RAM 1500
Pick-up · Gas · 94 versions · owner report
Ranked #5 of 6 full-size pickup trucks on owner data, price and fuel economy
Every generation
Power
0–62 mph (0–100 km/h)
Top speed (274 km/h)
Combined, EPA 2027
What owners say
Our take, from owner reports
Mixed sentiment with a strong generational divide.
7 problems reported (4 recurrent, 3 isolated) · medium confidence
Problems owners report
- RecurrentMajor Engine Failures (Crankshaft, Hemi issues)
Reports of crankshaft replacement and other significant engine failures, particularly in earlier generations (pre-2019).
- RecurrentElectrical / Electronic Problems
Random electronic hiccups, infotainment issues, and general electrical gremlins.
- RecurrentAir Suspension Failure
Noted as unreliable and expensive to repair; frequently advised to avoid.
+ 4 more issuesShow fewer
- RecurrentQuality Control / Build Consistency
Described as "hit or miss" with more random issues than competitors.
- IsolatedRear Window Leaks
Water leakage into cabin, particularly when using high-pressure car washes.
- IsolatedFuel System Problems
Imploding fuel systems mentioned as a failure point on a 2014 model.
- IsolatedTransfer Case Failure
Replacement required under warranty on a 2020 model.
The version owners recommend
For the 5th generation (DT, 2019+), the Limited or Longhorn trims are most frequently recommended for maximizing luxury, comfort, and feature content. The Rebel trim is recommended for its off-road aesthetics and capability. For the 4th generation, specific trims are not highlighted, but the 5.7L Hemi is the dominant engine mentioned. There is a clear owner preference for the simpler, naturally aspirated V8 over complex hybrid or turbo systems for long-term ownership concerns.
Competitors to consider
Owners compare it most often with the Ford F-150, Chevrolet Silverado / GMC Sierra, Toyota Tundra, Nissan Titan and Honda Ridgeline.
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Overall sentiment
Mixed sentiment with a strong generational divide. Long-term owner reports for the 5th generation (DT, 2019+) are overwhelmingly positive, praising its best-in-class ride comfort, luxurious and spacious interior, and powerful engine options. The truck is frequently described as the most comfortable and car-like full-size truck to drive daily, with specific praise for the Limited and Longhorn trims. However, significant criticism is directed at reliability, with reports of major, costly failures (e.g., crankshaft, fuel systems, air suspension) in earlier generations and isolated but serious issues in newer models. Electrical problems and concerns about long-term durability of complex systems (e.g., eTorque, air suspension) are recurrent themes. The consensus indicates high satisfaction for buyers prioritizing interior luxury and ride quality, tempered by caution regarding potential repair costs and brand reliability compared to domestic competitors.
Positioning vs competitors
Positioned as the interior and comfort leader in the half-ton segment. Consistently praised for superior ride quality, interior material quality, and cabin space compared to Ford F-150 and GM twins. The 5.7L Hemi V8 is noted for its power and sound but is often compared unfavorably to Ford's Coyote V8 and EcoBoost engines in terms of perceived reliability and technology. The diesel (EcoDiesel) option is considered a competent rival to GM's 3.0L Duramax, with later generations (2019+) noted as more reliable. Against Toyota Tundra, the Ram is seen as more refined and comfortable but potentially less reliable long-term. The truck is generally seen as offering better value via significant dealer discounts, especially on high-trim models, but may suffer from poorer resale value and a higher likelihood of random, costly repairs compared to Ford and GM.
Recommended configurations
The 5.7L Hemi V8 is the most discussed and recommended engine for its power and relative simplicity. All-wheel drive (4x4) is recommended for resale and traction. The multi-function tailgate and RamBox bedside storage are highlighted as highly useful, favorite features. There is a strong recommendation to avoid the air suspension due to reliability concerns. An extended warranty is frequently suggested due to potential for expensive electronic and drivetrain repairs. For towing, the 3.92 rear axle ratio is recommended.
General recommendations
Suitable for buyers who prioritize daily driving comfort, interior luxury, and a smooth ride above all else in a full-size truck. Ideal for those who can secure significant dealer discounts (reports of $8,000-$12,000 off MSRP) to improve value proposition. Recommended for owners who are proactive about maintenance and consider an extended warranty a wise investment. NOT recommended for buyers seeking the absolute highest long-term reliability with minimal repair risk, where Ford or Toyota are frequently suggested as alternatives. A thorough pre-purchase inspection is critical, especially for used models, focusing on the engine, transmission, and for signs of electrical gremlins. For used purchases targeting 400,000 km, a well-maintained 5.7L Hemi with the 8-speed automatic transmission is the stated target, but with acknowledged risk.
