
transmission
245
safety systems
217
suspension
216

6.7T-I6-Diesel

6.7L 6-cyl Turbo
574 complaints 287.0 per year Diesel
23 fire reports
View details

Complaint Breakdown

steering
297
engine
98
suspension
95
safety systems
67
cooling
54

5.9-V8-Gas

5.9L 8-cyl
316 complaints 63.2 per year Gasoline
5 fire reports 1 fatality
View details

4.7-V8-FlexFuel

4.7L 8-cyl
96 complaints 24.0 per year Flexible Fuel Vehicle (FFV)
View details

5.9T-I6-Gas

5.9L 6-cyl Turbo
58 complaints 19.3 per year
View details

Complaint Breakdown

fuel system
15
body
13
steering
7
transmission
7
other
6

8.3-V10-Gas

8.3L 10-cyl
26 complaints 8.7 per year Gasoline
1 fire report
View details

Complaint Breakdown

safety systems
9
electrical
6
engine
4
exterior
4
fuel system
3

5.2-V8-Gas

5.2L 8-cyl
18 complaints 4.5 per year Gasoline
1 fire report
View details

8.0-V10-Gas

8.0L 10-cyl
13 complaints 6.5 per year Gasoline
View details

Complaint Breakdown

safety systems
4
body
3
transmission
1
steering
1
suspension
1
Show 9 additional engine variants with limited data
These engines appear in fewer than 10 owner complaints. A low count can mean a clean record, and it can also be a VIN-decode anomaly in NHTSA's data.

DOHC 16V Turbo

2.4L 4-cyl Turbo
4 complaints 1.3 per year Gasoline
View details

Complaint Breakdown

body
2
safety systems
1
transmission
1
steering
1

SMPI (DOHC 16V)

2.4L 4-cyl
3 complaints 1.0 per year Gasoline
View details

Complaint Breakdown

safety systems
1
suspension
1
wheels tires
1
other
1

2.0-I4-Gas

2.0L 4-cyl
2 complaints 1.0 per year Gasoline
View details

Complaint Breakdown

wheels tires
1
engine
1
electrical
1
body
1
cooling
1

Same engine used in

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3.9-V6-Gas

3.9L 6-cyl
2 complaints 1.0 per year Gasoline
View details

Reliability Overview

The third-generation Dodge Ram (2002-2008) collected 11,281 NHTSA complaints across seven model years. The severity numbers match the volume: 814 crash reports, 183 fire reports, 657 injuries, and 30 deaths. Fifty-one recall campaigns followed, and the pattern in those campaigns matters more than the count. The third-gen Ram sold well as a comfortable, capable hauler, especially in Cummins diesel form. It also accumulated a documented defect list that needs careful screening on any used example.

Steering is the recurring story. Multiple recall campaigns between 2010 and 2013 addressed tie rod and steering linkage failures on Ram 2500 and 3500 4x4 trucks, with several aftermarket lift-kit recalls (Fabtech, Superlift) layered on top. Takata airbag inflators expanded across the Ram 1500, 2500, and 3500 lineup in 2014, 2015, and 2016. A 2014 electrical-system campaign covered 2006-2007 trucks. The 6.7L Cummins silencer pad recall affected 2007-2008 diesel-equipped 2500 and 3500 trucks. A 2003 aluminum wheel campaign addressed heavy-duty truck wheels with porosity in the center hub area that could crack, and a 2005 transmission action covered diesel-equipped automatics whose shift control could be left in indicated reverse. Antilock brake control units, transfer case fasteners, and Cummins diesel idle-speed issues round out the major actions. Buyers should run any VIN through NHTSA's recall lookup before negotiating; the difference between a remediated truck and one with open campaigns is real money.

The 3.7L V6 base engine has 357 complaints and no deaths. Among the Cummins diesels, the 5.9L logs 2,509 complaints, 36 fires and 10 deaths, and the 6.7L that arrived for 2007 adds 23 fires on 574 complaints.

Beyond the recall campaigns, the most common complaint clusters group into safety-system, steering, transmission, suspension, and body categories. Most documented defects had factory or aftermarket fixes available, so the truck rewards methodical vetting rather than blind avoidance.

This generation suits buyers who need a heavy-duty hauler at used-market prices and who plan to complete every open recall before driving it home. The 4x4 2500 and 3500 trucks demand the most diligent inspection because the steering campaigns concentrate there. Buyers shopping a low-maintenance daily driver should cross-shop the fourth-generation Ram (2009-2018) or a contemporary Ford F-150.

Owner Complaints by System

Complaints owners filed with NHTSA about the Dodge Ram, counted across every engine. A complaint can name more than one system.

Safety Systems: 2,526 owner complaints
Steering: 2,001 owner complaints
Transmission: 1,807 owner complaints
Suspension: 1,274 owner complaints
Body/Trim: 1,157 owner complaints

Buyer's Guide

Best year and engine. The 3.7L V6 and the 4.7L flex-fuel V8 have the fewest complaints of the engines sold in volume. The 5.9L Cummins diesel carries 2,509 complaints, 36 fires and 10 deaths, the most deaths tied to any single engine in the generation, and steering accounts for 706 of those complaints. The 6.7L Cummins that replaced it for 2007 has 23 fires among 574 complaints. The 5.7L V8 (3,436 complaints) and 4.7L V8 (1,963) sit in the same tier. The 3.7L V6 has 357 complaints and no deaths, though it tows and hauls far less than the V8s and diesels. The 4.7L flex-fuel V8 has 96 complaints. A handful of rare engines have 58 complaints or fewer, a sample too thin to lean on.

