2021 Ram 1500
Problems, recalls and owner-reported issues
Engine is the leading concern among 679 owner complaints filed for this model year. This is the 9th highest complaint count among 17 1500 model years with reports.
Of the 2021 reports, 27 involved a crash and 4 involved a fire. 23 people were injured.
What owners report most often
Recalls and investigations
Seat belts, rear/other, anchorageJul 30, 2026
Chrysler (FCA US, LLC) is recalling certain 2019-2026 Ram 1500 vehicles. The second-row center and left-side seat belt buckle anchors may have been improperly installed. As such, these vehicles fail to comply with the requirements of Federal Motor Vehicle Safety Standard number 210, "Seat Belt Assembly Anchorages."
An improperly installed seat belt buckle anchor may fail to properly restrain occupants, increasing the risk of injury during a crash.
Dealers will inspect and attach the seat belt buckle anchor to the body structure as necessary, free of charge. Owner notification letters are expected to be mailed August 18, 2026. Owners may contact Chrysler customer service at 1-800-853-1403. Chrysler's number for this recall is 67D. Vehicle Identification Numbers (VINs) involved in this recall will be searchable on NHTSA.gov on August 6, 2026.
Campaign 26V495000 on NHTSA.gov
Air bags, frontalNov 6, 2025
Chrysler (FCA US, LLC) is recalling certain 2021-2022 Ram 1500, Ram 2500, Ram 3500, Ram 4500, and Ram 5500 vehicles. The steering column control module may cause the driver's side air bag not to deploy as intended. As such, these vehicles fail to comply with the requirements of Federal Motor Vehicle Safety Standard number 208, "Occupant Crash Protection."
A driver's side air bag that does not deploy as intended increases the risk of injury in a crash.
Dealers will replace the steering column control module, free of charge. Owner notification letters were mailed beginning December 11, 2025. Owners may contact Chrysler customer service at 800-853-1403. Chrysler's number for this recall is 14C. Vehicle Identification Numbers (VINs) involved in this recall became searchable on NHTSA.gov beginning November 13, 2025.
Campaign 25V765000 on NHTSA.gov
Air bagsMay 8, 2025
Chrysler (FCA US, LLC) is recalling certain 2019-2024 Ram 1500 vehicles. The driver's side air bag may not be connected properly, which can cause the air bag not to deploy as intended. As such, these vehicles fail to comply with the requirements of Federal Motor Vehicle Safety Standard number 208, "Occupant Crash Protection."
A driver's side air bag that does not deploy as intended increases the risk of injury in a crash.
Dealers secured the connectors for the air bag, free of charge. All vehicles have been remedied. Owner notification letters were mailed May 27, 2025. Owners may contact Chrysler customer service at 800-853-1403. Chrysler's number for this recall is 08C.
Campaign 25V298000 on NHTSA.gov
Visibility, rearview mirrors/devicesOct 10, 2024
Chrysler (FCA US, LLC) is recalling certain 2020-2023 Ram 1500 Classic vehicles equipped with heated trailer tow rearview mirrors. The mirror glass may detach from the driver's side heated trailer tow rearview mirror. As such these vehicles fail to comply with the requirements of Federal Motor Vehicle Safety Standard number 111, "Rear Visibility."
Detached mirror glass can reduce driver visibility, increasing the risk of a crash.
Dealers will replace the mirror glass, free of charge. Owner notification letters were mailed December 5, 2024. Owners may contact FCA Customer Service at 1-800-853-1403. FCA's number for this recall is 86B.
Campaign 24V754000 on NHTSA.gov
Service brakes, hydraulic, antilock/traction control/electronic limited slip, control unit/moduleSep 5, 2024
Chrysler (FCA US, LLC) is recalling certain 2019, 2021-2024 Ram 1500 vehicles. Due to a software malfunction, the anti-lock brake system (ABS) control module may disable the electronic stability control system. As such, these vehicles fail to comply with the requirements of Federal Motor Vehicle Safety Standard number 126, "Electronic Stability Control Systems."
Driving with a disabled electronic stability control system can increase the risk of a crash.
