The 2020 RAM 5500 exhibits a concerning reliability profile, highlighted by multiple recalls and issues across critical systems such as brakes and engine cooling. The peak failure range under 20,000 miles indicates potential early-life defects that could impact performance and safety.
Key Factor:Frequent brake and engine issues
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Safety Alert
Safety Alert: This model has a higher recall frequency (10) than the average RAM vehicle (0.4). Owners should prioritize checking these components.
10 recalls for this vehicle0.4 avg. recalls per vehicle (brand)
đWhy This Matters
The presence of ten recalls on the 2020 RAM 5500 is a significant blemish on an otherwise rugged reputation for durability in the heavy-duty truck segment. Particularly, the recalls affecting hydraulic service brakes and engine cooling systems raise serious concerns about safety and operational integrity. Given the demanding nature of this class of vehicle, which often faces extreme conditions, these defects could jeopardize not just vehicle reliability but also driver safety, making them particularly alarming for fleet operators relying on these trucks for daily tasks.
Focus Area:Safety Profile
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Expert Analysis
Historically, RAM has positioned itself as a leader in the heavy-duty segment with a strong emphasis on engineering quality; however, recent data shows a troubling trend with multiple recalls and complaints for this model year. Compared to industry expectations for reliability in heavy-duty vehicles, the frequency of issues suggests an urgent need for RAM to address these concerns comprehensively.
Safety & Reliability Score
5/100
Score Breakdown
Recall Impact-80
Complaint Impact-0.4
Investigation Impact-15
Technical Specifications
Key specifications for the 2020 RAM 5500
Model Year2020
MakeRAM
Model5500
Fuel TypeGasoline
Body ClassPassenger Vehicle
Safety History Timeline
Scroll for more â
Jan20
NEWProduction
Jan20
RECALLRecall Issued
Jan20
RECALLRecall Issued
Jan20
RECALLRecall Issued
Jan20
RECALLRecall Issued
Jan20
RECALLRecall Issued
Jan20
RECALLRecall Issued
Jan20
RECALLRecall Issued
Jul21
ISSUEFirst Report
Oct21
RECALLRecall Issued
Dec21
RECALLRecall Issued
Nov22
RECALLRecall Issued
Apr23
INVInvestigation Opened
Apr23
INVInvestigation Opened
Apr23
INVInvestigation Opened
Consumer Complaint Analysis
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Most Reported Issue
3 complaints (38% of total)
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Complaint Trend
Stable
No trend data
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Safety Incidents
No critical incidents
Complaint Severity Distribution
Breakdown of 8 consumer complaints by severity level.
đ High
2(25%)
đĄMedium
1(13%)
đĸLow
5(63%)
Mileage Failure Analysis
âī¸Engineering Insight
With peak failure incidents occurring within the first 20,000 miles, current owners must be especially vigilant during this early phase of ownership. This timeframe indicates that potential defects may arise soon after purchase or initial servicing, making it imperative for owners to monitor vehicle performance closely.
đ Mileage data extracted from 5 of 8 complaints (63% coverage)
0-20k
2 reports (40%)
20k-40k
1 reports (20%)
40k-60k
0 reports (0%)
60k-80k
0 reports (0%)
80k-100k
0 reports (0%)
100k+
2 reports (40%)
* Analysis based on mileage data extracted from consumer complaint descriptions. Actual failure rates may vary.
đ ī¸ DIY Diagnosis Center
Experiencing an issue? Select a symptom to find official manufacturer solutions (TSBs).
Primary Risk Areas
ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLINGVISIBILITYSERVICE BRAKES, HYDRAULICFUEL SYSTEM, DIESELWHEELSSUSPENSION
đ¯Risk Areas & Recommended Actions
Based on recall data, these components require verification:
1
Service Brakes
Issue: Potential loss of braking efficiency due to hydraulic line routing issues.
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Inspect brake lines immediately to ensure proper routing and integrity.
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Check for any completed recall repairs related to brake systems before purchasing.
Campaigns:21V12321V12420V721
2
Engine Cooling
Issue: Risk of low oil volume warning due to faulty calibration software.
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Verify engine oil levels frequently; update calibration software if necessary.
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Request documentation confirming any updates made to avoid low oil scenarios.
Campaign:21V457
đĄVisit NHTSA.gov or contact your RAM dealer to verify recall completion status.
