The Ram 1500 has remained one of the best-selling full-size trucks thanks to its ride quality, interior and broad powertrain lineup. But if you’re shopping a new or used truck, check out our 2021–2026 Ram 1500 known problems list to understand what you might expect to see.
Based on owner reports, NHTSA.gov recall information, technical service bulletins and industry data, the problems fall into a few clear categories: engines, electronics, recalls, suspension and long-term ownership quirks.
Here’s a breakdown of what to watch.
Engine Problems: Hemi Tick, eTorque and Hurricane Concerns
The biggest dividing line across these model years is the shift from the long-running 5.7L Hemi V8 to the newer Hurricane inline-six.
On Hemi-equipped 2021–2024 trucks, the most commonly reported issue remains the so-called Hemi tick. In many cases, this is tied to exhaust manifold bolt failures, especially on cold starts, rather than internal engine damage. However, the confusion between valvetrain noise and exhaust leaks continues to be a concern for buyers.
The eTorque mild-hybrid system adds another layer. Owners have reported Motor Generator Unit failures, warning lights and parts delays, which can sideline trucks longer than expected due to limited availability of replacement components.
For 2025–2026 trucks, the Hurricane twin-turbo inline-six is still early in its lifecycle. Early owner reports point to check engine lights and misfire complaints, cooling system and thermostat-related issues, and general calibration quirks. While none of these have reached widespread recall-level severity, they are worth monitoring as higher-mileage data becomes available.
Major Recalls: ABS, Camera and Instrument Cluster Failures
One of the biggest reliability stories for 2021–2026 trucks is software.
The most significant recall affects 2021–2024 models, where a software issue in the ABS module can disable electronic stability control. That recall covers more than a million trucks and directly impacts safety, especially in slippery conditions or while towing.
Another recall targets 2021–2023 trucks equipped with Trailer Reverse Steering Control, where a fault can prevent the rearview camera image from displaying. For a truck often used for towing, that is a major usability concern.
Moving into newer models, some 2025–2026 trucks were recalled for instrument cluster failures, where the display can go completely blank. That means loss of speed, warning lights and other critical driver information.
These issues highlight a broader trend. Modern truck reliability increasingly depends on software stability, not just hardware durability.
Electronics Issues: Battery Drain, Infotainment and Charging Pads
Electronics complaints are among the most consistent issues across all model years.
For newer trucks, especially 2025–2026 models, owners have reported parasitic battery drain leading to dead batteries, infotainment glitches and screen freezes, and wireless charging pads that overheat or fail to charge devices.
These issues are frustrating rather than catastrophic, but they can significantly impact daily usability, especially for a truck that is often relied on for work or travel.
Earlier models also saw complaints tied to Uconnect system bugs, intermittent connectivity issues and software updates that did not fully resolve problems.
Suspension and Ride Systems: Air Suspension Weak Points
The Ram 1500’s optional air suspension is one of its defining features, but it can also be a liability over time.
Owners in colder climates have reported suspension failing to raise or lower properly, compressor or height sensor failures, and warning messages with reduced ride height in winter conditions.
While the system delivers excellent ride quality when functioning properly, it adds complexity and cost compared to traditional coil spring setups. For used buyers, this is one of the more expensive systems to repair out of warranty.
Water Leaks and Long-Term Ownership Concerns
Beyond the headline issues, there are several smaller ownership complaints worth noting.
One of the most common is rear window and third brake light leaks, particularly on early fifth-generation trucks. Owners have reported water entering through the sliding rear window frame, damp headliners and rear carpets, and cracked window frames in some cases.
These are not typically safety issues, but they can lead to long-term interior damage if left unchecked.
Additional concerns include general wear on interior electronics and switches, continued parts availability challenges for newer systems like eTorque, and confusion diagnosing engine noises on Hemi-equipped trucks.
Buy a Ram 1500 or Shop Another Brand Based on 2021-2026 Ram 1500 Known Problems
The 2021–2026 Ram 1500 remains a strong contender in the half-ton segment, but reliability varies depending on the model year and configuration.
2021–2024 trucks are more likely to see Hemi-related quirks, water leaks and major software recalls.
2025–2026 trucks introduce new Hurricane engine concerns along with increased electronics-related issues.
The key takeaway is this generation does not suffer from a single widespread catastrophic failure. Instead, it is a mix of software glitches, component-level issues and early adoption growing pains.
For buyers, that means looking beyond engine reliability and paying close attention to recall history, electronics function and suspension condition before making a decision.
