2009 Ram 1500
This year had at least 30% fewer complaints than this model's typical year.
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.
COMPLAINTS PER YEAR
View as data table
| Year | Complaints |
|---|---|
| 2009 | 37 |
| 2010 | 0 |
| 2011 | 0 |
| 2012 | 0 |
| 2013 | 1250 |
| 2014 | 1731 |
| 2015 | 1425 |
| 2016 | 1500 |
| 2017 | 858 |
| 2018 | 640 |
| 2019 | 1445 |
| 2020 | 607 |
| 2021 | 654 |
| 2022 | 582 |
| 2023 | 182 |
| 2024 | 68 |
| 2025 | 288 |
| 2026 | 57 |
KNOWN PROBLEM AREAS
22% of complaints: power train — 8 distinct reports on file.
INJURYShow complaint excerpts
I was driving down road when I heard a clanking noise coming from back of truck. I was going about 26mph and I checked for warning lights and system info that shows Temps, but everything was showing normal.
NHTSA ODI report, 20210625
The contact owns a 2009 Ram 1500. The contact stated that upon purchasing the vehicle, it was discovered that there were two open recalls on the VIN, NHTSA Campaign Number: 13V038000 (Power Train) and 17V821000 (Power Train).
NHTSA ODI report, 20260213
16% of complaints: electrical system — 6 distinct reports on file.
14% of complaints: engine — 5 distinct reports on file.
11% of complaints: structure — 4 distinct reports on file.
8% of complaints: suspension — 3 distinct reports on file.
Show complaint excerpts
I bought this 2009 Dodge ram Laramie about a year ago been riding like new but 4 days ago starting to hear a bad whining noise from the rear end and I see this truck had a recall on the pinion nut I think it's coming lose from the pinion
NHTSA ODI report, 20240218
SAFETY TIMELINE
Chrysler (FCA US LLC) is recalling certain 2016-2017 Ram 3500 Cab Chassis with a Gross Vehicle Weight Rating (GVWR) of less than 10,000 lbs, 2011-2017 Ram 3500, 4500 and 5500 Cab Chassis vehicles, 2009-2017 Ram 1500 and 2010-2017 Ram 2500 and 3500...
Remedy: Chrysler will notify owners, and dealers will update the vehicle software, inspect the BTSI, and, as necessary, replace it, free of charge. The recall began February 26, 2018. Owners may contact Chrysler customer service at 1-800-853-1403.
Campaign 17V821000 — check if this car was fixed
Chrysler (FCA US LLC) is recalling certain 2009-2012 Dodge Ram 1500 trucks currently, or ever registered, in Connecticut, Delaware, Illinois, Indiana, Iowa, Maine, Maryland, Massachusetts, Michigan, Minnesota, Missouri, New Hampshire, New Jersey,...
Remedy: Chrysler will notify owners and dealers will bolt a bracket reinforcement to the frame, free of charge. The recall began May 2, 2018. Owners may contact Chrysler customer service at 1-800-853-1403. Chrysler's number for this recall is U04.
Campaign 18V160000 — check if this car was fixed
Electrical overstress
BUY-SMART CHECKLIST
2009 Ram 1500 — pre-purchase inspection
- Test/inspect for power train issues (8 reports on file for this year).
- Test/inspect for electrical system issues (6 reports on file for this year).
- Test/inspect for engine issues (5 reports on file for this year).
- Verify recall 17V821000 (power train) has been completed.
- Verify recall 18V160000 (fuel system, gasoline) has been completed.
OTHER YEARS OF THIS MODEL
BEST YEARS
WORST YEARS
FAQ
Is the 2009 Ram 1500 reliable?
Based on NHTSA complaint volume compared to this model's typical year, the 2009 Ram 1500 is rated "better than typical".
What are the most common problems with the 2009 Ram 1500?
The most-reported component is power train, accounting for 22% of complaints on file.
How many recalls does the 2009 Ram 1500 have?
2 recalls on file for this model year.
Data updated 2026-07-11 · Complaints are unverified owner reports filed with NHTSA, not independently verified defects. Methodology.