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2017 Ram 3500 Report

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

Updated Jun 13, 2026·Ethan Miller·6 Critical Recalls

Overall Score

6.9/ 10
Our Verdict
Proceed with caution

Key Takeaways

  • Significant recall activity, totaling 19 campaigns, highlights potential systemic issues, especially with steering and wheel components.
  • The 'Below Average' reliability verdict is driven by critical recalls affecting steering linkage separation and wheel lug nut integrity, posing substantial ownership risks.
  • A high TSB count of 211 indicates a complex vehicle requiring careful attention to potential mechanical and electrical nuances.
  • Verify completion of all recalls, particularly those related to steering linkage, ABS/ESC systems, and wheel lug nuts, as these address critical safety concerns.
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OverviewWho This Car Is ForReliability & ProblemsVehicle SpecsUnlock Full ReportFAQ
Overview

2017 Ram 3500

The 2017 Ram 3500 is a heavy-duty truck built for demanding tasks, but used buyers should proceed with caution. While it boasts a robust chassis, its reliability record is marred by a substantial number of recalls, particularly concerning critical safety systems like steering and braking. The sheer volume of Technical Service Bulletins (TSBs) also suggests a complex vehicle with numerous potential points of attention. Despite a clean owner complaint record in the provided data, the numerous recalls, some of which address potentially catastrophic failures like wheel separation, warrant a thorough pre-purchase inspection and diligent verification of all manufacturer-remedied campaigns.

Critical Failure Risk

Critical recalls address steering linkage separation, specifically drag link connections. This can lead to a sudden loss of steering control.

Early detection can help you avoid a $700-$2,000 repair.

Open Maintenance Analysis →

Safety & Bulletins

Open Recalls19
Service Bulletins0
Full Recall History →

Owner Complaints

0

No primary complaint themes found.

Detailed Issue Breakdown →

Performance & Efficiency

Full Vehicle Specifications ↓

Reliability

8.2/ 10

Practicality

8.0/ 10

The score is supported by solid day-to-day usability signals.

Buyer Fit

Who This Car Is For

Best for

Buyers who prioritize heavy-duty capability and can perform or afford rigorous pre-purchase inspections.

+2 more buyer-fit notes in the full report

Avoid if

Drivers seeking a trouble-free ownership experience with minimal mechanical surprises.

+2 more buyer-fit warnings in the full report

2017 Ram 3500 Reliability Analysis

Explore comprehensive reliability data including official safety recalls, consumer complaints, and common mechanical failures for the 2017 Ram 3500.

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

Vehicle Specs

Seating Capacity
5

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Most Common Issues

1. Steering Linkage Separation

Most reported

Usage data observed

2. ABS/ESC/Traction Control Module Failure

Usage data observed

See all common issues in the maintenance guide

First Service Interval

- Oil Change (Synthetic) (Parts: Synthetic Engine Oil (e.g., 5W-30), Oil Filter) - Tire Rotation and Inspection - Chassis Lubrication

Est. shop cost: $100 - $200

5,000 mi

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

Full pre-purchase inspection checklist
Complete maintenance schedule (4 service intervals)
Repair forecasts with mileage and cost context
Full buyer-fit guidance and who should avoid it
Full specs and trim-level context
19 recall campaign details & remedy notes
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FAQ

FAQ

Is the 2017 Ram 3500 reliable?▾

The CarFocal Reliability Score for the 2017 Ram 3500 is 8.2/10. Reliability score is 8.2/10. NHTSA recalls: 19. Owner complaints: 0.

How practical is the 2017 Ram 3500 for daily use?▾

Practicality score is 8.0/10. The score is supported by solid day-to-day usability signals. Seating capacity is 5. 4 passenger doors are listed.

What is the overall score for the 2017 Ram 3500?▾

The CarFocal Overall Score for the 2017 Ram 3500 is 6.9/10. Overall score is 6.9/10 (Good). Confidence 41%. Maintenance 8.1/10. Practicality 8.0/10.

What does it cost to own and maintain a 2017 Ram 3500?▾

Based on Carfocal's data, First listed service: - Oil Change (Synthetic) (Parts: Synthetic Engine Oil (e.g., 5W-30), Oil Filter) - Tire Rotation and Inspection - Chassis Lubrication at 5,000 miles. Estimated first-year maintenance: $400 - $800. Repair prediction highlight: Steering Linkage (Drag Link/Tie Rods) (typical at 80,000 miles, estimated cost Min: $500 • Max: $1,500).

What is the MSRP range for the 2017 Ram 3500?▾

Base MSRP is $55,475.

What driver assistance and safety features are available on the 2017 Ram 3500?▾

6 standard and 1 optional driver assistance features. Key features include Anti-lock Braking System, Electronic Stability Control, Traction Control.

How many people fit in a 2017 Ram 3500?▾

According to CarFocal's specs for the 2017 Ram 3500, seating capacity is 5.

Are there open safety recalls on the 2017 Ram 3500?▾

This model year has 19 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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