What engine comes in the 2014 Ram 1500?
In 2014 the Ram 1500 offered three engine choices: a 3.6-liter Pentastar V6, a 5.7-liter Hemi V8, and a 3.0-liter EcoDiesel V6 turbo diesel. All were paired with an eight-speed automatic transmission, giving buyers a balance of power and efficiency depending on configuration.
Engine options
The 2014 Ram 1500 lineup included three primary engines, each with distinct performance characteristics.
- 3.6L Pentastar V6 — approximately 305 horsepower and 269 lb-ft of torque.
- 5.7L Hemi V8 — approximately 395 horsepower and 407 lb-ft of torque.
- 3.0L EcoDiesel V6 turbo diesel — approximately 240 horsepower and 420 lb-ft of torque.
These options covered a broad range of needs, from everyday commuting to heavy towing. Gasoline pairs were common across most trims, while the EcoDiesel served buyers prioritizing fuel economy and long-haul efficiency.
Engine profiles
3.6L Pentastar V6
The 3.6-liter Pentastar V6 is a 24-valve, dual overhead cam powerplant that delivers about 305 hp and 269 lb-ft of torque. Paired with the eight-speed automatic transmission, it offered a balanced blend of capability and efficiency for daily driving and lighter to moderate towing tasks. It was the standard gasoline option on many Ram 1500 configurations and was widely available across trims.
5.7L Hemi V8
The 5.7-liter Hemi V8 is a traditional big-cube gasoline option, producing around 395 hp and 407 lb-ft of torque. This engine was favored by buyers needing higher towing and payload capability, especially in higher-end trims or those configured for heavy-duty use. It also used the eight-speed automatic transmission, ensuring strong performance across speeds and loads.
3.0L EcoDiesel V6
The EcoDiesel is a turbocharged 3.0-liter V6 developed by VM Motori and tuned for efficiency. It puts out about 240 hp and 420 lb-ft of torque, delivering superior fuel economy for highway driving and long trips while still offering respectable towing capability. Available on select Ram 1500 trims, it appealed to buyers who prioritized fuel savings without sacrificing everyday usability.
Availability and context
For 2014, buyers could choose among these engines depending on trim level, cab configuration, and bed size. The gasoline 3.6L and 5.7L options were widely accessible, while the EcoDiesel required selecting compatible trims and options. Transmission across all engines was generally the eight-speed automatic, contributing to smoother shifts and improved efficiency across the lineup.
Summary
The 2014 Ram 1500 offers a trio of engines to match different needs: a capable 3.6L V6 for balance, a robust 5.7L Hemi V8 for strength and towing, and a fuel-efficient 3.0L EcoDiesel V6 for long-distance efficiency. Together with an eight-speed automatic, these powerplants provided flexibility across the full range of Ram 1500 configurations.
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.
What is the most common problem with the 2014 Ram 1500?
Owner Reported Trouble Spots
- Exhaust. Muffler, pipes, catalytic converter, exhaust manifold, heat shields, leaks.
- Fuel System/Emissions.
- Electrical Accessories.
- Suspension/Steering.
- Noises/Leaks.
- In-car Electronics.
- Climate System.
- Transmission Major.
Is the 2014 5.7 Hemi a good engine?
The 2014 5.7L Hemi is generally considered a good, powerful engine, known for its strong performance and towing capability. However, it is prone to specific issues like exhaust manifold leaks and the more serious "Hemi tick" caused by lifter and camshaft failure, which can lead to expensive repairs. Proper and consistent maintenance is crucial for its longevity.
This video explains the performance and fuel economy of the Hemi engine: 56sGetty's GarageYouTube · Oct 15, 2023
Strengths
- Power and performance: The Hemi provides strong power and excellent torque, especially at lower RPMs, which is beneficial for towing and everyday driving.
- Towing capability: It outperforms some competitors in towing tests and offers superior engine braking.
- Good fuel economy for its class: While not a fuel-saver, it can be more fuel-efficient than some competitors during towing, due to its low-end torque.
- Reliability: With proper care, the engine can last for 300,000 miles or more.
This video discusses the sound of the Hemi engine: 57sGetty's GarageYouTube · Oct 9, 2023
Potential weaknesses
- "Hemi tick" (lifter and camshaft failure): This is the most significant concern. It can cause a ticking noise and may require expensive repairs involving the camshaft and lifters.
- Exhaust manifold leaks: The exhaust manifold studs can break, causing a ticking noise, especially on a cold start. This is often an annoying but less expensive fix.
- Idling: The engine is known to not like prolonged idling periods, which can contribute to issues.
- Potential for metal debris: In cases of lifter failure, metal debris can circulate through the engine, potentially reducing its lifespan even after repairs.
You can watch this video to learn about the reliability of the Hemi engine at 100,000 km: 54sGetty's GarageYouTube · Sep 25, 2021
What to consider
- Maintenance history: Thoroughly check maintenance records. Regular oil changes are critical to help prevent some of the common problems.
- Check for existing issues: Listen for a ticking noise on a cold start, which could indicate a potential exhaust manifold problem.
What engine does a 2014 Ram 1500 have?
2014 Ram 1500 Crew Cab Specs, Features & Options
| Save 1 of 19 1500 Crew Cab Tradesman Pickup 4D 6 1/3 ft | Save 2 of 19 1500 Crew Cab Tradesman Pickup 4D 5 1/2 ft |
|---|---|
| See Pricing See Cars in Stock | See Pricing See Cars in Stock |
| Pickup | Pickup |
| Engine | |
| V8, HEMI, 5.7 Liter | V8, HEMI, 5.7 Liter |
