America loves full-size pickup trucks. When it comes to full-size pickup trucks, two automakers dominate the US market. Ford and the Stellantis Ram brand produce the most competitive full-size pickup trucks. One of those trucks has just been notified for a major recall.
Ram recalls 1.2 million trucks
Ram is dealing with one of the biggest recalls of the year despite being just weeks away from 2023. CNET claims that the US brand is recalling around 1.2 million trucks due to faulty tailgates. Yes, thousands of Ram models are at risk of rear doors opening without warning. So, if you’re lugging a Christmas tree into the bed of your Ram truck, you might want to consider tying it down.
The recall affects 2019-2022 Ram 3500, 2500 and 1500 pickup trucks. Ram’s half-ton pickup is its most popular pickup model and one of the most popular pickup trucks in the country. So this recall is concerning, to say the least. Additionally, the recall affects some of the newer Ram 1500 models.
Misaligned strike plates can cause improperly latched tailgates to swing open and drivers to lose their belongings. This can be extremely dangerous, so if you own an affected model, be sure to have it repaired at a Ram service center as soon as possible.
Tailgates that can be opened at any time are not good for Ram owners or other motorists who drive behind the popular trucks. This is especially dangerous for the Ram 2500 and Ram 3500 models due to their payload capacity. Using a Ram truck to get around or to work and losing cargo due to a tailgate problem is an unsettling possibility.
How much does a Ram 1500 cost?
The 2023 Ram 1500 starts at $37,410. It comes in eight different trim levels. The Ram 1500 is expensive compared to the competition, but it’s still one of the most popular pickup trucks on the market.
The Ram 1500 starts at $37,410 up to $63,750 for the Limited trim. Four trim levels of the 2023 Ram 1500 are below the average new vehicle price of $48,000. Car and Driver recommends the Rebel trim. The Ram Rebel is a capable off-road truck. It can’t compete with the TRX, but it will get the job done for most enthusiasts.
What problems do the Ram 1500 have?
The Ram 1500 is reliable, but that doesn’t mean the small SUV is without its problems. CarComplaints states that some 2016 Ram 1500 trucks jump when stopped. The 2014 model year had problems with the power steering and air suspension.
Of all recent Ram 1500 model years, the 2014 model year has the most complaints filed against it at CarComplaints. Problems with interior accessories were the biggest problem with the 2020 Ram 1500. The 2021 and 2022 model years had very few complaints on record against them.
Ultimately, the Ram 1500 doesn’t have any major mechanical issues that should discourage you from buying one. In fact, the recent tailgate issue is one of the biggest issues facing the full-size pickup truck in recent years.