1997 Dodge RAM VAN
Only 16 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 16 complaints on file — too few for a fair verdict. The data below is complete but unranked.
- Complaints
- 16
- Recalls
- 0
- Investigations
- 1
- Top problem
- —
Too few to rank
None on file
Opened by NHTSA
Not enough data
Complaints per year
1997: 16 complaints
View as data table
| Year | Complaints |
|---|---|
| 1989 | 1 |
| 1991 | 1 |
| 1992 | 2 |
| 1993 | 3 |
| 1994 | 6 |
| 1995 | 14 |
| 1996 | 18 |
| 1997 | 16 |
| 1998 | 22 |
| 1999 | 47 |
| 2000 | 29 |
| 2001 | 33 |
| 2002 | 14 |
| 2003 | 16 |
Known problem areas
Only 16 complaints on file for this model year — too few to rank by share. Raw counts only, below.
Suspension
4 of 16 total reports mention: suspension, most commonly citing shock absorber and front.
Show complaint excerpts
The front frames rot out on steering side and it isn't 1 of them it is almost all of them. Toyota recalled tacomas for this and I want my frame fixed or replaced. This happens early in the life of the vehicles. They have almost gotten away with it .
NHTSA ODI report, 2013-09-08
Also filed under Structure
Service brakes
4 of 16 total reports mention: service brakes, most commonly citing hydraulic.
Vehicle speed control
3 of 16 total reports mention: vehicle speed control, most commonly citing cables.
Show complaint excerpts
While driving at 65 MPH accelerator became stuck. Consumer was not able to control vehicle and it collided with the vehicle in front.
NHTSA ODI report, 2004-01-22
Cruise control fails to disengage while driving at normal speed.
NHTSA ODI report, 1997-08-27
Steering
3 of 16 total reports mention: steering, most commonly citing gear box (other than rack and pinion).
Show complaint excerpts
Steering column destroyed stalling not running if gas is not applied we can't get anyone to fix it, so we are stuck with a messed up van tire blew on us, firestone tires are still on it.
NHTSA ODI report, 2004-04-22
Tires
2 of 16 total reports mention: tires, most commonly citing tread/belt.
Safety timeline
No recalls on file for this model year.
0 recalls · 1 investigation · oldest first
To check one car, enter its VIN on the NHTSA recall page. Check a VIN →
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I
2002-11-06Preliminary evaluationClosed 2003-04-23 Safety belt cinching latch plate
Buy-smart checklist
1997 Dodge RAM VAN — pre-purchase inspection
Inspect
- Suspension: 4 reports on file for this year.
- Service brakes: 4 reports on file for this year.
- Vehicle speed control: 3 reports on file for this year.
FAQ
- Is the 1997 Dodge RAM VAN 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 1997 Dodge RAM VAN?
- The most-reported component is suspension, accounting for 25% of complaints on file.
- How many recalls does the 1997 Dodge RAM VAN have?
- No recalls are on file for this model year.
Data updated 2026-11-01 · Complaints are unverified owner reports filed with NHTSA, not independently verified defects. Methodology.