What is the most common problem with RAM trucks?
The most frequently reported issue across RAM pickup trucks is transmission and drivetrain trouble, especially in older RAM 1500 models with the company’s eight-speed automatic transmission. Electrical glitches and suspension problems follow in reported frequency, with variations by model year and trim.
RAM trucks—spanning the light-duty RAM 1500 and the heavy-duty RAM 2500/3500 lines—have earned both praise for capability and scrutiny for reliability in certain years. This article surveys the patterns that critics, owners, and reliability surveys have identified, notes year-to-year variations, and outlines practical steps buyers can take to mitigate the risk of the most common problems.
Key problem areas RAM owners report most often
Below is a look at the main categories of problems that appear most frequently in owner feedback and recall data. Each item reflects patterns seen across multiple model years and configurations.
Transmission and drivetrain issues
Many RAM owners note shifting irregularities, including rough or delayed upshifts, torque-converter shudder, and occasional transmission slipping. These concerns have been especially common on older RAM 1500s equipped with eight-speed automatics and can lead to increased service visits or, in some cases, transmission replacement. Software updates and, in some instances, part reprogramming have been used as stopgaps, but experiences vary by year and trim.
Electrical and infotainment glitches
Infotainment systems, wiring harnesses, and electrical sensors have produced reports of touchscreen freezes, Bluetooth dropouts, navigation quirks, and intermittent ECM/PCM communication faults. Newer RAMs have seen improvements, but persistent electronic gremlins remain a notable concern for a subset of owners.
Engine and fuel system concerns
Several owners report oil-consumption anomalies, rough idle or misfires, and occasional stalling or performance hiccups. While not universal, these symptoms have appeared across different engine families used in RAM trucks, including V6 and V8 configurations, and have sometimes prompted dealer investigations or service campaigns.
Suspension and ride quality issues
RAM trucks equipped with air suspension or heavy-duty suspension components can develop sagging, air-leak symptoms, or compressor failures in certain model years. Riders may notice a softer ride or uneven stance, particularly on models with optional air-ride systems or off-road packages.
These categories reflect broad patterns rather than universal truths for every RAM truck. Individual reliability can hinge on model year, drivetrain, maintenance history, and how the vehicle was used (on- and off-road, towing, carrying payload, etc.).
What RAM has done and what to check when buying
Manufacturers and dealers have responded with a mix of recalls, service bulletins, and updated software, but prospective buyers and used-truck shoppers should take specific steps to assess risk and mitigate potential issues.
- Verify recall and service history by checking the vehicle’s VIN against NHTSA and RAM recall databases, and review maintenance records for transmission software updates or any corrective work related to electronics or suspension.
- During a test drive, pay close attention to transmission behavior (especially low-speed shifts and any shudder), electrical system responsiveness, and ride quality over varying surfaces to flag potential problems early.
- Ask about warranty coverage or extended warranties that include powertrain electronics, transmission, and suspension components, especially for older or high-mileage RAM trucks.
- Inspect for signs of past service campaigns, such as updated software, recall repairs, or replaced suspensions, which can indicate ongoing attention to known issues.
- Review maintenance records for timely oil changes and scheduled services, as neglect can worsen engine and suspension-related symptoms and shorten component life.
When shopping, combining VIN-specific recall checks with a thorough pre-purchase inspection by a qualified mechanic can help identify the most common issues before purchase and provide a clearer sense of remaining reliability.
Bottom line
Across RAM trucks, transmission-related problems stand out as the most commonly reported concern, particularly in older RAM 1500 configurations with eight-speed automatics. Electrical glitches and suspension issues also recur in owner surveys, with frequency varying by year and trim. Prospective buyers and owners should prioritize a careful recall check, a test drive that probes shifting and electronics, and a solid maintenance history to manage these risks.
Summary
RAM pickups frequently show two recurring Achilles’ heels: transmission behavior and electronic/electrical reliability, with suspension systems contributing to ride-quality complaints in some trims. While RAM has issued recalls and software updates to address these problems, approaches to buying or owning RAM trucks should emphasize verification of recall repairs, a detailed test drive, and comprehensive maintenance records to gauge and mitigate risk.