Inspection priorities. Focus on the steering box, pitman arm, and front-end linkage on any 4x4 Ram 2500 or 3500. Test the antilock brake system during a hard stop and listen for uneven front-to-rear brake balance. Pull the VIN through NHTSA's recall lookup and confirm all open Takata airbag campaigns have been completed. On diesel-equipped trucks, inspect the cooling system thoroughly and verify the 6.7L silencer pad recall was performed on 2007-2008 examples. Any aftermarket lift kit deserves a careful check against the Fabtech and Superlift pitman arm recalls.

Used-market context. Pricing varies widely by mileage and recall-completion status. A Ram 2500 with documented recall remediation, a clean steering box, and verified airbag work commands a meaningful premium over a similar-mileage example with open campaigns. Treat that gap as money you'll spend either way.

What to check on a used 2002-2008 Dodge Ram

On a used 2002-2008 Dodge Ram, the systems with the most NHTSA owner complaints are the airbags and driver-assist systems (2,526), the steering (2,001) and the transmission and drivetrain (1,807). Each one has an inspection step below, with counts as of 2026-10-12. A complaint is an owner report, not a confirmed defect, and counts rise with sales.

  1. Switch the ignition on and watch the airbag light. On the drive, check the backup camera and any collision or lane warning.Safety. NHTSA has 2,526 owner complaints on the 2002-2008 Dodge Ram about the airbags and driver-assist systems.
  2. Turn the wheel from lock to lock while parked, then drive straight on a level road with a light grip.Safety. NHTSA has 2,001 owner complaints on the 2002-2008 Dodge Ram about the steering.
  3. Accelerate gently through every gear, then once at full throttle. Shift into Reverse and back to Drive.Costly repair. NHTSA has 1,807 owner complaints on the 2002-2008 Dodge Ram about the transmission and drivetrain, all engines combined.
  4. Drive over a speed bump and a rough patch at 15 to 20 mph with the radio off.Safety. NHTSA has 1,274 owner complaints on the 2002-2008 Dodge Ram about the suspension.
  5. Open and close every door, the hood and the trunk or hatch. Check the latches, the seals and the gaps between panels.Minor. NHTSA has 1,157 owner complaints on the 2002-2008 Dodge Ram about the body and structure.
Open the full inspection checklist for the 2002-2008 Dodge Ram

Recalls (51)

16V352000May 24, 2016critical
Air Bags

Chrysler (FCA US LLC) expanded the affected population to include 73,712 2005-2009 RAM 2500 trucks produced at the St. Louis North Assembly Plant. With this change, Chrysler is recalling certain model year 2004-2008 RAM 1500, 2005-2009 RAM 2500, 2006-2009 RAM 3500, 2007-2010 RAM 3500 Cab Chassis, 2008-2010 RAM 4500 and 5500 Cab Chassis, 2004-2009 Dodge Durango, 2007-2009 Chrysler Aspen, 2007-2012 Jeep Wrangler, 2008-2012 Dodge Challenger, 2005-2008 Dodge Magnum, 2005-2012 Chrysler 300, 2006-2012 Dodge Charger, 2005-2011 Dodge Dakota, and 2006-2009 Mitsubishi Raider vehicles originally sold, or ever registered, in AL, CA, FL, GA, HI, LA, MS, SC, TX, Puerto Rico, American Samoa, Guam, the Northern Mariana Islands (Saipan), and the U.S. Virgin Islands, or "Zone A." Additionally, unless included in "Zone A" above, Chrysler is also recalling 2004-2008 RAM 1500, 2005-2009 RAM 2500, 2006-2009 RAM 3500, 2007-2009 RAM 3500 Cab Chassis, 2008-2009 RAM 4500 and 5500 Cab Chassis, 2004-2009 Dodge Durango, 2007-2009 Chrysler Aspen, 2007-2009 Jeep Wrangler, 2008-2009 Dodge Challenger, 2005-2008 Dodge Magnum, 2005-2009 Chrysler 300, 2006-2009 Dodge Charger, 2005-2009 Dodge Dakota and 2006-2009 Mitsubishi Raider vehicles originally sold, or ever registered, in AZ, AR, DE, Washington D.C., IL, IN, KS, KY, MD, MO, NE, NV, NJ, NM, NC, OH, OK, PA, TN, VA, and WV, or "Zone B." Lastly, unless included in "Zone A" or "Zone B" above, Chrysler is recalling certain 2005-2008 RAM 2500, 2006-2008 RAM 3500, 2007-2008 RAM 3500 Cab Chassis, 2008 RAM 4500 and 5500 Cab Chassis, 2004-2008 Dodge Durango, 2007-2008 Chrysler Aspen, 2007-2008 Jeep Wrangler, 2008 Dodge Challenger, 2005-2008 Dodge Magnum, 2005-2008 Chrysler 300, 2006-2008 Dodge Charger, 2005-2008 Dodge Dakota, and 2006-2008 Mitsubishi Raider vehicles originally sold, or registered, in AK, CO, CT, ID, IA, ME, MA, MI, MN, MT, NH, NY, ND, OR, RI, SD, UT, VT, WA, WI, and WY.

