1996 Dodge Dodge Truck problems
Verdict · NHTSA data
One of the years to avoid
With 49 complaints filed to NHTSA — about 12.3 times the median Dodge Truck year — the 1996 model ranks #2 of 31 Dodge Truck years for complaint volume. It lands on the years-to-avoid list.
No single system dominates the record — complaints spread across brakes (12), engine (9), and transmission (5), which usually points to general build quality rather than one defect.
49
NHTSA complaints
0
Recalls
0
Investigations
1
Crash-involved
2
Fires reported
1
Injuries
0
Deaths
—
NCAP overall
How does 1996 compare to other Dodge Truck years?
What are the most common 1996 Dodge Dodge Truck problems?
| Component | Complaints | Share | vs prior year |
|---|---|---|---|
| Brakes | 12 | 24% | ▲ up |
| Engine | 9 | 18% | ▲ up |
| Transmission | 5 | 10% | — flat |
| Seats | 4 | 8% | ▲ up |
| Electrical System | 3 | 6% | ▲ up |
| Tires & Wheels | 3 | 6% | ▲ up |
| Other | 3 | 6% | ▲ up |
| Airbags | 2 | 4% | new |
| Climate Control (A/C & Heat) | 2 | 4% | ▲ up |
| Fuel System | 2 | 4% | ▼ down |
| Body & Structure | 1 | 2% | — flat |
| Steering | 1 | 2% | — flat |
| Speed Control | 1 | 2% | ▼ down |
| Visibility & Wipers | 1 | 2% | ▼ down |
Consumer complaints filed with NHTSA
Representative excerpts, cleaned of personal information. These are consumer statements, not verified defects.
“EVERY WEEK THIS PAST MONTH I HAVE BEEN TAKING MY CAR INTO THE NELSON DODGE DEALERSHIP IN EL MONTE, CALIFORNIA IN REGARDS TO THE SERVICE ENGINE LIGHT KEEPS COMING ON. THE DEALERSHIP CANNOT FIND OUT WHAT IS WRONG WITH THE CAR. THEY "THINK" IT MAY NEED POWERSTRAIN CONTROL MODULE AND MAP SENSOR. THE…”
“RECALL COMPONENT (COOLER LINE QUICK CONNECT FITTINGS) FAILED PRIOR TO RECALL NOTICE RESULTING IN THE VEHICLE CATCHING ON FIRE.”
“HEAD REST, DESIGNED AS INTEGRAL PART OF SEAT, IS TOO LOW TO PROTECT TALL PEOPLE FROM INJURY IN CASE OF REAR END COLLISION. *DSH”
“OUR BATTERIES BOTH DIED TOGETHER ON THE DAY BEFORE OUR RECALL APPT. IN CONSEQUENCE, TO RETURN HOME, WE HAD TO BUY TWO(2) NEW BATTERIES. WE ARE WONDERING IF THERE IS SOME FORM OF REMUNERATION FOR THIS UNFORESEEN AND COSTLY FAILURE?”
1996 Dodge Dodge Truck — common questions
Is the 1996 Dodge Dodge Truck reliable?
NHTSA data argues against it: 49 complaints put the 1996 model at #2 of 31 Dodge Truck years. It is one of the Dodge Truck years to avoid.
What are the most common 1996 Dodge Truck problems?
According to NHTSA complaint data, the leading problem areas are brakes (12 complaints), engine (9 complaints), transmission (5 complaints).
Does the 1996 Dodge Dodge Truck have recalls?
No. NHTSA lists no recall campaigns for the 1996 Dodge Dodge Truck.
Which Dodge Dodge Truck years should you avoid?
Based on complaint rates and open investigations, the Dodge Truck years to avoid are 1999, 1996, 2001, 1998, 1994. The cleanest record among Dodge Truck years belongs to 1985.
Related
Based on NHTSA ODI data through June 2026. Complaints are consumer-reported and unverified. Updated July 5, 2026.
Compiled by Sharon Ben-Moshe, Founder.