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AI-generated from NHTSA recall & complaint counts

Pre-purchase inspection checklist — 2019 Ram 1500

The 2019 Ram 1500 has a high number of recalls and complaints, particularly related to electrical, steering, and engine issues. It's important for potential buyers to inspect the vehicle thoroughly and verify recall repairs were completed. The abundant recall campaigns, combined with owner complaints, indicate potential reliability concerns. Verify all issues before purchase.

NHTSA data on file today

The 2019 Ram 1500 has 30 NHTSA recall campaigns and 1,497 owner complaints on file as of . Recall data is refreshed daily from NHTSA.

NCAP overall rating: 4.5 out of 5 stars, averaged across 4 NHTSA-tested trims.

Newest 20 recall campaigns on file

Most-cited components in owner complaints

  • Electrical System 382 complaints
  • Steering 340 complaints
  • Unknown or Other 237 complaints
  • Engine 234 complaints
  • Power Train 207 complaints
  • Service Brakes 114 complaints

Of the 1,497 complaints on file, 76 report a crash and 11 a fire; across all 1,497 complaints, owners report 63 injuries and 1 death (owner-reported, not verified by NHTSA).

Recall notices and owner complaints for the 2019 Ram 1500

Known issues to inspect

medium severityelectrical

Instrument cluster fails

How to check: Ensure all warning lights illuminate during startup and function normally.

high severitysteering

Electric power steering short circuits

How to check: Test for smooth and consistent steering without resistance.

high severityengine

Crankshaft sensor tone wheel delaminates

How to check: Check for any engine stalling or unusual noises.

Test-drive walkthrough

  1. 01

    Cold start

    What to check: Listen for unusual engine noises or hesitant starts.

    Red flag: Persistent noise or slow startup

  2. 02

    First minute idling

    What to check: Check all warning lights on the dashboard for illumination.

    Red flag: Warning lights stay on

  3. 03

    City Driving

    What to check: Assess steering response and ease of maneuverability.

    Red flag: Stiff or hesitant steering

  4. 04

    Highway acceleration

    What to check: Ensure smooth acceleration without engine stalling.

    Red flag: Engine hesitation or misfire

  5. 05

    Hard braking

    What to check: Test brakes for consistent stopping power and feel.

    Red flag: Vibration or lack of stopping power

  6. 06

    Check reverse camera

    What to check: Confirm rearview camera displays correctly when reversing.

    Red flag: Camera image not appearing

Questions for the seller

Use this exact phrasing.

  1. Have all recalls been addressed?
  2. Are there any persistent electrical issues?
  3. Has the electric power steering been serviced?
  4. Has the engine shown any stalling issues?
  5. Are there service records available?
  6. Have the airbags been inspected?

Documents to request

Don't sign anything until you have these.

  • Recall repair records
  • Complete service history
  • Title and registration papers
  • Vehicle inspection report
  • Warranty documentation

Generated by gpt-4o on from the NHTSA recall campaigns and owner-complaint counts on file for the 2019 Ram 1500 at the time. AI output can be wrong; confirm anything you find with a mechanic.

Recalls & complaints for the 2019 Ram 1500 Reliability forecast Ram 1500 reliability by year Run a free VIN check

Next step

Looking at a specific 2019 Ram 1500? Check the actual car

This checklist covers the model. From your free try.vin dashboard you can go further — paste the seller's listing for a deal score, or drop their photos for an AI condition report.

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