Do Dodge Rams last long?
Yes — with proper maintenance, Ram pickup trucks can last a long time. Diesel-powered Rams, especially the Cummins-equipped HDs, are renowned for durability; gasoline Rams can reach high mileages with routine care.
This article examines what drives longevity, how diesel and gasoline powertrains compare, and practical steps owners can take to maximize lifespan.
Engine options and longevity
Ram trucks offer a range of engines, and engine design heavily influences expected life. Below are the key considerations for diesel versus gasoline powertrains.
Cummins diesel (6.7L) and longevity
The Cummins 6.7L turbo-diesel is widely regarded for durability and long service intervals. With regular servicing and the right fuel and oil plan, many owners see hundreds of thousands of miles. Common maintenance tasks include timely oil changes, fuel filter changes, and keeping the cooling system in good shape. Diesel exhaust fluid (DEF) systems also need attention to prevent performance issues.
- Very high potential lifespan with proper maintenance (well over 200,000 miles, often surpassing 300,000).
- Strong torque and robust engine block contribute to longevity in heavy-duty use.
- Higher maintenance costs but typically lower frequency of certain failures compared with some gasoline engines.
With careful care, the Cummins powertrain is frequently cited as one of the reasons Ram HDs achieve impressive long-term durability.
Gasoline engines (Hemi and other) and longevity
Gasoline Ram engines, such as the 5.7L Hemi and the 3.6L Pentastar in lighter configurations, can deliver strong reliability with proper maintenance. Maintenance costs are generally lower than diesel, and parts availability is robust. Longevity commonly reaches the 200,000-mile mark for well-kept trucks, with many owners reporting longer lifespans under moderate use.
- Life expectancy typically around 200,000 miles with routine maintenance; many reach 250,000 miles or more.
- Transmissions and front-end components are parts to monitor; proper service helps prevent major failures.
- Maintenance complexity is lower than diesel, but neglect can reduce life significantly.
Gas Rams offer solid longevity, but the upper-end mileage is often tied to how proactively the owner maintains fluids, belts, and cooling systems.
Real-world longevity by model line
In the field, owners report long lifespans across Ram’s lineup, with heavy-duty diesel models frequently reaching hundreds of thousands of miles. Light-duty Ram 1500 pickups tend to hit meaningful milestones with consistent servicing, while 2500/3500 HD models with diesel engines are often kept as workhorses for years, depending on usage and maintenance.
- Ram 1500 (gasoline): common to reach 200k+ miles with good maintenance.
- Ram 1500 (EcoDiesel or other diesel variants): potential for higher longevity, though early EcoDiesel versions require careful maintenance of emissions equipment.
- Ram 2500/3500 (diesel): long lifespans reported, frequently >300k miles when well cared for and used within design specs.
In practice, owners who stick to service schedules, use quality oils and filters, and address issues promptly tend to see longer life.
Maintenance practices that extend life
Regular, attentive maintenance is the single most impactful factor in how long a Ram lasts. The following practices help maximize durability and performance.
- Follow the manufacturer’s recommended service intervals for oil, filters, coolant, and fuel systems; diesel engines require more frequent attention to fuel and DEF systems.
- Use quality oils and fluids appropriate for the engine and climate; consider long-life coolant and high-quality fuel filters for diesel models.
- Keep the cooling system healthy to prevent overheating, a common cause of engine wear in hot climates or heavy towing.
- Address rust and frame protection, especially in regions that use road salt; regular inspections catch corrosion before it becomes structural.
- Perform timely transmission and drivetrain maintenance, including fluid changes and belt/hoses inspections.
- Observe towing and load guidelines to avoid excessive stress on the engine, transmission, and rear axle.
- Maintain the electrical and sensor systems; modern Ram trucks rely on electronics and sensors that, if neglected, can cause intermittent failures.
Adhering to these practices can significantly extend the usable life of a Ram truck, making long service life a realistic expectation for both gas and diesel models.
Summary
Ram trucks can last a long time with proper care, and the engine choice matters. Diesel-powered Ram HDs (Cummins) are renowned for durability and can surpass 300,000 miles with diligent maintenance; gasoline Rams commonly reach or exceed 200,000 miles when maintained well. The key factors are regular service, responsible towing and usage, climate protection, and addressing issues early rather than postponing repairs. Overall, the Ram brand remains competitive in the longevity department within the pickup segment, especially for buyers who prioritize durability and total cost of ownership over the life of the vehicle.
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Do Rams last longer than Fords?
Which truck lasts longer: the Ram 1500 or Ford F-150? With proper maintenance and care, the Ram 1500 and Ford F-150 can last over 200,000 miles. However, the Ram 1500 boasts a higher reliability score1 than the F-150,1 along with lower average repair and maintenance costs.
What is the average lifespan of a Dodge Ram?
200,000 to 300,000 miles
The Lifespan of a RAM Truck: Miles and Years
A well-maintained RAM truck can last 200,000 to 300,000 miles, and in many cases, even more. That's about 13 to 20 years of service for the average driver covering 15,000 miles per year.
Do Rams break down a lot?
2025 Ram Pickup Truck Reliability
The Ram 1500 is a consistent award-winner across numerous websites, such as Car and Driver and Motor Trend, for over a decade. Fourth-generation Ram 1500 models, like 2013 and 2014, are well-known for their longevity, with many models cresting the 100,000-mile mark with few issues.
