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2021 Ram 2500 Report

Known issues, recalls, running costs, and what to check before you buy.

Updated Jun 13, 2026·Ryan Davis·22 Critical Recalls
2021 Ram 2500 Report

Overall Score

6.6/ 10
Our Verdict
Proceed with caution

Key Takeaways

  • Significant recall activity impacts critical safety systems, including airbags and stability control.
  • Electrical system recalls highlight a persistent fire risk, necessitating careful inspection.
  • The absence of consumer complaints may not reflect the full ownership experience given the recall volume.
  • Verify completion of all outstanding recalls, especially those related to driver's side airbag deployment and electrical system fire risk.
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OverviewWho This Car Is ForReliability & ProblemsVehicle SpecsUnlock Full ReportFAQ
Overview

2021 Ram 2500

The 2021 Ram 2500 is a heavy-duty truck built for demanding tasks. For the used market, its appeal is tempered by a notable number of safety recalls. These campaigns primarily target critical systems like airbags, electronic stability control, and the electrical system, with some posing a fire risk. While consumer complaint data is absent, the sheer volume of recalls suggests potential underlying issues that buyers must scrutinize.

Critical Failure Risk

Multiple recalls address fire risks associated with the solid-state intake heater grid relay. This defect can lead to electrical shorts and potential fires, necessitating specific parking instructions until repaired.

Early detection can help you avoid a $500-$1,500 repair.

Open Maintenance Analysis →

Safety & Bulletins

Open Recalls40
Service Bulletins0
Full Recall History →

Owner Complaints

0

No primary complaint themes found.

Detailed Issue Breakdown →

Performance & Efficiency

Full Vehicle Specifications ↓

Reliability

6.7/ 10

Practicality

5.0/ 10

The score is mainly limited by limited seating.

Buyer Fit

Who This Car Is For

Best for

Buyers prioritizing heavy-duty towing and hauling capabilities above all else.

+2 more buyer-fit notes in the full report

Avoid if

Buyers seeking a trouble-free ownership experience.

+2 more buyer-fit warnings in the full report

2021 Ram 2500 Reliability Analysis

Explore comprehensive reliability data including official safety recalls, consumer complaints, and common mechanical failures for the 2021 Ram 2500.

  • Recall TimelineOfficial safety notices
  • Owner ComplaintsReal driver reports
  • Failure AnalysisKnown part defects
Specs

Vehicle Specs

Seating Capacity
3
Transmission
Automatic

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Most Common Issues

1. Electrical System Fire Risk (Intake Heater Grid Relay)

Most reported

Usage data observed

2. Airbag System Malfunctions

Usage data observed

See all common issues in the maintenance guide

First Service Interval

- Oil Change (5W-30 Synthetic) (Parts: 5W-30 Synthetic Oil, Oil Filter) - Tire Rotation and Inspection - Inspect Brake System - Inspect Exhaust System

Est. shop cost: $150 - $250

7,500 mi

Unlock the full maintenance guide for every scheduled service interval and cost forecast.

Full pre-purchase inspection checklist
Complete maintenance schedule (6 service intervals)
Repair forecasts with mileage and cost context
Full buyer-fit guidance and who should avoid it
Full specs and trim-level context
40 recall campaign details & remedy notes
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FAQ

FAQ

Is the 2021 Ram 2500 reliable?▾

The CarFocal Reliability Score for the 2021 Ram 2500 is 6.7/10. Reliability score is 6.7/10. NHTSA recalls: 40. Owner complaints: 0.

How practical is the 2021 Ram 2500 for daily use?▾

Practicality score is 5.0/10. The score is mainly limited by limited seating. Seating capacity is 3.

What is the overall score for the 2021 Ram 2500?▾

The CarFocal Overall Score for the 2021 Ram 2500 is 6.6/10. Overall score is 6.6/10 (Good). Confidence 41%. Maintenance 8.4/10. Practicality 5.0/10.

What does it cost to own and maintain a 2021 Ram 2500?▾

Based on Carfocal's data, First listed service: - Oil Change (5W-30 Synthetic) (Parts: 5W-30 Synthetic Oil, Oil Filter) - Tire Rotation and Inspection - Inspect Brake System - Inspect Exhaust System at 7,500 miles. Estimated first-year maintenance: $500 - $1,000. Repair prediction highlight: Intake Heater Grid Relay (typical at 50,000 miles, estimated cost Min: $200 • Max: $500).

What transmission does the 2021 Ram 2500 use?▾

According to CarFocal's specs for the 2021 Ram 2500, transmission is Automatic.

What driver assistance and safety features are available on the 2021 Ram 2500?▾

7 standard and 7 optional driver assistance features. Key features include Anti-lock Braking System, Electronic Stability Control, Traction Control.

How many people fit in a 2021 Ram 2500?▾

According to CarFocal's specs for the 2021 Ram 2500, seating capacity is 3.

What are the NHTSA safety ratings for the 2021 Ram 2500?▾

NHTSA ratings: Rollover 3/5.

Are there open safety recalls on the 2021 Ram 2500?▾

This model year has 40 official safety campaigns listed.

Start Here

Maintenance guide

Costs + intervals

Recall report

Campaigns + remedy notes

Owner complaints

Issue volume + categories

In this guide

  1. 01Overview
  2. 02Who This Car Is For
  3. 03Reliability & Problems
  4. 04Vehicle Specs
  5. 05Unlock Full Report
  6. 06FAQ

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