How long will a Dodge Ram engine last?

Most Dodge Ram engines can run well past 200,000 miles with proper maintenance, and the diesel versions (Cummins) commonly surpass 350,000 miles. Actual longevity depends on the engine type, maintenance history, and how the truck is used.

The Ram lineup includes gasoline powertrains—the 3.6L Pentastar V6, the 5.7L Hemi V8, and the 6.4L Hemi V8—and, in heavy-duty models, the 6.7L Cummins turbo diesel. Modern Ram engines are built for durability, but lifespan is shaped by service habits, load, and environmental conditions. This article breaks down what to expect and how to maximize longevity.

What affects engine longevity

Several factors determine how long a Ram engine will endure before major repairs or replacement are needed. The most influential elements are listed below.

• Maintenance discipline: routine oil changes, filter replacements, and fluid services are foundational.


• Driving and load patterns: frequent high-speed towing or severe duty cycles increase wear.


• Quality of fluids and fuels: using recommended oils, coolants, and good fuel helps avoid premature wear.


• Operating environment: extreme temperatures, corrosion-prone climates, and road salt can shorten component life.


• Timing and belt/timing-chain wear: most Ram gasoline engines use timing chains, but wear can still affect longevity if neglected.


• Cooling system health: a well-maintained radiator, water pump, and coolant prevents overheating, a major enemy of engines.


• Component age and design: diesel engines (Cummins) are typically more robust but have higher maintenance costs and emissions equipment to manage.

In short, a combination of careful maintenance, moderate use, and timely repairs strongly influences how long a Ram engine will last.

Gasoline vs. diesel Ram engines: expected lifespans

To give a sense of expectations, here is a snapshot of typical longevity ranges by engine type and application. These figures assume diligent maintenance and average-to-good driving conditions.

Gasoline engines (3.6L Pentastar, 5.7L Hemi, 6.4L Hemi)

Gasoline Ram engines are commonly expected to reach roughly 200,000 to 300,000 miles with proper care. The 3.6L Pentastar is known for solid reliability; the larger Hemi V8s are robust but may require more frequent maintenance on high-output variants. Real-world examples often depend on how the vehicle is used and how well maintenance is kept up.

Diesel engines (6.7L Cummins)

The 6.7L Cummins turbo diesel in Ram 2500/3500 models is built for longevity and heavy-duty duty cycles. Lifespans of 350,000 to 500,000 miles are commonly cited by long-term owners who follow recommended maintenance and service DEF/DPF requirements. Diesel engines tolerate high-duty cycles better, but repairs and emissions-system servicing can be more involved and costly.

Maintenance tips to maximize engine life

Practical steps can meaningfully extend the life of a Ram engine, whether you drive gasoline or diesel. The following recommendations reflect common manufacturer guidelines and prudent owner practices.

1. Follow the official service schedule for oil changes, filter changes, and fluid replacements.


2. Use the recommended oil grade and change intervals, preferring full-synthetic oil when advised.


3. Keep the cooling system in good shape: check coolant levels, hoses, thermostat, radiators, and the water pump; address overheating promptly.


4. Monitor and service the fuel system and air intake to prevent deposits and poor combustion.


5. For diesels, maintain DEF and DPF performance, and address exhaust-system issues promptly to avoid emissions-related degradation.


6. Inspect and replace wear items (timing chains/tensioners where applicable, belts, pulleys, pumps) before they fail.


7. Avoid excessive idling, harsh acceleration from cold starts, and chronic overloading beyond rated towing limits.

Adhering to these practices helps maximize the engine’s life, preserve resale value, and minimize unexpected downtime.

Real-world mileage benchmarks

Owner experiences and automotive surveys indicate the following general patterns for Ram engines in typical use. These are not guarantees, but they provide a practical reference point.

• Gasoline Ram engines commonly reach 200,000–300,000 miles with conscientious maintenance and reasonable duty cycles.


• Diesel Ram engines (6.7 Cummins) frequently reach 350,000–500,000 miles in heavy-duty service when properly maintained and not pushed beyond spec.


• Repairs and parts replacement (cooling components, fuel systems, emissions equipment) are common over long lifespans and should be budgeted for as the vehicle ages.

Real-world longevity varies widely, but the consensus is clear: consistent maintenance and sensible use are the best predictors of a long-lived Ram engine.

Summary

In summary, a Dodge Ram engine can last well into the 200,000s, and diesel variants often stretch past 350,000 miles with attentive maintenance and responsible operation. While the exact lifespan depends on the engine type, how the truck is used, and how faithfully routine service is performed, following manufacturer guidelines and addressing problems early are the most reliable ways to maximize longevity. For those who treat maintenance as part of the ownership experience, a Ram can be a durable, long-lived workhorse.

What is the life expectancy of a Ram 1500 engine?

