What does a Dodge Ram 1500 weigh?
The Ram 1500’s weight varies by configuration. In general, its curb weight sits roughly between 4,900 and 6,000 pounds, while the vehicle’s gross vehicle weight rating (GVWR) is typically about 6,900 to 7,100 pounds, and payload capacity can reach around 1,600 to 2,300 pounds depending on the setup. Exact figures depend on engine, drivetrain, cab and bed size, and trim level.
To understand what those numbers mean and how they apply to a specific truck, it helps to distinguish between curb weight, GVWR, and payload—and to know which configuration drives the final numbers. The Ram 1500’s weight not only affects handling and fuel economy, but also towing, payload, and safety calculations. The following sections break down these terms and show how weight shifts with different options.
Key weight terms
The following list defines the main weight-related figures you’ll encounter when evaluating a Ram 1500. It helps you compare trucks and understand how much a particular build can carry.
- Curb weight — The truck’s empty weight with standard equipment and full fluids (fuel, oil, coolant). For the Ram 1500, curb weight generally ranges from about 4,900 to 6,000 pounds, depending on engine, drivetrain, cab/bed configuration, and options.
- Gross Vehicle Weight Rating (GVWR) — The maximum permissible weight of the vehicle when fully loaded with passengers, cargo, and fluids. For the Ram 1500, GVWR typically sits around 6,900 to 7,100 pounds in most configurations.
- Payload capacity — The maximum weight of passengers and cargo that can be added to the curb weight without exceeding the GVWR. Payload for the Ram 1500 commonly falls in the 1,600 to 2,300-pound range, depending on equipment and trim.
- Gross axle weight rating (GAWR) — The maximum weight that can be placed on each axle. GAWR is not the total vehicle weight, but it helps determine load distribution and towing stability.
Before you read the list, note that these values can vary by model year and configuration. The figures below reflect typical ranges across the current generation and common trim levels.
Understanding these terms helps you assess whether a given Ram 1500 will meet your day-to-day needs, whether you’re hauling gear for work or packing the family for a weekend trip.
Weight by configuration
There isn’t a single number that fits every Ram 1500. Heavier configurations include more powerful engines, four-wheel drive, and larger cabs/beds, while lighter setups use a smaller engine, two-wheel drive, and standard cab or shorter bed options. The following ranges give a sense of how weight shifts across typical setups.
- 2WD, 3.6L V6, regular or smaller crew-cab with a shorter bed: roughly 4,900–5,100 pounds
- 4x4, 3.6L V6 with eTorque: roughly 5,100–5,300 pounds
- 4x4, 5.7L Hemi V8: roughly 5,600–5,900 pounds
- 4x4, 3.0L EcoDiesel V6: roughly 5,700–6,000 pounds
Before listing, keep in mind these are approximate curb-weight ranges for common current-generation configurations.
These ranges illustrate how engine choice, drivetrain, cab style, and bed length contribute to the truck’s weight. Heavier powertrains and all-wheel-drive configurations typically push curb weight toward the upper end, while lighter, two-wheel-drive builds tend to sit at the lower end.
Engine options and their impact
The Ram 1500’s engine lineup influences curb weight more than most people realize. In broad terms:
- Gasoline V6 options (including the 3.6L V6 with mild hybrid assist) are generally lighter than the larger V8s and diesel variants.
- Largest gasoline engine, the 5.7L Hemi V8, adds weight relative to the V6, especially when paired with four-wheel drive or larger cabs.
- Diesel engines (3.0L EcoDiesel) add weight due to heavy-duty components, but may offer torque benefits for towing and efficiency benefits in certain load scenarios.
For any given truck, the exact curb weight comes from the door jamb sticker (the GVWR and curb weight are printed there) or the window sticker from the original specs. Engine, transmission, and axle choices influence where your specific Ram lands within these ranges.
Finding your Ram 1500’s exact weight
To determine the precise weight of a particular Ram 1500, use these methods. They ensure you’re relying on a figure that matches your truck’s exact build and options.
- Check the driver’s side door jamb sticker for curb weight and GVWR, which reflect your vehicle’s exact configuration.
- Consult the original window sticker or build sheet if you have access to the vehicle’s documentation or dealership records.
- Use the VIN to pull official specifications from Ram/Fiat Chrysler Automobiles (now Stellantis) resources or authorized databases.
