Which Years Of Used RAM 3500s Are Most Reliable?
We've rounded up five of the RAM 3500's most reliable years. Take a look at which year models you can count on (and which ones you should avoid so you can purchase a dependable truck).
When in the market for a used RAM 3500, it’s crucial to be aware of the most reliable model years. This heavy-duty truck is a force to be reckoned with, outperforming many of its rivals. With a cargo box that stands 40 inches from the ground when the tailgate is down, the RAM 3500 is a sight to behold.
Size isn’t the only thing that matters; the high-output version of the Cummins diesel engine packs a punch with a staggering 1,000 lb-ft of torque. This makes the RAM 3500 an excellent choice for those who need to tow heavy loads or take on challenging jobs.
With such impressive form and capability, it’s no wonder many buyers are interested in finding a reliable used RAM 3500. By conducting thorough research on the most reliable RAM 3500 year models, you can ensure you’ll get a full-size truck that not only meets your needs but also stands the test of time.
The Most Reliable RAM 3500 Years
Before we discuss the most reliable RAM 3500 year models, let’s pivot to its general reliability.
As per RepairPal, the Dodge Ram 3500 has a reliability rating of 2.0 out of 5.0, ranking it 16th among 17 full-size trucks, suggesting it’s less reliable in its class. It has higher-than-average ownership costs, with annual repairs averaging $1,079—this is above the $936 typical for full-size trucks and significantly exceeds the $652 average across all vehicle models.
Regarding repair frequency, the Ram 3500 owners typically need unscheduled shop visits about 0.2 times a year, which is less frequent than the category average of 0.3 and the overall average of 0.4. However, the severity of issues tells a different story: there’s a 27% chance that a repair will be severe or major, compared to only 18% for other full-size trucks and 12% across all models. This indicates that while repairs are not common, they are more likely to be major when they occur.
DOWNLOAD THE FREE APP
The CoPilot car shopping app is the smartest way to buy a car. Get a curated list of the best cars for sale in your area, as well as notifications if a similar vehicle is listed nearby at a lower price. CoPilot is the smartest way to shop for used cars.
Avoid: 2003, 2006 Dodge RAM 3500
The 2003 and 2006 versions, both under the Dodge brand, have been the target of numerous complaints and recalls. The 2003 model, in particular, has been plagued by a cracked dashboard, a manufacturing defect that affects the interior’s integrity. In response, a collective of owners has been tirelessly advocating for a recall to address this widespread issue, demonstrating the depth of concern and urgency for action.
Similarly, the 2006 RAM 3500 has been a source of financial strain for owners due to a faulty A/C heater system. The issues have been diverse, ranging from complete AC failure to problems with the power supply to the AC pump. These problems have often been traced back to faults in the TIPM or PCM, leading to excessive repair costs for owners.
Buy: 2004 Dodge RAM 3500
If you want an older RAM 3500 under the Dodge umbrella, the 2004 version is a solid pick. This truck is lauded for its strong performance and longevity. Its notable strengths include formidable towing capacity and a reliable Cummins engine that often surpasses 400,000 miles with proper care. It also offers a roomy and comfortable interior, well-suited for demanding work tasks and family activities.
Avoid: 2007 Dodge RAM 3500
The 2007 Dodge Ram 3500 may have fewer complaints than earlier models, but it’s still a risky choice for used car buyers. With a staggering 18 recalls, this model year is plagued by steering issues that can pose serious safety risks. From tie rod ends popping off to the infamous ”death wobble,“ these problems can lead to a vehicle control loss and potentially cause significant damage, making the 2007 RAM 3500 a year to avoid.
THE RAM 3500 YEARS TO AVOID
We walk you through the RAM 3500 years to avoid due to potential reliability woes and other types of issues.
Avoid: 2012-2016 RAM 3500
The RAM 3500’s transition into its brand was a bit of a doozy. This particular stretch of the 3500 was rather rough, and we highly recommend avoiding these models altogether.
The 2012 model experienced the dangerous ”death wobble,“ which caused violent shaking at highway speeds. It also had electrical problems like unexpected shut-offs and trailer brake controller failures.
Engine issues, including catastrophic failures and recurring check engine lights, marred the 2013 and 2014 models. These problems often necessitated costly repairs, making these models a potential financial drain for buyers.
Lastly, the 2016 model had critical wheel issues, with reports of wheels detaching unexpectedly and causing accidents or fires. These model years demonstrate a pattern of unreliability, and you should look elsewhere if you’re in the market for the most reliable RAM 3500 year.
Buy: 2017 RAM 3500
Thankfully, the 2017 model year isn’t as problematic and we’re confident in recommending it for used truck buyers. The 2017 RAM 3500 is considered a good buy for used truck buyers, particularly due to its durability and strong performance, even under heavy use. Many owners report significant satisfaction with its reliability, as it commonly functions well without major issues over several years.
However, some owners mention problems with specific components like the DEF system and front end.
10 GREAT TRUCKS WITH THE BEST RESALE VALUE
We compile ten of our top picks for trucks with excellent resale value and what you’ll get if you sell yours today.
Buy: 2018-2020 RAM 3500
Despite some issues, the 2018-2020 model years are generally considered a good choice. These years have shown significant improvements in overall reliability compared to previous generations.
However, it’s important to note that the 2018 RAM 3500 did face some challenges, particularly with its service brakes. Some owners reported problems with the ABS and traction control systems, which could cause the lights to blink on and off intermittently while driving. This issue could also affect the cruise control, causing it to deactivate unexpectedly. In some cases, owners were advised not to drive their trucks until the problem was resolved, which could lead to a complete brake failure.
Despite these concerns, the 2018-2020 RAM 3500 models have generally proven more reliable than their predecessors. Many of the issues that plagued earlier model years, such as the infamous ”death wobble” and widespread engine problems, have been addressed in these newer trucks. The 2019 and 2020 model years, in particular, have received fewer complaints and recalls, indicating a positive trend in reliability.
Get a Curated List of the Best Used Cars Near You
The CoPilot car shopping app is the easiest way to buy a car. Tell us what you’re looking for and we’ll search the inventories of every dealership in your area to make you a personalized list of the best car listings in your area.
The best part? CoPilot is built using the same technology that dealerships use to buy and sell their inventories, so we have more info on each vehicle than competitors. CoPilot doesn’t work with dealerships, so there are no sponsored posts or other shady practices — just the most info on the best cars. Check out our About Us page to see how CoPilot works.