15V313000May 27, 2015critical
Air Bags

Chrysler (FCA US LLC) is recalling certain model year 2005-2009 Dodge Ram 2500, 2004-2008 Dodge Ram 1500 and Durango, 2006-2009 Dodge Ram 3500, 2008-2010 Dodge Ram 4500 and 5500, 2007-2008 Chrysler Aspen, 2005-2010 Chrysler 300, 300C, 300S, and SRT8, 2006-2010 Dodge Charger, 2005-2008 Magnum, 2005-2011 Dodge Dakota, and 2006-2009 Mitsubishi Raider vehicles. The affected vehicles are equipped with a dual-stage driver frontal air bag that may be susceptible to moisture intrusion which, over time, could cause the inflator to rupture.

15V312000May 27, 2015critical
Air Bags

Chrysler (FCA US LLC) is recalling certain model year 2003 Dodge Ram 1500, 2500, and 3500 trucks manufactured August 29, 2002, to July 25, 2003 to address a safety defect in the passenger side frontal air bag inflator which may produce excessive internal pressure causing the inflator to rupture upon deployment of the air bag. This recall addresses both the passenger side frontal air bags that were originally installed in the vehicles, as well as replacement air bags that may have been installed as replacement service parts. A replacement air bag may have been installed, as one example, if a vehicle had been in a crash necessitating the replacement of the passenger side frontal air bag.

14V796000Dec 16, 2014serious
Powertrain

Chrysler Group LLC (Chrysler) is recalling certain model year 2005 Dodge Ram 1500 trucks manufactured January 28, 2004, to August 3, 2005. In the affected vehicles, the rear axle pinion nut may loosen due to an undersized spline on the pinion gear.

14V795000Dec 16, 2014serious
Electrical System

Chrysler Group LLC (Chrysler) is recalling certain model year 2006-2007 Dodge Ram 1500, 2500, 3500, Dakota, and 2006 Mitsubishi Raider vehicles manufactured July 1, 2005, to July 31, 2006 with manual transmissions. The return springs in the clutch ignition interlock switch may break.

Show 46 older recalls
14V770000Dec 3, 2014critical
Air Bags

Chrysler Group LLC (Chrysler) is recalling certain model year 2004-2005 Dodge Ram 1500, 2500, and 3500, 2004-2005 Dodge Durango, 2005 Dodge Dakota, 2005 Dodge Magnum and 2005 Chrysler 300, 300C and 300 SRT8 vehicles originally sold, or ever registered, in geographic locations associated with high absolute humidity. Specifically, vehicles sold, or ever registered, in Alabama, Florida, Georgia, Hawaii, Louisiana, Mississippi, Texas, Puerto Rico, U.S. Virgin Islands, Saipan, Guam, and American Samoa are addressed by this recall. Upon deployment of the passenger side frontal air bag, excessive internal pressure may cause the inflator to rupture.

13V528000Nov 6, 2013serious
Steering

Chrysler Group LLC (Chrysler) is recalling certain model year 2003-2008 Dodge RAM 2500 4x4 and 3500 4x4, model year 2007-2008 Dodge RAM 3500 4x2 Cab Chassis and model year 2006-2008 Dodge RAM 1500 Mega Cab 4x4 trucks manufactured February 12, 2002, through February 13, 2008. The left tie rod assembly may break.

13V529000Nov 6, 2013serious
Steering

Chrysler Group LLC (Chrysler) is recalling certain model year 2008-2012 RAM 2500 4X4 and 3500 4X4 trucks, 2008-2012 Dodge RAM 3500 4x2 Cab Chassis, and model year 2008 Dodge RAM 1500 Mega Cab 4x4. The left tie rod assembly may break.

13V527000Nov 6, 2013serious
Steering

Chrysler Group LLC (Chrysler) is recalling certain model year 2008-2012 RAM 4500 and 5500 trucks manufactured February 20, 2007, through December 22, 2012. The left tie rod assembly may break.

11V350000Jul 6, 2011serious
Steering

CHRYSLER IS RECALLING CERTAIN MODEL YEAR 2008-2011 DODGE RAM 2500/3500 4X4, MANUFACTURED FROM FEBRUARY 14, 2008, THROUGH MARCH 28, 2011; MODEL YEAR 2008-2011 DODGE RAM 3500 CAB CHASSIS 4X2, MANUFACTURED FROM FEBRUARY 14, 2008, THROUGH MARCH 28, 2011; AND MODEL YEAR 2008 DODGE RAM 1500 MEGA CAB 4X4, MANUFACTURED FROM FEBRUARY 14, 2008, THROUGH AUGUST 15, 2008, BECAUSE THE LEFT TIE ROD BALL STUD MAY FRACTURE. THIS CONDITION TENDS TO OCCUR DURING LOW SPEED PARKING LOT TYPE MANEUVERS WHEN THE CUSTOMER IS MAKING A TIGHT TURN. ADDITIONALLY, MODEL YEAR 2003-2008 DODGE RAM 2500/3500 VEHICLES MAY HAVE RECEIVED THE AFFECTED TIE ROD ASSEMBLY AS A REPLACEMENT PART DURING NORMAL SERVICE.

