Last updated: 2026-03-04

2023 Ram 1500 Reliability Score & Common Problems
The 2023 Ram 1500 scores 72/100 ("Good"). With 10 recalls and 145 owner complaints, reliability is acceptable but not class-leading.
Recalls
10
Complaints
145
Complaint Rate
3.6
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
10 recalls on record
Should You Buy the 2023 Ram 1500?
The 2023 Ram 1500 scores 72/100 ("Good"), placing it in acceptable but not class-leading territory.
With 145 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 (35). An extended warranty may provide additional peace of mind.
Compared to the 2024 Ram 1500, which scored 5 points higher. See also the 2022 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 issues reported (35 complaints)
- UNKNOWN OR OTHER: Several recurring issues with the 2023 Ram 1500, notably involving the... (24 complaints)
Compare 2023 Ram 1500 With
2023 Ford F-150
Score: 68/100
2023 Chevrolet Silverado
Score: 75/100
2023 Ford F-150 Lightning
Score: 45/100
2023 GMC Sierra 1500
Score: 69/100
2023 Toyota Tundra
Score: 59/100
Common Problem Categories
Safety
- 10 manufacturer recalls issued
Other
- ELECTRICAL SYSTEM (35)
- UNKNOWN OR OTHER (24)
- POWER TRAIN (15)
- STEERING (13)
- ENGINE (12)
- STRUCTURE (8)
- SERVICE BRAKES (8)
- EXTERIOR LIGHTING (6)
- FUEL/PROPULSION SYSTEM (5)
- AIR BAGS (4)
- FUEL SYSTEM (3)
- SUSPENSION (2)
- FORWARD COLLISION AVOIDANCE (2)
- BACK OVER PREVENTION (1)
- LATCHES/LOCKS/LINKAGES (1)
- WHEELS (1)
- ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING (1)
- VISIBILITY/WIPER (1)
- SEAT BELTS (1)
- PARKING BRAKE (1)
- TIRES (1)
Recall Overview
10
recalls on record
The 2023 Ram 1500 has 10 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
3.6
per 10k soldSegment avg: 10.7
Safety Incidents
Crashes
9
Fires
0
Injuries
3
Deaths
0
Data sourced from NHTSA complaint filings and manufacturer recall notices. Complaint narratives are owner-reported.
2023 Ram 1500 Recall Details
10 recalls have been issued for the 2023 Ram 1500. All recall repairs are performed free of charge at authorized dealerships.
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.
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.
STEERING, EXTERIOR LIGHTING
Chrysler (FCA US, LLC) is recalling certain 2023-2024 Ram 1500 vehicles. The turn signal self-canceling feature may not function properly. As such, these vehicles fail to comply with the requirements of Federal Motor Vehicle Safety Standard number 108, "Lamps, Reflective devices, and Associated Equipment."
Consequence
Turn signals that do not function properly may fail to indicate the driver's intention to change vehicle direction, increasing the risk of a crash.
Remedy
Dealers will inspect and replace the steering column control module as necessary, free of charge. Owner notification letters were mailed October 23, 2024. Owners may contact Chrysler customer service at 1-800-853-1403. Chrysler's number for this recall is A1B.
2023 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 2023 Ram 1500
Key things to inspect or verify before purchasing, based on the most common reported issues.
- Test infotainment system for black screens or freezing
- Check heater core for leaks or overheating signs
- Inspect battery and charging system for voltage drops
- Verify tailgate latch operation to prevent unexpected opening
- Test brake pedal return to ensure it fully depresses
- Check for any active recalls related to the vehicle
- Test auto start-stop functionality for unexpected shutdowns
Check Any 2023 Ram 1500's History Before You Buy
Reliability scores tell you what to expect from the 2023 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.
2023 Ram 1500 Common Problems by Component
145 owner complaints grouped by vehicle system.
ELECTRICAL SYSTEM
35 complaintsSafety-relatedOwners of the 2023 Ram 1500 frequently report issues with the infotainment system, particularly following forced over-the-air updates. Common symptoms include black or frozen screens, loss of HVAC control, backup camera failures, and unresponsive Uconnect systems. These problems often occur at various mileages, with some complaints noting issues shortly after purchase. Additionally, owners describe electrical system failures leading to parasitic battery drains, which can render the vehicle inoperable. Some reports include safety implications such as crashes and stalling in traffic, highlighting potential risks associated with these electrical failures.
UNKNOWN OR OTHER
24 complaintsSafety-relatedOwners report several recurring issues with the 2023 Ram 1500, notably involving the infotainment system and brake pedal functionality. Complaints frequently mention the infotainment screen going black or freezing, leading to the loss of essential controls like HVAC, backup camera, and vehicle settings, often occurring after over-the-air updates. Multiple owners describe problems with the brake pedal not returning to its normal position, causing brake lights to remain on and disabling cruise control. These issues typically arise at various mileage points, with some reports indicating occurrences between 20,000 and 70,000 miles. Safety implications include potential visibility loss due to screen failures and unintended vehicle stops due to brake malfunctions, with one report involving a crash.
POWER TRAIN
15 complaintsOwners of the 2023 Ram 1500 frequently report issues with the power train, particularly involving unexpected engine shutdowns and stalling. Symptoms often include the vehicle shifting into park unexpectedly, the parking brake engaging without driver input, and the engine failing to restart promptly. These problems are commonly reported at various mileages, with some occurring as early as 160 miles. Safety implications are notable, as the unexpected shutdowns and stalls can occur while driving at speed or in traffic, potentially leading to loss of control or hazardous situations. Prospective buyers should be aware of these recurring issues, as they may impact vehicle reliability and safety.
