The 2012-2016 and 2018 Dodge Ram 2500s have developed a reputation for chronic reliability issues that you should avoid. These models suffer from severe problems like brake system failures, faulty steering components, turbocharger breakdowns, and transmission defects. Airbag malfunctions and persistent electrical issues also make them high-risk for long-term ownership.
If you’re about to buy a Ram 2500, here’s everything you need to know about the worst model years!
In This Article:
6 Ram 2500 Years To Avoid
2012 Dodge Ram 2500
The 2012 Ram 2500 has 279 complaints and 5 recalls listed on the NHTSA as of 2025. The biggest concern is the steering system. Many drivers reported that the truck began shaking violently after hitting a bump, especially at highway speeds.
This “death wobble” often stemmed from a cracked or failing front track bar bracket. Even after repairs, the problem frequently came back. In several cases, the tie rod ends snapped, leaving the truck completely unsteerable. One owner said their steering linkage fractured after a slow 3–5 MPH turn, and the drag link had to be replaced. In another case, the steering rod detached while turning into a parking spot, forcing a tow.
Next up is the electrical system, which causes the truck to shut off while driving, often without warning. The issue is tied to a faulty WIN module (Wireless Ignition Node). Drivers reported the heavy-duty truck turning off as if the key had been switched off, even at speeds of 40–60 MPH, resulting in loss of power steering and braking. One case happened after simply driving over a speed bump.
Lastly, the engine and exhaust manifold problems are both costly and a health risk. The exhaust manifold warps, breaking bolts and causing exhaust leaks into the cabin. Several owners described a strong smell of fumes inside the truck, leading to headaches during long drives. In one case, both the passenger and driver side manifolds had failed under 90,000 miles. Some repairs cost up to $10,000 due to cylinder head damage.
2013 Dodge Ram 2500
The 2013 Ram 2500 comes with 16 recalls and 175 complaints on NHTSA as of 2025.
The most alarming issues relate to safety systems, especially the airbags. Multiple recalls were issued for inadvertent airbag deployments, where the driver or side curtain airbags could go off without warning, even while driving. There’s also a risk that side airbags won’t deploy at all in a rollover, leaving passengers completely unprotected. These flaws undermine two of the most critical features in any vehicle: restraint and crash protection.
In our experience with the 2013 Ram 2500 diesel, reliability dropped sharply after 100,000 miles. We encountered the infamous DPF (Diesel Particulate Filter) issue, where a clogged filter not only triggered the check engine light but also cut engine power on the highway, creating a serious safety risk.
Other owners have reported exploding filters, plugged catalytic systems, and intake manifold failures, often at highway speeds. Engine knocking is also a recurring issue in Cummins-powered models. Several diesel shops confirmed it’s common enough that they’ve rebuilt multiple engines from this exact year.
On the electrical side, the body control module (BCM) is a weak link. Door locks fail intermittently, leaving child safety locks disabled and the truck vulnerable to theft. We also noticed that after recall-related reprogramming, our backup camera glitched, and the TCS/ABS warning lights triggered every time we hit a pothole. These issues are not just annoying. They’re a distraction in a truck that’s supposed to be work-ready and safe for families.
2014 Dodge Ram 2500
The 2014 Ram 2500 has 333 complaints and 16 recalls logged with NHTSA as of 2025, making it one of the most problematic models in the lineup.
A large portion of complaints center around steering and suspension issues, particularly related to the NHTSA 15V541000 recall for the front suspension track bar frame bracket. Owners reported that even after the supposed recall fix, the bracket welds failed, causing a sudden loss of control on highways.
Many drivers experienced severe wobbling, also known as the “death wobble,” at speeds around 70 MPH after hitting bumps. Others found that steering components like the drag link bar were welded in place during recalls, which locked out alignment adjustments and forced full replacement of parts to correct basic steering issues. This has led to out-of-pocket costs upwards of $1,000 for repairs that arguably should have been avoided with a better factory or recall solution.
Under the hood, engine complaints are serious. Multiple owners faced gear ratio errors, diesel exhaust system failures, and severe engine knocking, sometimes ending in catastrophic engine failure. One known issue with the engine involves a bolt in the intake plenum breaking off and entering the cylinder, often destroying the engine. Meanwhile, 6.4L Hemi drivers report loud ticking, poor cold starts, and even engine lock-ups at highway speeds.
The electrical system issues are just as alarming. A pattern of TIPM failures, fuse overheating, and dash fires has emerged. One reported case involved a parked Ram 2500 catching fire due to wiring near the climate control, leading to a total loss of the vehicle. Other drivers complained about dash screens failing, random shutdowns, melting instrument panels, and loss of cluster data, leaving them blind to system warnings while driving.
2015 Dodge Ram 2500
The 2015 Ram 2500 has 205 complaints and 15 recalls listed with NHTSA as of 2025, and many of the issues are serious enough to affect the heavy-duty truck’s drivability and safety. What stands out most is that the steering problems from prior years were never truly resolved.
Many owners, including ourselves, experienced a constant rightward pull at highway speeds. Even after multiple alignments and suspension checks, the steering felt vague and unstable, especially when hauling or driving on uneven pavement.
