What is the normal ride height on a Ram 1500?
In most Ram 1500 configurations, the normal ride height (ground clearance) sits roughly between 8 and 9 inches, but the exact figure depends on the year, trim, wheel/tire choice, and whether the optional air suspension or off-road packages are installed.
Understanding ride height and its variability
Ride height, or ground clearance, is the distance between the road surface and the lowest point of the vehicle's underbody. For the Ram 1500, this value can change with different suspensions, drivetrain layouts, and optional features. It is distinct from ride quality or suspension stiffness, which affect how the truck feels when driving over bumps.
Ground clearance vs. ride height
Ground clearance refers to the clearance under the chassis. Ride height can be maintained or adjusted by electronic leveling systems or air suspension, while normal driving still reflects the factory configuration for a given model and option set.
Ride height by configuration
The following ranges reflect common factory configurations and the typical impact of options on ground clearance.
- Standard suspension (2WD, no air suspension): approximately 8.0–8.5 inches
- Four-wheel drive (4x4) with standard suspension: approximately 8.5–9.0 inches
- Air suspension in Normal ride height: approximately 8.5–9.0 inches (varies by year and tire size)
- Off-road-oriented models (Rebel, other off-road trims with raised springs or air suspension): typically 9.5–11.0 inches
Note that exact numbers can vary by model year, wheel/tire size, and any optional equipment. Always check the window sticker or the official Ram spec sheet for your exact build.
Factors that can affect ride height during operation
Several factors can cause ride height to change in daily use, beyond the base configuration.
- Payload and towing: Carrying heavy loads can compress suspension and lower height slightly, especially on non-air-suspended setups.
- Active-level air suspension: If equipped, Normal, Off-Road, and other modes adjust the height to suit driving conditions and terrain.
- Wheel and tire size: Larger or taller tires can raise the effective height or alter clearance at certain points under the chassis.
In practice, the Ram 1500’s height may shift a bit with load or mode selection, so verify height under your typical operating conditions if precise clearance matters for you.
Measuring and verifying your Ram 1500’s ride height
To confirm the exact ride height for your specific truck, measure from the ground to a flat reference point on the frame at the same corner each time, or consult the owner’s manual and the vehicle's door jamb sticker for the official specification. If you have the air suspension, test each height mode (Normal, Off-Road, etc.) to understand their impact on clearance.
Summary
The Ram 1500’s normal ride height generally falls in the 8–9 inch range, with higher clearance on off-road-oriented trims and potential adjustments via air suspension. Exact figures depend on year, trim, tire/wheel size, and whether optional equipment is installed. For precise numbers, consult the vehicle’s official specifications or your dealer.
