Last updated: 2026-03-04

2020 Ram 1500 Reliability Score & Common Problems
The 2020 Ram 1500 scores 65/100 ("Good"). With 13 recalls and 559 owner complaints, reliability is acceptable but not class-leading.
Recalls
13
Complaints
559
Complaint Rate
11.9
per 10k sold
Below avgEst. Annual Cost
$691
Below avgMajor Repair Risk
13%
NHTSA Rating
5/5
Score Breakdown
Component-weighted complaints normalized by sales volume
Independent repair cost ratings
Recall count weighted by severity
Breadth of reported problem categories
Acceptable reliability — worth considering with a pre-purchase inspection.
Top Issues
13 recalls on record
Should You Buy the 2020 Ram 1500?
The 2020 Ram 1500 scores 65/100 ("Good"), placing it in acceptable but not class-leading territory.
With 559 owner complaints, some reported issues may need attention, but we don't yet see evidence of a single dominant failure mode.
A pre-purchase inspection is recommended for used examples, with particular attention to electrical system (109). An extended warranty may provide additional peace of mind.
Compared to the 2021 Ram 1500, which scored 2 points lower. See also the 2019 Ram 1500 for an earlier comparison.
Pros
- Acceptable reliability score
- $245 cheaper to maintain than avg fullsize trucks
- Infrequent unscheduled repairs
- Low major repair risk (13%)
Cons
- Above-average recall count
- ELECTRICAL SYSTEM: Alternator and eTorque system (109 complaints)
- UNKNOWN OR OTHER: Electronic system malfunctions and structural leaks (80 complaints)
Compare 2020 Ram 1500 With
2020 Ford F-150
Score: 67/100
2020 Chevrolet Silverado
Score: 67/100
2020 GMC Sierra 1500
Score: 63/100
2020 Toyota Tundra
Score: 74/100
Common Problem Categories
Safety
- 13 manufacturer recalls issued
Other
- ELECTRICAL SYSTEM (109)
- UNKNOWN OR OTHER (80)
- POWER TRAIN (55)
- ENGINE (55)
- STEERING (50)
- VISIBILITY/WIPER (36)
- STRUCTURE (30)
- FUEL SYSTEM (28)
- FUEL/PROPULSION SYSTEM (27)
- SERVICE BRAKES (17)
- SUSPENSION (12)
- AIR BAGS (12)
- ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING (9)
- SEAT BELTS (8)
- EXTERIOR LIGHTING (7)
- VISIBILITY (6)
- FORWARD COLLISION AVOIDANCE (5)
- VEHICLE SPEED CONTROL (5)
- LANE DEPARTURE (2)
- BACK OVER PREVENTION (2)
- LATCHES/LOCKS/LINKAGES (2)
- WHEELS (1)
- TIRES (1)
Recall Overview
13
recalls on record
The 2020 Ram 1500 has 13 recalls on record, which is above average. A higher recall count can indicate multiple component concerns. However, recalls also demonstrate that the manufacturer is actively addressing known issues. All recall repairs are performed free of charge at authorized dealerships.
NHTSA.gov →Complaint Breakdown
11.9
per 10k soldSegment avg: 12.2
Safety Incidents
Crashes
22
Fires
5
Injuries
14
Deaths
1
Data sourced from NHTSA complaint filings and manufacturer recall notices. Complaint narratives are owner-reported.
2020 Ram 1500 Recall Details
13 recalls have been issued for the 2020 Ram 1500. All recall repairs are performed free of charge at authorized dealerships.
VISIBILITY
Chrysler (FCA US LLC) is recalling certain 2019-2020 Ram 1500, 1500 Classic and Jeep Compass vehicles. The windshield wiper arm or arms may loosen, possibly causing the wipers to not operate properly and reduce the driver's visibility in certain weather conditions.
Consequence
Reduced visibility increases the risk of a crash.
Remedy
Chrysler will notify owners, and dealers will tighten the wiper nuts, free of charge. The recall began April 27, 2020. Owners may contact Chrysler customer service at 1-800-853-1403. Chrysler's number for this recall is W25.
AIR BAGS, SEAT BELTS
Chrysler (FCA US LLC) is recalling certain 2019-2020 Ram 1500 vehicles. The flash memory of the Occupant Restraint Controller (ORC) may become corrupted, disabling the vehicle's air bags and seat belt pretensioners.
