Are Dodge Rams expensive to maintain?
Yes. Relative to most passenger cars, Ram pickups typically cost more to keep on the road, though they are on par with other full-size pickups when you account for engine choices and how they’re used.
Maintenance costs for Ram trucks vary widely by model, powertrain, and usage. The Ram 1500 is lighter-duty and generally cheaper to service than the heavier Ram 2500 or 3500, and diesel or hybrid options add specific maintenance needs. This article breaks down the main cost drivers and offers tips to manage expenses over the life of the truck.
Cost drivers for Ram trucks
The following factors influence how much you’ll pay to maintain a Ram, across the lineup from the light-duty 1500 to the heavy-duty 2500/3500.
- Powertrain complexity and engine choice. Gasoline V6/V8 options, the EcoDiesel, and the eTorque mild-hybrid system each have different service needs and part costs. More complex or newer systems can raise maintenance bills.
- Diesel-specific systems. EcoDiesel and Cummins-powered models require DEF fluid, diesel particulate filter (DPF) management, and more specialized service, which can increase routine maintenance costs.
- Transmission and drivetrain components. Ram’s eight-speed automatic transmissions and, on 4x4 versions, transfer cases and differentials, add to service requirements and replacement costs if issues arise.
- Suspension and chassis systems. Higher trims may use air suspension or heavy-duty components that can be more expensive to repair or replace than a standard coil-spring setup.
- Brakes and tires. Rams are heavy and often ride on larger wheels and tires; brake components and tire wear can be higher in both cost and frequency, especially with 2500/3500 models or off-road use.
- Routine maintenance scheduling. Oil changes, filter replacements, fluid services, and inspections follow manufacturer intervals; synthetic oil and specialty fluids can add to the bill over time.
- Parts availability and labor costs. Dealer labor rates and the availability of aftermarket parts vary by region and model year, influencing total maintenance spend.
In practice, a Ram 1500 with a gasoline engine will typically cost less to maintain year-to-year than a Ram 2500 or 3500 with a diesel, due to simpler systems and lighter payload demands. Diesel-heavy or technologically advanced variants bring added ongoing costs, even if they offer better long-term durability in some use cases.
Model notes: maintenance profiles by Ram lineup
Understanding how maintenance differs across the lineup helps buyers and owners estimate ongoing costs.
Ram 1500: the light-duty workhorse
As the lighter Ram model, the 1500’s maintenance profile centers on common pickup tasks: routine oil changes, brake service, tires, and drivetrain fluids. Gasoline engines are generally cheaper to service than diesels, and options with the eTorque mild-hybrid system introduce some additional components and software maintenance. Diesel-powered 1500s (EcoDiesel) bring efficiency benefits but require DEF, DPF management, and more specialized maintenance work.
Ram 2500/3500: heavy-duty workhorses
The heavy-duty Ram 2500 and 3500 emphasize torque, payload, and towing capability, often with more robust transmissions and, in many cases, diesel powertrains such as the Cummins. Maintenance can be pricier due to larger brakes, heavier axles, and diesel-specific systems. Routine services follow heavier-duty schedules, and diesel variants add DEF, filtration, and exhaust-related maintenance that can raise lifetime costs compared with the 1500’s gasoline options.
Overall, the heavier-duty Ram models tend to have higher maintenance bills, but they’re built for durability under load. The diesel options offer fuel economy advantages for long-distance use and heavy towing, at the cost of higher ongoing maintenance requirements.
Strategies to save on Ram maintenance
Owners can control long-term costs by planning care, choosing the right configuration for their needs, and taking proactive steps to prevent problems before they escalate.
- Follow the official maintenance schedule and use recommended fluids and filters. Sticking to manufacturer guidelines helps prevent premature wear and costly repairs.
- Choose powertrains that align with your needs. If you don’t regularly tow heavy loads or travel long distances, a gasoline 1500 may be cheaper to maintain than a diesel-heavy setup.
- Consider warranty coverage or maintenance plans. A factory-backed or third-party maintenance plan can provide predictable costs and reduce surprise repairs.
- Keep up with tires and brake maintenance. Regular tire rotation, alignment checks, and timely brake service extend component life and preserve safety.
- Shop around for service. Independent shops with diesel or heavy-duty expertise can be more affordable for certain jobs compared to a dealer, especially for non-warranty work.
- Invest in preventive care. Regular inspections, fluid level checks, and addressing small issues early can prevent larger, costlier failures later.
Costs still vary by region, model year, and how you use the truck, but proactive maintenance and careful powertrain choice can keep ownership within reasonable bounds for a full-size pickup.
Summary
Maintenance for Ram trucks tends to be higher than for average passenger cars, driven by size, powertrain options, and available technologies. The 1500 is typically more affordable to service than the 2500/3500, and diesel variants incur diesel-specific upkeep. By choosing the right model for your needs, sticking to maintenance schedules, and shopping wisely for service, you can manage these costs effectively while maintaining performance and reliability.
Bottom line: Rams are not inherently expensive to maintain, but their total cost of ownership reflects their role as full-size, capable pickups. With proper care and informed powertrain choices, owners can keep maintenance costs predictable and manageable.
Are Ram trucks expensive to fix?
The average annual repair cost for a Ram is $858, which means it has average ownership costs.
What dodge rams to stay away from?
Years to be cautious about include 2003 Ram 1500s for serious airbag defects and frame rust, 2012-2016 and 2018 Ram 2500s for chronic issues like brake failure and turbo problems, and models with the air suspension system, as these are expensive to repair. Additionally, the first model year of a new generation, such as the 2019 Ram 1500, often has bugs that are fixed in subsequent years.
Dodge Ram 1500
- 2003: This is the worst year to avoid due to a major airbag defect (a recall was issued in 2015) and widespread complaints about rust and paint quality.
- 2014, 2016, 2019: These years have reports of power steering failure, a significant safety risk.
- 2019: As the first year of its generation, this model year is prone to issues that were later resolved, such as certain electrical system problems.
Dodge Ram 2500
- 2012-2016 and 2018: These years are associated with severe reliability issues including brake system failures, faulty steering components, turbocharger breakdowns, and transmission defects.
Models to avoid if equipped
- Air suspension system: Ram 1500s equipped with this system can be very expensive to repair, and the system may not be durable enough for harsh climates.
Why are thieves targeting Ram trucks?
The new Dodge Ram trucks are popular targets for thieves because of their high value. These trucks are in high demand and can fetch a high price on the black market, making them an attractive target for organized theft rings. Link to the featured video: https://youtu.be/ZPi3hy0W7Sc Grab a copy of my book: https://pa.
Is it expensive to own a RAM?
On average, it will cost $66,757 to own a RAM for 5 years. This includes depreciation, insurance, maintenance, financing charges and fuel costs. Depreciation, or the value that the car has lost over time, is generally predictable.
