Pre-purchase inspection checklist — 2017 Ram 2500
The 2017 Ram 2500 shows a significant number of recalls, particularly affecting brakes, steering, and airbags, alongside a high volume of owner complaints, especially concerning the braking system. Although popular for its power and durability, potential buyers should be aware of these issues and inspect carefully. However, the presence of recalls provides a pathway for remedying problems at no cost, suggesting these vehicles, while requiring scrutiny, offer resolved safety improvements by compliance to recalls.
NHTSA data on file today
The 2017 Ram 2500 has 12 NHTSA recall campaigns and 699 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 #25V010000 Side Curtain Air Bag Inflators May Rupture NHTSA notice
- NHTSA #24V896000 Loss of ABS/Traction Control from Module Failure NHTSA notice
- 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 #18V486000 Tailgate May Open Unexpectedly NHTSA notice
- NHTSA #18V332000 Cruise Control cannot be Cancelled NHTSA notice
- NHTSA #18V100000 Vehicle May Rollaway 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
Most-cited components in owner complaints
- Service Brakes 413 complaints
- Electrical System 121 complaints
- Service Brakes, Hydraulic 97 complaints
- Vehicle Speed Control 72 complaints
- Forward Collision Avoidance 63 complaints
- Steering 49 complaints
Of the 699 complaints on file, 12 report a crash and 6 a fire; across all 699 complaints, owners report 10 injuries (owner-reported, not verified by NHTSA).
Known issues to inspect
ABS module failure
How to check: Verify recall repair history for ABS module.
Wiring defects
How to check: Inspect wiring for any bare or damaged areas.
Drag link separation
How to check: Test steering responsiveness and any loose play.
Test-drive walkthrough
- 01
Cold start
What to check: Listen for unusual engine noises upon startup.
Red flag: Loud knocking sounds.
- 02
First minute idling
What to check: Check dashboard warning lights remain off.
Red flag: Persistent ABS light.
- 03
Low speed driving
What to check: Feel for brake responsiveness and stability.
Red flag: Brake pedal feels spongy.
- 04
Normal city driving
What to check: Assess electrical component functioning.
Red flag: Flickering dashboard lights.
- 05
Highway acceleration
What to check: Observe engine response and speed control.
Red flag: Hesitation or jerking during acceleration.
- 06
Braking from highway speed
What to check: Notice any vibrations or pulling.
Red flag: Severe pulling to one side.
Questions for the seller
Use this exact phrasing.
- Have any recall issues been addressed?
- Can you share maintenance records?
- Has the brake system been serviced?
- Any electrical problems or repairs?
- Have there been steering issues?
Documents to request
Don't sign anything until you have these.
- Recall repair documentation
- Complete maintenance records
- Title and accident report
- Proof of previous ownership
- Emissions testing records
Generated by gpt-4o on from the NHTSA recall campaigns and owner-complaint counts on file for the 2017 Ram 2500 at the time. AI output can be wrong; confirm anything you find with a mechanic.
Next step
Looking at a specific 2017 Ram 2500? 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.