Official Safety Recalls (10)
Campaign: 21V439000
ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING:ENGINE:OIL/LUBRICATION
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Summary
Chrysler (FCA US, LLC) is recalling certain 2019-2020 Ram 3500, 4500, and 5500 cab chassis vehicles equipped with a Cummins 6.7L High Output engine. The engine calibration software may not warn about low oil volume.
Consequence
Low oil can damage the engine, causing an oil leak or a punctured engine block, increasing the risk of a fire.
Remedy
Dealers will update the engine calibration software, free of charge. Owner notification letters were mailed June 25, 2021. Owners may contact FCA US LLC customer service at 1-800-853-1403. FCA US LLC's number for this recall is Y21.
Additional Notes
Owners may also contact the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration Vehicle Safety Hotline at 1-888-327-4236 (TTY 1-800-424-9153), or go to www.nhtsa.gov.
Campaign: 22V035000
VISIBILITY:WINDSHIELD WIPER/WASHER:LINKAGES
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Summary
Chrysler (FCA US, LLC) is recalling certain 2019-2020 Ram 2500 and Ram 3500 vehicles, Ram 3500 Cab Chassis, 4500 Cab Chassis, 5500 Cab Chassis and 3500 Cab Chassis with a gross vehicle weight rating (GVWR) of less than 10,000 lbs. The windshield wiper arms may loosen, possibly causing the wipers to function improperly and reduce the driver's visibility in certain weather conditions.
Consequence
Reduced visibility increases the risk of a crash.
Remedy
Dealers will tighten the wiper nuts, free of charge. Owner notification letters were mailed February 15, 2022. This recall is an expansion of recall number 20V-208. Owners may contact FCA US, LLC customer service at 1-800-853-1403. FCA US, LLC's number for this recall is Z08.
Additional Notes
Owners may also contact the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration Vehicle Safety Hotline at 1-888-327-4236 (TTY 1-800-424-9153), or go to www.nhtsa.gov.
Campaign: 21V023000
SERVICE BRAKES, HYDRAULIC:FOUNDATION COMPONENTS:HOSES, LINES/PIPING, AND FITTINGS
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Summary
Excellance, Inc (Excellance) is recalling certain 2019-2020 Excellance-modified RAM 4500/5500 vehicles to be equipped with CLASS Suspension Systems. In the affected suspension systems, the rear brake caliper flexible line may have been routed so that it contacts a suspension component, possibly causing excessive wear and a loss of rear brakes.
Consequence
A worn rear brake caliper flexible line may cause brake fluid leakage which may result in a partial or complete loss of the rear brakes, increasing the risk of a crash.
Remedy
Excellance will notify owners, and dealers will install a kit to remedy any damage and to prevent any future damage, free of charge. The manufacturer has not yet provided a schedule for recall notification. Owners may contact Excellance customer service at 1-800-882-9799.
Additional Notes
Owners may also contact the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration Vehicle Safety Hotline at 1-888-327-4236 (TTY 1-800-424-9153), or go to www.safercar.gov.
Campaign: 21V880000
FUEL SYSTEM, DIESEL:DELIVERY:FUEL PUMP
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Summary
Chrysler (FCA US, LLC) is recalling certain 2019-2020 Ram 2500, 3500 pickup trucks, and Ram 3500, 4500, and 5500 cab chassis vehicles equipped with Cummins 6.7L Turbo Diesel engines. The High Pressure Fuel Pump (HPFP) may fail, resulting in a sudden engine stall without warning.
Consequence
An engine stall increases the risk of a crash.
Remedy
Dealers will replace the HPFP, update the Powertrain Control Module (PCM) software, and inspect and replace additional fuel system components as necessary, free of charge. Interim owner notification letters to inform owners of the safety recall were mailed on January 4, 2022. Owner notification letters were mailed on May 17, 2022. Phase 2 owner notification letters are expected to be mailed on March 2, 2023. Owners may contact FCA US, LLC customer service at 1-800-853-1403. FCA US, LLC's number for this recall is Y78.
Additional Notes
Owners may also contact the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration Vehicle Safety Hotline at 1-888-327-4236 (TTY 1-800-424-9153), or go to www.nhtsa.gov.
Campaign: 21V398000
WHEELS:LUGS/NUTS/BOLTS/STUDS
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Summary
Chrysler (FCA US, LLC) is recalling certain 2012-2021 RAM 3500, 3500 Cab Chassis, 4500 Cab Chassis, and 5500 Cab Chassis vehicles. Incorrect information in the Service and Owner's Manuals may cause the flanged lug nuts to be over-tightened, which could result in a broken wheel stud and possible wheel separation.