- Ask a Ram dealer or service center for the vehicle’s current curb weight, especially if modifications or aftermarket equipment were added.
Before the list, here are reliable ways to verify weight information.
Knowing your Ram 1500’s exact weight is especially important when calculating payload, towing capacity, and loading limits for trailers, bike racks, or additional gear.
Why weight matters for a Ram 1500 owner
Weight affects handling, braking, fuel economy, and stability, particularly when towing or carrying heavy loads. A higher GVWR and payload capacity offer more utility but require careful planning to stay within legal and safety limits. Conversely, lighter configurations may improve fuel economy and ride comfort but reduce payload capability. Consumers should always verify the vehicle’s specifications for the exact build they own or plan to purchase.
In short, the Ram 1500 weighs differently across trims and configurations, with curb weights typically ranging from about 4,900 to 6,000 pounds, GVWR around 6,900 to 7,100 pounds, and payload up to roughly 2,300 pounds. The precise numbers depend on engine, drivetrain, cab style, bed length, and options. Always check the door sticker or dealer documentation for your specific truck.
Bottom line and takeaway
Weight matters because it informs how much cargo you can carry, how much you can tow, and how the truck handles under load. For the Ram 1500, expect a spectrum from near-5,000 pounds for lighter configurations to closer to 6,000 pounds for heavier builds, with GVWR in the high 6,000s to low 7,000s. If you’re shopping, compare curb weight, GVWR, and payload across trims to find the balance that fits your needs.
Summary: The Dodge Ram 1500’s weight is configuration-dependent, spanning roughly 4,900–6,000 pounds curb weight, with GVWR typically around 6,900–7,100 pounds and payload usually between 1,600 and 2,300 pounds. Verify exact numbers on the door sticker or the dealer’s documentation for your specific truck, and consider how engine choice, drivetrain, cab/bed size, and options will impact weight, payload, and towing capabilities.
How much does a full size RAM weight?
The RAM 1500 curb weight can range anywhere from 4,765 pounds to 6,440 pounds depending on the configuration you choose.
What year RAM 1500 5.7 to avoid?
Years to avoid for the 5.7L Hemi Ram 1500 include 2011-2012, primarily for "Hemi tick" and lifter issues, and 2014, due to reports of catastrophic steering failures. Other years to approach with caution are 2018-2019, due to electrical and infotainment system problems, and 2004 and 2013-2015, which have documented issues with engine stalling and transmission failures, respectively.
Years to be cautious of
- 2011-2012: Notorious for "Hemi tick" from failed lifters or other engine issues. 2011 also had reports of engine failure, MDS issues, and water pump failures.
- 2013-2015: Documented severe transmission failures, particularly in 2013 and 2015 models. 2015 also had numerous recalls and problems with its electrical, transmission, engine, and fuel systems.
- 2014: Several complaints have logged total steering loss, sometimes at highway speeds.
- 2018-2019: Reports of issues with electrical and infotainment systems are more common.
- 2004: Engine stalling issues persisted, and there were power train concerns.
What to look for in a reliable Hemi Ram 1500
- 2010: Generally has better engine reliability, though it was known for a weak engine combined with poor fuel economy.
- 2018 and newer: The 5.7L Hemi V-8 is considered more reliable in these years.
- 2020 and newer: Models have fewer issues than late 2010s versions.
- Ram 1500 Classic models: These are also reported to do well, having fewer complex systems than the redesigned 2019 and newer models.
Is a 1500 a half ton or 3/4 ton?
Defining 1500, 2500, 3500 Meaning
The 1500 represented half-ton capacity, the 2500 represented three-quarter-ton capacity, and the 3500 represented one-ton capacity. That's why you may see the 1500 called a “half ton.” But nowadays, these designations refer primarily to the truck's purpose.
How much does a 5.7 RAM 1500 weigh?
Weight Of 1500 Dodge RAM Based On Cab Size And Bed Length
| Trim Level | Min Weight (pounds) | Highest Height |
|---|---|---|
| 1500 REG CAB 8' BOX 5.7L/A6 2WD | 4747 | 75.3 |
| 1500 REG CAB 6'4” BOX 3.7L/A4 2WD | 4408 | 75.4 |
| 1500 REG CAB 8' BOX 5.7L/A6 4WD | 4952 | 76.2 |
| 1500 REG CAB 6'4” BOX 5.7L/A6 4WD | 4823 | 76.4 |