Remarks
Owner feedback is heavily generation-dependent. The 5th generation (DT) launched in 2019 receives the most praise for its dramatic improvement in interior quality and ride refinement. The 5.7L Hemi and ZF 8-speed automatic transmission are considered a reliable and powerful drivetrain combo, though not without fault. The brand's reputation for offering deep discounts on new vehicles significantly influences the value perception and purchase advice. Discussions indicate that "Ram" as a brand suffers from a reliability stereotype, but individual model years and powertrains can be very dependable, emphasizing the need to research specific configurations. Analysis based on owner discussions spanning models from 2004 to 2025.
Generation by generation
Owner insights per generation and US complaint/recall records (NHTSA).
Complaints and recalls by model yearWorst year: 2022. Years to avoid: 2022, 2019Source: NHTSA (US)Show table
Each year graded against the model's other years: Year Score. See all RAM 1500 years to avoid
| Year | Complaints | Recalls | Most-reported area |
|---|---|---|---|
| 2023 | 606 | 11 | electrical system |
| 2022 | 3,726 | 16 | engine |
| 2021 | 2,043 | 15 | engine |
| 2020 | 1,278 | 14 | electrical system |
| 2019 | 2,974 | 30 | electrical system |
| 2018 | 662 | 15 | electrical system |
| 2017 | 881 | 13 | steering |
| 2016 | 1,547 | 17 | steering |
| 2015 | 1,456 | 18 | steering |
| 2014 | 1,771 | 17 | steering |
| 2013 | 3,834 | 12 | steering |
| 2012 | 2,091 | 7 | electrical system |
| 2011 | 2,067 | 4 | electrical system |
Complaint counts come from owner reports filed with the US National Highway Traffic Safety Administration. Higher-selling years naturally accumulate more complaints.
Recall notices189 on record · Source: NHTSA (US)Show recalls
2023 · back over prevention:display functioncampaign 23V059000
Chrysler (FCA US, LLC) is recalling certain 2021-2023 Ram 1500 and 2023 Ram 2500 vehicles. The trailer reverse steering control module (TRSCM) may prevent the rearview image from displaying when the vehicle is placed in reverse. As such, these vehicles fail to comply with the requirements of Federal Motor Vehicle Safety Standard number 111, "Rear Visibility."
2023 · fuel system, diesel:delivery:fuel pumpcampaign 23V263000
Chrysler (FCA US, LLC) is recalling certain 2021-2023 Jeep Wrangler, Gladiator, and 2022-2023 Ram 1500 vehicles equipped with a 3.0L diesel engine. The high pressure fuel pump (HPFP) may fail.
2023 · back over prevention:display functioncampaign 23V654000
Chrysler (FCA US, LLC) is recalling certain 2022-2023 Ram 1500, Ram 3500 Cab Chassis with GVWR less than 10,000 lbs., and 2022-2024 Ram 2500 vehicles. The radio software may prevent the rearview image from displaying. As such, these vehicles fail to comply with the requirements of Federal Motor Vehicle Safety Standard number 111, "Rear Visibility."
2023 · steering:steering control modulecampaign 23V799000
Chrysler (FCA US, LLC) is recalling certain 2023 Ram 1500 Classic, Ram 3500 Classic, 3500 Cab Chassis, 2023-2024 Ram 2500, 4500/5500 Cab Chassis, and Ram 3500 vehicles. The steering column control module may cause the high beams to activate when the turn signal is used or activate the turn signal when the high beams are used. In addition, the turn signal self-canceling feature may not function properly. As such, these vehicles fail to comply with the requirements of Federal Motor Vehicle Safety Standard number 108, "Lamps, Reflective Devices, and Associated Equipment."
2023 · air bags:frontal:driver clockspring/spiral cassettecampaign 24V199000
Chrysler (FCA US, LLC) (Stellantis) is recalling certain 2023-2024 Ram 1500, Jeep Wrangler, Jeep Wagoneer, Jeep Grand Wagoneer, Chrysler Pacifica, Ram 3500, Ram 3500 cab chassis, Ram 2500, Ram 4500 cab chassis, Ram 5500 cab chassis, 2023 Jeep Gladiator, Jeep Grand Cherokee, Jeep Grand Cherokee L, Ram 3500 Cab Chassis with a GVWR less than 10,000 lbs., and Chrysler Voyager vehicles. The steering column control module may not be welded properly, which can prevent the driver's air bag from deploying in a crash. As such, these vehicles fail to comply with the requirements of Federal Motor Vehicle Safety Standard number 208, "Occupant Crash Protection."