Dealers will update the ABS control module software, free of charge. Interim notification letters, notifying owners of the safety risk, were mailed October 10, 2024. Owner notification letters were mailed beginning September 26, 2024. Owners may contact FCA US, LLC customer service at 1-800-853-1403. FCA US, LLC's number for this recall is 85B.
Campaign 24V653000 on NHTSA.gov
Power train, automatic transmission, control module (tcm/pcm/tecm)Apr 13, 2023
Chrysler (FCA US, LLC) is recalling certain 2021 Ram 1500 vehicles equipped with 5.7L eTorque engines. The powertrain control module software may cause an incorrect fuel mixture condition in the engine, and result in an engine stall.
An engine stall can increase the risk of a crash.
Dealers will update the Powertrain Control Module calibration software, 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 37A.
Campaign 23V265000 on NHTSA.gov
Back over prevention, display functionFeb 9, 2023
Chrysler (FCA US, LLC) is recalling certain 2021-2023 Ram 1500 and 2023 Ram 2500 vehicles. The trailer reverse steering control module (TRSCM) may prevent the rearview image from displaying when the vehicle is placed in reverse. As such, these vehicles fail to comply with the requirements of Federal Motor Vehicle Safety Standard number 111, "Rear Visibility."
A rearview image that does not display while in reverse decreases the driver's visibility of the rear view, increasing the risk of injury or crash.
Dealers will update the TRSCM software, free of charge. Owner notification letters were mailed March 1, 2023. Owners may contact FCA US, LLC customer service at 1-800-853-1403. FCA US, LLC's number for this recall is 14A. This recall supersedes and expands previous recall numbers 21V-438 and 21V-918. FCA US Recall ID 63A is a vehicle population expansion of FCA US Recall ID 14A (NHTSA Recall ID 23V-059).
Campaign 23V059000 on NHTSA.gov
Structure, body, tailgate, hinge and attachmentsDec 8, 2022
Chrysler (FCA US, LLC) is recalling certain 2019-2022 Ram 1500, 2500, and 3500 pickup trucks. The tailgate may not latch properly due to misaligned tailgate strikers, which could result in the tailgate opening while driving.
An unintended tailgate opening while driving may result in a loss of unsecured cargo, possibly creating a road hazard and increasing the risk of a crash.
Dealers will inspect the tailgate striker alignment to the box latch and adjust, if necessary, free of charge. Owner notification letters were mailed December 22, 2022. Owners may contact FCA US, LLC customer service at 1-800-853-1403. FCA US, LLC's number for this recall is ZB8.
Campaign 22V904000 on NHTSA.gov
Fuel system, gasoline, delivery, fuel pumpOct 13, 2022
Chrysler (FCA US, LLC) is recalling certain 2020-2022 Jeep Wrangler, Ram 1500, and 2021-2022 Jeep Gladiator vehicles equipped with 3.0L diesel engines. The high pressure fuel pump (HPFP) may fail, causing an engine stall.
An engine stall can increase the risk of a crash.
Dealers will replace the HPFP and inspect and replace additional fuel system components, as necessary, free of charge. Owner notification letters were mailed October 17, 2023. Owners may contact Chrysler customer service at 1-800-853-1403. Chrysler's number for this recall is Z96.
Campaign 22V767000 on NHTSA.gov
Back over prevention, display functionAug 25, 2022
Chrysler (FCA US, LLC) is recalling certain 2020-2021 Jeep Wrangler, RAM 1500 and 2021 Jeep Gladiator vehicles. A radio software error may prevent the rearview image from displaying. As such, these vehicles fail to comply with the requirements of Federal Motor Vehicle Safety Standard number 111, "Rear Visibility."
A rearview camera that does not display an image reduces the driver's rear view, increasing the risk of a crash.
Dealers will update the radio software, free of charge. Owner notification letters were mailed October 6, 2022. Owners may contact FCA US, LLC customer service at 1-800-853-1403. FCA, LLC's number for this recall is Z86.
Campaign 22V638000 on NHTSA.gov
Air bags, side/window, curtainNov 24, 2021
Chrysler (FCA US, LLC) is recalling certain 2021-2022 Ram 2500, Ram 3500, and 2021 Ram 1500 Classic pickup trucks. The side air bag inflatable curtain (SABIC) assemblies may have been manufactured with the incorrect amount of compressed gas, which can result in an improper air bag deployment.
