What is the most reliable year of the RAM 2500?

There isn’t a single universally “most reliable” Ram 2500 year. Reliability depends on the powertrain, maintenance history, and how the truck was used. In general, later-model Ram 2500s equipped with the 6.7L Cummins diesel have earned stronger reliability reputations, while early-to-mid 2010s gasoline models show more variability. A careful pre-purchase check and a solid service history can matter just as much as the model year.

Reliability landscape for the Ram 2500

To understand which year might be best for reliability, it helps to look at powertrain design, major refreshed components, and how well the truck has been cared for. Below are the broad reliability drivers that matter across model years.

• Powertrain choice matters: the 6.7L Cummins diesel is generally regarded as the most durable long-term option for heavy-duty use.


• Transmission evolution: later years benefited from refinements to HD automatic transmissions, improving longevity and smoothness under load.


• Emissions and electronics: mid-cycle updates helped address early-emissions and sensor-related concerns that affected some models.


• Maintenance discipline: complete service records, timely oil changes, and proper DEF/cleaning cycles for diesel models strongly influence real-world reliability.

In short, a Ram 2500 with the Cummins diesel, updated transmission, and a solid maintenance record is typically a more reliable long-term purchase than an older, less-documented gas-model example.

Year-by-year reliability snapshot: general guidance

Because official year-by-year reliability scores for every Ram 2500 model are sparse, this snapshot presents broad reliability trends you’ll encounter when evaluating different years. It emphasizes what tends to hold up well in practice and what buyers should scrutinize.

1. Early-model years and pre-refresh variants (roughly pre-2010 and some early-2010s builds) often show more variability in reliability, especially with emissions controls and certain components. A thorough inspection and detailed maintenance history are essential for these years.


2. Mid-2010s models (roughly 2013–2018) generally improved reliability as Cummins and the HD transmission received refinements and the electronics matured. These years are commonly recommended for buyers prioritizing reliability, provided maintenance is verified.


3. Late-2010s to early-2020s models (roughly 2019–2024) continued the reliability trend upward with further hardware refinements and better-integrated systems. Diesel variants in this window are often strong choices for durability when properly serviced.


4. Gasoline-powered Ram 2500s, while capable, tend to show more variability in long-term reliability under heavy-duty use compared with the Cummins diesel, particularly for high-mileage or heavy-tow scenarios. Maintenance remains the equalizer here.

These trends are broad observations. Individual results will vary based on how well a truck was maintained, how it was used (towing, payload, off-road), and whether any recalls or service campaigns were completed.

Practical buying tips for reliability

Before pulling the trigger on a Ram 2500, use these guidelines to steer toward the most reliable option possible. A clear maintenance history and a thorough inspection can offset some year-to-year variability.

• Prioritize a Cummins diesel drivetrain with a documented service history and completed recalls


• Ask for maintenance records: oil changes, filter replacements, DEF system service, transmission service, and cooling system maintenance


• Check for known transmission and engine service bulletins and ensure they have been addressed


• Have a trusted mechanic inspect the turbo, fuel system (for diesel), cooling system, and electrical/electronic modules

In summary, while there isn’t a single “most reliable year,” the strongest reliability signals tend to align with later-model Ram 2500s that use the Cummins diesel, have updated transmissions, and show meticulous maintenance records.

Summary

The Ram 2500’s reliability is best judged by powertrain and maintenance rather than by year alone. If reliability is your priority, look for late-model (mid-2010s to early-2020s) diesel-equipped trucks with clean maintenance histories and completed recalls. Always verify service records, inspect critical components, and consider a pre-purchase inspection to confirm the integrity of the specific unit you’re evaluating.

Which Ram 2500 engine is the best?

The best Ram 2500 engine depends on your needs: for heavy-duty towing, the 6.7L Cummins Turbo Diesel is superior due to its immense torque. For a balance of power and fuel efficiency, the 6.4L HEMI V8 is a better choice for occasional towing and everyday use. For the latest 2025 model, the 6.7L Cummins is redesigned for improved performance and reliability.
 