10V657000Dec 24, 2010serious
Steering

CHRYSLER IS RECALLING CERTAIN MODEL YEAR 2008-2011 DODGE RAM 4500 AND 5500 VEHICLES. THESE VEHICLES MAY EXPERIENCE A WEAKENING AND FRACTURE OF THE LEFT BALL STUD ON THE TIE ROD RESULTING IN THE POTENTIAL LOSS OF STEERING.

10E040000Aug 23, 2010serious
Wheels

FEDERAL-MOGUL IS RECALLING CERTAIN CARQUEST, NATIONAL, AND PERCISION BRAND WHEEL HUB ASSEMBLIES, P/NOS 515073 AND 515073, SOLD FOR USE AS REPLACEMENT EQUIPMENT ON MODEL YEAR 2002 THROUGH 2008 DODGE RAM 1500 PICKUP TRUCKS. THE INBOARD ROLL FORM USED TO MAINTAIN THE HUB ASSEMBLY CAN FATIGUE RESULTING IN NOISE AND/OR WHEEL SEPARATION ON THE TWO WHEEL DRIVE (2WD) APPLICATIONS. THE RISK OF THESE ISSUES DO NOT OCCUR ON THE FOUR WHEEL DRIVE (4WD) APPLICATIONS, AND INSTALLATION ON THE 4WD APPLICATIONS ARE NOT PART OF THIS RECALL.

10E013000May 3, 2010critical
Steering

FABTECH IS RECALLING CERTAIN AFTERMARKET REPLACEMENT PITMAN ARMS, P/NOS. FTS93001 AND FT44039, INSTALLED FOR USE ON CERTAIN 2003 THROUGH 2008 DODGE 2500 4WD, 3500 4WD, AND 1500 4WD MEGA CAB VEHICLES. THE PITMAN ARM CAN FRACTURE AND BREAK AWAY FROM THE STEERING BOX CAUSING TOTAL LOSS OF STEERING CONTROL.

09V434000Nov 13, 2009serious
Equipment

E-N-G MOBILE SYSTEM IS RECALLING CERTAIN MODEL YEAR 2008 CHEVROLET W5500, MODEL YEAR 2007-2009 DODGE 3500, MODEL YEAR 2009 MIGHTY MOVER, MODEL YEAR 2006-2009 FORD E-250, E-350 AND E-450, MODEL YEAR 2008-2009 GMC W4500, MODEL YEAR 2007 INTERNATIONAL 4300, MODEL YEAR 2009 TOYOTA LAND CRUISER VEHICLES EQUIPPED WITH CARRIER AIRV CEILING UNITS, MODEL NOS. 68RV0010BA, 68RV0012CA, AND 68RV0010EA. THE HEATER ELEMENT IN THESE ASSEMBLIES MAY BE DEFECTIVE WHICH COULD CAUSE THE UNIT TO CREATE SMOKE OR SPARKS.

09E012000Apr 7, 2009serious
Exterior Lighting

SABERSPORT IS RECALLING 16,270 COMBINATION CORNER AND BUMPER LAMP ASSEMBLIES OF VARIOUS PART NUMBERS SOLD FOR USE AS AFTERMARKET EQUIPMENT FOR VARIOUS PASSENGER VEHICLES. THESE HEADLAMPS FAIL TO CONFORM TO THE REQUIREMENTS OF FEDERAL MOTOR VEHICLE SAFETY STANDARD NO. 108, "LAMPS, REFLECTIVE DEVICES, AND ASSOCIATED EQUIPMENT." THESE LAMPS DO NOT CONTAIN THE REQUIRED AMBER SIDE REFLECTORS.

09E009000Mar 13, 2009serious
Visibility

CHRYSLER IS RECALLING 1,364 WINDSHIELD WIPER MODULES, P/N 55077098AJ, SOLD DURING THE 2008 AND 2009 CALENDAR YEAR FOR USE AS AFTERMARKET REPLACEMENT EQUIPMENT ON MY 2002-2009 DODGE RAM PICKUP TRUCKS. THESE WIPER MODULE ASSEMBLIES MAY BE SUSCEPTIBLE TO WATER INTRUSION THAT COULD RESULT IN PARTIAL OR COMPLETE LOSS OF WINDSHIELD WIPER CAPABILITY.

09V084000Mar 13, 2009serious
Visibility

CHRYSLER IS RECALLING 65,896 MY 2008-2009 LIGHT AND HEAVY DUTY DODGE RAM PICKUP TRUCKS. THE WINDSHIELD WIPER MODULE MOTOR ASSEMBLY MAY BE SUSCEPTIBLE TO WATER INTRUSION THAT COULD RESULT IN PARTIAL OR COMPLETE LOSS OF WINDSHIELD WIPING CAPABILITY.