An air bag that deploys improperly can increase the risk of injury in a crash.
Dealers will replace the SABIC assemblies, free of charge. Owner notification letters were mailed January 17, 2022. Owners may contact FCA US, LLC customer service at 1-800-853-1403. FCA US, LLC's number for this recall is Y99.
Campaign 21V925000 on NHTSA.gov
Back over prevention, display functionNov 23, 2021
Chrysler (FCA US, LLC) is recalling certain 2021 Ram 1500 pickup trucks. The Trailer Reverse Steering Control Module (TRSCM) may prevent the rearview image from displaying. As such, these vehicles fail to comply with the requirements of Federal Motor Vehicle Safety Standard number 111, "Rear Visibility."
A rearview camera that does not display an image reduces the driver's rear view, increasing the risk of a crash.
Dealers will update the TRSCM software. Interim owner notification letters were mailed on January 19, 2022. Owner notification letters were mailed on February 22, 2022. Owners may contact FCA US, LLC customer service at 1-800-853-1403. FCA US, LLC's number for this recall is Y80. This recall was superseded by 23V-059.
Campaign 21V918000 on NHTSA.gov
Tires, temporary/emergency spare tireSep 9, 2021
Chrysler (FCA US, LLC) is recalling certain 2021 Ram 1500 vehicles. The incorrect-size spare tire may have been installed, which does not match the tire size and inflation pressure information on the tire placard. As such, these vehicles fail to comply with the requirements of Federal Motor Vehicle Safety Standard number 110, "Tire Selection And Rims."
A driver that relies on the incorrect spare tire inflation pressure on the tire placard label may inflate the spare tire incorrectly, increasing the risk of a crash.
Dealers will replace the spare tire assembly, free of charge. The owner notification letter was mailed on September 9, 2021. Owners may contact FCA US LLC customer service at 1-800-853-1403. FCA US LLC's number for this recall is Y62.
Campaign 21V698000 on NHTSA.gov
Back over prevention, display functionJun 10, 2021
Chrysler (FCA US, LLC) is recalling certain 2021 Ram 1500 vehicles equipped with a trailer reverse steering module (TRSCM). The rearview camera image may not display. As such, these vehicles fail to comply with the requirements of Federal Motor Vehicle Safety Standard number 111, "Rear Visibility."
A rearview camera that does not display an image reduces the driver's rear view, increasing the risk of a crash or injury.
Dealers will update the TRSCM software, free of charge. Owner notification letters were mailed June 24, 2021. Owners may contact FCA US, LLC customer service at 1-800-853-1403. FCA, US, LLC's number for this recall is Y30. This recall was superseded by recall number 21V-918.
Campaign 21V438000 on NHTSA.gov
Service brakes, hydraulic, foundation components, master cylinderDo not drive until repairedFeb 1, 2021
Chrysler (FCA US, LLC) is recalling certain 2020-2021 Ram 1500 Classic SLT trucks. Certain vehicles were built without the retaining clip that secures the master cylinder push rod to the brake pedal, which can cause the brake pedal to separate from the brake system.
A separated brake pedal can result in the driver being unable to apply the service brakes, increasing the risk of a crash.
Owners are advised to not drive their vehicles until they receive instructions on the inspection and repair, as necessary. FCA US will notify owners, and dealers will inspect and install the push rod clip, free of charge. The recall began February 9, 2021. Owners may contact FCA US customer service at 1-800-853-1403. FCA US number for this recall is Y04.
Campaign 21V037000 on NHTSA.gov
Representative owner complaints
679 reports, newest first.
Steering, Apr 30, 2025
On April 16, 2025 I was driving home from work. I went to steer to the right around a turn and my steering wheel felt like it locked up making it very hard to navigate through the curve. My steering was very tight and it caused a very uneasy feeling like I was going to crash. I called my local Ram dealer and they weren't able to get me in till April 28th. In the meantime I had another car to drive and it sat parked till they were able to take it in. They diagnosed it as the Rack and pinion being bad and told me it needed to be replaced and would cost over $4,000 out of my pocket!! My truck is still under the powertrain warranty and it would not be covered. They also told me they were charging me $163 dollars for a diagnosis fee since it's not covered by my warranty.
