Pre-purchase inspection checklist — 2021 Ram 1500
The 2021 Ram 1500 is generally solid, though owner complaints and recalls suggest some reliability concerns, particularly with the engine and electrical systems. With 15 recalls and 683 complaints, buyers should be cautious but realize recall fixes are typically free.
NHTSA data on file today
The 2021 Ram 1500 has 15 NHTSA recall campaigns and 686 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.
Recall campaigns on file
- NHTSA #26V495000 Improperly Installed Seat Belt Buckle Anchor/FMVSS 210 NHTSA notice
- NHTSA #25V765000 Driver's Air Bag May Not Deploy/FMVSS 208 NHTSA notice
- NHTSA #25V298000 Improperly Connected Air Bag/FMVSS 208 NHTSA notice
- NHTSA #24V754000 Rearview Mirror Glass May Detach/FMVSS 111 NHTSA notice
- NHTSA #24V653000 Disabled Electronic Stability Control/FMVSS 126 NHTSA notice
- NHTSA #23V265000 Incorrect PCM Software May Cause Engine Stall NHTSA notice
- NHTSA #23V059000 Rearview Image May Not Display/FMVSS 111 NHTSA notice
- NHTSA #22V904000 Tailgate May Open While Driving NHTSA notice
- NHTSA #22V767000 Fuel Pump Failure NHTSA notice
- NHTSA #22V638000 Rearview Camera Image May Not Display/FMVSS 111 NHTSA notice
- NHTSA #21V925000 Side Curtain Air Bag May Deploy Improperly NHTSA notice
- NHTSA #21V918000 Rearview Image May Not Display/FMVSS 111 NHTSA notice
- NHTSA #21V698000 Incorrect Spare Tire Installed/FMVSS 110 NHTSA notice
- NHTSA #21V438000 Rearview Camera Image May Not Display/FMVSS 111 NHTSA notice
- NHTSA #21V037000 Master Cylinder Push Rod May Disconnect NHTSA notice
Most-cited components in owner complaints
- Engine 277 complaints
- Electrical System 199 complaints
- Unknown or Other 103 complaints
- Power Train 100 complaints
- Fuel/Propulsion System 70 complaints
- Service Brakes 54 complaints
Of the 686 complaints on file, 27 report a crash and 4 a fire; across all 686 complaints, owners report 23 injuries (owner-reported, not verified by NHTSA).
Known issues to inspect
Engine may stall
How to check: Listen for unusual engine noise and ask about stalling issues.
Rearview camera failure
How to check: Test the rearview camera by selecting reverse gear.
Airbags may not deploy
How to check: Check recall repairs for airbag systems effectiveness.
Test-drive walkthrough
- 01
Cold start
What to check: Listen for unusual engine sounds.
Red flag: Any knocking or ticking noise
- 02
First minute idling
What to check: Check for dashboard warning lights.
Red flag: Persistent warning lights
- 03
Accelerating from stop
What to check: Monitor for hesitation or stalling.
Red flag: Engine stalls or hesitates
- 04
Driving at speed
What to check: Ensure stable steering with no vibration.
Red flag: Steering vibration
- 05
Braking
What to check: Ensure smooth, noise-free braking action.
Red flag: Grinding or squealing brakes
- 06
Parking
What to check: Test rearview camera and sensors.
Red flag: Camera or sensors not working
Questions for the seller
Use this exact phrasing.
- Have all recall repairs been completed?
- Has the engine ever stalled unexpectedly?
- Are there any electrical issues present?
- Has the rearview camera been reliable?
- Any history of airbag deployment issues?
Documents to request
Don't sign anything until you have these.
- Repair receipts for recalls
- Service history records
- Title and registration documents
- Warranty or extended warranty papers
Generated by gpt-4o on from the NHTSA recall campaigns and owner-complaint counts on file for the 2021 Ram 1500 at the time. AI output can be wrong; confirm anything you find with a mechanic.
Next step
Looking at a specific 2021 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.