09E001000Jan 13, 2009serious
Steering

CHRYSLER IS RECALLING 18,000 AFTERMARKET STEERING LINKAGES USED FOR SERVICE ON SOME MY 2003 THROUGH 2008 DODGE RAM HEAVY DUTY PICKUP TRUCKS. THE SUBJECT LINKAGES MAY EXPERIENCE DRAG LINK INNER TIE ROD TO PITMAN ARM BALL STUD FRACTURE, ALSO, THE STEERING LINKAGE DAMPER ATTACHING BRACKET MAY YEILD AND SHIFT ON THE LINKAGE. THE PART NUMBERS OF THE AFFECTED ASSEMBLIES IS 52122362AA THROUGH 52122362AD.

09V005000Jan 9, 2009serious
Steering

CHRYSLER IS RECALLING 32,782 MY 2008-2009 DODGE RAM 2500, 3500 AND 3500 CAB CHASSIS PICKUP TRUCKS EQUIPPED WITH POWERS AND SONS STEERING LINKAGE. THE STEERING LINKAGE DRAG LINK INNER TIE ROD TO PITMAN ARM BALL STUD MAY FRACTURE. ALSO THE STEERING LINKAGE DAMPER ATTACHING THE BRACKET MAY YIELD AND SHIFT ON THE LINKAGE.

08V641000Dec 5, 2008serious
Engine & Cooling

CHRYSLER IS RECALLING 108,429 MY 2007-2008 DODGE RAM 2500 AND 3500 PICKUP TRUCKS EQUIPPED WITH 6.7L DIESEL ENGINES. A SILENCER PAD CAN SAG AND CONTACT THE EXHAUST GAS RECIRCULATION (EGR) COOLER.

08V344000Jul 28, 2008serious
Trailer Hitches

KNAPHEIDE IS RECALLING 108 MY 2006-2008 PRO SERIES TRUCK BEDS EQUIPPED WITH AN ICC BUMPER WHICH INCLUDED A PROVISION FOR A BALL HITCH. THERE MAY BE AN INSUFFICIENT WELD ATTACHING THE HITCH CHANNEL TO THE SUPPORTING STRUCTURE.

07E104000Dec 11, 2007serious
Visibility

CERTAIN CURVED TEMPERED REPLACEMENT GLASS MANUFACTURED BY HANGZHOU SAFETY GLASS LTD AND SUPPLIED TO SAFELITE BY AUTO TEMP INC., IDENTIFIED AS DOT-430, AND SOLD FOR USE ON CERTAIN DOMESTIC AND FOREIGN VEHICLES MAY NOT BREAK INTO SMALL PIECES AS EXPECTED OF TEMPERED GLASS AND FAILS TO CONFORM TO FEDERAL MOTOR VEHICLE SAFETY STANDARD NO. 205, "GLAZING MATERIALS."

07V555000Dec 4, 2007serious
Powertrain

ON CERTAIN VAN AND PICKUP TRUCKS EQUIPPED WITH AUTOMATIC TRANSMISSIONS, THE IGNITION/PARK SHIFT INTERLOCK SYSTEM MAY BECOME INOPERATIVE. THIS CAN ALLOW THE SHIFTER TO BE MOVED OUT OF THE "PARK" POSITION WITH THE IGNITION KEY REMOVED (OR IN THE "LOCK" POSITION). THIS CAN ALSO ALLOW THE IGNITION KEY TO BE REMOVED WHEN THE SHIFTER HAS NOT BEEN PLACED IN THE "PARK" POSITION.

07V472000Oct 9, 2007serious
Fuel System

ON CERTAIN CAB/CHASSIS PICKUP TRUCKS EQUIPPED WITH AN OPTIONAL 23 GALLON FUEL TANK, THE FUEL TANK STRAPS WERE IMPROPERLY MANUFACTURED AND COULD SEPARATE. THIS CAN CAUSE THE FUEL TANK TO LOOSEN AND LEAK FUEL.

07V413000Sep 12, 2007serious
Powertrain

ON CERTAIN TWO WHEEL DRIVE TRUCKS EQUIPPED WITH MANUAL TRANSMISSIONS, THE FRONT DRIVESHAFT YOKE MAY BREAK UNDER CERTAIN DRIVING CONDITIONS.

07E066000Aug 28, 2007serious
Equipment

CERTAIN CEQUENT 90 DEGREE 7-WAY RIGHT ANGLE ADAPTORS SOLD BY DISTRIBUTORS IN TOW PACKAGES FOR AFTERMARKET SALES TO TOW 5TH WHEEL RV TRAVEL TRAILERS. DUE TO INCORRECT WIRING OF THE HARNESS, THE TRAILER LIGHTS MAY NOT OPERATE PROPERLY.

07V247000Jun 13, 2007serious
Fuel System

CERTAIN PICKUP TRUCKS EQUIPPED WITH 34 GALLON FUEL TANKS FAIL TO COMPLY WITH THE REQUIREMENTS OF FEDERAL MOTOR VEHICLE SAFETY STANDARD NO. 301, "FUEL SYSTEM INTEGRITY." THE FUEL TANK MAY BECOME DAMAGED DURING CERTAIN CRASH CONDITIONS, WHICH COULD ALLOW FUEL LEAKAGE TO OCCUR IF THE VEHICLE ROLLS OVER.

