1988 Dodge RAM 50
Only 9 complaints on file — too few for a fair verdict.
This verdict reflects complaint volume compared to this model's typical year. Recalls and safety issues below apply regardless of the verdict — always check them.
Only 9 complaints on file — too few for a fair verdict. The data below is complete but unranked.
- Complaints
- 9
- Recalls
- 1
- Investigations
- 0
- Top problem
- —
Too few to rank
Campaigns on file for 1988
None on file
Not enough data
Complaints per year
1988: 9 complaints
View as data table
| Year | Complaints |
|---|---|
| 1980 | 0 |
| 1981 | 0 |
| 1982 | 0 |
| 1983 | 0 |
| 1984 | 0 |
| 1985 | 1 |
| 1986 | 1 |
| 1987 | 9 |
| 1988 | 9 |
| 1989 | 5 |
| 1990 | 4 |
| 1991 | 2 |
Known problem areas
Only 9 complaints on file for this model year — too few to rank by share. Raw counts only, below.
Seat belts
7 of 9 total reports mention: seat belts, most commonly citing buckle assembly and webbing.
Show complaint excerpts
Consumer was in a 4 car pile-up crash, her vehicle was the fourth car. Was driving approx. 20-32 MPH. Wearing seat belt when the the crash occurred.
NHTSA ODI report, 1997-09-04
Both front seat belts wouldn't lock like something that is jammed inside. Tt
NHTSA ODI report, 1995-02-28
Model #524 seatbelt buckle jams and is difficult to release.
NHTSA ODI report, 1995-02-22
Tires
1 of 9 total reports mentions: tires.
Fuel system, gasoline
1 of 9 total reports mentions: fuel system, gasoline, most commonly citing mounting.
Show complaint excerpts
Rear gas tank bracket failed (Rusted trhough) allowing tank to swing down and skid along pavement. Accident avoided due to low speed and rapid stop.
NHTSA ODI report, 2002-09-12
Engine and engine cooling
1 of 9 total reports mentions: engine and engine cooling, most commonly citing gasoline.
Safety timeline
1 recall · 0 investigations · oldest first
To check one car, enter its VIN on the NHTSA recall page. Check a VIN →
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R
1995-12-13Seat belts95V103003 The front safety belt buckle release buttons can break. These red plastic release buttons are marked "Press." If a button breaks, pieces can fall into the buckle assembly causing the buckle to…
Remedy: Owners should promptly check the condition and operation of both front safety belt buckles and carefully inspect the red release button for any breaks or cracks. They should ensure that both buckles…
Buy-smart checklist
1988 Dodge RAM 50 — pre-purchase inspection
Inspect
- Seat belts: 7 reports on file for this year.
- Tires: 1 report on file for this year.
- Fuel system, gasoline: 1 report on file for this year.
Verify these recalls were completed
- Recall 95V103003 · Seat belts
FAQ
- Is the 1988 Dodge RAM 50 reliable?
- There isn't enough NHTSA complaint data on file yet to give this model year a verdict.
- What are the most common problems with the 1988 Dodge RAM 50?
- The most-reported component is seat belts, accounting for 78% of complaints on file.
- How many recalls does the 1988 Dodge RAM 50 have?
- 1 recall on file for this model year.
Data updated 2026-11-01 · Complaints are unverified owner reports filed with NHTSA, not independently verified defects. Methodology.