Generally speaking, the Ram 1500 is among the most dazzling trucks you can buy. This pickup has boosted its reputation by delivering on both capability and luxury. But if you are interested in shopping for used models, you’ll see that the 2019 Ram 1500 is particularly attractive, but it’s also problematic. 

There are a variety of potential trouble spots on the 2019 Ram 1500

The 2019 Ram 1500 could come with some expensive problems. These potential problems relate to owner reports on troubles with their truck’s electrical system and engine. Some of these complaints contributed to the 20 existing NHTSA safety recalls on this 2019 model.

The first recall on the Ram stems from a potential issue with its cruise control; if the vehicle maintained its speed as the driver tried to deactivate it, it could increase the crash risk. Other early actions relate to the truck’s axle assembly, seat sensors, electric power-assist system, and HVAC system. 

There were also issues with the Ram’s 12V/24V/48V battery, which could potentially overheat and cause a fire even if the ignition was off. Additionally, the NHTSA recalled the 2019 Ram for concerns connected to its steering, drive shaft, airbags, and tires. As of August 2020, the NHTSA recalled the 2019 Ram again for its acceleration pedal. 

How serious are these issues?

Owners should always take recalls seriously, but it’s important to note that specific issues won’t impact all models. For instance, one of the calls on the 2019 Ram affected one truck owner. On the other hand, Fiat Chrysler Automobiles’ August 2020 recalls impacted over 318,587 of its vehicles, including the 2019-2020 Ram 1500 models. 

In these situations, it is the automaker’s responsibility to contact impacted owners regarding potential issues with their vehicles. Owners can also enter their VIN number on the NHTSA’s website for quicker assistance. The good news is that none of these common issues on the 2019 Ram 1500 led to fatalities.

Consumer Reports analysis

The troubles with the 2019 Ram 1500 aren’t exactly a surprise based on evaluations from Consumer Reports. You see, Ram completely redesigned the Ram 1500 for 2019. As CR notes, while the name might be the same, a redesigned model is essentially a new vehicle, making it less reliable. On top of this, the Ram 1500 has an extensive history of recalls on past model years, which is partly why CR gave this 2019 Ram its lowest possible score for predicted reliability.  

Additional things to consider 

Based on CR’s evaluation of car predicted reliability, a model is more reliable a few years into its redesign life. That said, you might want to consider older Ram 1500 models from the previous generation to buy used. You might also want to look at Ram’s certified pre-owned program for additional protection on newer models. It’s also worth looking at Ram rivals like the 2019 Ford F-150 and the 2019 Chevy Silverado 1500, which have fewer recall issues.