07V093000Mar 12, 2007serious
Equipment

CERTAIN 4X4 TRUCKS WITH DIESEL ENGINES FAIL TO CONFORM TO THE REQUIREMENTS OF FEDERAL MOTOR VEHICLE SAFETY STANDARD NO. 120, CERTAIN 4X4 TRUCKS WITH DIESEL ENGINES FAIL TO CONFORM TO THE REQUIREMENTS OF FEDERAL MOTOR VEHICLE SAFETY STANDARD NO. 120, "TIRE SELECTION AND RIMS FOR MOTOR VEHICLES OTHER THAN PASSENGER CARS." THE CERTIFICATION LABEL, TIRE AND LOADING INFORMATION LABEL AND SUPPLEMENTAL TIRE PRESSURE INFORMATION LABEL CONTAIN INCORRECT TIRE INFLATION PRESSURE INFORMATION.

07V038000Feb 12, 2007serious
Suspension

ON CERTAIN PICKUP TRUCKS, THE FRONT WHEEL BEARING MAY HAVE RECEIVED AN INSUFFICIENT QUANTITY OF GREASE DURING THE MANUFACTURING PROCESS.

07E009000Feb 1, 2007serious
Suspension

CERTAIN LKI ENTERPRISES, INC., BRAND NAME SUPERLIFT SUSPENSION, PITMAN ARMS SOLD AS REPLACEMENT EQUIPMENT FOR 2003-2007 DODGE RAM 2500 AND 3500 4X4 LIGHT TRUCKS. DUE TO INADEQUATE HEAT TREATMENT DURING PRODUCTION, THE AFFECTED PITMAN ARMS MAY DEVELOP CRACKS IN THE UPPER SPLINED ATTACHMENT ATTACHMENT TO THE STEERING OUTPUT SHAFT. MOVEMENT BETWEEN THE PITMAN ARM AND THE OUTPUT SHAFT MAY DEFORM SPLINES, RESULTING IN PREMATURE WEAR AND FATIGUE FAILURE OF THE AFFECTED PITMAN ARM.

06V380000Oct 10, 2006serious
Visibility

CERTAIN TRUCKS FAIL TO CONFORM TO THE REQUIREMENTS OF FEDERAL MOTOR VEHICLE SAFETY STANDARD NO. 111, "REAR VIEW MIRRORS". THE RIGHT OUTSIDE REAR VIEW MIRROR GLASS HAS A CURVED (CONVEX) MIRROR GLASS INSTALLED INSTEAD OF FLAT GLASS. CURVED GLASS CREATES A WIDER VIEW, BUT DISPLAYS IMAGES FURTHER AWAY THAN THEY ACTUALLY ARE.

06V353000Sep 14, 2006serious
Air Bags

ON CERTAIN PICKUP TRUCKS FAIL TO CONFORM TO THE REQUIREMENTS OF FEDERAL MOTOR VEHICLE SAFETY STANDARD NO. 208, 'OCCUPANT CRASH PROTECTION. THE PASSENGER AIR BAG MAY DEPLOY WITH EXCESSIVE FORCE WHEN CERTAIN MODEL REAR FACING CHILD SEATS ARE INSTALLED IN THE RIGHT FRONT PASSENGER SEAT POSITION.

06V354000Sep 14, 2006serious
Seat Belts

CERTAIN PICKUP TRUCKS FAIL TO CONFORM TO THE REQUIREMENTS OF FEDERAL MOTOR VEHICLE SAFETY STANDARD NO. 208, "OCCUPANT CRASH PROTECTION." THE FRONT PASSENGER SEAT BELT MAY NOT BE ABLE TO TIGHTEN SECURELY ON CERTAIN MODEL CHILD SEATS.

06V341000Sep 7, 2006serious
Powertrain

ON CERTAIN PASSENGER AND SPORT UTILITY VEHICLES AND PICKUP TRUCKS EQUIPPED WITH AUTOMATIC TRANSMISSIONS, THE SOFTWARE PROGRAMMED INTO THE POWERTRAIN CONTROL MODULE CAN CAUSE A MOMENTARY LOCK UP OF THE DRIVE WHEELS IF THE VEHICLE IS TRAVELING OVER 40 MPH AND THE OPERATOR SHIFTS FROM DRIVE TO NEUTRAL AND BACK TO DRIVE.

06E049000May 24, 2006serious
Exterior Lighting

CERTAIN CK MOTORSPORTS COMBINATION HEADLIGHTS, CLEAR CORNER, BUMPER, AND SIDE MARKER LIGHTS SOLD AS REPLACEMENT LAMPS FOR USE ON THE PASSENGER VEHICLES LISTED ABOVE. SOME COMBINATION LAMPS THAT ARE NOT EQUIPPED WITH AMBER SIDE REFLECTORS FAIL TO CONFORM TO FEDERAL MOTOR VEHICLE SAFETY STANDARD NO. 108, LAMPS, REFLECTIVE DEVICES, AND ASSOCIATED EQUIPMENT.