Electrical system, Vehicle speed control, Forward collision avoidance, Apr 29, 2025
While driving on the highway with cruise control engaged, the system became stuck and would not disengage. I attempted to cancel cruise control using the button, tap the brakes, and shift to neutral, but none of these actions worked immediately. The truck continued accelerating beyond the set speed, putting my life and the lives of others in serious danger. I eventually regained control after repeatedly braking and forcing the truck into neutral, but this was an extremely dangerous situation that could have resulted in a fatal crash. To my knowledge, there were no warning lights or messages before or during the incident. I have not had the problem confirmed by a dealer yet, but I contacted the manufacturer (RAM customer service), and they instructed me to take the vehicle to a dealership for diagnostics at my own expense. This appears to be a serious defect in the cruise control or throttle system, and I am requesting a formal investigation.
Electrical system, Apr 28, 2025
Part # 68623194AB alternator generator has failed twice and now the truck has been at the dealership for 1 month with no parts available. Truck bought new Oct 2021. Parts failed at 78,000 miles (09/24) and again at 95,0000 (04/25). I paid the $4000 bill on the 1st failure. Now I'm told 2nd repair is warrantied after they replaced the starter and in addition to need the alt/gen. My safety was at risk because the truck shut down while driving with no warning. The truck is currently at the dealership awaiting parts. The dealership told me the problem and that they can not get the parts needed to repair the vehicle. No warnings given before the failure. Any warning was concurrent at time of failure. My family was at risk. This is not acceptable. Please make this recall.
Engine, Apr 28, 2025
Cracked passenger side exhaust manifold
Steering, Apr 25, 2025
The steering rack on my 2021 Dodge Ram 1500 is defective. The steering system becomes disabled and shuts down with no prior warning causing the vehicle to become very dangerous to drive. The warning lamp indicates the word steering with an exclamation point. I had my vehicle taken to the auto repair shop and was told the steering rack was inoperative and needed a whole new rack costing just for the part alone $2415.00 plus an alignment and labor for a total cost of $3275.00. I have done research and found that Chrysler Corp is well aware of this situation for years but is ignoring the safety of customers that have put their faith in Chrysler by having a vehicles that is safe and reliable as stated by the dealerships and not putting lives at risk. I feel I have avoided a situation that could have change my life for years or even worse the lives of my loved ones .
Engine, Apr 20, 2025
Made a turn at 15 mph and the car shut off by itself randomly. This is the fourth time it’s happened since owning the vehicle.
Steering, Suspension, Wheels, Apr 16, 2025
While making a turn in a parking garage at low speed, I heard a loud popping sound. When I got out to inspect, I discovered that the front wheel had collapsed inward. There was no collision, curb hit, or external damage—just a spontaneous failure of the suspension system. This is the second time this same failure has occurred within the past year on this vehicle. The incident caused a complete loss of steering control, putting my safety at risk. Fortunately, I was not driving at high speed or on a public road when this occurred. There were no warning lights, noises, or other symptoms leading up to the event. The failed parts appear to include critical suspension and steering components (likely control arm, tie rod, or ball joint), and photos are available. The failure has not yet been inspected by the dealer or manufacturer, but the vehicle is available for inspection if requested. Given that this is a 2021 RAM with relatively low mileage, and it has experienced two nearly identical failures, this raises serious concerns about a potential manufacturing or design defect that could affect other vehicles. Attached are pictures from both incidents.
Engine and engine cooling, Exterior lighting, Apr 15, 2025
The contact owns a 2021 Ram 1500. The contact stated there was rainwater leaking into the rear passenger’s side cabin of the vehicle. The vehicle was taken to the local dealer, who replaced the third brake light and applied sealant; however, the leak persisted. The contact was informed by the dealer that the leak failure may be caused by a faulty frame or window. No further information was available. The contact stated that while operating the vehicle, there was a ticking sound coming from the engine, and while at the dealer the contact was informed that the exhaust manifold was faulty and needed to be replaced. The vehicle was not yet repaired. The contact was informed by an independent mechanic that the bolts inside the exhaust manifold were inadequate and were prone to failure. The manufacturer was not notified of the failure. The failure mileage was 59,700. The VIN was not available.