A Ram 1500 engine can last between 200,000 and 300,000 miles on average with proper maintenance, with the 5.7L HEMI potentially reaching 300,000+ miles and the 3.6L Pentastar V6 reaching 250,000+ miles. Diesel engines can last much longer, often exceeding 400,000 miles. 
This video discusses the reliability of the Ram 1500 engine: 22sDriving.caYouTube · Sep 12, 2025
Engine life expectancy by type

• 5.7L HEMI V8: With regular maintenance, this engine can last 300,000 miles or more. 
• 3.6L Pentastar V6: This engine typically lasts between 250,000 and 300,000 miles with proper care. 
• Diesel engines: Diesel options, like the EcoDiesel, are known for their exceptional longevity and can often last over 400,000 miles. 

You can watch this video to see a mechanic's review of the 5.7L Hemi engine: 1mGetty's GarageYouTube · Oct 9, 2023
Factors affecting engine life

• Maintenance: Following the recommended service schedule, including regular oil and fluid changes, is crucial for maximizing engine life. 
• Driving habits: Aggressive driving or heavy-duty use can reduce the engine's lifespan, while gentle, consistent driving can extend it. 
• Towing: While diesel engines are built to handle heavy loads, consistent and heavy towing will put more stress on any engine over time. 
• Environment: Operating the truck in harsh conditions can accelerate wear and tear on engine components. 

How many miles should a Dodge Ram last?

Dodge Rams can last between 200,000 to 300,000 miles, but with proper maintenance and driving habits, some owners have reported their trucks exceeding 400,000 miles. Longevity depends heavily on factors like regular oil changes and inspections, driving style, and the environment the truck is driven in. 
Factors that influence a Ram's lifespan

• Maintenance: Following the recommended maintenance schedule, including regular oil changes, tire rotations, and fluid checks, is crucial for maximizing a truck's life. 
• Driving habits: Aggressive driving, frequent heavy towing, and overloading the truck can accelerate wear and tear on components. 
• Environment: Trucks exposed to harsh climates, particularly salt on roads, may experience more rust and corrosion, which can impact the chassis and undercarriage. 
• Engine type: Diesel engines, like the Cummins, are often built for heavy-duty use and can have a very long lifespan, sometimes extending beyond 300,000 miles. 

What to expect at different mileage points

• 100,000 miles: For many gasoline-powered trucks, this is considered high mileage, and parts like the suspension and brakes may show wear. However, with proper care, the truck can easily last another 100,000 to 200,000 miles. 
• 200,000 to 300,000 miles: This is the expected lifespan for many models with diligent care. Some owners report their trucks operating well at these mileages. 
• Over 300,000 miles: Reaching this level is possible and often the result of consistent maintenance and long-distance highway driving. At this point, major repairs on components like the engine or transmission may be necessary to keep the truck running. 

What year to avoid 5.7 Hemi engine?

The "bad" years for the 5.7 Hemi include 2003-2008 due to a known issue with valve seats dropping, which can cause significant engine damage. Additionally, 2011-2012 model years, particularly in Ram trucks, were notorious for the "Hemi tick," often linked to lifter or camshaft problems.
 
This video explains the common issues with the 5.7L Hemi engine: 58s8020 AutomotiveYouTube · Oct 13, 2022
2003–2008 (Pre-Eagle) 

• Valve seat drop: This is the most significant issue for this period, where valve seats could fall out of the aluminum cylinder heads, leading to engine damage. This is due to the different expansion rates of the steel valve seats and aluminum heads. 

You can watch this video to learn more about how to prevent the valve seat drop issue: 56sMarspeedYouTube · Nov 20, 2020
2009 and later (Eagle) 

• Hemi tick: The 2009 "Eagle" Hemi introduced revisions that brought a new problem: an intermittent ticking noise that can indicate worn lifters and camshafts. 
• Lifter and camshaft failure: The ticking noise is often a precursor to lifter failure, which can seize and cause the camshaft to wear down. This is a costly repair, often running thousands of dollars. 
• Multi-Displacement System (MDS): The MDS system, introduced in 2005, can contribute to engine tick. It deactivates four cylinders during cruising, creating temperature differences that may cause oil flow problems. 
• Specific problematic years: While the issue became more widespread in later years, the 2011 and 2012 models are particularly noted for the "Hemi tick". 

This video shows how to diagnose and address the Hemi tick issue: 57sJack FletcherYouTube · Dec 10, 2022
Other considerations

• Exhaust manifold leaks: This can occur in many model years and may be mistaken for the engine tick. It often sounds like a tick, especially on a cold start, and is caused by broken manifold bolts. 
• Transmission issues: Many 5.7L Hemi vehicles have also had issues with their transmissions, which can lead to costly repairs. 

Can a Ram 1500 last 300,000 miles?

How long does a Ram 1500 last. The lifespan of a Ram 1500 can vary widely based on maintenance, driving habits, and operating conditions. Generally, with proper care and regular maintenance, a Ram 1500 can last between 200,000 to 300,000 miles.