2023 · power train:automatic transmissioncampaign 24V413000
Chrysler (FCA US, LLC) is recalling certain 2023 Ram 1500, 2500, and 3500 vehicles. An insufficient weld in the transmission control unit can allow transmission fluid to leak on to electrical components, resulting in a loss of drive power or loss of park function.
2023 · service brakes, hydraulic:antilock/traction control/electronic limited slip:control unit/modulecampaign 24V653000
Chrysler (FCA US, LLC) is recalling certain 2019, 2021-2024 Ram 1500 vehicles. Due to a software malfunction, the anti-lock brake system (ABS) control module may disable the electronic stability control system. As such, these vehicles fail to comply with the requirements of Federal Motor Vehicle Safety Standard number 126, "Electronic Stability Control Systems."
2023 · steering:steering control modulecampaign 24V729000
Chrysler (FCA US, LLC) is recalling certain 2023-2024 Ram 1500 vehicles. The turn signal self-canceling feature may not function properly. As such, these vehicles fail to comply with the requirements of Federal Motor Vehicle Safety Standard number 108, "Lamps, Reflective devices, and Associated Equipment."
2023 · visibility:rearview mirrors/devicescampaign 24V754000
Chrysler (FCA US, LLC) is recalling certain 2020-2023 Ram 1500 Classic vehicles equipped with heated trailer tow rearview mirrors. The mirror glass may detach from the driver's side heated trailer tow rearview mirror. As such these vehicles fail to comply with the requirements of Federal Motor Vehicle Safety Standard number 111, "Rear Visibility."
2023 · air bagscampaign 25V298000
Chrysler (FCA US, LLC) is recalling certain 2019-2024 Ram 1500 vehicles. The driver's side air bag may not be connected properly, which can cause the air bag not to deploy as intended. As such, these vehicles fail to comply with the requirements of Federal Motor Vehicle Safety Standard number 208, "Occupant Crash Protection."
2023 · seat belts:rear/other:anchoragecampaign 26V495000
Chrysler (FCA US, LLC) is recalling certain 2019-2026 Ram 1500 vehicles. The second-row center and left-side seat belt buckle anchors may have been improperly installed. As such, these vehicles fail to comply with the requirements of Federal Motor Vehicle Safety Standard number 210, "Seat Belt Assembly Anchorages."
2022 · visibility:defroster/defogger/hvac system:windshield:electrical heating elementcampaign 21V871000
Chrysler (FCA US, LLC) is recalling certain 2022 Ram 1500 vehicles. These vehicles may have been built with incompatible heating, ventilation, and air conditioning systems (HVAC), resulting in the windshield defrosting and defogging system being inoperable to drivers. As such, these vehicles fail to comply with the requirements of Federal Motor Vehicle Safety Standard number 103, "Windshield Defrosting and Defogging Systems."
2022 · back over prevention:display functioncampaign 22V407000
Chrysler (FCA US, LLC) is recalling certain 2022 Ram 1500, 2500 pickup trucks, and 3500 Cab Chassis vehicles with GVWR less than 10,000 lbs. The radio software may prevent the rearview image from displaying. As such, these vehicles fail to comply with the requirements of Federal Motor Vehicle Safety Standard number 111, "Rear Visibility."
2022 · seat belts:pretensionercampaign 22V766000
Chrysler (FCA US, LLC) is recalling certain 2022 Ram 1500, Jeep Gladiator, and 2021 Jeep Wrangler vehicles. The front seat belt retractors may have an improperly welded micro gas generator, which can result in seat belt pretensioner failure.
2022 · fuel system, gasoline:delivery:fuel pumpcampaign 22V767000
Chrysler (FCA US, LLC) is recalling certain 2020-2022 Jeep Wrangler, Ram 1500, and 2021-2022 Jeep Gladiator vehicles equipped with 3.0L diesel engines. The high pressure fuel pump (HPFP) may fail, causing an engine stall.
174 older recalls not shown. Check nhtsa.gov with your VIN for the full history.
Specifications
Enthusiast code: DT
Rumble Bee SRT 6.2 HEMI V8 TorqueFlite
6.2L 8-cylinder · 777 hp · AWD · automatic
Built 2026