Consequence
Disabled air bags and seat belt pretensioners increase the risk of injury in the event of a crash.
Remedy
Chrysler will notify owners, and dealers will reprogram the ORC or replace it as necessary, free of charge. The recall began June 20, 2019. Owners may contact Chrysler customer service at 1-800-853-1403. Chrysler's numbers for this recall are V61 and V71.
AIR BAGS, ELECTRICAL SYSTEM
Chrysler (FCA US, LLC) is recalling certain 2019-2024 Ram 1500 vehicles. The driver's side air bag may not be connected properly, which can cause the air bag not to deploy as intended. As such, these vehicles fail to comply with the requirements of Federal Motor Vehicle Safety Standard number 208, "Occupant Crash Protection."
Consequence
A driver's side air bag that does not deploy as intended increases the risk of injury in a crash.
Remedy
Dealers secured the connectors for the air bag, free of charge. All vehicles have been remedied. Owner notification letters were mailed May 27, 2025. Owners may contact Chrysler customer service at 800-853-1403. Chrysler's number for this recall is 08C.
Showing 10 of 13 recalls. View all on NHTSA.gov →
2020 Ram 1500 NHTSA Safety Ratings
Overall Safety Rating
Crash Test Results by Configuration (expand)
Gas Powertrain
Rollover risk: 19.8%
Safety Technologies
Ram 1500 Repair Costs & Maintenance
Maintenance Rating
3.5Maintenance rating: 3.5 out of 5Based on NHTSA complaint patterns, recall severity, and publicly available cost benchmarks.
Est. Annual Maintenance
$691
vs $936 avg for fullsize trucks
vs $652 avg for all vehicles
Repair Frequency
0.2
unscheduled repair visits per year
Severe Repair Probability
13%
chance of a major repair
Annual Cost Comparison
Category-level averages derived from publicly available industry reports (AAA, CarMD). Model-level estimates produced by Auto Reliability Index.
When Buying a Used 2020 Ram 1500
Key things to inspect or verify before purchasing, based on the most common reported issues.
- Test power steering for intermittent failure
- Inspect alternator and eTorque system for noise or failure
- Check for exhaust manifold cracks and exhaust leaks
- Verify rear window and brake light seals for water leaks
- Test sun visor mounts for secure attachment
- Ensure fuel system refuels without spillage or blockage
- Check for unresolved recalls related to engine and fuel system
Check Any 2020 Ram 1500's History Before You Buy
Reliability scores tell you what to expect from the 2020 1500 in general — but every car has its own story. Uncover past accidents, title issues, odometer rollbacks, and service records for a specific Ram 1500 with a free VIN lookup.
Powered by VINExposed.com — free vehicle history reports using public title and safety data.
2020 Ram 1500 Common Problems by Component
559 owner complaints grouped by vehicle system.
ELECTRICAL SYSTEM
109 complaintsSafety-relatedOwners report frequent issues with the electrical system in the 2020 Ram 1500, particularly involving the alternator and eTorque system. Complaints commonly describe alternator failures leading to sudden loss of power while driving, with some incidents occurring on busy highways, and parts being on backorder for extended periods. Symptoms often include dashboard warning lights, grinding noises, and complete vehicle shutdowns, typically appearing around 40,000 to 74,000 miles. Additionally, multiple owners mention persistent problems with turn signals not functioning correctly, which complicates safe lane changes and turns. These issues present significant safety concerns, including potential for loss of vehicle control and the risk of fire, as reported in a few cases.
UNKNOWN OR OTHER
80 complaintsSafety-relatedOwners report several recurring issues with the 2020 Ram 1500, primarily involving electronic system malfunctions and structural leaks. Common symptoms include electronic stability control warnings, power steering failures, and backup camera malfunctions, often accompanied by unexpected vehicle shutdowns or steering lock-ups. Exhaust manifold cracks and rear window leaks are also frequently mentioned, leading to exhaust fumes entering the cabin and water damage. These issues appear at various mileage ranges and sometimes result in safety risks, such as loss of control or exposure to carbon monoxide. For potential buyers, these patterns suggest checking for resolved recalls and inspecting for leaks or electronic malfunctions.