Power train, Electrical system, Engine, Apr 14, 2025
While I was driving on the freeway, my check engine light came on and my battery voltage dropped rapidly (within 5 minutes I had a dead battery). My transmission, power train and electrical components all stopped working. Luckily I was pulling over before this happened so I didn’t get in a wreck on the freeway. I had a tow company take my vehicle to the dealer for inspection. After a few days they let me know it was the alternator inverter which was not functioning correctly and caused my battery to drain along with all my electrical components malfunctioning and engine stalling. The dealer has now had my truck for weeks and won’t let me drive it until they resolve the issue with a new inverter which is on back order with no updates on arrival.
Electrical system, Air bags, Apr 11, 2025, fire
My truck caught fire after I got a service airbag system alert on my dashboard
Electrical system, Apr 11, 2025
Alternator is on back order with 3200 orders waiting with none in production
Power train, Apr 11, 2025
The contact owns a 2021 Ram 1500. The contact received notification of NHTSA Campaign Number: 24V754000 (VISIBILITY). The contact stated while driving 35 MPH, the vehicle started to lose power. The check engine warning light was illuminated. The contact towed the vehicle to a dealer where it was diagnosed with transmission failure. The transmission and the clutch pack were replaced; however, the vehicle started leaking transmission fluid from a hole in the transfer case. The contact stated there was no way of knowing that the transfer case had a hole during regular maintenance services. The dealer informed the contact the repair was not covered under warranty. The vehicle was not repaired. The manufacturer was made aware of the failure. The failure mileage was approximately 28,000.
Engine, Apr 11, 2025
Back ordered part: Part # 68623194AB No ETA
Engine, Apr 11, 2025
While slowing down to stop at a stop sign the engine shut off on its own. Dash showed message to shift into park once the vehicle stopped. Parking brake also engaged on its own. After shifting into park, restarting the truck, and disengaging the parking brake I shifted back into drive but the vehicle wouldn't move. I shifted into reverse and it would go backwards. Shifted back into drive and it worked properly. It's not safe to have the engine just shut off while you are driving. Also having to put vehicle into reverse before getting it to go into drive is unsafe on a crowded road with vehicles behind you.
Suspension, Service brakes, Hydraulic, Apr 8, 2025
The contact owns a 2021 Ram 1500. The contact stated that while driving at an undisclosed speed, the ABS warning light illuminated. The vehicle was taken to the dealer where it was diagnosed that the wheel bearings had failed and needed to be replaced. The vehicle was repaired but the failure recurred. The manufacturer was not made aware of the failure. The failure mileage was approximately 40,126.
Electrical system, Apr 8, 2025
2x within the same week after leaving a stop light/stop sign after the vehicle turns back on and starts to move forward it shuts off completely in the intersection and I had to wait for it to reset before it could be turned back on. Cars had to swerve around me to avoid hitting me. Took to RAM service and they stated a leak behind 3rd brake light got water into a RHF module. Was told after that 2 more trucks with same equipment were brought in for the same thing.
Electrical system, Apr 7, 2025
I was driving and the engine stalled just like I shut it off . I pulled off the road and restarted the engine to have it do the same thing several more times. No codes no warning lights.
Structure, Apr 4, 2025
The tailgate has opened on its own twice in the last 6-8 months. This puts a risk for other vehicles if it were to open randomly. To my knowledge this was supposed to not happen after recall 22V904000. This vehicle has not been inspected since seeing this issue and no warning lights happened when this occurred, one specifically had been closed for around 24 hours then randomly opened after car had not been driven.
Visibility/wiper, Apr 4, 2025
The rear window (backlite) has a known manufacturing defect that allows water intrusion, potentially damaging the RF hub and creating conditions conducive to mold growth (see TSB 23-098-23). My vehicle has been affected by this defect, yet FCA has only extended the warranty to select vehicles, excluding others of the same year, make, and model that are clearly impacted by the same issue. This defect has led to saturated floor boards/carpet under the rear seats and has lead to the growth of mold.
