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Is the 2012 Ram 3500 a good year?

The 2012 Ram 3500 is generally considered a good year for this heavy-duty pickup truck. It offers a capable and reliable performance, with a range of engine options and towing capacities that make it a popular choice among truck buyers. However, as with any vehicle, there are pros and cons to consider when evaluating the 2012 Ram 3500.


Engine and Performance


The 2012 Ram 3500 was available with three engine options: a 5.7-liter Hemi V8, a 6.7-liter Cummins turbo-diesel inline six-cylinder, and a 6.4-liter Hemi V8. The Cummins diesel engine was particularly well-regarded for its impressive towing capacity and fuel efficiency. The truck's suspension and chassis were also designed to handle heavy loads, making it a capable choice for towing and hauling.


Towing and Hauling Capabilities


One of the key strengths of the 2012 Ram 3500 is its impressive towing and hauling capabilities. Depending on the configuration, the 2012 Ram 3500 could tow up to 30,000 pounds and carry a payload of up to 7,320 pounds. This made it a popular choice for those who needed a heavy-duty truck for work or recreational activities, such as towing a large trailer or hauling heavy equipment.


Reliability and Durability


The 2012 Ram 3500 is generally considered a reliable and durable truck, with a reputation for holding up well over time. The Cummins diesel engine, in particular, is known for its longevity and dependability. However, as with any vehicle, proper maintenance and care are essential to ensuring long-term reliability.


Drawbacks and Considerations


While the 2012 Ram 3500 is a capable and well-regarded truck, there are a few potential drawbacks to consider:



  • Fuel economy: The heavy-duty nature of the Ram 3500 means that it may not be the most fuel-efficient choice, especially with the larger engine options.

  • Ride quality: The truck's suspension and chassis are designed for heavy-duty use, which can result in a harsher ride quality compared to lighter-duty pickups.

  • Price: The 2012 Ram 3500 was a premium-priced truck, with higher MSRP and operating costs compared to some competitors.


Overall, the 2012 Ram 3500 is generally considered a good year for this heavy-duty pickup truck, offering a balance of performance, capability, and reliability that makes it a popular choice among truck buyers. However, as with any vehicle, it's important to carefully consider your specific needs and budget when evaluating the 2012 Ram 3500.

What kills a 68RFE?


Clutch failures are also a common issue with the 68RFE transmission. Clutches are designed to wear over time, but premature failure can occur due to a variety of factors, including overheating, contamination, and poor driving habits.



What is the life expectancy of a 2012 Ram 3500?


The Ram 3500 is built to endure, with many owners reporting that their trucks have easily surpassed the 200,000-mile mark, and some even going well beyond 300,000 miles.



What year to stay away from Ram 3500?


With that said, below is a quick list of the RAM 3500 model years that used car buyers should avoid: 2003 RAM 3500. 2006 RAM 3500. 2007 RAM 3500.



What year Ram diesel is most reliable?


Experts call out the 2018 model year specifically as one of the best pickup trucks that year, while others note that the 2022 version is the best model to balance heavy-duty capabilities with luxurious cabin features.



What year RAM diesel is most reliable?


Experts call out the 2018 model year specifically as one of the best pickup trucks that year, while others note that the 2022 version is the best model to balance heavy-duty capabilities with luxurious cabin features.



What year did Cummins have a bad block?


Fatal Flaw 2: The Weak 53 Block
The second potentially deadly flaw occurs in '99 to '02 5.9L Cummins 24-valve engines. It's known as the 53 block problem, because these engine blocks have the number 53 cast into the side of the crankcase.



What are the bad years for the 6.7 Cummins?


We recommend staying away from the 1991, 1992, 1993, 1999, 2001, 2003, 2006, 2007, 2008, and 2011 models. Many issues stem from these years. A few of the common appear in the format of transmission failure, charging system troubles, and electrical issues. These can be costly to handle and inconvenient for any driver.



Are 2012 Dodge Rams good?


The 2012 Ram 1500's strong suit over comparably-equipped competitors can be found in the way it drives and rides. Thanks to an advanced coil-spring rear suspension and solid rear axle, the Ram 1500 seems to absorb bumps and distortions that cause other trucks to hop about.



Do 2012 Dodge Rams have transmission problems?


Significant transmission failure reports have been noted in the 2012, 2013, and 2015 Ram 1500 models, indicating critical reliability problems. Complete transmission failure can leave the vehicle undrivable and necessitate expensive repairs or replacements.



What is the transmission problem on a 2012 Ram 3500?


The Problem:Some heavy-duty six-speed automatic transmissions in the Ram chassis cab trucks may not meet the company's design specifications. In that case, the Ram truck transmissions could suddenly lose motive power, potentially causing a crash.


Kevin's Auto

Kevin Bennett

Company Owner

Kevin Bennet is the founder and owner of Kevin's Autos, a leading automotive service provider in Australia. With a deep commitment to customer satisfaction and years of industry expertise, Kevin uses his blog to answer the most common questions posed by his customers. From maintenance tips to troubleshooting advice, Kevin's articles are designed to empower drivers with the knowledge they need to keep their vehicles running smoothly and safely.