1997 Dodge RAM Van Steering Problems
- Complaints
- 3about this part
- Share
- 19%of 16 total for the year
- Median mileage
- 78,500miles
- Trend
- Not enough dataFewer than 15 complaints, too few for a reliable trend.
NHTSA recorded 3 complaints about the steering of the 1997 Dodge RAM Van, 19% of the 16 complaints for this model year. Where a mileage was given, the median is 78,500 miles.
Fewer than 15 complaints name this part, so treat the figures as a rough indication only.
Example complaints
Selected from NHTSA records; personal details are removed. They are consumer reports, not findings.
“The front frames rot out on steering side and it isn't 1 of them it is almost all of them. Toyota recalled tacomas for this and I want my frame fixed or replaced. This happens early in the life of the vehicles. They have almost gotten away with it . But these are still on the road and could kill people .they need to buy the ones that are still on the road or trade for safe vans or trucks. The service life of these were cut short and almost every junkyard has these and they all look good but they aren't safe. …”
NHTSA complaint #10542538, filed 2013-09, 100,000 miles“Steering column destroyed stalling not running if gas is not applied we can't get anyone to fix it, so we are stuck with a messed up van tire blew on us, firestone tires are still on it. I can't drive it anyway cause it wont stay started and I still pay bank 450 a month for a van that doesn't run.”
NHTSA complaint #10068775, filed 2004-01, 57,000 miles“After the brakes have been rebuilt there is still chatter from one or more wheels which can be felt by noticeable lunges when slowing to a stop and when coming into curves on mountain highways. Nlm”
NHTSA complaint #560510, filed 2001-03Steering: other model years
Other parts of the 1997 Dodge RAM Van
3 complaintsSuspension
3 complaintsVehicle speed control
3 complaintsEngine cooling
2 complaintsFuel system
2 complaintsTires
2 complaintsElectrical system
1 complaintsExterior lighting
1 complaintsOther or unknown
1 complaintsSeat belts
1 complaintsBody and structure
1 complaintsVisibility (wipers, defrost, mirrors)
1 complaints
← All problems reported for the 1997 Dodge RAM Van
About this data. Data from NHTSA (ODI) complaints, recalls, TSBs and investigations, updated Oct 27, 2026. Complaints are unverified consumer reports and may be duplicated or inaccurate.
To check a specific vehicle for open recalls, use its VIN at nhtsa.gov/recalls. Methodology