Verdict · NHTSA data
One of the years to avoid
With 46 complaints filed to NHTSA — about 23.0 times the median B250 year — the 1994 model ranks #1 of 21 B250 years for complaint volume. It lands on the years-to-avoid list.
No single system dominates the record — complaints spread across body & structure (10), brakes (5), and seats (5), which usually points to general build quality rather than one defect.
46
NHTSA complaints
2
Recalls
0
Investigations
0
Crash-involved
1
Fires reported
0
Injuries
0
Deaths
—
NCAP overall
| Component | Complaints | Share | vs prior year |
|---|---|---|---|
| Body & Structure | 10 | 22% | ▲ up |
| Brakes | 5 | 11% | — flat |
| Seats | 5 | 11% | ▲ up |
| Seat Belts | 4 | 9% | ▲ up |
| Fuel System | 4 | 9% | ▲ up |
| Transmission | 4 | 9% | ▲ up |
| Visibility & Wipers | 3 | 7% | ▲ up |
| Suspension | 2 | 4% | new |
| Engine | 2 | 4% | — flat |
| Latches & Locks | 2 | 4% | ▲ up |
| Tires & Wheels | 1 | 2% | ▼ down |
| Climate Control (A/C & Heat) | 1 | 2% | new |
| Electrical System | 1 | 2% | ▼ down |
| Steering | 1 | 2% | ▼ down |
| Other | 1 | 2% | — flat |
2 NHTSA recall campaigns on file. Recall repairs are free at franchised dealers.
Defect
THE FRONT DRIVER AND PASSENGER SEAT BACK HEIGHT DOES NOT CONFORM TO THE REQUIREMENTS OF FMVSS NO. 202, "HEAD RESTRAINTS."
Consequence
CONSEQUENCE OF NON-COMPLIANCE: SEAT OCCUPANTS ARE SUBJECT TO INCREASED RISK OF INJURY IN THE EVENT OF A SUDD STOP OR ACCIDENT.
Remedy
SHERRY DESIGNS WILL PROVIDE AN ATTACHABLE HEADREST FOR THE DEALER OR CUSTOMER TO ADD TO THE SEATS.
Defect
THE FACTORY MOUNTED ARMREST ON THE DRIVER AND PASSENGER DOOR DO NOT CONFORM TO THE REQUIREMENTS OF FMVSS NO. 201, "OCCUPANT PROTECTION IN INTERIOR IMPACT."
Consequence
CONSEQUENCE OF NON-COMPLIANCE: THE ARMRESTS CAN CREATE AN IMPACT HAZARD TO VEHICLE OCCUPANTS.
Remedy
REMOVE THE ARMREST AND ADD A FOLDING ARMREST TO THE TWO FRONT SEATS.
Representative excerpts, cleaned of personal information. These are consumer statements, not verified defects.
“NOISE WAS COMING FROM FRONT END, JACKED VAN UP AND SAW THAT RIGHT FRONT PORTION OF SUB-FRAME IS RUSTING AWAY. I WAS ALSO AT A SALVAGE YARD THIS WEEKEND AND SAW ANOTHER 94 DODGE VAN WITH THE FRAME ALMOST RUSTED COMPLETELY AWAY. *TR”
“REAR CAPTAIN CHAIRS IN THE REAR OF THE VAN, SEATBELT RETRACTORS DO NOT RETRACT, FT SEAT HAD THE SAME PROBLEM AND DEALER REPLACED THE RETRACTOR. TT”
NHTSA data argues against it: 46 complaints put the 1994 model at #1 of 21 B250 years. It is one of the B250 years to avoid.
According to NHTSA complaint data, the leading problem areas are body & structure (10 complaints), brakes (5 complaints), seats (5 complaints).
Yes — NHTSA lists 2 recall campaigns affecting the 1994 Dodge B250. Recall repairs are free at franchised dealers; check the VIN at nhtsa.gov/recalls to confirm the work was done.
Based on complaint rates and open investigations, the B250 years to avoid are 1994. The cleanest record among B250 years belongs to 1985.
Based on NHTSA ODI data through June 2026. Complaints are consumer-reported and unverified. Updated July 5, 2026.
Compiled by Sharon Ben-Moshe, Founder.