Last updated: 2026-04-20

2021 Ram 1500
RELIABILITY SCORE: 63/100 (GOOD)

2021 Ram 1500 Reliability Report

The 2021 Ram 1500 scores 63/100 ("Good"). With 14 recalls and 611 owner complaints, reliability is acceptable but not class-leading.

Recalls

14

Complaints

611

Complaint Rate

12.6per 10,000 sold

Est. Repair Cost

$691

Annual Fuel Cost

$3,000–$5,750

Detailed Score Breakdown

Complaint Severity59/100

Component-weighted complaints normalized by sales volume

Repair Costs70/100

Independent repair cost ratings

Recall Impact47/100

Recall count weighted by severity

Issue Diversity82/100

Breadth of reported problem categories

The Verdict

Consider

Acceptable reliability — worth considering with a pre-purchase inspection.

Top Issues to Watch

  • ELECTRICAL SYSTEM (153)
  • ENGINE (88)
  • POWER TRAIN (84)

Should You Buy the 2021 Ram 1500?

At 63/100, the 2021 Ram 1500 lands in "Good" territory — acceptable, but not class-leading.

Owners log 611 complaints on this model year — enough to suggest attention is needed, but no single failure mode dominates yet.

Get a pre-purchase inspection on any used example, with extra attention to electrical system (153). An extended warranty is worth pricing out.

Compared to the 2022 Ram 1500, which scored 1 points higher. See also the 2020 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 MGU hybrid motor, with parts often on backorder (153 complaints)
  • ENGINE issues reported (88 complaints)

Compare 2021 Ram 1500 With

Common Problem Categories

Safety

LOW RISK
  • 14 manufacturer recalls issued

Other

HIGH RISK
  • ELECTRICAL SYSTEM (153)
  • ENGINE (88)

See detailed breakdown by component ↓

Recall Overview

14

recalls on record

Park It

The 2021 Ram 1500 has 14 recalls on record, which is above average. A high count can flag multiple component concerns, though it also shows the manufacturer is actively addressing known issues.

NHTSA.gov →

Complaint Breakdown

12.6

per 10,000 sold

Segment avg: 15.1

LowAvgHigh
Moderate

Safety Incidents

24

Crashes

3

Fires

23

Injuries

0

Deaths

NHTSA 5/5 Stars

Data sourced from NHTSA complaint filings and manufacturer recall notices. Complaint narratives are owner-reported.

2021 Ram 1500 Recall Details

14 recalls have been issued for the 2021 Ram 1500. All recall repairs are performed free of charge at authorized dealerships.

25V7650002025-11-06

AIR BAGS, STEERING

Chrysler (FCA US, LLC) is recalling certain 2021-2022 Ram 1500, Ram 2500, Ram 3500, Ram 4500, and Ram 5500 vehicles. The steering column control module may cause the driver's side 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 will replace the steering column control module, free of charge. Owner notification letters were mailed beginning December 11, 2025. Owners may contact Chrysler customer service at 800-853-1403. Chrysler's number for this recall is 14C. Vehicle Identification Numbers (VINs) involved in this recall became searchable on NHTSA.gov beginning November 13, 2025.

25V2980002025-05-08

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.

24V7540002024-10-10

VISIBILITY

Chrysler (FCA US, LLC) is recalling certain 2020-2023 Ram 1500 Classic vehicles equipped with heated trailer tow rearview mirrors. The mirror glass may detach from the driver's side heated trailer tow rearview mirror. As such these vehicles fail to comply with the requirements of Federal Motor Vehicle Safety Standard number 111, "Rear Visibility."

Consequence

Detached mirror glass can reduce driver visibility, increasing the risk of a crash.

Remedy

Dealers will replace the mirror glass, free of charge. Owner notification letters were mailed December 5, 2024. Owners may contact FCA Customer Service at 1-800-853-1403. FCA's number for this recall is 86B.

Showing 10 of 14 recalls. View all on NHTSA.gov →

VIN History Report

Buying a used 2021 Ram 1500? Check its history first

Every 2021 Ram 1500 has a different past. A VIN check reveals hidden accidents, title problems, odometer rollbacks, and open recalls that reliability scores can't show you.

Affiliate link — we may earn a commission at no cost to you. No VIN? Just hit “Check VIN” to look one up.

