2019 RAM 1500: common problems and reliability

The 2019 RAM 1500 has 2890 owner-filed NHTSA complaints and 29 recalls on record. The most-reported areas are electrical system and steering. Owners most often flag \nmajor engine failures (crankshaft, hemi issues) — reports of crankshaft replacement and other significant engine failures, particularly in earlier generations (pre-2019). frequency: recurrent.\n\nelectrical / electronic problems — random electronic hiccups, infotainment issues, and general electrical gremlins. frequency: recurrent.\n\nair suspension failure — noted as unreliable and expensive to repair; frequently advised to avoid. frequency: recurrent.\n\nrear window leaks — water leakage into cabin, particularly when using high-pressure car washes. frequency: isolated.\n\nfuel system problems — imploding fuel systems mentioned as a failure point on a 2014 model. frequency: isolated.\n\ntransfer case failure — replacement required under warranty on a 2020 model. frequency: isolated.\n\nquality control / build consistency — described as "hit or miss" with more random issues than competitors. frequency: recurrent.\n\nremarks\nowner feedback is heavily generation-dependent. the 5th generation (dt) launched in 2019 receives the most praise for its dramatic improvement in interior quality and ride refinement. the 5.7l hemi and zf 8-speed automatic transmission are considered a reliable and powerful drivetrain combo, though not without fault. the brand's reputation for offering deep discounts on new vehicles significantly influences the value perception and purchase advice. discussions indicate that "ram" as a brand suffers from a reliability stereotype, but individual model years and powertrains can be very dependable, emphasizing the need to research specific configurations. analysis based on owner discussions spanning models from 2004 to 2025.

Safety record for the 2019 model year

2,890
Owner complaints
29
Recalls
148
Crash reports
22
Fire reports

Source: NHTSA complaints and recalls filed for 2019 RAM 1500 vehicles (US, public record).

Where owners report problems

electrical system
734
steering
660
engine
442
power train
404
service brakes
254

Recalls affecting the 2019 1500

visibility:defroster/defogger/hvac system

Campaign 19V051000

Chrysler (FCA US LLC) is recalling certain 2019 RAM 1500 vehicles equipped with a 12" touchscreen display and a base-level heating, ventilation and air conditioning ("HVAC") system. Vehicles with this combination do not

electrical system:12v/24v/48v battery

Campaign 19V142000

Chrysler (FCA US LLC) is recalling certain 2019 Ram 1500 vehicles equipped with a 48v auxiliary battery system located behind the rear seat (sales code: XBZ). Due to an incorrect assembly repair process, the auxiliary ba

service brakes, hydraulic:pedals and linkages

Campaign 19V067000

Chrysler (FCA US LLC) is recalling certain 2019 Ram 1500 vehicles equipped with adjustable pedals. The affected vehicles have a brake pedal that may move too far and separate from pedal assembly.

structure

Campaign 19E059000

Chrysler (FCA US LLC) is recalling certain Mopar Rear Step Kits, part number 82215289AB, designed for model year 2019 Ram 1500 trucks. In the event of a rear impact crash, the rear step kit may cause the rear control arm

What owners say across generations

\nMixed sentiment with a strong generational divide. Long-term owner reports for the 5th generation (DT, 2019+) are overwhelmingly positive, praising its best-in-class ride comfort, luxurious and spacious interior, and powerful engine options. The truck is fre

  • \nMajor Engine Failures (Crankshaft, Hemi issues) — Reports of crankshaft replacement and other significant engine failures, particularly in earlier generations (pre-2019). Frequency: recurrent.\n\nElectrical / Electronic Problems — Random electronic hiccups, infotainment issues, and general electrical gremlins. Frequency: recurrent.\n\nAir Suspension Failure — Noted as unreliable and expensive to repair; frequently advised to avoid. Frequency: recurrent.\n\nRear Window Leaks — Water leakage into cabin, particularly when using high-pressure car washes. Frequency: isolated.\n\nFuel System Problems — Imploding fuel systems mentioned as a failure point on a 2014 model. Frequency: isolated.\n\nTransfer Case Failure — Replacement required under warranty on a 2020 model. Frequency: isolated.\n\nQuality Control / Build Consistency — Described as "hit or miss" with more random issues than competitors. Frequency: recurrent.\n\nRemarks\nOwner feedback is heavily generation-dependent. The 5th generation (DT) launched in 2019 receives the most praise for its dramatic improvement in interior quality and ride refinement. The 5.7L Hemi and ZF 8-speed automatic transmission are considered a reliable and powerful drivetrain combo, though not without fault. The brand's reputation for offering deep discounts on new vehicles significantly influences the value perception and purchase advice. Discussions indicate that "Ram" as a brand suffers from a reliability stereotype, but individual model years and powertrains can be very dependable, emphasizing the need to research specific configurations. Analysis based on owner discussions spanning models from 2004 to 2025.

Owner insights cover all generations of the 1500.

Other 1500 model years