2008 Ram 4500 problems

Verdict · NHTSA data

Limited data — recalls on file

NHTSA has just 0 complaints on file for the 2008 Ram 4500 — too few to judge reliability from owner reports alone — but one recall campaign applies to this year, so any used example should have its VIN checked for completed recall work.

NHTSA complaints

Recalls

Investigations

Crash-involved

Fires reported

Injuries

Deaths

—

NCAP overall

How does 2008 compare to other 4500 years?

4500 NHTSA complaints by model year, 2008 highlighted. Red bars are years to avoid.

See all 4500 years to avoid →

Does the 2008 Ram 4500 have recalls?

1 NHTSA recall campaign on file. Recall repairs are free at franchised dealers.

16V739000Electrical SystemOctober 13, 2016 · 74,811 units

Defect

Chrysler (FCA US LLC) is recalling certain model year 2011-2014 Dodge Charger Police vehicles, 2007-2013 RAM 3500 Cab Chassis, 2008-2013 RAM 4500 and 5500 Cab Chassis, and 2013 RAM 2500 and 3500 vehicles. The affected vehicles have a 220 amp alternator that may suddenly fail.

Consequence

If the alternator fails, the vehicle may stall without warning, increasing the risk of a crash. There is also the possibility that the alternator may short circuit, increasing the risk of a fire.

Remedy

Chrysler will notify owners, and dealers will replace the alternator with a revised alternator, free of charge. The recall began on December 23, 2016. Owners may contact Chrysler customer service at 1-800-853-1403. Chrysler's number for this recall is S68.

2008 Ram 4500 — common questions

Is the 2008 Ram 4500 reliable?

The record is thin — 0 NHTSA complaints — so owner-report data can't strongly confirm reliability either way, though 1 recall should be verified as completed.

Does the 2008 Ram 4500 have recalls?

Yes — NHTSA lists 1 recall campaign affecting the 2008 Ram 4500. Recall repairs are free at franchised dealers; check the VIN at nhtsa.gov/recalls to confirm the work was done.

Which Ram 4500 years should you avoid?

Based on complaint rates and open investigations, the 4500 years to avoid are 2018, 2015, 2014, 2019, 2017, 2013, 2020, 2022, 2016, 2009. The cleanest record among 4500 years belongs to 2026.

Based on NHTSA ODI data through June 2026. Complaints are consumer-reported and unverified. Updated July 5, 2026.

Compiled by Sharon Ben-Moshe, Founder.

How does 2008 compare to other 4500 years?

Does the 2008 Ram 4500 have recalls?

2008 Ram 4500 — common questions

Is the 2008 Ram 4500 reliable?

Does the 2008 Ram 4500 have recalls?

Which Ram 4500 years should you avoid?

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