What HEMI is in a 2012 Ram 1500?
The 2012 Ram 1500’s HEMI option is the 5.7-liter V8. The half-ton truck line also offered other gasoline engines, but the HEMI badge specifically identifies the 5.7L V8. The 6.7L Cummins diesel was not available on the 1500 that year.
Engine options in the 2012 Ram 1500
Below is a summary of the gasoline powertrains available for the 2012 Ram 1500, showing where the HEMI fits in the lineup.
- 3.7L V6 — A base engine option aimed at lower cost and better fuel economy for lighter-duty use.
- 4.7L V8 — A larger displacement V8 offering more towing capability, typically paired with a 4‑speed automatic.
- 5.7L HEMI V8 — The performance-oriented HEMI option, delivering higher horsepower and torque for heavier payloads.
In summary, the 2012 Ram 1500’s HEMI option is the 5.7L HEMI V8, which sits above the base V6 and the 4.7L V8 in the gasoline lineup. The Cummins diesel was not offered on the 1500 in 2012.
Details about the 5.7L HEMI and performance
The 5.7L HEMI V8 in the 2012 Ram 1500 produced roughly 390 horsepower and about 407 lb-ft of torque. Many configurations included features intended to balance performance with efficiency, such as cylinder deactivation under light load in some trims (commonly referred to as Multi-Displacement System) and variable valve timing in certain applications. Transmission options varied by trim and drivetrain, with the HEMI commonly paired to an automatic transmission.
Diesel option note
The 2012 Ram 1500 did not offer the 6.7L Cummins turbo diesel in the light-duty 1500 lineup; diesel power was reserved for the heavier Ram 2500/3500 models in that era.
Summary: For a 2012 Ram 1500, the HEMI engine is the 5.7-liter V8. The model line also included a 3.7L V6 and a 4.7L V8, while the Cummins diesel was not available on the 1500 that year. The 5.7L HEMI remains the designation most closely associated with the HEMI badge on this truck.
What size engine is in the 2012 Ram 1500 Hemi?
The top-spec engine (available on all models) is the 5.7-liter Hemi V-8 that makes 390 hp and 407 lb-ft of torque. The Ram 1500 is available as a Regular, Quad, and Crew Cab, with an 8'0", 6'4", or 5'7" bed.
Is the 2012 5.7 Hemi a good engine?
The 2012 5.7L Hemi is generally considered a good, powerful, and reliable engine, but it is susceptible to a few known issues, most notably the "Hemi tick" which can be caused by a lifter/camshaft problem or broken exhaust manifold bolts. While some model years had more significant problems, the 2012 is not considered one of the worst, though the lifter issue is a possibility. With proper maintenance, many owners report long-term reliability.
This video discusses the reliability of the 5.7L Hemi engine: 52sGetty's GarageYouTube · Sep 25, 2021
Advantages
- Power and performance: The engine provides strong horsepower and torque, making it great for towing and general driving.
- Reliability: It is generally considered a reliable engine, especially with proper maintenance.
- Durability: Many owners report very high mileage, with some engines lasting well over 200,000 miles.
Potential disadvantages
- "Hemi tick": The most common issue is a ticking noise, which can be caused by two different problems:
- Lifter/camshaft failure: This is the more serious issue where a lifter roller fails, leading to the camshaft being damaged. This can be an expensive repair.
- Exhaust manifold bolts: This is a less critical issue where bolts on the exhaust manifold can break, causing a ticking noise that may disappear when the engine warms up. This is often a less expensive repair.
- Spark plugs: Some early years of the 5.7L Hemi had issues with spark plugs wearing out prematurely, potentially causing misfires.
What to do if considering a used 2012 Hemi
- Check the service history: A complete maintenance record can help identify if previous issues have been addressed.
- Listen for the "Hemi tick": Have a mechanic listen for the distinct ticking sound to determine if it's the lifter problem or a minor exhaust leak.
- Ask about specific repairs: Inquire if the engine has had any specific issues, such as the lifters, camshaft, or exhaust manifold bolts, addressed.
This video shows an example of a misfire in a 5.7L Hemi engine: 56sCar WizardYouTube · Nov 24, 2024
What gen is 2012 5.7 Hemi?
Third generation: 2003–present
| Third generation | |
|---|---|
| 2003 5.7 HEMI, the first year of the third generation HEMIs | |
| Overview | |
| Manufacturer | Chrysler |
| Production | 2003–present |
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.