  • Accidents
  • Open Recalls
  • Title History
  • Odometer Rollback

2021 Ram 1500 NHTSA Safety Ratings

Overall Safety Rating

Overall safety rating: 5 out of 5
Crash Test Results by Configuration (expand)

Gas Powertrain

Driver: 5/5Passenger: 4/5

Rollover risk: 19.8%

Safety Technologies

Dynamic Head Restraints (Not Available)Head Restraint (Driver, Front Passenger, Rear Seat)Advanced Belt Feature (Standard)Adjustable Upper Belt Anchorage (Driver, Front Passenger)Seat Belt Reminder System (Driver, Front Passenger)Frontal Air Bag (Driver, Front Passenger)Curtain (Driver, Front Passenger, Rear Seat)Torso/Pelvis (Driver, Front Passenger)Knee (Not Available)Additional Air Bags (Not Available)Meets Side Air Bag Out-of-Position Requirements (Yes)LATCH Locations (Rear Seat)Safety Power Windows (Anti-Pinch) (None)Safety Power Windows (Anti-Pinch) locations (Not Available)
View full safety data on NHTSA.gov →

Ram 1500Repair Costs & Maintenance

Maintenance Rating

3.5Maintenance rating: 3.5 out of 5

Based 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

1500
$691
Category Avg
$936
All Vehicles
$652

Category-level averages derived from publicly available industry reports (AAA, CarMD). Model-level estimates produced by Auto Reliability Index.

MPG & Annual Running Costs

Gas

12–26 MPG

Running cost: $3,700–$6,450/yr

Fuel + repair

10–23 city / 14–33 hwy MPG

Hybrid

19–23 MPG

Running cost: $3,300–$4,650/yr

Fuel + repair

17–20 city / 22–26 hwy MPG

Running cost includes EPA fuel-cost estimate and independent repair-cost data (repair cost estimated at model level). Excludes routine maintenance, depreciation, and insurance. Data as of 2021 EPA label cycle.

Gas trims
TrimDriveTrans.CityHwyCombFuel Cost
1500 Classic 2WD 3.6L 6-cylRear-Wheel DriveAutomatic 8-spd172520$3,000
1500 2WD 3.0L 6-cylRear-Wheel DriveAutomatic 8-spd223226$3,100
1500 HFE 2WD 3.0L 6-cylRear-Wheel DriveAutomatic 8-spd233326$3,100
1500 Classic 4WD 3.6L 6-cyl4-Wheel DriveAutomatic 8-spd162319$3,150
1500 4WD 3.0L 6-cyl4-Wheel DriveAutomatic 8-spd212924$3,400
1500 2WD 5.7L 8-cylRear-Wheel DriveAutomatic 8-spd152217$4,400
1500 4WD 5.7L 8-cyl4-Wheel DriveAutomatic 8-spd152117$4,400
1500 Classic 2WD 5.7L 8-cylRear-Wheel DriveAutomatic 8-spd152217$4,400
1500 Classic 4WD 5.7L 8-cyl4-Wheel DriveAutomatic 8-spd152117$4,400
1500 TRX 4WD 6.2L 8-cyl4-Wheel DriveAutomatic 8-spd101412$5,750
Hybrid trims
TrimDriveTrans.CityHwyCombFuel Cost
1500 HFE 2WD 3.6L 6-cylRear-Wheel DriveAutomatic 8-spd202623$2,600
1500 2WD 3.6L 6-cylRear-Wheel DriveAutomatic 8-spd202522$2,700
1500 4WD 3.6L 6-cyl4-Wheel DriveAutomatic 8-spd192421$2,850
1500 2WD 5.7L 8-cylRear-Wheel DriveAutomatic 8-spd172319$3,950
1500 4WD 5.7L 8-cyl4-Wheel DriveAutomatic 8-spd172219$3,950

Used Buying Checklist

Key things to inspect or verify before purchasing a 2021 Ram 1500.

  • Inspect for engine shutdowns at low speeds

  • Check for electrical system warning lights and battery issues

  • Test power steering for stiffness or failure

  • Verify fuel pump operation and check for refueling issues

  • Inspect exhaust manifolds for cracks or leaks

  • Check for water leaks in rear glass assembly

  • Test vehicle for unexpected stalling or shifting into park

2021 Ram 1500 Common Problems by Component

611 owner complaints grouped by vehicle system.

153
88
84
65
87
ELECTRICAL SYSTEM (153)ENGINE (88)POWER TRAIN (84)UNKNOWN OR OTHER (65)STEERING (42)SERVICE BRAKES (38)FUEL/PROPULSION SYSTEM (29)FUEL SYSTEM (25)Other (87)

ELECTRICAL SYSTEM

153 complaintsSafety-related

Owners report frequent issues with the electrical system of the 2021 Ram 1500, particularly involving the alternator and eTorque MGU hybrid motor, with parts often on backorder. Complaints frequently mention symptoms such as the vehicle stalling, loss of power, dashboard warning lights flashing, and battery drainage. These issues often appear at mileages ranging from 30,000 to 81,000 miles. Safety implications include one reported crash, two fires, and four injuries linked to these electrical problems. Prospective buyers should be aware of potential reliability concerns and parts availability challenges associated with this model year.

