How do I know if my Ram 1500 is a DT or DS?

If you own a Ram 1500 pickup truck, it's important to know whether your vehicle is a DT or DS model. The DT and DS designations refer to the different generations of the Ram 1500, and understanding the differences can help you make informed decisions about maintenance, upgrades, and compatibility with accessories. In this article, we'll provide a detailed guide on how to identify your Ram 1500 as a DT or DS model.

Identifying the Ram 1500 Model Generation

The Ram 1500 has gone through several generations over the years, and the DT and DS models represent two distinct versions of the truck. The DT model is the fourth-generation Ram 1500, which was introduced in 2019 and is the current model year. The DS model is the third-generation Ram 1500, which was produced from 2009 to 2018.

Distinguishing Between the DT and DS Models

There are several key differences between the DT and DS models of the Ram 1500 that can help you identify which one you have:

• Exterior Design: The DT model has a more modern, angular design with a larger grille and more pronounced fender flares, while the DS model has a more rounded, traditional appearance.


• Headlights: The DT model features LED headlights, while the DS model has halogen headlights.


• Bed Size: The DT model is available with a 5.7-foot, 6.4-foot, or 8-foot bed, while the DS model is available with a 5.7-foot or 6.4-foot bed.


• Engine Options: The DT model offers a range of engine options, including a 3.6-liter V6, a 5.7-liter V8, and a 3.0-liter diesel V6, while the DS model was available with a 3.7-liter V6, a 4.7-liter V8, a 5.7-liter V8, and a 3.0-liter diesel V6.

To determine the specific model of your Ram 1500, you can check the VIN (Vehicle Identification Number) or consult your vehicle's documentation. The DT model will have a VIN starting with "1C6" or "1D6", while the DS model will have a VIN starting with "1D7".

Importance of Knowing Your Ram 1500 Model

Knowing whether your Ram 1500 is a DT or DS model is important for several reasons:

• Maintenance and Repairs: Different model years and generations may require different maintenance schedules, parts, and procedures, so it's crucial to know which model you have to ensure proper maintenance and repairs.


• Accessory Compatibility: Accessories and aftermarket parts may be designed specifically for either the DT or DS model, so knowing your model will help you find the right parts and ensure a proper fit.


• Resale Value: The DT and DS models have different resale values, so knowing your model can help you make informed decisions about buying, selling, or trading your Ram 1500.

By following the guidelines in this article, you can easily identify whether your Ram 1500 is a DT or DS model, which will help you make informed decisions about your vehicle and ensure it continues to perform at its best.

What is a Ram 1500 DT model?

The Ram 1500 (DT) is the fifth generation of the Ram Pickup, manufactured by the Ram Trucks division of Stellantis.

How do I know if I have a RAM DS or DT?

You can tell if you have a RAM DS or DT model by checking the body style, VIN, or the vehicle's identification plate. The DT is the newer, fifth-generation model (2019 and up), while the DS is the older, fourth-generation model that is now sold as the "Classic". Look for the "DS" or "DT" code on the vehicle's compliance plate or use an online VIN decoder for definitive confirmation.
 
Method 1: Check the body style and features

• DT (Newer, 5th generation, 2019+): Features a modern, new-body style with distinct front-end styling. It has two gas engine options plus a diesel option, and comes with a touchscreen infotainment system, often with 8.4-inch or 12-inch screens on higher trims. 
• DS (Older, 4th generation, sold as "Classic"): Has the older, classic body style and a bolder grille. It has two gas engine options but no diesel, and its interior and technology are less advanced than the DT model. 

Method 2: Use the VIN decoder 

• Find your 17-character Vehicle Identification Number (VIN), which can be found on the driver's side dashboard or on the vehicle's compliance plate. 
• Use an online VIN decoder from a source like Mopar or other sites to look up the vehicle's specifications. The results will tell you the exact model year and trim, which you can cross-reference to determine if it's a DT or DS model. 

Method 3: Check the vehicle identification plate 

• Locate the vehicle's compliance plate. You can often find this on the driver's side door jamb or under the hood.
• Look for an "IPA" compliance plate (before SVI marking) or "RAV" entry, which will indicate whether the vehicle is a DS or DT model. 

How do I tell what model Ram 1500 I have?

To find your specific Ram 1500 model and trim, use your Vehicle Identification Number (VIN), which is a 17-character code found on the driver's side dashboard near the windshield or on the driver's side doorjamb. You can then input this VIN into an online decoder tool, such as the official Mopar VIN lookup, to get specific details about your truck. For a general idea of models, common trims include the Tradesman, Big Horn, Laramie, and Rebel, with the 2019 model year distinguishing the newer DT generation from the older DS (now called the 1500 Classic) generation. 
Step 1: Find your VIN

• Dashboard: Look through the bottom right corner of the windshield from the outside of the truck. 
• Doorjamb: Check the label on the driver's side doorframe. 
• Documents: The VIN is also on your vehicle's registration, title, and insurance documents. 

Step 2: Decode your VIN

• Use an online VIN decoder tool to identify your specific truck. 
• Some options include the official Mopar VIN lookup or other vehicle information sites. 

Step 3: Identify the model and trim

• The VIN will provide the most accurate information about your truck's specific sub-model and features. 
• If your truck is a 2019 or newer, it is part of the newer generation (DT). If it is a 2018 or older, or is a previous-generation model sold alongside the new one, it is the older generation (DS) which is now marketed as the 1500 Classic. 
• The decoded information will tell you the trim, such as Tradesman, Big Horn, Laramie, or Rebel. 

What is the difference between Ram 1500 DS and DT?

The main difference is that the Ram 1500 DT is the newer generation with a modern design, and the Ram 1500 DS (now called the "Classic") is the older generation that continues to be produced at a lower price point. Key distinctions include exterior styling, significantly different capability (especially towing), and interior technology, where the DT is more advanced with larger infotainment screens and a more luxurious feel.
 
You can watch this video to see a comparison of the Ram 1500 DT and DS models: 57sHemi MikeYouTube · May 17, 2023
Exterior and design

• DT: Features a newer, more modern body style with a bolder grille, higher-mounted headlights, and a different overall profile. 
• DS: Has the older, more traditional body style. 

Performance and capability

• DT: Offers higher maximum towing (up to 12,750 lbs) and payload (up to 2,302 lbs) capacities and also includes a diesel engine option. 
• DS: Has a lower maximum towing capacity (5,020 lbs) and payload (1,923 lbs). 

Interior and technology

• DT: Features a more modern and luxurious interior with larger infotainment touchscreens (8.4-inch up to 12-inch). 
• DS: Has a well-designed, but less advanced, interior with standard features. 

This video highlights the interior differences between the Ram 1500 DT and DS models: 1mB MasonYouTube · Sep 9, 2022
Cab and bed configurations

• DT: Available with a Quad Cab and a Crew Cab.
• DS: Available in Quad Cab, Crew Cab, and Single Cab configurations. 

Model availability

• DT: The current-generation Ram 1500. 
• DS: The previous-generation Ram 1500, sold as the "Classic" to offer a lower-priced option.