What year are Ram tailgates interchangeable?

In general, Ram tailgates are not universally interchangeable across all years. Compatibility is typically limited to the same generation and bed configuration, so you should verify the exact OEM part number for your setup before swapping tailgates.

Ram pickups have gone through several design generations, each introducing unique tailgate construction, mounting points, and available features. This article explains how to determine whether a tailgate from one year can fit another Ram truck and what to check before attempting a swap.

Generational compatibility: what fits when

Tailgates are generally interchangeable within the same Ram generation. Across generations (for example, Gen 3 vs Gen 4 vs Gen 5) fit is unlikely without modification. Within a generation, matching bed length and cab style markedly increases the odds of a direct swap.

Key factors that influence compatibility:

• Generation and model family (1500, 2500, 3500) must match within the same generation.


• Bed length and cab configuration (short bed vs long bed; crew cab vs quad/regular cab) must align.


• Optional features such as power tailgate, sensors, or cameras can affect wiring and mounting compatibility.


• Differences in tailgate handles, embossing, or bumper/step configurations may require a different tailgate.


• Part numbers are the most reliable way to confirm exact compatibility.

Conclusion: To ensure a proper fit, verify the donor tailgate against the exact OEM part number for your truck configuration and consult official catalogs or a Ram dealer if you’re unsure.

How to verify compatibility: a step-by-step guide

Use these steps to confirm whether a tailgate will fit your Ram truck before purchasing or swapping it in:

1. Identify your truck’s exact configuration: year, model (1500/2500/3500), cab style, and bed length.


2. Obtain the tailgate’s part number from the donor or from Ram’s official parts catalog for the same configuration.


3. Compare mounting points, hinge design, and any sensor or camera cutouts to ensure alignment.


4. Check compatibility of optional features (power liftgate, backup sensors, lighting) and wiring harness requirements.


5. If possible, check with a Ram dealer or a qualified body shop to confirm cross-reference with your VIN.

Conclusion: When the part numbers match and mounting points align, a swap is typically straightforward; otherwise, it’s not recommended to force a fit.

Common misassumptions to avoid

• Assuming tailgates are universal across all Ram models and years.


• Assuming the same tailgate will fit all bed lengths within a generation.


• Overlooking wiring and feature differences (power tailgate, sensors) that can require different hardware.

By staying with verified part numbers and configuration details, you’ll avoid costly mismatches and ensure a proper, secure fit.

Summary

Ram tailgate interchangeability is largely generation- and configuration-specific. While tailgates can swap within the same generation and identical bed/cab configurations, swaps across generations are not generally guaranteed. The safest approach is to confirm the exact OEM part number for your truck and the donor tailgate, and to consult official Ram catalogs or a dealership for definitive compatibility guidance.

What year do Dodge Rams are interchangeable?

Dodge Ram part compatibility varies significantly by generation, with parts often only interchangeable within the same generation or model year. For example, second-generation (1994-2001) parts are often compatible with other trucks from that generation, while third-generation (2002-2008) parts like engines, transmissions, and body panels may interchange with other trucks from that specific generation. It's crucial to confirm compatibility for specific parts and years before purchasing. 
By generation

• Second Generation (1994-2001/2002): Many parts are interchangeable within this period because the 1500, 2500, and 3500 models share the same design generation. 
• Third Generation (2002-2008): Parts like the 5.7L HEMI engine (2003-present) and the 545RFE transmission (2002-2011) are often compatible across multiple years within this generation. Body parts like doors, fenders, and hoods are also sometimes interchangeable between the third and fourth generations. 
• Fourth Generation (2009-2018): Parts are generally interchangeable within this generation, but some specific components may have slight variations. For example, a 2013-2018 Ram 1500 parts may be compatible with a 2019+ Ram 1500 Classic. 
• Fifth Generation (2019-Present): This generation was completely redesigned and has limited part compatibility with previous generations. 

By part type

• Engines: The 5.7L HEMI V8 was used in many Ram 1500s from 2003 to the present, but internal modifications can vary by year. Cummins engines also have specific year ranges for compatibility, such as the 12-valve (1989-1993) and the 24-valve (1998-2002). 
• Transmissions: The 545RFE five-speed automatic was used extensively in Ram models from 2002 to 2011. Older transmissions like the 46RE (2001) are not interchangeable with newer ones like the 48RE (2006). 
• Wheels: Wheels from 2010 and newer Ram 2500 and 3500 trucks are often interchangeable due to the consistent 8x6.5 bolt pattern, but check offset and center bore specs. 

Important considerations

• Component variations: Even within the same generation, there can be variations in parts due to engine type, trim level, or specific model year changes.
• Official documentation: It's always best to verify part compatibility with the specific vehicle by checking part numbers or consulting an official dealership or parts supplier. 

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. 

Are all RAM tailgates the same?

Yes, they are the same. Should be. Body is the same.

Will a 4th gen Ram tailgate fit a 3rd gen?

They will fit, but to get them to look right you need to do a little body work to the tailgate or the bedside above the taillight.