POWER TRAIN
55 complaintsSafety-relatedOwners report frequent issues with the 2020 Ram 1500's powertrain, particularly related to the eTorque system's Motor Generator Unit (MGU) failures. These failures often result in loss of propulsion, stalling, or complete vehicle shutdown, with many owners noting that replacement parts are on national backorder. Complaints frequently mention symptoms such as abnormal electrical behavior, warning lights, and impaired drivability, often occurring around 60,000 to 80,000 miles. Additionally, some owners describe the transmission unexpectedly shifting gears or getting stuck, leading to unsafe driving conditions. The safety implications include potential loss of control and immobilization in traffic, with one complaint involving a crash. A used car buyer should be aware of these issues and the potential difficulty in obtaining replacement parts.
ENGINE (55 complaints)
ENGINE
55 complaintsSafety-relatedOwners report frequent issues with the Motor Generator Unit (MGU) in the 2020 Ram 1500, often describing a whining noise followed by complete vehicle immobilization. Complaints frequently mention the unavailability of replacement parts, leaving vehicles undriveable for extended periods. Many reports indicate these problems arise around 39,000 to 95,000 miles. Additionally, multiple owners describe cracked exhaust manifolds and related ticking noises, typically occurring between 47,000 to 61,000 miles. Safety implications include one crash linked to engine failure due to head gasket issues, and the potential for loss of control due to MGU failure. These patterns suggest prospective buyers should be aware of potential reliability concerns and part availability issues.
STEERING (50 complaints)
STEERING
50 complaintsSafety-relatedOwners report frequent issues with the 2020 Ram 1500's power steering system, with many describing sudden loss of power steering assistance. Typical symptoms include a "Power Steering Unavailable - Service Required" message, difficulty turning the steering wheel, and intermittent power steering failure. Complaints often occur around 50,000 to 100,000 miles. Safety implications are significant, as some incidents involve crashes and injuries, with drivers losing control unexpectedly. Additionally, multiple owners mention the need for costly repairs like replacing the rack and pinion gear and electronic power steering components.
VISIBILITY/WIPER (36 complaints)
VISIBILITY/WIPER
36 complaintsOwners report frequent issues with the sun visors in the 2020 Ram 1500, where the visors detach from their mounting points and obstruct the driver's vision. Complaints often describe the visors unexpectedly falling, sometimes hitting the driver and blocking the forward view, particularly at highway speeds or during critical driving situations. These problems are noted at various mileages, with some owners experiencing repeated failures even after repairs. Additionally, some complaints mention windshield wiper failures, including stripped wiper arm attachments and improper wiper fluid distribution, which compromise visibility during adverse weather conditions. These issues pose significant safety risks, with several owners reporting near misses and one injury.
FUEL SYSTEM (28 complaints)
FUEL SYSTEM
28 complaintsOwners report two main issues with the 2020 Ram 1500's fuel system. The first involves high-pressure fuel pump failures, often leading to loss of motive power, stalling, and illuminated warning lights. These issues typically occur around 35,000 to 104,000 miles. The second issue is refueling difficulties, where fuel spills out or cannot enter the tank, sometimes linked to colder temperatures or faulty rollover valves. Safety implications include potential loss of control due to stalling, but no crashes or injuries are consistently reported. Buyers should be aware of these recurring issues, especially in relation to unresolved recall repairs.
SERVICE BRAKES (17 complaints)
SERVICE BRAKES
17 complaintsSafety-relatedOwners of the 2020 Ram 1500 frequently report issues with the service brakes, with a common problem being brake failure leading to crashes in some cases. Symptoms include the brake pedal going to the floor without activating the brakes, often with no prior warning, and issues with the ABS module being unavailable for replacement. Many complaints describe the vehicle's brakes malfunctioning at various speeds, causing loss of control and requiring emergency maneuvers to avoid collisions. The issues often arise at low mileages, with some reports occurring at around 500 miles, and others at higher mileages such as 132,000 miles. Safety implications are significant, with four reported crashes and instances of the vehicle failing to stop, which is critical information for potential buyers considering this model.
AIR BAGS (12 complaints)
AIR BAGS
12 complaintsSafety-relatedOwners report that the 2020 Ram 1500 frequently experiences issues with airbag deployment during collisions, with seven out of twelve complaints involving crashes where airbags did not deploy. These incidents often result in injuries, with six injuries reported across complaints. Common symptoms include non-deployment of airbags during front and side impacts, even in severe crashes. Some complaints also indicate dashboard warping and water intrusion potentially affecting airbag performance. The mileage at the time of incidents varies, but some reports mention vehicles with over 30,000 miles. These issues suggest potential safety concerns for buyers considering a used 2020 Ram 1500.
ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING (9 complaints)
ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING
9 complaintsOwners of the 2020 Ram 1500 frequently report issues related to the exhaust system, particularly involving cracks or fractures in the exhaust manifold, which often lead to loud exhaust noises and exhaust fumes entering the cabin. These symptoms are commonly noted around 43,000 to 91,000 miles. Additionally, some complaints mention engine-related problems such as loss of motive power and engine shaking, with one case indicating a failure in the oil cooler that necessitated engine replacement at around 131,000 miles. Safety implications include potential exposure to exhaust fumes inside the vehicle and sudden loss of power while driving. Buyers considering a used 2020 Ram 1500 should be aware of these exhaust and engine issues, particularly at higher mileages.
When Do 2020 Ram 1500 Problems Start?
Based on owner complaint patterns, here's when common issues tend to appear.
Best & Worst Ram 1500 Years
Best Ram 1500 Years to Buy
The best Ram 1500 year is 2024 with a reliability score of 77/100, rated good. Other strong picks include 2025 (73/100) and 2023 (72/100).
Ram 1500 Years to Avoid
The worst Ram 1500 year is 2019 with a score of 58/100, primarily due to steering (313) issues.
See full Ram 1500 years-to-avoid analysis →Ram 1500 Reliability Score Trend
Ram 1500 reliability has improved in recent years, with newer models scoring an average of 72/100 compared to 63/100 for older years.
Scores 0–100. Higher is better. Current year highlighted.
| Year | Score | Rating |
|---|---|---|
| 2018 | 64/100 | Good |
| 2019 | 58/100 | Mixed |
| 2020 | 65/100 | Good |
| 2021 | 63/100 | Good |
| 2022 | 64/100 | Good |
| 2023 | 72/100 | Good |
| 2024 | 77/100 | Good |
| 2025 | 73/100 | Good |
Ram 1500 Reliability Compared to Other Years
| Year | Score | vs Prior Year | Rating | Recalls | Complaints |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 2026 | 74/100 (predicted) | — | Predicted | 2 | 18 |
| 2025 | 73/100 | -4 | Good | 5 | 186 |
| 2024 | 77/100 | +5 | Good | 4 | 57 |
| 2023 | 72/100 | +8 | Good | 10 | 145 |
| 2022 | 64/100 | +1 | Good | 15 | 506 |
| 2021 | 63/100 | -2 | Good | 14 | 611 |
| 2020(selected) | 65/100 | +7 | Good | 13 | 559 |
| 2019 | 58/100 | -6 | Mixed | 29 | 1364 |
| 2018 | 64/100 | — | Good | 15 | 605 |
Frequently Asked Questions
Is the 2020 Ram 1500 reliable?
What are the most common problems with the 2020 Ram 1500?
How many recalls does the 2020 Ram 1500 have?
Is the 2020 Ram 1500 expensive to maintain?
How We Calculate Reliability Scores
Auto Reliability Index scores are calculated on a 0–100 scale using a weighted formula that combines multiple public data sources. Each factor is weighted based on its predictive value for real-world ownership experience.
Key Ranking Factors
Complaint Severity
NHTSA owner complaints weighted by component category (e.g., powertrain, safety systems, electronics, cosmetic) — safety-critical issues carry more weight than cosmetic ones. Adjusted for sales volume so high-volume models aren't unfairly penalized.
Repair Costs
Independent reliability ratings based on repair frequency, average repair costs, and severity of typical repairs for each model.
Recall Impact
Number of NHTSA recalls weighted by severity. “Stop driving” and fire-risk recalls are penalized more heavily than minor software or labeling recalls.
Issue Diversity
Measures how many major vehicle systems (engine, transmission, electrical, braking, etc.) have recorded complaints. A vehicle with issues spread across many systems may indicate systemic quality issues.
Scores are grouped into four tiers:
- 80–100: Excellent — Top-tier reliability, minimal issues
- 60–79: Good — Reliable with some minor concerns
- 40–59: Mixed — Notable issues, research before buying
- 0–39: Risky — Significant problems, proceed with caution
Data is sourced from NHTSA recall records, owner complaint filings, and independent repair databases. Scores are recalculated as new data becomes available. While the weighting model is proprietary, all underlying data sources are public and traceable.
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