Pre-purchase inspection checklist — 2014 Ram 2500
The 2014 Ram 2500 has a significant recall history and numerous owner complaints, notably in steering and powertrain areas. Steering issues lead the complaints, supported by recalls related to steering linkage and inadequate welds. Engine and electrical system complaints also feature prominently, informing potential reliability concerns. Buyers should perform careful inspections focusing on these areas and inquire about resolved recall repairs. The data is substantial enough to suggest awareness of possible issues rather than certainty.
NHTSA data on file today
The 2014 Ram 2500 has 16 NHTSA recall campaigns and 345 owner complaints on file as of . Recall data is refreshed daily from NHTSA.
NCAP overall rating: 4.0 out of 5 stars, averaged across 2 NHTSA-tested trims.
Recall campaigns on file
- NHTSA #19V347000 Tailgate May Open Unexpectedly NHTSA notice
- NHTSA #19V021000 Steering Linkage May Separate NHTSA notice
- NHTSA #18E096000 Incorrectly Machined Steering Knuckle may Fail NHTSA notice
- NHTSA #18V332000 Cruise Control cannot be Cancelled NHTSA notice
- NHTSA #17V824000 Fire Extinguisher May Be Clogged or Inoperable NHTSA notice
- NHTSA #17V821000 Vehicle May Rollaway NHTSA notice
- NHTSA #17V562000 Water Pump Leak may cause Fire NHTSA notice
- NHTSA #17V499000 Wheels may Fracture Causing Rapid Air Loss NHTSA notice
- NHTSA #17V302000 Side Curtain Air Bags may not Deploy in a Rollover NHTSA notice
- NHTSA #16E041000 Seat Cover Affects Air Bag Deployment NHTSA notice
- NHTSA #15V541000 Weld Failure may Reduce Steering Ability NHTSA notice
- NHTSA #15V461000 Radio Software Security Vulnerabilities NHTSA notice
- NHTSA #15V459000 Inadvertent Driver Air Bag Deployment NHTSA notice
- NHTSA #15V460000 Inadvertent Side Air Bag Deployment NHTSA notice
- NHTSA #14V635000 Fuel Heater may Leak and could Increase Fire Risk NHTSA notice
- NHTSA #13V486000 Random Loss of Instrument Cluster Lighting NHTSA notice
Most-cited components in owner complaints
- Steering 87 complaints
- Engine 63 complaints
- Power Train 62 complaints
- Electrical System 42 complaints
- Suspension 37 complaints
- Vehicle Speed Control 32 complaints
Of the 345 complaints on file, 13 report a crash and 4 a fire; across all 345 complaints, owners report 4 injuries (owner-reported, not verified by NHTSA).
Known issues to inspect
Linkage separation
How to check: Inspect for a loose drag link at connections.
Coolant leaks
How to check: Check for coolant leaks near engine bay.
Wiring failures
How to check: Inspect wiring for signs of wear or damage.
Test-drive walkthrough
- 01
Cold start
What to check: Observe any unusual noises or smoke.
Red flag: Persistent knocking noise
- 02
First minute idling
What to check: Check for warning lights on the dash.
Red flag: Illuminated warning lights
- 03
Parking lot maneuvering
What to check: Feel for any steering play or noise.
Red flag: Excessive steering play
- 04
Highway acceleration
What to check: Ensure smooth acceleration without hesitation.
Red flag: Noticeable power loss
- 05
Hard braking
What to check: Test for stability and unusual noises.
Red flag: Pulling or grinding noise
- 06
Cruising at steady speed
What to check: Listen for any drivetrain noise.
Red flag: Vibration or loud noises
Questions for the seller
Use this exact phrasing.
- Has the steering linkage been repaired?
- Were all recall issues addressed?
- Any history of coolant system repairs?
- Have electrical issues been fixed?
- Is there a warranty covering any parts?
- How often was the vehicle serviced?
Documents to request
Don't sign anything until you have these.
- Recall service records
- Maintenance history
- Warranty details
- Title and registration
- Vehicle history report
Generated by gpt-4o on from the NHTSA recall campaigns and owner-complaint counts on file for the 2014 Ram 2500 at the time. AI output can be wrong; confirm anything you find with a mechanic.
Next step
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