Complaints by model year
| Year | Complaints | vs. typical* | Recalls | Top problem | Verdict |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 2003 | 16 | −26% | — | Electrical | Average |
| 2002 | 14 | −26% | 1 | Body | Average |
| 2001 | 33 | 1.5× | 1 | Electrical | Caution |
| 2000 | 29 | 1.3× | — | Body | Average |
| 1999 | 47 | 2.2× | — | Electrical | Avoid |
| 1998 | 22 | typical | 1 | Electrical | Average |
| 1997 | 16 | −21% | — | Acceleration | Average |
| 1996 | 18 | 1.2× | — | Transmission | Average |
| 1995 | 14 | −26% | — | Transmission | Average |
* Complaints compared with the median Ram Van year at the same age, so new and old years are judged fairly. How this works.
Most common Dodge Ram Van problems
Latest Dodge Ram Van recalls
Power train › Automatic transmission › Lever and linkage › Column shift
On certain van and pickup trucks equipped with automatic transmissions, the ignition/park shift interlock system May become inoperative. This can allow the shifter to be moved out of the "park" position with the ignition key removed (or in the "lock" position).
Remedy: Dealers will replace the gearshift blocker and bracket assembly free of charge. The recall is expected to begin during January 2008. Owners May contact Chrysler at 1-800-853-1403.
Seats › Front assembly › Power adjust
Vehicle description: passenger vehicles built with power seat option. The driver's side front seat attaching riser welds were not correct.
Remedy: Dealers will replace the driver's side power front seat rise with a riser that was mig welded.
Frequently asked questions
What years of the Dodge Ram Van should you avoid?
1999 and 2001 — these years have the most complaints relative to other Ram Van years at the same age, led by electrical system problems in the 1999.
What is the best year for the Dodge Ram Van?
1995 has the fewest complaints compared with other Ram Van years at the same age, followed by 2002 and 2003. Newer years can look better simply because fewer complaints have come in yet, so we compare like with like.
What are the most common Dodge Ram Van problems?
Across all years, owners report the most problems with the electrical system (40), brakes (26) and body & structure (25). Electrical complaints peak in the 1999 model year.
How many recalls has the Dodge Ram Van had?
2 recalls across 1995–2003. The model year with the most is 1998.
Source: U.S. National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) — owner complaints through October 20, 2026, recalls and defect investigations; fuel economy from the EPA. Complaints are unverified reports and are not proof of a defect. How we rate model years.