MODEL
Ram 1500 Safety
NHTSA safety across every Ram 1500 model year we cover.
Across the 8 model years of the Ram 1500 we cover (2019 to 2026), the strongest crash-test showing is the 2026 at 84 on the NHTSA Safety Index, and the lowest is the 2022 at 67. 106 recalls have been issued across those years.
The Ram 1500 is a full-size pickup truck that has competed at the top of America's most popular vehicle segment since its fifth-generation redesign for 2019. Aimed squarely at buyers who demand a capable work truck with genuine comfort and style, the 1500 positions itself as the refined alternative in the half-ton class, available in configurations ranging from basic work trims to near-luxury crew-cab builds.
The Ram 1500's safety record across its 2019 to 2025 model years presents a mixed picture. While the 2025 model year achieves a strong 85 out of 100 on the NHTSA Safety Index, not all years perform to this standard. Shoppers must consult the specific year under consideration, as some fall into the Below Average category. Crash-test results for the best-performing years show 5 out of 5 stars in side impact, 4 out of 5 in frontal impact, and 4 out of 5 in rollover. This rollover rating is a reasonable outcome for a tall, body-on-frame truck. However, the recall record requires serious attention. Sixty-six recalls have been issued across six model years. At least one of these campaigns included a park-outside or do-not-drive designation, indicating NHTSA's assessment of a severe safety risk requiring immediate action. Owner complaints total 3,461, with reported allegations citing 157 crashes, 27 fires, 112 injuries, and 4 deaths. Though these are unverified allegations, their volume and severity warrant caution. Prospective buyers should verify that all open recalls for a specific VIN have been resolved through NHTSA's database before purchase.
WHAT REVIEWERS SAYReviewers generally praise the Ram 1500 for its well-appointed cabin, smooth ride quality, and thoughtful interior materials that set it apart from most competitors in the half-ton segment. Driving dynamics are considered refined for a body-on-frame truck. Some reviewers note that certain trim levels offer genuinely impressive comfort and feature content, though opinions on value vary depending on configuration.
- Safety performance varies meaningfully by model year. The 2025 Ram 1500 reaches an 85 out of 100 Safety Index, but some years within the 2019 to 2025 range fall into the Below Average band, so always check the rating for the specific year you are shopping.
- At least one recall across the covered years carried a park-outside or do-not-drive warning, the most serious level of NHTSA urgency. Before buying any used Ram 1500, run the VIN on NHTSA's website to confirm all open recalls, especially any active stop-drive campaigns, have been completed.
- Sixty-six recalls across six model years is a notably high count. While recalls themselves represent manufacturers addressing known issues, the sheer volume means owners need to stay actively engaged with recall notices and dealer service throughout ownership.
- Owner-reported complaints include allegations of 27 fires and 4 deaths across the covered model years. These are unverified allegations submitted to NHTSA, not confirmed findings, but the numbers reinforce why verifying recall completion and monitoring NHTSA complaint trends for your specific model year is essential before and after purchase.
Most-recalled year on record: 2019 Ram 1500 with 29 recalls.