How long does a 5.7 Hemi engine last?

The 5.7 Hemi engine, a popular V8 engine produced by Chrysler, is known for its durability and long lifespan. With proper maintenance and care, a 5.7 Hemi engine can typically last for 200,000 miles or more.

Factors Affecting the Lifespan of a 5.7 Hemi Engine

The longevity of a 5.7 Hemi engine depends on several factors, including driving conditions, maintenance, and usage. Here are some key considerations:

• Driving Conditions: Engines that are driven in harsh conditions, such as towing heavy loads or frequent off-road use, may have a shorter lifespan compared to those used for regular commuting or highway driving.


• Maintenance: Regular oil changes, tune-ups, and other recommended maintenance tasks are crucial for extending the life of a 5.7 Hemi engine. Neglecting these can lead to premature wear and tear.li>
  
• Usage: Engines that are subjected to high-performance driving, such as frequent acceleration and high-RPM operation, may experience more wear and tear over time compared to those used for more moderate driving.

By following the manufacturer's recommended maintenance schedule and driving the vehicle within its intended parameters, owners can expect their 5.7 Hemi engines to provide reliable performance for many years and miles.

Typical Lifespan of a 5.7 Hemi Engine

Under normal driving conditions and with proper maintenance, a 5.7 Hemi engine can typically last for 200,000 miles or more. Some well-maintained engines have been known to reach 300,000 miles or even higher. However, it's important to note that individual results may vary depending on the factors mentioned earlier.

To ensure the longevity of a 5.7 Hemi engine, it's recommended to follow the manufacturer's maintenance schedule, use high-quality parts and fluids, and avoid excessive high-performance driving or towing heavy loads whenever possible.

What year 5.7 Hemi to avoid?

The "bad" years for the 5.7 Hemi include 2005-2008, which are prone to valve seat failure, and 2011-2012, known for lifter and camshaft issues and the "Hemi tick". Other years like 2014-2016 in Ram trucks also have reported issues. 
This video explains the causes and consequences of the 5.7 Hemi engine's valve seat problems: 56sMarspeedYouTube · Nov 20, 2020
Pre-2009 models (Valve Seat Drop) 

• Problem: Prematurely dropping valve seats, often a major and costly engine failure. 
• Cause: The steel valve seat can fall out of the aluminum cylinder head due to the different rates at which the two metals expand when heated. 
• Model years: 2003-2008. 

This video explains the causes and consequences of the 5.7 Hemi engine's lifter and camshaft failures: 57sJack FletcherYouTube · Dec 10, 2022
2009+ models (Hemi Tick) 

• Problem: A "Hemi tick" caused by exhaust manifold leaks or, in later models, a more serious issue of lifter/camshaft wear. 
• Cause: Exhaust manifold bolts can break, causing a ticking sound. A more serious problem involves lifter seizure and subsequent damage to the camshaft. 
• Model years:
  • 2011-2012: Specifically notorious for the lifter and camshaft problems. 
  • 2014-2022: Multiple vehicles in this range have been cited in the "Hemi tick" lawsuit, which alleges defects related to the noise and potential loss of power. 

This video explains common problems and reliability issues of the 5.7 Hemi engine: 58s8020 AutomotiveYouTube · Oct 13, 2022
Other problematic years

• 2014-2016 (Ram trucks): These years have also been mentioned by owners as problematic and are best to avoid if possible. 
• 2019 (Ram trucks): Some users report significant issues with this model year, while others claim it's more reliable than some preceding years. 

How reliable is a 5.7 L Hemi?

The 5.7L Hemi engine is generally considered reliable, especially with proper maintenance, with many owners reporting longevity over 200,000 miles. However, it has some known issues, particularly with the camshaft and lifter failures in models made after 2009, which can be expensive to fix. Other potential problems include oil consumption and sludge buildup, and broken exhaust manifold bolts, though the latter is typically a less severe issue.
 