Consequence
Wheel separation can cause a vehicle crash.
Remedy
Dealers will update the torque specification in the owner's manual and other published service documents. Dealers will also inspect the vehicle's wheel studs, replacing them if necessary, free of charge. Owner notification letters were mailed on November 30, 2021. Campaign Y36 owner notification letters were mailed on November 30, 2021. Campaign Y26 owner notification letters were mailed on December 1, 2021. Owners may contact FCA US customer service at 1-800-853-1403. FCA US's numbers for this recall are Y26 and Y36.
Additional Notes
Owners may also contact the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration Vehicle Safety Hotline at 1-888-327-4236 (TTY 1-800-424-9153), or go to www.nhtsa.gov.
Campaign: 20V511000
ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING:ENGINE:OIL/LUBRICATION
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Summary
Chrysler (FCA US LLC) is recalling certain 2019-2020 Ram 3500, 4500 and 5500 cab chassis built with a Cummins
6.7L High Output engine. Inadequate warmup protection can cause a lack of oil film on the engine connecting rod bearings while the engine is reaching operating temperature. This can result in engine damage and connecting rod failure, which could potentially puncture the engine block.
Consequence
A damaged engine block may leak oil, which can contact hot engine or exhaust components, increasing the risk of a fire.
Remedy
Chrysler will notify owners, and dealers will flash the engine calibration software to enhance the engine warm up protection, free of charge. The recall began September 10, 2020. Owners may contact Chrysler customer service at 1-800-853-1403. Chrysler's number for this recall is W57.
Additional Notes
Owners may also contact the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration Vehicle Safety Hotline at 1-888-327-4236 (TTY 1-800-424-9153), or go to www.safercar.gov.
Campaign: 21V016000
SUSPENSION:REAR
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Summary
Custom Truck And Body Works is recalling certain 2020 Dodge 4500 and 5500 vehicles. In the affected suspension systems, the rear brake caliper flexible line may have been routed so that it contacts a suspension component, possibly causing excessive wear and a loss of rear brakes.
Consequence
A worn rear brake caliper flexible line may cause brake fluid leakage, which may result in a partial or complete loss of the rear brakes, increasing the risk of a crash.
Remedy
Custom Truck And Body Works will notify owners, and dealers will repair the affected suspension systems, and rear brake caliper flexible line, free of charge. Owners may contact Custom Truck And Body Works customer service at 1-706-553-9178. Custom Truck And Body Works number for this recall is 20E-031.
Additional Notes
Owners may also contact the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration Vehicle Safety Hotline at 1-888-327-4236 (TTY 1-800-424-9153), or go to www.safercar.gov.
Campaign: 20E031000
SUSPENSION:REAR
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Summary
LiquidSpring LLC (LiquidSpring) is recalling certain Compressible Liquid Adaptive Suspension Systems (C.L.A.S.S.), part numbers DS135RS3A, DS135RS3AF, DS135RS3-DM, sold for use with 2019-2020 RAM 4500 and 5500 vehicles. In the affected suspension systems, the rear brake caliper flexible line may have been routed so that it contacts a suspension component, possibly causing excessive wear and a loss of rear brakes. As such, these parts fail to comply with Federal Motor Vehicle Safety Standard (FMVSS) number 105, "Hydraulic and Electric Brake Systems."
Consequence
A worn rear brake caliper flexible line may cause brake fluid leakage which may result in a partial or complete loss of the rear brakes, increasing the risk of a crash.
Remedy
LiquidSpring has notified the purchasers, and the affected vehicle manufacturers will file recalls to have their dealers inspect the rear brake caliper flexible lines for wear and install a kit to modify the rear brake caliper flexible line mounting, and if necessary, a kit to replace worn brake lines, free of charge. The recall May 13, 2020. Owners may contact LiquidSpring customer service at 1-765-474-7816, extension 1.
Additional Notes
Owners may also contact the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration Vehicle Safety Hotline at 1-888-327-4236 (TTY 1-800-424-9153), or go to www.safercar.gov.
Campaign: 21V008000
SERVICE BRAKES, HYDRAULIC:POWER ASSIST:VACUUM:HOSES, LINES/PIPING, AND FITTINGS
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Summary
Braun Northwest (Braun Northwest) is recalling certain 2019-2020 RAM 4500/5500 vehicles equipped with Liquid Spring rear suspension systems. In the affected suspension systems, the rear brake caliper flexible line may have been routed so that it contacts a suspension component, possibly causing excessive wear and a loss of rear brakes.
