What year ram 2500 6.4 to avoid?

There isn’t a single universal year to avoid, but the earliest Ram 2500 models with the 6.4L Hemi (roughly 2014–2016) tended to show more reliability quirks. Later years generally benefited from refinements and updates, though a careful pre-purchase check remains essential.

In this article, we break down which model years may pose higher risk, what to inspect when shopping, and how to verify recalls and service history to make a informed choice about a Ram 2500 6.4.

Model-year risk profile

Before listing year-by-year risk, consider how manufacturers evolve engines and transmissions over time. Early production years often carry growing pains that get addressed in subsequent updates, while newer years bring their own aging components to monitor.

• 2014–2016: First production years for the 6.4L Hemi in Ram 2500/3500. These early trucks can have either adoption quirks or early wear issues that get resolved in later model-year updates.


• 2017–2019: Platform matured, with refinements and ongoing improvements. Reliability is generally better, but high-mileage examples may show typical wear on big-V8 trucks.


• 2020–2023/24: Later-year improvements, updated transmissions and electronics in many trims. If you seek a used unit, look for a well-documented maintenance history and fewer miles, or a certified pre-owned vehicle with warranty.

Note: This overview reflects broad industry observations and owner reports. Always verify a specific VIN for recalls, service campaigns, and documented maintenance.

What to check when shopping

Before buying, use a thorough checklist to avoid a Ram 2500 6.4 with costly, lingering problems.

• Service history: Confirm regular oil changes, filter changes, and any major work on the engine or transmission; verify cooling system maintenance and timing-chain-related services if applicable.


• Recall status: Check for open recalls by VIN through NHTSA or the dealer and ensure completed recall work is documented.


• Engine condition: Listen for unusual noises (knocks, ticks), check for oil or coolant leaks, and assess overall combustion behavior during idle and acceleration tests.


• Transmission and drivetrain: Ensure smooth shifting, no shuddering, and inspect the 4x4 transfer case/drive components for proper operation and leaks.


• Valves and fuel system (DI concerns): Direct-injection engines can accumulate carbon buildup on intake valves over time; assess driving history (highway vs. city) and consider a combustion-cleaning plan if the truck has many short trips.

In practice, a professional pre-purchase inspection and a test drive under varied conditions will reveal the majority of meaningful concerns before you commit.

Why model-year choice matters

The model year you choose influences warranty coverage, recall status, and exposure to early-adopter issues. Companies refine powertrains over time, addressing failures with updates and service campaigns.

Bottom line: if you want to minimize risk, consider avoiding the earliest production years (2014–2016) when possible and prioritize well-documented, well-maintained examples with complete service history and a clean recall record.

Where to research

Reliable consumer guidance relies on official records, owner experiences, and third-party histories. Use the following steps to stay informed about a specific Ram 2500 6.4 model:

• Check the NHTSA recall database for any open campaigns on the exact VIN.


• Review Carfax or AutoCheck reports for service history, accidents, and title status.


• Search for Technical Service Bulletins (TSBs) related to the 6.4L engine and the transmission model in your target year.

Combining official records, reputable reviews, and an independent inspection helps you make a confident, informed choice about a Ram 2500 6.4.

Summary

There isn’t a single “year to avoid” for the Ram 2500 with the 6.4L Hemi, but the 2014–2016 window is commonly viewed as higher-risk due to early-production issues. Prioritize models with complete maintenance histories, up-to-date recalls, and a thorough pre-purchase inspection, with a preference for later years (2017 onwards) when possible to maximize reliability and remaining warranty options.

What is the problem with the 6.4 Ram 2500?

Common problems with the Ram 2500's 6.4L Hemi engine include lifter and camshaft failures due to lubrication issues, which often result in a loud "Hemi tick". Other reported issues include potential transmission problems, general quality control issues, leaks (both oil and transmission fluid), and various electrical or component issues like faulty parking sensors or recalls for fire risk.
 
This video discusses common issues with the 6.4L Hemi engine, including lifter and camshaft failures: 50s8020 AutomotiveYouTube · Mar 3, 2023
Engine problems 

• Lifter and camshaft failure: This is a well-documented issue often caused by the multi-displacement system (MDS) or insufficient lubrication. 
  • Cause: Lifter roller needle bearings fail, leading to the roller damaging the camshaft lobe. This can be exacerbated by extended idle time, poor maintenance, or using the wrong oil weight. 
  • Symptom: A loud ticking or knocking noise. 
  • Consequence: Metal shavings from the failure can circulate through the engine, potentially causing more damage if not addressed. 
• Oil leaks: Some owners have reported oil leaks and oil spots on their driveways. 
• Misfires and stalling: Some drivers have experienced misfires or the engine stalling. 
• Excessive oil consumption: There are reports of the engine consuming too much oil. 

Transmission problems

• Leaks: Leaking transmission fluid from cracked lines or damaged seals is a common issue. 
• Component failure: Issues with transmission sensors, contaminated fluid, faulty electrical relays, or gear clutch failure have been reported. 
• Recalls: Some model years have had recalls related to potential fire risks, such as issues with the solid state intake heater grid relay or dipstick tube leaks. 

Other issues

• Quality control: Some owners report frustration with overall quality control and workmanship. 
• Electrical and sensor issues: Reports include front parking sensors not working and faulty electrical relays. 
• Tailgates: Tailgates have been reported to pop open unexpectedly. 

What is the most reliable year of the Ram 2500?

The most reliable Ram 2500 model years are generally considered to be the newer models, particularly 2019 and newer due to powertrain improvements. 2019-2024 years are often cited as the best, while the earlier 1994-2001 generation also has a good reputation. Years to be cautious of include the 2011-2018 range, with 2012-2016 and 2018 being specifically mentioned for potential reliability issues. 
Most reliable years

• 2019 and newer: This generation is frequently recommended for its improved reliability, including a better 8-speed transmission paired with the 6.4L Hemi, which replaced less favored transmissions in earlier models. 
• 1994-2001: The first-generation Dodge Ram 2500 has a strong reputation for being reliable and long-lasting. 
• Specific model years: Some reports highlight 2020 and 2023 for having few complaints, and 2018 for being a standout model year before the 2019 redesign. 

Years to approach with caution

• 2011-2018: This range is often cited as having more problems than newer models. 
• 2012-2016: Specific complaints include steering, brake, and transmission issues. 
• 2018: This year is particularly noted for brake system and other electrical problems. 

Other considerations

• Pre-emission Cummins engines: If looking for a diesel, many enthusiasts consider the 5.9L Cummins engines, especially with a manual transmission, to be very reliable due to being pre-emission. 
• Maintenance is key: No matter the year, proper and regular maintenance is crucial for long-term reliability. 

What year Ram 2500 to stay away from?

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 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.