The 2016 Ram 1500, part of the model generation from 2013-2018, underwent rigorous side-impact testing to evaluate its safety performance. This analysis delves into the results of these tests, providing a comprehensive overview for potential buyers and those interested in vehicle safety. The Ram 1500, since its redesign in 2009 and the name change from Dodge Ram in 2013, has incorporated several safety enhancements. Notably, models manufactured after September 2008 had front door trim modifications for improved side-impact protection, and from January 2012, torso-protecting side airbags were added to the existing side curtain airbags.
The vehicle tested was a 2016 Ram 1500 ST Crew Cab 2wd. The overall evaluation for the side impact test resulted in a “Good” rating, indicating a strong level of occupant protection.
| Evaluation criteria | Rating |
|---|---|
| Overall evaluation | G |
| Structure and safety cage | G |
| Driver injury measures | |
| Head/neck | G |
| Torso | A |
| Pelvis/leg | G |
| Driver head protection | G |
| Rear passenger injury measures | |
| Head/neck | G |
| Torso | G |
| Pelvis/leg | G |
| Rear passenger head protection | A |
The structural performance of the 2016 Ram 1500’s safety cage was rated as “Good”, signifying that the vehicle maintained its structural integrity well during the side impact.
In terms of driver injury measures, the 2016 Ram 1500 demonstrated robust protection. Head and neck protection was rated “Good”, as was pelvis/leg protection. Torso protection for the driver received an “Acceptable” rating. Driver head protection was also deemed “Good”, indicating effective performance of the safety systems in place.
For rear passenger injury measures, the ratings were generally positive, with “Good” ratings for head/neck, torso, and pelvis/leg protection. However, rear passenger head protection received an “Acceptable” rating. The detailed report notes that the side curtain airbag deployed on the wrong side for the rear passenger dummy’s head. This resulted in the dummy’s head impacting the pillar behind the door, which is designed to provide some head protection.
Detailed technical measurements from the crash test provide further insight. Occupant compartment intrusion on the driver’s side was measured, with the B-pillar intruding -14.0 cm relative to the driver’s seat centerline. Negative values indicate the crush stopped short of the centerline.
Technical Measurements – Driver Injury
| Evaluation criteria | Measurement |
|---|---|
| Head HIC-15 | 102 |
| Neck Tension (kN) | 1.0 |
| Neck Compression (kN) | 0.4 |
| Shoulder Lateral deflection (mm) | 24 |
| Shoulder Lateral force (kN) | 1.0 |
| Torso Maximum deflection (mm) | 44 |
| Torso Average deflection (mm) | 38 |
| Torso Maximum deflection rate (m/s) | 3.64 |
| Torso Maximum viscous criterion (m/s) | 0.65 |
| Pelvis Iliac force (kN) | 2.1 |
| Pelvis Acetabulum force (kN) | 0.8 |
| Pelvis Combined force (kN) | 2.8 |
| Left femur L-M force (kN) | 0.2 |
| Left femur L-M moment (Nm) | 28 |
| Left femur A-P moment (Nm) | 24 |
Technical Measurements – Passenger Injury
| Evaluation criteria | Measurement |
|---|---|
| Head HIC-15 | 181 |
| Neck Tension (kN) | 0.2 |
| Neck Compression (kN) | 0.9 |
| Shoulder Lateral deflection (mm) | 16 |
| Shoulder Lateral force (kN) | 1.0 |
| Torso Maximum deflection (mm) | 39 |
| Torso Average deflection (mm) | 28 |
| Torso Maximum deflection rate (m/s) | 4.75 |
| Torso Maximum viscous criterion (m/s) | 0.62 |
| Pelvis Iliac force (kN) | 0.2 |
| Pelvis Acetabulum force (kN) | 2.2 |
| Pelvis Combined force (kN) | 2.4 |
| Left femur L-M force (kN) | 0.5 |
| Left femur L-M moment (Nm) | 70 |
| Left femur A-P moment (Nm) | -69 |
In conclusion, the 2016 Ram 1500 Crew Cab performed well in the side-impact crash test, achieving an overall “Good” rating. While most injury measures were rated “Good,” potential buyers should note the “Acceptable” rating for driver torso protection and rear passenger head protection, particularly the issue with the side curtain airbag deployment for rear passengers. These findings provide valuable insights for anyone considering the safety aspects of the 2016 Ram 1500.