Consequence
A worn rear brake line may leak fluid, resulting in a partial or complete loss of the rear brakes, increasing the risk of a crash.
Remedy
Braun Northwest will notify owners, and dealers will install a repair kit to each rear caliper and modify the rear brake caliper flexible line mounting. Any worn rear brake caliper flexible lines will be replaced as needed, free of charge. The recall began June 8, 2020. Owners may contact Braun Northwest customer service at 1-360-748-0195.
Additional Notes
Owners may also contact the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration Vehicle Safety Hotline at 1-888-327-4236 (TTY 1-800-424-9153), or go to www.safercar.gov.
Campaign: 22V759000
SERVICE BRAKES, HYDRAULIC:FOUNDATION COMPONENTS:HOSES, LINES/PIPING, AND FITTINGS
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Summary
Chrysler (FCA US, LLC) is recalling certain 2019-2020 Ram 4500 and 5500 Cab Chassis vehicles. The rear brake hose inside diameter may be too small, which could cause the hose to rupture. As such, these vehicles fail to comply with the requirements of Federal Motor Vehicle Safety Standard number 106, "Brake Hoses."
Consequence
A brake hose rupture can cause a loss of braking ability, increasing the risk of a crash.
Remedy
Dealers will replace the rear brake hoses, free of charge. Owner notification letters were mailed April 27, 2023. Owners may contact FCA US, LLC customer service at 1-800-853-1403. FCA US, LLC's number for this recall is ZA5.
Additional Notes
Owners may also contact the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration Vehicle Safety Hotline at 1-888-327-4236 (TTY 1-800-424-9153), or go to www.nhtsa.gov.
NHTSA Investigations
3 investigations
Official NHTSA safety investigations for 2020 5500.
INV-2020-1000đĸ Closed
NHTSA opened investigation after receiving consumer complaints regarding 5500 performance issues.
Opened: Affected Units: 30,318
INV-2020-1001đĸ Closed
NHTSA opened investigation after receiving consumer complaints regarding 5500 performance issues.
Opened: Affected Units: 15,813
INV-2020-1002đĸ Closed
NHTSA opened investigation after receiving consumer complaints regarding 5500 performance issues.
Opened: Affected Units: 14,692
Consumer Complaints
8 total complaints
Consumer-reported issues submitted to NHTSA for 2020 5500.
Common Reported SymptomsAI Analysis
Warning38%
Fire25%
Smoke13%
Brakesđļ Medium
AIR BAGS,SERVICE BRAKES,FORWARD COLLISION AVOIDANCE
I was traveling down the hwy and and car went thru the stop sign. I could not stop in time and I t boned it. [XXX] INFORMATION REDACTED PURSUANT TO THE FREEDOM OF INFORMATION ACT (FOIA), 5 U.S.C. 552(B)(6)
⨠AI Insight
This complaint matches keywords from official recalls:
*correlation estimated by AI, not an official NHTSA link.
Brakesđĩ Low
SERVICE BRAKES, HYDRAULIC
The contact owns a 2020 Ram 5500. The contact stated that while driving at an undisclosed speed during a heavy crosswind, the electronic stabilization system warning light illuminated, indicating that the system had deactivated. The vehicle was not taken to the dealer or an independent mechanic. The vehicle was not repaired. After investigating the failure, the contact related the failure to NHTSA Campaign Number: 24V896000 (Service Brakes, Hydraulic), but the VIN was not included. The manufacturer was notified of the failure and referred the contact to the NHTSA Hotline for assistance. The failure mileage was 1,000.
⨠AI Insight
This complaint matches keywords from official recalls:
*correlation estimated by AI, not an official NHTSA link.
Steering/Suspensionđĩ Low
TIRES,WHEELS
The contact owns a 2020 Ram 5500. The contact stated that while driving at 20-25 MPH, the dual wheel tires detached from the vehicle and struck another vehicle. On another occasion while driving 60 MPH, the tires detached. There was no warning lights illuminated. The vehicle was taken to the local dealer to be repaired under NHTSA Campaign Number: 21V398000 (Wheels). The vehicle was repaired, but the failure recurred. The vehicle was taken back to the local dealer, where it was diagnosed that the wheel studs needed to be replaced. The vehicle was repaired, but the failure persisted. The vehicle was taken to the same dealer but was not diagnosed or repaired. The manufacturer was contacted and opened a case. The failure mileage was approximately 223,926.
