What is the life expectancy of a RAM 3500?

The average life expectancy of a RAM 3500 heavy-duty pickup truck is around 15-20 years, depending on various factors such as maintenance, usage, and driving conditions. This robust and durable vehicle is designed to withstand the demands of heavy-duty work and can provide reliable service for many years with proper care.

Understanding the RAM 3500's Lifespan

The RAM 3500 is a heavy-duty truck that is built to last. It is equipped with a powerful engine, a sturdy frame, and heavy-duty components that are designed to withstand the rigors of towing, hauling, and off-road use. With proper maintenance and care, the RAM 3500 can easily surpass the 15-year mark and continue to provide reliable service for many more years.

The key factors that contribute to the RAM 3500's long lifespan include:

• Robust Construction: The RAM 3500 is built with high-quality materials and components that are designed to withstand heavy-duty use. This includes a sturdy frame, heavy-duty suspension, and a powerful engine that can handle the demands of towing and hauling.


• Maintenance and Care: Regular maintenance, such as oil changes, tire rotations, and brake inspections, is essential for extending the life of a RAM 3500. Owners who follow the manufacturer's recommended maintenance schedule and address any issues promptly can expect their truck to last for many years.


• Usage and Driving Conditions: The way the RAM 3500 is used and the driving conditions it is subjected to can also impact its lifespan. Trucks that are primarily used for heavy-duty work, such as towing or hauling, may have a shorter lifespan than those used for lighter-duty tasks. Similarly, trucks that are driven in harsh environments, such as off-road or in extreme weather conditions, may experience more wear and tear and have a shorter lifespan.

Overall, the RAM 3500 is a durable and reliable heavy-duty pickup truck that can provide many years of service with proper care and maintenance. By following the manufacturer's recommendations and addressing any issues promptly, owners can expect their RAM 3500 to last for 15-20 years or more.

What year to avoid 6.7 Cummins?

Years to be cautious with the 6.7 Cummins include 2007-2012 due to initial emissions system issues and potential DPF clogging, and 2019 and newer due to a known lifter failure problem that can cause engine damage. The 2019-2020 models can also be avoided because of the CP4 high-pressure fuel pump, which is more prone to failure.
 
This video explains the top 5 issues with the 6.7L Cummins engine: 52sGetty's GarageYouTube · Jun 17, 2022
Years to be cautious with

• 2007–2012: These years saw the introduction of the 6.7L engine with its emissions system. Initial designs were prone to issues, particularly with the DPF, which could lead to clogging and power loss. 
• 2019–2020: These model years are known to have a problem with the CP4 high-pressure fuel pump, which can fail and cause catastrophic damage to the fuel system. 
• 2019 and newer: These models have a known issue with hydraulic lifters that can fail, potentially leading to camshaft and engine damage if not addressed quickly. 

What to look for

• Pre-2013 models: Be prepared to address potential DPF clogging issues through proper driving habits or modifications. 
• 2019+ models: Be aware of the risk of lifter failure and be ready to either address it immediately or look for a truck with an updated or aftermarket system. The CP4 pump is also a concern for 2019-2020 models. 

This video discusses issues with Cummins engines and potential fixes: 51sGetty's GarageYouTube · Mar 10, 2025
Disclaimer

• These are generalizations based on common reports. Not all engines from these years will have these problems.
• Maintenance, driving style, and specific configurations can significantly impact the reliability of any engine.
• If you are considering a 6.7 Cummins, it is always recommended to have a pre-purchase inspection by a qualified mechanic. 

How many miles can a Ram 3500 last?

200,000 to 300,000 miles
The Lifespan of a RAM Truck: Miles and Years
A well-maintained RAM truck can last 200,000 to 300,000 miles, and in many cases, even more. That's about 13 to 20 years of service for the average driver covering 15,000 miles per year.

What is the life expectancy of a 6.7 Cummins?

The average lifespan of a 6.7L Cummins engine is typically 300,000 to 500,000 miles, but with proper maintenance, they can last much longer, with many exceeding 500,000 miles and some reaching over 1 million miles. To maximize the life of the engine, it's crucial to perform regular maintenance like oil and filter changes, use quality parts, and avoid excessive idling. 
Factors that influence engine life

• Maintenance: Consistent and high-quality maintenance is the most significant factor in an engine's lifespan. 
  • Oil and filters: Regularly change the engine oil, oil filter, and both fuel filters. Some recommend shorter intervals, like 10,000 miles instead of 15,000, for increased longevity. 
  • Coolant: Perform regular coolant flushes. 
• Driving habits: How the vehicle is driven plays a big role. 
  • Idling: Avoid excessive idling to minimize wear and tear. 
  • Cooling down: Allow the turbo to cool down before shutting off the engine, especially after heavy use. 
• Engine modifications: While some owners "delete" emissions equipment to increase fuel economy and performance, longevity depends on maintaining the engine correctly and what you ask of it. 
• Fuel system: The fuel system is a critical component. While the engine itself can last for hundreds of thousands of miles, the fuel system, particularly injectors and the pump, may require expensive repairs or replacement over time. 

What are bad years for a Dodge Ram 3500?

What are the worst Ram 3500 years? CarComplaints.com dubs 2003 the worst model year of the Dodge-branded 3500s, due to high repair costs and problems occurring at lower mileages. It also has the most overall complaints, many of which center around a cracked dashboard.