06E024000Mar 15, 2006serious
Engine & Cooling

CERTAIN REPLACEMENT K&N FUEL PERFORMANCE KITS, P/NOS. 57-1509, 57-1511, 57-1511-1, 57-1517, 57-1517-1, 57-1527, AND 57-1530. ALSO, A SMALL PERCENTAGE OF THESE KITS WERE SOLD UNDER THE MOPAR PERFORMANCE PARTS BRAND NAME (P/NOS. P5007069 AND P5007070). ALL KITS WERE MANUFACTURED FROM APRIL 20, 1999, THROUGH SEPTEMBER 23, 2004. THESE ASSEMBLIES WERE MANUFACTURED AS REPLACEMENT EQUIPMENT FOR CERTAIN DODGE PICKUP TRUCKS AND SUVS. A SMALL PIECE OF MATERIAL FROM THE TUBE WALL COULD BE SUCKED INTO THE ENGINE THROTTLE BODY, WHICH COULD CAUSE THE THROTTLE TO BECOME JAMMED IN THE OPEN POSITION.

06E023000Mar 13, 2006serious
Exterior Lighting

CERTAIN ANZO COMBINATION HEADLAMP ASSEMBLIES SOLD AS REPLACEMENT LAMPS FOR USE ON CERTAIN PASSENGER VEHICLES. SOME COMBINATION LAMPS ARE NOT EQUIPPED WITH AMBER SIDE REFLECTORS WHICH FAIL TO CONFORM TO FEDERAL MOTOR VEHICLE SAFETY STANDARD NO. 108, "LAMPS, REFLECTIVE DEVICES, AND ASSOCIATED EQUIPMENT."

06V073000Mar 9, 2006serious
Exterior Lighting

CERTAIN TRUCKS EQUIPPED WITH DUAL REAR WHEELS FAIL TO COMPLY WITH THE REQUIREMENTS OF FEDERAL MOTOR VEHICLE SAFETY STANDARD NO. 108, "LAMPS, REFLECTIVE DEVICES AND ASSOCIATED EQUIPMENT." THE TRUCKS MAY HAVE BEEN INADVERTENTLY MANUFACTURED WITHOUT THE ROOF MOUNTED CAB CLEARANCE LAMPS.

06V038000Feb 9, 2006serious
Service Brakes

ON CERTAIN PICKUP TRUCKS EQUIPPED WITH FOUR-WHEEL ANTILOCK BRAKE SYSTEMS (ABS), THE ABS ELECTRONIC CONTROL UNIT (ECU) MAY CAUSE A LOSS OF FRONT TO REAR BRAKE BALANCE, AND THE REAR BRAKES COULD LOCK UP PREMATURELY DURING CERTAIN BRAKING CONDITIONS.

05V461000Oct 6, 2005serious
Powertrain

ON CERTAIN 4-WHEEL DRIVE PICKUP TRUCKS, THE TOTALLY INTEGRATED POWER MODULE (TIPM) MAY CONTAIN INCORRECT TRANSFER CASE CALIBRATION SET POINTS, POTENTIALLY RESULTING IN INADVERTENT TRANSFER CASE DEFAULT TO NEUTRAL.

05V462000Oct 6, 2005cosmetic
Powertrain

ON CERTAIN PICKUP TRUCKS EQUIPPED WITH DIESEL ENGINES AND AUTOMATIC TRANSMISSIONS, IN AN ATTEMPT TO EXIT THE VEHICLE QUICKLY WITHOUT SHUTTING OFF THE ENGINE AND REMOVING THE KEY, THE DRIVER MAY INADVERTENTLY LEAVE THE AUTOMATIC TRANSMISSION SHIFT CONTROL IN INDICATED REVERSE.

04V385000Aug 3, 2004serious
Electrical System

ON CERTAIN PICK-UP TRUCKS EQUIPPED WITH 4.7L ENGINES, THE GENERATOR WIRING HARNESS MAY SHORT CIRCUIT DUE TO CONTACT WITH A VALVE COVER STUD.

04V221000May 6, 2004serious
Equipment

THE VEHICLE CERTIFICATION LABEL ON SOME PICKUP TRUCKS LISTS INCORRECT TIRE, WHEEL, AND RECOMMENDED INFLATION PRESSURE INFORMATION WHICH DOES NOT CONFORM TO THE REQUIREMENTS OF FEDERAL MOTOR VEHICLE SAFETY STANDARD NO. 120, 'TIRE SELECTION AND RIMS FOR VEHICLES OTHER THAN PASSENGER CARS.'

04V185000Apr 12, 2004serious
Service Brakes

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.

03V504000Dec 10, 2003cosmetic
Tires

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 PASSENGER CARS."

03V503000Dec 4, 2003serious
Powertrain

ON CERTAIN PICKUP TRUCKS, THE TRANSFER CASE TO TRANSMISSION ATTACHING FASTENERS MAY NOT BE TIGHTENED CORRECTLY. THIS COULD CAUSE THE TRANSMISSION ADAPTER OR TRANSFER CASE HOUSING TO CRACK AND LEAK FLUID.

03V212000Jun 5, 2003serious
Wheels

CERTAIN HEAVY DUTY PICKUP TRUCKS, THE ALUMINUM WHEELS MAY HAVE EXCESSIVE POROSITY IN THE CENTER HUB AREA WHICH CAN CAUSE A WHEEL TO CRACK.