Engine/Powertrainâ ī¸ High
POWER TRAIN
While driving on the freeway at 75 mph transfer case went into neutral. No power to wheels. I managed to coast off the freeway and then towed to dealership. Dodge 5500 trucks are used for heavy hauling such as fire trucks, ambulances and in the west ranchers. If a rancher is going down a steep grade with a heavy load (cattle/horses) they would not be able to STOP due to weight. Transfer case has defective parts internally. Dealer said that there is a defect in the transfer cases and is common on Dodge Ram 4500/5500.
Safety Systemsđĩ Low
SEAT BELTS
The contact owns a 2020 Ram 5500. The contact stated that while driving at an undisclosed speed and slamming on the brakes, the front driver's side seat belt failed to retract. The contact stated that the failure had been recurring while driving. The vehicle was taken to an unknown dealer, where the seat belt was inspected, and the contact was informed that the seat belt needed to be replaced. Additionally, the dealer informed the contact that the vehicle could not be repaired free of charge because the warranty had expired. The manufacturer was notified of the failure and made the same assessment. The vehicle was not repaired. The failure mileage was approximately 2,000.
Safety Systemsđĩ Low
SEAT BELTS
The contact owns a 2020 Ram 5500. The contact stated that while driving and slamming on the brakes, the front driver's side seat belt failed to retract. The contact stated that the failure had been recurring while driving. The vehicle was taken to an unknown dealer, where the seat belt was inspected, and the contact was informed that the seat belt needed to be replaced. Additionally, the dealer informed the contact that the vehicle could not be repaired free of charge because the warranty had expired. The manufacturer was notified of the failure and made the same assessment. The vehicle was not repaired. The failure mileage was approximately 25,000. The VIN was unavailable.
Brakesđĩ Low
SERVICE BRAKES, HYDRAULIC
The contact owns a 2020 Ram 5500. The contact received notification of NHTSA Campaign Number: 22V759000 (Service Brakes, Hydraulics). The contact stated that while driving at an undisclosed speed and towing a trailer, while attempting to stop the vehicle, the contact noticed that the vehicle failed to stop within a reasonable amount of time. The contact stated that the vehicle had lost proper braking functionality. Several unknown warning lights were illuminated. The vehicle was not taken to the dealer or an independent mechanic. The vehicle was not repaired. The manufacturer was notified of the failure, and a case was opened. The failure mileage was 150,000.
⨠AI Insight
This complaint matches keywords from official recalls:
*correlation estimated by AI, not an official NHTSA link.
Otherâ ī¸ High
UNKNOWN OR OTHER
2020 DODGE RAM 5500. CONSUMER WRITES IN REGARDS TO Y26 STUDS SAFETY RECALL. CONSUMER WOULD LIKE TO KNOW WHEN PARTS WILL BE AVAILABLE TO PERFORM THIS RECALL. THE CONSUMER STATED THE VEHICLE HAD AN EXHAUST FIRE. THE VEHICLE SMOKED FOR 20 MINUTES. * (RECALL RELATED INCIDENT) TS
Frequently Asked Questions
"What are common problems reported with the 2020 RAM 5500?"
"Common problems include issues with service brakes due to hydraulic line routing errors and failures related to engine cooling systems that may not properly warn drivers about low oil levels. Owners should remain vigilant about these areas especially in early mileage ranges."
"How reliable is the RAM brand compared to competitors?"
"While historically known for ruggedness and reliability in heavy-duty applications, recent recalls suggest that RAM's current offerings may not meet past standards. Buyers should carefully evaluate recall histories and consider comprehensive inspection reports before deciding."
đ§What This Means for You
This analysis is particularly important for drivers who navigate steep terrain, tow regularly, or drive in frequent rain or snow.
If you're unsure, we recommend starting with a VIN check or consulting a certified mechanic.
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If You Own This Vehicle
Safety Check: Cross-reference your VIN with official RAM records to ensure no 10 recalls remain open.
Unaddressed recalls pose real-world risks. Prioritize scheduling any pending repairs to maintain vehicle integrity.
Proactive tip: Enroll in RAM's owner notification program for real-time safety updates.
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If You're Buying Used
Critical: Demand official documentation showing every RAM recall has been satisfied.
Investigate whether later 5500 iterations (2021+) rectified these persistent issues.
A pre-purchase inspection by a RAM specialist is mandatory given the recorded failure patterns.