But what really makes the 2015 model a concern is the number of major transmission and engine failures, sometimes with less than 75,000 miles on the odometer. In our case, the transmission began slipping at around 122,000 miles, and a mechanic later confirmed it was due to a failed solenoid pack. Unfortunately, the fix wasn’t covered, and the truck began randomly downshifting, even while cruising on the highway.
We also noted intermittent power loss due to a turbo actuator fault, a problem common with Cummins diesel models of this era. This triggered engine braking at full force, which forced us to pull over and restart the truck several times.
Worse still are the vehicle speed control failures that can be outright dangerous. There are multiple reports of cruise control refusing to disengage, even while braking. One case resulted in a serious off-road incident when the driver had to steer into a ditch to avoid a collision. These issues reflect serious mechanical and software flaws that Dodge’s warranty support often refuses to address unless under specific conditions.
2016 Dodge Ram 2500
As of 2025, the 2016 Ram 2500 has logged 237 complaints and 14 recalls on the NHTSA database. While steering and airbag issues persist from prior years, the most alarming trend for this model is the increasing number of powertrain and braking system failures.
A critical issue is the recurring failure of the turbo actuator and turbocharger itself. Owners report sudden power loss while towing or cruising at highway speeds. Some trucks lose speed abruptly in traffic, putting everyone at risk.
Even worse, these failures are mechanically identical to those seen in the 2015 Ram 2500, for which a limited extended warranty was issued. But for 2016 owners, the same faulty parts receive no coverage, despite matching failure codes and nearly identical symptoms.
Transmission reliability is equally concerning. Owners have reported downshifting at high speeds, limp mode activation, and full gear loss, often traced to a failing solenoid pack or internal damage from prior recall work.
In multiple cases, a failed solenoid led to shredded clutch packs and total transmission rebuilds, sometimes before the truck reached even 75,000 miles. Others experienced rollaway incidents, with the gear shifter slipping from Park or becoming operable while the engine was off.
Beyond the drivetrain, the ABS system and braking control module (HCU) have become major pain points. Drivers have reported ABS, cruise control, and 4WD all failing together, especially in bad weather or while towing. Some had brakes that randomly engaged at highway speeds, bringing the truck to a stop unexpectedly and dangerously.
2018 Dodge Ram 2500
With 9 recalls and a staggering 2,045 complaints logged with NHTSA as of 2025, the 2018 Ram 2500 ranks among the most problematic modern pickups on the road today. Of those complaints, over 1,600 are tied to one critical issue: the braking system, specifically, the widespread and well-documented failure of the Hydraulic Control Unit (HCU).
The core problem lies in the HCU’s inability to maintain control over ABS, traction control, and cruise control functions. Warning lights for the anti-lock braking system frequently illuminate, often accompanied by a piercing chime and a loss of braking performance, especially dangerous when towing or navigating wet or icy roads.
The problem can present itself randomly, vanish, then return without warning. For many drivers, including myself, these issues emerged within the first 50,000 miles. It began as flickering dash warnings, but over time, cruise control dropped out mid-drive, and braking in corners became erratic and unpredictable.
During one drive through mountainous terrain, while towing our camper, the ABS completely failed, and the rear wheels locked up in light rain. Steering became difficult, and we narrowly avoided a collision.
The worst part? This is tied to an active recall (NHTSA Recall Number 24V896000), yet the manufacturer still has no remedy. Owners have waited over a year with no available replacement parts, forcing many, including us, to continue driving a compromised vehicle simply because we have no alternative.
Beyond braking, the electrical system is riddled with bugs. Backup cameras glitch, the infotainment system triggers random commands, and critical modules like the ABS control unit fail multiple times within relatively low mileage intervals. Even with repairs or replacements, these issues often return.
Dodge Ram 2500 Problems You Should Know
Here’s a breakdown of the most common and critical problems owners continue to report:
- Steering & suspension issues: From loose or failed drag link bars to faulty front track bar brackets, steering issues are widespread. Some models suffer from the notorious “death wobble”—violent front-end shaking at highway speeds after hitting a bump.
- Engine failures: Both 6.4L HEMI and 6.7L Cummins diesel engines have shown signs of premature failure. Common problems include exhaust manifold bolt breakage, engine ticking, turbo actuator failures, and catastrophic turbocharger breakdowns. These failures can lead to sudden power loss, unsafe towing conditions, and costly repairs.
- Faulty braking system: The Hydraulic Control Unit (HCU) has become one of the most notorious problems, especially in 2018 models. Some owners have reported near-collisions or spontaneous braking failures and failed ABS, traction control, and cruise control.
- Transmission failure: The automatic transmission has seen bearing failures, solenoid pack issues, and erratic shifting. In some cases, downshifts happen abruptly at high speeds, risking loss of control.
- Airbag defects: From non-deploying side curtain airbags to inadvertent airbag deployment while driving, safety recalls have plagued Ram 2500 models across multiple years.
Electrical issues: Common electrical problems include TIPM (Totally Integrated Power Module) failures, faulty backup cameras, glitchy infotainment systems, and repeated ABS warning lights. These faults interfere with essential systems like cruise control, braking, and steering assist.
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