This video explains the 5.7 Hemi engine reliability in Ram trucks: 54sGetty's GarageYouTube · Sep 25, 2021
Strengths and positives

• Longevity: Many owners report the engine lasting well over 200,000 miles, and even 300,000 miles or more with proper care. 
• Power and performance: The engine is known for its high power output and classic V8 design. 
• Proven design: As it has been in production for over 20 years, Ram has had time to address major issues, and the engine has spread across many Chrysler, Dodge, Jeep, and Ram vehicles. 

Weaknesses and potential issues

• Camshaft and lifter failure: This is a significant and expensive problem that can occur in models made after 2009 due to issues with the camshaft and lifters, though earlier models can also be affected by lifter problems. 
• Oil consumption and sludge: Some users have reported problems with oil consumption and the formation of oil sludge, which can lead to engine damage if not addressed. 
• Broken exhaust manifold bolts: A common issue is the breaking of exhaust manifold bolts, which can cause a ticking sound or a small exhaust leak. While often not a critical failure, it should be fixed to prevent potential issues with emissions testing. 
• Fuel economy: Due to its large displacement, fuel economy is not a strong suit for this engine. 

This video explains the common problems and reliability of the 5.7 Hemi engine: 58s8020 AutomotiveYouTube · Oct 13, 2022
Tips for owners

• Perform regular maintenance: Consistent oil changes and proper maintenance are crucial for extending the life of the engine and preventing problems. 
• Monitor oil levels: Regularly check and top off the engine oil to prevent sludge buildup. 
• Address issues promptly: If you hear any unusual ticking or notice signs of an exhaust leak, have the vehicle inspected to address potential broken exhaust manifold bolts or other issues. 

What is the most common problem with the 5.7 Hemi?

Common problems with the 5.7L Hemi include engine ticking, often caused by lifter failure or broken exhaust manifold bolts, and potential transmission issues such as hard shifting or slipping. Misfires and camshaft damage can also occur, particularly in earlier models due to valve seat issues or in later models from lifter problems linked to the Multi-Displacement System (MDS). 
This video discusses common problems with the 5.7L Hemi engine, including lifter and camshaft issues: 57sJack FletcherYouTube · Dec 10, 2022
Engine

• Engine Ticking: This is a frequently feared issue and can be caused by multiple problems. 
  • Lifter failure: A very common cause, where the lifters seize or fail, leading to camshaft wear and potential engine damage. This is often linked to the MDS system. 
  • Broken exhaust manifold bolts: A common and often cheaper fix than lifter issues. The bolts break due to heat cycling, causing an exhaust leak that sounds like a tick, especially when the engine is cold. 
• Misfires: Can be caused by worn-out spark plugs, lifter issues, or problems with the MDS system, which can sometimes lead to insufficient lubrication or spark plug fouling. 
• Camshaft damage: Can result from a seized lifter, which can damage the cam lobe and cause a misfire. 
• Valve seat issues: A significant problem in 2003-2008 models where the valve seats could fall out due to expansion differences between the aluminum head and steel seat, leading to severe engine damage. 

You can watch this video to learn more about the 5.7L Hemi's valve seat issues: 1mCar WizardYouTube · Nov 24, 2024
Transmission

• Hard shifting, slipping, or erratic behavior: Some models, particularly the Ram 1500, can experience issues with the transmission, leading to problems like hard shifts or slipping.
• Unexpectedly shifting into neutral: Another transmission-related problem that can be a safety concern. 

Other issues

• Rear differential and 4x4 system: Some owners report issues with the rear differential or four-wheel-drive system, including noise or engagement problems. 
• MDS system: While intended to save fuel, the Multi-Displacement System can cause premature spark plug fouling or lack of lubrication, potentially leading to misfires and other issues. 

This video explains the common problems with the 5.7L Hemi engine in detail: 1mGetty's GarageYouTube · Oct 9, 2023

What is the life expectancy of a 5.7 Hemi?

300,000 miles
5.7L HEMI V8: A powerhouse in the RAM lineup, the HEMI engine can last 300,000 miles or more when properly maintained.