STEERING (13 complaints)
STEERING
13 complaintsSafety-relatedOwners of the 2023 Ram 1500 frequently report issues with the steering system, with multiple complaints describing sudden loss of power steering, often accompanied by warning lights. Symptoms include the steering wheel becoming stiff or locking unexpectedly, and in some cases, a complete shutdown of the vehicle, which poses safety risks. These problems are reported at varying mileages, including as early as 1,700 miles. Additionally, issues with the steering column control module affecting turn signals are noted, which may contribute to confusion and visibility issues. One complaint involves a crash potentially linked to electronic stability control failure, highlighting significant safety implications.
ENGINE (12 complaints)
ENGINE
12 complaintsOwners report that the 2023 Ram 1500 frequently experiences engine stalling, particularly at low speeds or during slow maneuvers such as turns and stops. Symptoms often include the vehicle unexpectedly shutting off, the emergency brake automatically engaging, and the need to restart the engine to continue driving. This stalling issue is noted across various mileage ranges, with some incidents occurring as early as 2,000 miles. Several complaints highlight safety concerns, as the stalling can lead to near-miss accidents in traffic. Additionally, there are mentions of injector failures leading to hesitation and shaking, though these are less frequently reported.
STRUCTURE (8 complaints)
STRUCTURE
8 complaintsOwners report recurring issues with the 2023 Ram 1500's structure, notably with the sun visor and tailgate. Multiple complaints describe the sun visor detaching while driving, with one instance occurring around 5,000 miles and another leading to a delayed repair due to part unavailability. Tailgate latch failures are also frequently mentioned, with reports of the tailgate unexpectedly opening while driving, leading to cargo loss and damage, even at mileages below 7,000 miles. These issues can pose safety risks, such as potential accidents from sudden sun exposure or cargo falling from an open tailgate. Additionally, one owner notes a structural concern with mice entering the vehicle, indicating potential entry points that could compromise vehicle integrity.
SERVICE BRAKES (8 complaints)
SERVICE BRAKES
8 complaintsSafety-relatedOwners of the 2023 Ram 1500 frequently report issues related to the vehicle's service brakes, with multiple complaints describing the engine stalling unexpectedly and the parking brake engaging automatically, often during low-speed maneuvers or while stationary. These incidents are typically reported to occur without warning, with some owners noting that the emergency brake engages even when no external triggers are present. A notable pattern emerges around sudden stalling and brake engagement, occurring in vehicles with mileage ranging from 16,000 to over 17,000 miles. Safety implications are significant, with two reported crashes and one injury linked to brake failures, such as the inability to stop the vehicle as intended. Potential buyers should be aware of these issues, particularly the risks of unexpected vehicle shutdowns and brake malfunctions.
FUEL/PROPULSION SYSTEM (5 complaints)
FUEL/PROPULSION SYSTEM
5 complaintsOwners of the 2023 Ram 1500 report several issues related to the fuel and propulsion system. A common problem involves the auto start-stop system, which can malfunction and cause the vehicle to enter a stop mode unexpectedly, sometimes activating the emergency brake and preventing movement at intersections. Some owners describe fuel pump failures, with one reporting a costly repair just outside the warranty period. Another issue involves stalling, where the vehicle may unexpectedly stall while moving or after stopping, with limited power for a short period. Additionally, one owner experienced damage to the fuel tank from road debris due to a lack of protective covering. These issues are reported across various mileage ranges, and the symptoms raise potential safety concerns, particularly with unexpected vehicle immobilization in traffic.
AIR BAGS (4 complaints)
AIR BAGS
4 complaintsSafety-relatedOwners of the 2023 Ram 1500 report frequent issues with the airbag system, particularly with airbag deployment failures during crashes. One owner describes ongoing airbag system alerts, indicating a malfunction that has not been resolved due to a delayed clock spring replacement. Crashes are a significant concern, with three incidents reported where airbags did not deploy, including one at 45 MPH resulting in two injuries. The timeline for unresolved issues can extend over several months, as indicated by one owner waiting over seven months for a part. These reports highlight potential safety implications, particularly in crash scenarios where airbag deployment is critical.
FORWARD COLLISION AVOIDANCE (2 complaints)
FORWARD COLLISION AVOIDANCE
2 complaintsOwners report issues with the Forward Collision Warning (FCW) system on the 2023 Ram 1500, indicating failures in providing audible alerts, instrument panel alerts, and automatic braking. Complaints frequently mention that the system does not engage as expected, even in situations where vehicles are stopped abruptly or performing maneuvers like "swoop and squat" at various speeds. Both complaints describe the FCW system not generating error codes, despite dealer confirmation of the malfunction, suggesting a potential software issue. These symptoms occur shortly after purchase, with one owner noting the problem since acquiring the vehicle. The lack of reliable FCW system engagement may pose a safety risk, as it could lead to near-miss incidents or collisions without warning.
When Do 2023 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).
2024
4 recalls · 57 complaints
2025
5 recalls · 186 complaints
2023(this page)
10 recalls · 145 complaints
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(selected) | 72/100 | +8 | Good | 10 | 145 |
| 2022 | 64/100 | +1 | Good | 15 | 506 |
| 2021 | 63/100 | -2 | Good | 14 | 611 |
| 2020 | 65/100 | +7 | Good | 13 | 559 |
| 2019 | 58/100 | -6 | Mixed | 29 | 1364 |
| 2018 | 64/100 | — | Good | 15 | 605 |
Frequently Asked Questions
Is the 2023 Ram 1500 reliable?
What are the most common problems with the 2023 Ram 1500?
How many recalls does the 2023 Ram 1500 have?
Is the 2023 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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