In brief, the most frequently reported issues with the 2020 Ram 3500 involve the transmission, the diesel exhaust/DEF system, and engine-related fuel delivery, alongside electrical glitches and braking/suspension concerns.
This article examines what problems were most commonly cited by owners and reviewers, why those issues may occur, and what steps you can take to prevent or address them. It also notes the importance of maintenance, recalls, and service bulletins when evaluating or owning a 2020 Ram 3500.
Overview of common problems
The following list summarizes problem areas that frequently show up in owner feedback, reliability surveys, and service notices for the 2020 Ram 3500. Each category is explained in more detail in the sections that follow.
Below is a concise list of the problem areas most often mentioned by owners, service technicians, and reliability guides.
- Transmission and Drivetrain
- Diesel Exhaust System and DEF
- Engine and Fuel System
- Electrical and Infotainment
- Brakes and Suspension
While these categories appear frequently in reports, not every 2020 Ram 3500 will experience these issues. Many problems can be mitigated with regular maintenance, proper towing practices, and timely service. If you own or are considering one, check for open recalls and service bulletins for your specific VIN.
Transmission and Drivetrain
Owners and reviewers have reported rough or delayed shifting, especially with heavier loads or during towing. Some trucks experience shuddering or harsh engagement when moving from a stop or during gear changes, and a small subset has reported transmission failures under heavy use. These symptoms can stem from programming updates, wear in the torque converter, or issues within the hydromechanical components of the 8-speed automatic transmission commonly used in these trucks. Regular servicing, use of the correct transmission fluid, and addressing any fault codes promptly can help manage or prevent early wear.
Diesel Exhaust System and DEF
The 2020 Ram 3500 diesel relies on exhaust aftertreatment and DEF (diesel exhaust fluid) systems to meet emissions requirements. Common complaints include DEF system faults, clogged or regenerating DPF (diesel particulate filter) cycles, and warning lights related to exhaust aftertreatment. Some drivers report intermittent loss of power or reduced performance tied to emissions system cycling. In cold weather, regeneration behavior can be more noticeable, and failures in DEF heaters or sensors can trigger warning lights that require service.
Engine and Fuel System
Engine-related concerns often center on fuel delivery and combustion components. Reported issues include misfires or rough running, diagnosis codes related to injectors or high‑pressure fuel components, and occasional oil or coolant leaks near the valve covers or fuel system lines. Turbocharger or intercooler-related noise or lag can surface under heavy acceleration or when towing hills. Regular fuel system maintenance and inspections can help detect problems early.
Electrical and Infotainment
Electrical gremlins are among the more common non-mechanical complaints. Owners report infotainment screen freezes or resets, Bluetooth and smartphone connection issues, instrument cluster glitches, warning lights that illuminate without clear cause, and occasionally dead battery or charging problems. While many of these issues are software-related, they can disrupt daily use and may require software updates, module reprogramming, or component replacement.
Brakes and Suspension
Braking and ride-quality concerns include brake pedal feel changes, squeaks or grinding noises, and rotor wear in some trucks, particularly under heavy use or towing loads. Suspension complaints range from a firmer ride to noise from bushings or links, and, in equipped models, issues with air suspension components such as compressors or leveling sensors. Regular inspection of brake components and suspension hardware is advisable for owners who regularly tow or haul heavy payloads.
Summary
The 2020 Ram 3500 is a capable heavy-duty pickup, but several problem areas recur in owner feedback and service data. Transmission behavior, emissions system reliability, diesel fuel delivery, electrical hardware, and braking/suspension wear are the categories most frequently mentioned. Prospective buyers should review maintenance histories, verify that all service updates have been applied, and check for open recalls on the specific vehicle. For current owners, staying on top of scheduled service and addressing any fault indicators early tends to reduce the impact of these common issues.