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What owners say
Our take, from owner reports
Sentiment is sharply divided and heavily dependent on model year and powertrain.
7 problems reported (1 very frequent, 4 recurrent, 1 isolated) · medium confidence
Problems owners report
- Very frequentTransmission problems
Harsh, clunking shifts (especially 1-2 gear), loud "thud" when shifting between Drive and Reverse, general feeling of being outdated and clunky. Associated with the 6-speed automatic; the newer 8-speed (Aisin/ZF) is recommended.
- RecurrentCooling system failures
Cited as a primary reason for frequent downtime on a company-owned Ram 2500 compared to Toyota Tundras.
- RecurrentSteering/suspension problems
Front end described as driving "like garbage" and not tracking straight. Sloppy steering is a recurrent complaint across both older and newer generations. A brand-new 2026 model was delivered with a misaligned steering wheel. Rear coil-spring suspension noted for excessive bouncing/body roll when loaded.
+ 4 more issuesShow fewer
- RecurrentDriveline "thud" or hop
A noticeable thud when coming to a stop at low speeds, potentially related to slip-yoke lubrication. A separate issue of persistent rear-end "hop" at 35-45 mph (56-72 km/h) was unresolved despite multiple professional checks.
- RecurrentTurbocharger (Cummins) ancillary issues
Oil leaks from turbo oil feeds, Variable Geometry Turbo (VGT) actuator failures (seizure or electric motor cooling failure), and turbo shaft play. Noted as common problems that can lead to loss of boost and check engine lights.
- IsolatedElectrical issues
Non-stop problems cited as a reason for Lemon Law action on a 2024 model.
- Engine lifter failures and exhaust manifold issues (Hemi V8)
Acknowledged as known problems, though their frequency in the 2500 series is not detailed in the provided data.
The version owners recommend
Insufficient owner data available to declare a consensus "best" version. Isolated praise exists for the Cummins diesel powertrain, but it is coupled with warnings to avoid the older 6-speed automatic transmission. One owner specifically recommended ensuring the truck is equipped with the Aisin transmission or the newer ZF unit, avoiding the older 6-speed.
Competitors to consider
Owners compare it most often with the Ford F-250/F-350 (Super Duty), GMC Sierra 2500/3500, Chevrolet Silverado 2500/3500 and Toyota Tundra.
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Overall sentiment
Sentiment is sharply divided and heavily dependent on model year and powertrain. For modern trucks (approximately 2017-2026), owner feedback is mixed to negative, with significant criticism focused on persistent mechanical and quality control issues. The interior quality, particularly in higher trims, is frequently praised as a standout positive, often described as superior to competitors. However, this is overshadowed by very frequent reports of transmission problems, electrical issues, and cooling system failures. The 6.7L Cummins turbo-diesel engine is generally respected for its power and smooth delivery, but is associated with expensive ancillary failures. For older generations (e.g., 1996-2002 models), the sentiment is pragmatic; these trucks are viewed as durable workhorses capable of high mileage with known, manageable age-related wear items, though they are not free from chronic design flaws.
Positioning vs competitors
Positioned as having a superior interior in terms of quality and design compared to Ford and GM heavy-duty trucks. The Cummins diesel engine is noted for smooth power delivery. However, it is frequently criticized for inferior reliability and build quality compared to competitors, with specific owner reports citing worse long-term durability than Ford and GM trucks, as well as Toyota Tundras. The Ram is also noted as having the smallest interior headspace/cabin size among the modern "Big Three" heavy-duty trucks, which is a drawback for taller drivers. The consensus suggests it trades perceived interior luxury for mechanical robustness.
Recommended configurations
Insufficient specific configuration data from the provided owner discussions. Isolated recommendations include opting for the Cummins diesel with the Aisin or newer ZF transmission over the older 6-speed automatic. One owner suggested an extended powertrain warranty may be prudent.
General recommendations
Not recommended for buyers prioritizing long-term reliability and low cost of ownership, based on frequent negative reports. Essential to extensively test drive any potential purchase, focusing on transmission behavior at low speeds, steering alignment, and checking for unusual driveline noises. A pre-purchase inspection by a specialist familiar with diesel trucks is strongly advised. For older models (early 2000s and prior), expect to address steering components, suspension wear, and braking systems. For all models, verify maintenance history, particularly for diesel-specific systems like the turbocharger and emissions equipment.
Remarks
Owner discussions span multiple generations, from the 1990s to the 2026 model year, making it difficult to isolate issues to specific production periods without more data. The criticism of modern trucks is severe, with one owner Lemon Lawing a 2024 model and another expressing immediate regret with a 2026 model. The praise for interior quality is consistent but does not offset the mechanical concerns for most commentators. The 6.7L Cummins engine commands respect but is surrounded by costly support system failures. The data suggests a significant gap between the truck's aesthetic/appointment appeal and its perceived mechanical integrity. Analysis based on approximately 35 substantive owner discussions and posts.