Steering, Electrical system, Engine, Mar 20, 2025
My vehicle has had 2 starter replacements, 2 batteries replaced , 1 radiator replacement. 3 times at the dealership for clock spring repair. Exhaust system replaced because of bolt rusted parts. This vehicle is a built to serve edition and it hasn’t led up to its name. Without me paying for an extended warranty i dont know what would i would’ve done.Does this vehicle require for a buy back from the corporate headquarters
Electrical system, Engine, Fuel/propulsion system, Mar 20, 2025
On 3/6/25 at 0520 hours, I 95 northbound in Stafford, VA. at mile marker 141 in left travel lane at approximately 75 mph the truck suddenly lost power slowing significantly. We pulled over onto the left shoulder as the truck slowed and stopped. The truck required shutting off the ignition and restarting the vehicle for it to operable. We had vehicles behind us slamming on brakes and quickly changing lanes in order to avoid hitting us. This truck has been checked by a dodge dealership for previous complaints of this occurring at lower speeds. Dodge dealership told us, there are no codes, no recalls ( only on V8) , we can note it in file but there is nothing else we can do. This is unacceptable and almost got us into a serious accident. There is something wrong with the etorque.
Power train, Mar 17, 2025
Upon starting the vehicle, shifting into drive from park, and depressing the gas pedal, the vehicle would not shift out of first gear into higher gears. The engine began to whine and the RPM gauge registered much higher than when the vehicle typically shifts into higher gears during acceleration. Upon realizing, I pulled over and shifted from Drive to Park. I then shifted back to drive and the vehicle operated normally. This is the first time the vehicle has behaved in this manner, although there have been times when the transmission feels as if it is not shifting as smooth as it should.
Electrical system, Engine, Mar 17, 2025
I would like to submit a complaint regarding the Motor Generator Unit on a 2021 Ram 1500 e-torque motor. That part failed on my truck in early January, leaving me stranded for several hours. Thankfully the part did not fail while the truck was in motion, as the truck would have died and become completely inoperable. The vehicle has been at the dealership since January 4th, due to the part being on back order, with no ETA. I find it hard to believe that this is not a common problem, for that reason. There were no symptoms or check engine lights prior to this issue occurring.
Steering, Mar 17, 2025
I recently purchased this vehicle and have experienced intermittent power steering failure, posing a severe safety hazard. While I retain some control, steering is significantly more difficult than even older non-power-steering vehicles. On sharp or semi-sharp turns, this failure greatly increases the risk of an accident or fatality. The power steering warning light has appeared, and a diagnostic scan returned code C2-120-17 with an alternator status of Bad (14.99V). Despite replacing both the battery and alternator, the issue persists. Researching the problem, I found numerous complaints with no meaningful response from the manufacturer. It is concerning that similar issues were addressed in previous recalls, yet this defect continues. This ongoing failure not only puts my safety at risk but also creates a hardship for my family, as we cannot rely on the vehicle for daily use. Each time I drive, I face the possibility of an accident. Note: The error codes from the pictures I included I have fixed but the light indicating EPS failure persists. Given that I recently purchased the vehicle and have already invested additional money in attempted repairs, I cannot afford the costly fix that appears necessary. Based on widespread reports, this seems to be a manufacturer defect that should be covered, rather than leaving owners to bear the financial and safety burdens. I urge immediate action to resolve this issue.
Electrical system, Mar 17, 2025
I have had a grinding noise that was intermittent for several MONTHs, slowly getting worse. When I took it to the dealership, it was identified that the MGU had failed. The dealer advised that the part was not currently in stock anywhere and was not able to provide an ETA as there is a major shortage of this component. I was advised that eventually the battery voltage would drop from ~14v down below 11v and at this time the vehicle would throw engine warning lights which would lead the complete shutdown of the vehicle. This eventually happened in January 2025, where my vehicle voltage suddenly dropped, the dashboard lit up with different warning lights and the vehicle died. Fortunately it was in my driveway but now I have no vehicle and it is MARCH '25. It has been 2 months and when I contact all the local dealerships, NO ONE is able to provide an ETA and they advise they have MANY cars with similar issues waiting on the MGU part from Corporate. This is HORRIBLE. My truck was bought brand new in 2021 and has 64k miles. Fortunately it will be covered by the 8yr / 80k mile warranty, but the part needs to arrive first! I am missing work, I have an infant at home, and Ram is not able to assist with a loaner or rental!!