03V077000Mar 10, 2003serious
Visibility

ON CERTAIN PICKUP TRUCKS, THE DETENT SYSTEM ON THE EXTERIOR MIRROR HOUSINGS MAY LOSE THE FUNCTIONALITY.

03V078000Mar 10, 2003serious
Steering

ON CERTAIN PICKUP TRUCKS, THE ELECTRICAL CONNECTOR AT THE BOTTOM OF THE STEERING COLUMN CONTAINS AN UNDER-SIZED TERMINAL FOR THE HVAC BLOWER MOTOR CIRCUIT. LOCALIZED HEATING FROM CURRENT FLOW WITH THE BLOWER SPEED SET ON HIGH MAY CAUSE THE TERMINAL CONTACTS TO RELAX AND LOSE ELECTRICAL CONTACT. THIS CAN CAUSE THE HVAC BLOWER MOTOR TO BECOME INOPERATIVE.

03V033000Feb 5, 2003serious
Vehicle Speed Control

CERTAIN PICKUP TRUCKS, EQUIPPED WITH CUMMINS DIESEL ENGINES AND MANUAL TRANSMISSIONS, MAY EXPERIENCE AN ELEVATED IDLE SPEED AFTER EXTENDED CRUISE CONTROL USE.

02V159000Jun 13, 2002cosmetic
Powertrain

ON CERTAIN 4X4 PICKUP TRUCKS, THE REAR AXLE FLANGE WELD TO THE AXLE TUBE COULD FATIGUE AND ALLOW THE BRAKE CALIPER ASSEMBLY TO ROTATE.

NHTSA Safety Ratings About NHTSA ratings

Overall Not Rated
Frontal Crash
—
Side Crash
—
Rollover
4/5 (19.8% risk)
ESC: Optional FCW: No LDW: No
Overall Not Rated
Frontal Crash
—
Side Crash
—
Rollover
4/5 (19.8% risk)
ESC: Optional FCW: No LDW: No
Overall Not Rated
Frontal Crash
—
Side Crash
—
Rollover
4/5 (19.8% risk)
ESC: Optional FCW: No LDW: No
Overall Not Rated
Frontal Crash
—
Side Crash
—
Rollover
4/5 (19.8% risk)
ESC: Optional FCW: No LDW: No
Overall Not Rated
Frontal Crash
—
Side Crash
—
Rollover
4/5 (19.8% risk)
ESC: No FCW: No LDW: No
Overall Not Rated
Frontal Crash
—
Side Crash
—
Rollover
4/5 (19.8% risk)
ESC: No FCW: No LDW: No
Overall Not Rated
Frontal Crash
—
Side Crash
—
Rollover
4/5 (19.8% risk)
ESC: No FCW: No LDW: No
Overall Not Rated
Frontal Crash
—
Side Crash
—
Rollover
4/5 (19.8% risk)
ESC: No FCW: No LDW: No
Overall Not Rated
Frontal Crash
—
Side Crash
—
Rollover
3/5
ESC: No FCW: No LDW: No
Overall Not Rated
Frontal Crash
—
Side Crash
—
Rollover
3/5
ESC: No FCW: No LDW: No

Alternatives in Full-Size Truck

Frequently Asked Questions

What are the most common 2002-2008 Dodge Ram complaints?

Owners have filed 11,281 complaints with NHTSA about the 2002-2008 Dodge Ram. The systems they name most often are the safety systems, the steering and the transmission.

Is the 2002-2008 Dodge Ram a good used car?

That depends on the model year, the mileage and the maintenance history of the car in front of you. Owners have filed 11,281 complaints with NHTSA about the 2002-2008 Dodge Ram. Check which systems they name most often and whether a recall is still open on that car.

How many NHTSA complaints does the 2002-2008 Dodge Ram have?

NHTSA has 11,281 owner complaints on file for the 2002-2008 Dodge Ram as of the latest data pull. A complaint is an owner's report, not a confirmed defect, and counts rise with sales.

What recalls affect the 2002-2008 Dodge Ram?

NHTSA lists 51 recalls covering some 2002-2008 Dodge Ram vehicles. Which ones apply depends on the VIN: enter it at nhtsa.gov/recalls to see the open campaigns on a specific car.

What should I check before buying a used Dodge Ram?

Run the VIN through NHTSA's recall lookup and confirm every open recall has been done. Look hardest at the safety systems, the steering and the transmission, the systems owners complain about most. Ask for maintenance records, have an independent mechanic inspect the car and run a vehicle history report for prior accidents and title issues.

What are the NHTSA crash test ratings for the Ram?

The 2008 Dodge Ram received an overall N/A-star safety rating from NHTSA. Frontal crash: N/A stars. Side crash: N/A stars. Rollover: 4 stars (19.8% rollover probability). Electronic Stability Control: Optional. Forward Collision Warning: No. Lane Departure Warning: No. These ratings are based on standardized crash tests conducted by the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration.

Data from NHTSA federal complaints database. 11,281 complaints analyzed. Data confidence: high. Last updated: 2026-10-12.

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