For heavy towing and hauling

• 6.7L Cummins Turbo Diesel: This engine is the top choice for those who frequently tow heavy loads like large trailers or equipment.
  • Benefits: It provides immense low-end torque, which makes pulling the heaviest loads feel effortless.
  • Performance: The latest 2025 model is significantly redesigned with a new, more reliable CP8 fuel pump and produces 430 horsepower and 1,075 lb-ft of torque. 

For a balance of power and efficiency

• 6.4L HEMI V8: This is an excellent option if you need strong performance for occasional towing and better fuel economy than the diesel engine.
  • Benefits: It offers impressive horsepower for quick acceleration and still has capable towing power.
  • Performance: It delivers robust performance and is well-suited for a mix of daily driving and moderate towing tasks. 

Key considerations

• 2025 Updates: The 2025 model year saw a major overhaul of the Cummins diesel engine, addressing previous concerns and significantly increasing its power and reliability. 
• Trim Availability: Not all trim levels come with the diesel engine as a standard option, so check the specific trim you are interested in. 
• Purpose: Your choice should be based on your primary use for the truck. If you need maximum towing capacity, the diesel is the winner. If you want a versatile truck for a mix of purposes, the HEMI is a great choice. 

What year did the Ram 2500 have transmission problems?

The Ram 2500 has a pretty widespread transmission issue, particularly in models made from 2020 to 2023. The transmission would overheat and damage it, even when the vehicle was relatively new.

What year to avoid RAM 2500?

The 2013 model year is often cited as a year to avoid due to a severe "death wobble" issue, while other years with significant problems include the 2012-2016 and 2018 models, which have been linked to various issues like brake and steering system failures. Additionally, the 2014-2018 models with the 6.4L HEMI engine can be problematic due to transmission issues. 
Specific years to approach with caution

• 2013: Frequently mentioned as one of the worst years due to a severe and expensive-to-fix "death wobble" steering issue that occurs after about 30,000 miles. 
• 2012-2016: This range is frequently listed as problematic, with common complaints including steering system failures, brake system failures, turbocharger breakdowns, and transmission defects. 
• 2014-2018 (6.4L HEMI): These years are associated with the 66RF transmission, which was prone to overheating, shifting problems, and valve body/solenoid failures. 
• 2018: This year is noted for a high number of complaints, particularly regarding the braking system. 
• 2019-2022 (Cummins): There have been numerous recalls and issues reported with the Cummins engines from these years, including fire risks related to the intake heater grid relay and other electrical issues. 

Other models with reported issues

• Some 2020-2023 models have also experienced widespread transmission issues, notes CarParts.com. 
• Recent models like the 2022 and 2023 have also had multiple recalls, though they may be less severe than the issues in older years, including problems with the in-car electronics, water leaks, and emission control devices, reports Consumer Reports. 

What is the most reliable used 2500 truck?

The most reliable used 2500 trucks are often considered to be the Ford F-250 with the 7.3L Power Stroke diesel engine and the Dodge/Ram 2500 with the Cummins 5.9L or 6.7L engine. Other reliable options include the Chevrolet Silverado 2500HD (especially models with the Duramax engine and Allison transmission). All diesel trucks require proper maintenance, and a professional inspection before purchase is highly recommended.
 
Ford

• 7.3L Power Stroke: This engine is legendary for its durability and ability to exceed 300,000 miles with proper maintenance. 
• Super Duty: The F-250 Super Duty line has a long history of robust performance and reliability. 

Dodge/Ram

• 5.9L Cummins: Models from 1994-2007 are particularly well-regarded, especially those with the pre-DEF (Diesel Exhaust Fluid) 5.9L engine, which is known for its simplicity and longevity. 
• 6.7L Cummins: These are also very robust, though the introduction of more complex emissions equipment may be a consideration. 

Chevrolet

• Duramax engine with Allison transmission: This combination is a workhorse, and some studies show the Silverado 2500HD is more than three times as likely as the average vehicle to reach 250,000 miles.
• Models to consider: Models from 2017-2020 are particularly sought after for their balance of performance and modern features. 

Important considerations for any used 2500 truck

• Maintenance is key: Regardless of the model, proper and regular maintenance is essential for a long-lasting diesel truck.
• Pre-purchase inspection: Always have a qualified mechanic inspect the truck before you buy it to identify any potential issues.