Pre-purchase inspection checklist — 2017 Ram 3500
The 2017 Ram 3500 shows some issues with brakes and electrical systems, as indicated by 144 brake-related complaints and multiple recalls for hydraulic brake system failures. Other concerns include steering and transmission issues. Limited information is available for other categories, suggesting these are less prevalent. Comprehensive inspection is recommended.
NHTSA data on file today
The 2017 Ram 3500 has 13 NHTSA recall campaigns and 316 owner complaints on file as of . Recall data is refreshed daily from NHTSA.
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 #21V398000 Wheel Studs May Break 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 144 complaints
- Service Brakes, Hydraulic 49 complaints
- Electrical System 33 complaints
- Vehicle Speed Control 30 complaints
- Engine 28 complaints
- Power Train 27 complaints
Of the 316 complaints on file, 9 report a crash and 1 a fire; across all 316 complaints, owners report 2 injuries (owner-reported, not verified by NHTSA).
Known issues to inspect
ABS and ESC may fail
How to check: Test ABS functionality and ensure no warning lights on dash
Wiring defects
How to check: Inspect for frayed or damaged wires under the hood
Loose drag link connections
How to check: Visually inspect steering linkage for secure connections
Test-drive walkthrough
- 01
Cold start
What to check: Listen for unusual engine noise
Red flag: Loud knocking or ticking
- 02
First minute idling
What to check: Check dashboard warning lights
Red flag: Persistent brake or ABS light
- 03
City driving
What to check: Feel for brake pedal firmness
Red flag: Soft or spongy brake feel
- 04
Low-speed turns
What to check: Evaluate steering responsiveness
Red flag: Delayed or difficult steering response
- 05
Highway acceleration
What to check: Monitor for smooth gear shifts
Red flag: Jerky or hard shifting
- 06
Highway cruising
What to check: Listen for wind noise or rattling
Red flag: Excessive wind noise
- 07
Braking
What to check: Ensure vehicle stops smoothly
Red flag: Vibration or pulling to one side
Questions for the seller
Use this exact phrasing.
- Has the ABS module been replaced?
- Are there any pending recalls?
- Have all electrical issues been addressed?
- Any previous steering linkage repairs?
- Has the tailgate latch ever been serviced?
Documents to request
Don't sign anything until you have these.
- Repair receipts for brake system
- Recall clearance certificate
- Service history records
- Warranty documents
- Title and registration
Generated by gpt-4o on from the NHTSA recall campaigns and owner-complaint counts on file for the 2017 Ram 3500 at the time. AI output can be wrong; confirm anything you find with a mechanic.
Next step
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