153 complaints total1 crash2 fires4 injuries

ENGINE

88 complaintsSafety-related

Owners of the 2021 Ram 1500 frequently report engine shutdowns while driving, often at low speeds, with symptoms including the engine dying unexpectedly, the emergency parking brake engaging, and the need to restart the vehicle. These issues often occur at mileage as low as 2,600 and can persist beyond 50,000 miles. Another common problem involves exhaust manifold failures, with owners describing cracked manifolds leading to exhaust fumes entering the cabin, posing potential health risks from carbon monoxide exposure. Additionally, there are reports of rusted oil pans and difficulties obtaining replacement parts for the motor generator unit, resulting in extended vehicle downtime. Notably, one complaint involves a vehicle fire occurring shortly after parking, highlighting a potential safety concern. These patterns suggest potential reliability and safety issues that used car buyers should consider.

88 complaints total1 fire

POWER TRAIN

84 complaints

Owners report several power train issues with the 2021 Ram 1500, including unexpected stalling and loss of power, often accompanied by warning lights or error messages. Complaints frequently mention the vehicle shifting into park independently, especially at low speeds, and issues with the four-wheel-drive system losing traction in snowy conditions. Symptoms such as engine vibrations, unusual noises, and transmission hesitations are also noted, typically occurring around 50,000 to 100,000 miles. Safety implications include the risk of sudden deceleration or loss of vehicle control, with one injury reported. These patterns suggest potential concerns for used car buyers considering this model.

84 complaints total1 injury
UNKNOWN OR OTHER (65 complaints)

UNKNOWN OR OTHER

65 complaintsSafety-related

Owners of the 2021 Ram 1500 frequently report issues with stalling while driving, with multiple complaints describing the vehicle shutting down without warning. Some owners mention that the motor decelerates and fails to shift properly, requiring a restart to resolve the issue. Additionally, there are reports of exhaust system problems, including leaks and broken bolts, which may allow fumes to enter the cabin. Complaints also describe problems with electronic systems, such as the Uconnect radio freezing and issues with the emergency braking system activating unexpectedly. These problems are reported across various mileage ranges, with some incidents occurring as early as 22,000 miles. The stalling and exhaust issues could pose safety risks, particularly if they occur at high speeds or in traffic.

65 complaints total2 crashes
STEERING (42 complaints)

STEERING

42 complaintsSafety-related

Owners report frequent issues with the 2021 Ram 1500's power steering, often resulting in a complete loss of power steering assistance, which makes the vehicle difficult or nearly impossible to steer. Complaints frequently mention warning lights for power steering failures and describe symptoms such as the steering wheel locking up or becoming extremely tight. These issues typically arise across a range of mileages, with some reports occurring as early as 37,800 miles. Safety implications are significant, with multiple reports of crashes due to steering failures, including incidents where vehicles collided with stationary objects or other vehicles. Used car buyers should be aware of these potential steering issues and the associated safety risks.

42 complaints total5 crashes1 injury
SERVICE BRAKES (38 complaints)

SERVICE BRAKES

38 complaints

Owners of the 2021 Ram 1500 frequently report issues related to the service brakes, often linked to a recall for the ABS module and electronic stability control. Common symptoms include illuminated warning lights for the ABS and ECS, mushy brake pedals, and a reduction in braking power, with some experiencing extended braking distances or complete loss of braking function. These issues are often reported around mileages of 30,000 to 71,000. Several owners describe safety implications such as loss of vehicle control or sudden stops due to automatic engagement of the parking brake. The complaints also highlight delays in recall repairs due to unavailable parts, which may be a consideration for potential buyers.

38 complaints total
FUEL/PROPULSION SYSTEM (29 complaints)

FUEL/PROPULSION SYSTEM

29 complaintsSafety-related

Owners of the 2021 Ram 1500 frequently report issues with the fuel propulsion system, notably involving fuel pump failures and difficulties with refueling. Symptoms include stalling, changes in acceleration, and the inability to fill the fuel tank without spillage or slow refueling, often leading to fuel overflow and environmental hazards. These issues commonly arise around 20,000 to 72,000 miles, with some owners experiencing them shortly after purchase. Safety implications are noted, with one crash and one injury reported, and concerns of fire hazards from fuel leaks and electrical melting. Potential buyers should be aware of unresolved recall parts and the possibility of stalling or shutdowns, particularly at higher mileages.

