The RAM 2500 Years To Avoid
We've identified six RAM 2500 years to avoid. We'll run you through which years (and why) so you can steer clear of these less reliable models when truck shopping.
For those who find a full-size truck lacking, the arena of heavy-duty trucks calls. The RAM 2500 steps up from the RAM 1500, boasting enhanced towing and payload capabilities alongside a greater GVWR, perfectly suiting hefty overlanding rigs. The 2500 truck effortlessly showcases why many people in this segment are big fans of RAM. This mid-range RAM pickup throws down the gauntlet to rivals like the Ford F-250, Chevrolet Silverado 2500HD, and GMC Sierra 2500HD.
The 2500 truck is favored mainly for its all-around excellence. Even though rivals boasted superior performance or greater capacities then, it remained an exceptionally competent vehicle. It still offers outstanding comfort, remarkable safety enhancements, reliable towing prowess, and notable efficiency.
If you’re in the market for a used RAM 2500, remember that not all years are equal. So, for today, we will walk you through the worst RAM 2500 years to avoid due to consumer complaints and reliability issues.
Which RAM 2500 Years To Avoid?
Right off the bat, reliability isn’t the strongest suit of the RAM 2500 pickup trucks. The RAM 2500, according to RepairPal, holds a middling ranking out of all full-size trucks with a reliability score of 2.5 out of 5.0, ranking 10th among its seventeen competitors. Having said that, below are the worst RAM 2500 years to avoid when buying used:
- 2012 RAM 2500
- 2013 RAM 2500
- 2014 RAM 2500
- 2015 RAM 2500
- 2016 RAM 2500
- 2018 RAM 2500
2012 RAM 2500
The 2012 RAM 2500 is one of the less reliable years, no thanks to various notable issues. For starters, the 2012 model was recalled due to fuel heater connectors that could overheat, posing a significant safety risk not just to the vehicle’s functionality but also to the passengers.
In addition, this truck also struggled with faulty steering. Drivers have mentioned that the steering can suddenly act up, especially after driving over bumps or pulling a trailer, making the truck hard to steer. This issue often starts showing up early in the truck’s lifespan, around 23,750 miles on average. Finding a permanent solution has been difficult despite efforts to fix it, including replacing parts like the tie rods.
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2013 RAM 2500
The following year wasn’t so hot for the 2500 truck, as the 2013 model year received hundreds of complaints and a whopping 16 recalls. This truck has a long laundry list of reliability woes, but the most concerning one lies with its engine.
Owners of the 2013 RAM 2500 have reported significant engine issues, including unexpected power loss and critical failures in components like the diesel particulate filter and turbo unit, starting around 28,321 miles on average. These problems can lead to dangerous situations on the road and, of course, costly repairs down the line.
Moreover, this truck also had problems with the dreaded “death wobble.” This phenomenon is a severe vibration that occurs at high speeds, particularly after hitting bumps or potholes. With an average failure mileage of 35,100 miles, owners describe the wobble as violent and terrifying, enough to blur vision and force the vehicle to a halt to regain control.
2014 RAM 2500
Another year, another problematic version of the RAM 2500. Sadly, the 2014 iteration has also received hundreds of complaints and 16 recalls. This is one of the worst RAM 2500 years to avoid due to widespread engine woes.
There is a concerning fault with a bolt in the intake plenum of the 6.7L Cummins diesel engines. If the #6 cylinder ingests the bolt, it can loosen and break off, leading to catastrophic engine failure. This issue is usually indicated by a loose preheater wire on the intake plenum and poses a significant risk of total engine failure if not promptly addressed. In addition, there are reports of systemic defects causing overheating and coolant breakdown, leading to expensive repairs such as thermostat failure, heater core clogs, and EGR cooler blockages.
2015 RAM 2500
Unfortunately, the 2015 model is yet another problematic year for the 2500 truck. CarComplaints has documented 281 complaints and 15 recalls for the 2015 iteration, as well as familiar and new reliability issues.
For starters, this truck also had trouble with excessive vibrations at high speeds, aka the “death wobble.” Owners of the 2015 RAM 2500 have reported experiencing almost violent shaking at highway speeds, which severely affected the driving experience. The vibration was strong enough to cause loss of control and eject items from seats.
Furthermore, the 2015 RAM 2500 has been the subject of multiple engine complaints, with issues surfacing at an average mileage of 27,847. Among the prominent problems reported is a disturbing ticking noise traced back to broken exhaust manifold bolts, a defect that raises questions about the durability of these components. Despite the prevalence of this issue, the manufacturer has yet to announce a recall.
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2016 RAM 2500
With over 300 consumer complaints and 13 recalls, the 2016 RAM 2500 is a model year that should be approached with caution. In addition to the all-too-familiar engine issues, this truck also had vehicle speed control problems.
The ABS and traction control systems have been reported to malfunction simultaneously, compromising the vehicle’s braking efficiency, cruise control, and 4-wheel drive capabilities. These are critical features for safe winter driving. Owners have shared experiences of suddenly losing these functions, leading to potentially dangerous situations. For example, one driver reported a near miss due to the abrupt failure of the cruise control and related systems while navigating a steep grade.
2018 RAM 2500
Last but certainly not least, the 2018 year is easily the least reliable version of the 2500 truck, receiving over a thousand complaints and seven recalls.
The most commonly reported issues are related to the service brakes, with many complaints about failures in the ABS. These failures include malfunctioning ABS and traction control lights flashing erratically, which have caused some drivers to experience a complete loss of ABS functionality. These problems often occur early in the vehicle’s life, typically at around 1,024 miles on average. Additionally, in several cases, the Hydraulic Control Unit (HCU) was found to be defective, further complicating the situation. Avoid this model year if you can help it.
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