29 complaints total1 crash1 injury
AIR BAGS (19 complaints)

AIR BAGS

19 complaintsSafety-related

Owners of the 2021 Ram 1500 frequently report issues with airbag deployment, particularly during crashes. Complaints often describe airbags failing to deploy or deploying without inflating, even in high-impact collisions, resulting in 12 crashes and 11 injuries. Typical symptoms include illuminated airbag warning lights and repeated airbag system failures, with some owners experiencing persistent issues despite multiple repair attempts. These problems are reported across a wide range of mileages, with some vehicles having over 80,000 miles and others as low as 1,500 miles. The safety implications are significant, as non-deployment of airbags during accidents is a recurrent theme, suggesting potential risks for used car buyers considering this model.

19 complaints total12 crashes11 injuries
VEHICLE SPEED CONTROL (16 complaints)

VEHICLE SPEED CONTROL

16 complaintsSafety-related

Owners report multiple issues with the 2021 Ram 1500 related to vehicle speed control, primarily involving unexpected acceleration and engine stalling. Complaints frequently mention the vehicle accelerating without input from the driver, often requiring hard braking to avoid collisions, with one incident resulting in a crash and injury. Stalling is also a common issue, with some owners experiencing the engine shutting off while driving at various speeds, sometimes accompanied by a "service electronic throttle control" warning. These problems are noted at mileage ranges from as low as 21 miles to over 68,000 miles. Safety implications are significant, with reports of crashes and injuries, as well as situations where loss of control could have led to accidents.

16 complaints total2 crashes2 injuries
ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING (3 complaints)

ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING

3 complaints

Owners report several issues with the 2021 Ram 1500 related to the engine and engine cooling. Complaints frequently mention problems with the exhaust system, specifically citing inadequate or failing exhaust manifold bolts, which can lead to detachment or loud sounds from the exhaust. These issues are noted at mileages around 46,000 to 59,700 miles. Additionally, one owner describes a stalling issue when driving or turning, and an unexpected engagement of the parking brake at approximately 1,000 miles. While no crashes or fires are reported, the stalling and parking brake engagement could pose safety risks due to potential loss of control. These patterns suggest potential concerns for used car buyers considering this model.

3 complaints total

When Do 2021 Ram 1500 Problems Start?

Based on owner complaint patterns, here's when common issues tend to appear.

2,600–50,000 milesEngine shutdowns
30,000–81,000 milesElectrical system failures
37,800–88,000 milesPower steering failures
20,000–34,000 milesFuel pump failures

Best & Worst Ram 1500 Years

Comprehensive reliability analysis based on NHTSA data, owner complaints, and historical performance.

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.

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.

Ram 1500 reliability scores by year
YearScoreRating
201864/100Good
201958/100Mixed
202065/100Good
202163/100Good
202264/100Good
202372/100Good
202477/100Good
202573/100Good

Ram 1500 Reliability Compared to Other Years

Reliability scores compared across model years
YearScorevs Prior YearRatingRecallsComplaints
202674/100 (predicted)Predicted218
202573/100-4Good5186
202477/100+5Good457
202372/100+8Good10145
202264/100+1Good15506
2021(selected)63/100-2Good14611
202065/100+7Good13559
201958/100-6Mixed291364
201864/100Good15605

Frequently Asked Questions

Is the 2021 Ram 1500 reliable?
The 2021 Ram 1500 has a "Good" reliability rating with a score of 63/100. It is reasonably reliable with 14 recalls and 611 owner complaints, though some issues have been reported.
What are the most common problems with the 2021 Ram 1500?
The most commonly reported problems with the 2021 Ram 1500 include: ELECTRICAL SYSTEM (153 complaints), ENGINE (88 complaints), POWER TRAIN (84 complaints), UNKNOWN OR OTHER (65 complaints), STEERING (42 complaints). These issues were identified from owner complaints analyzed by Auto Reliability Index.
How many recalls does the 2021 Ram 1500 have?
The 2021 Ram 1500 has 14 recalls on record. Recalls are safety or compliance fixes issued by the manufacturer and repaired at no cost at authorized dealerships.
Is the 2021 Ram 1500 expensive to maintain?
The 2021 Ram 1500 has estimated annual repair costs of $691/year, which is $245 less than the fullsize trucks average of $936. With a reliability score of 63/100, some repairs may be needed, but overall ownership costs are manageable.

Don’t buy a 2021 Ram 1500 without checking its VIN first — hidden accidents, title issues, and open recalls could cost you thousands.

Affiliate link — we may earn a commission at no cost to you.

Look Up a VIN →

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

1

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.

2

Repair Costs

Independent reliability ratings based on repair frequency, average repair costs, and severity of typical repairs for each model.

3

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.

4

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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