What years are Gen 3 Dodge Ram?
Gen 3 Dodge Ram refers to the third generation of the Ram pickup lineup, covering model years 2002 through 2008. This generation represents a clean break from the previous design and set the stage for Ram’s modern-era trucks.
The third generation marked a comprehensive redesign with a new exterior and interior, broader cab and bed options, and updated engineering that improved capability and comfort. It spanned the Ram 1500, 2500, and 3500 lines and culminated in the 2009 introduction of Gen 4, which carried the brand into another redesign cycle.
What defines Gen 3 Dodge Ram
Design and engineering
The third-generation Ram trucks introduced a fresh styling language with a bolder grille, updated sheet metal, and a more refined interior. The overhaul aimed to blend rugged capability with daily driving comfort, enhancing ride quality and overall usability across the Ram 1500 light-duty and Ram 2500/3500 heavy-duty lines.
Models and trims
Gen 3 encompassed the Ram 1500, 2500, and 3500 families, with multiple trims that ranged from basic work-oriented editions to more upscale configurations. The heavy-duty (HD) models often emphasized payload and towing capacity, while the 1500 aimed for a balance of daily usability and workhorse capability. Diesel variants became a hallmark of the HD segment during this era.
Era years
The third generation spans model years 2002 through 2008.
- 2002
- 2003
- 2004
- 2005
- 2006
- 2007
- 2008
In summary, Gen 3 covers all Ram pickups built for model years 2002 to 2008, before the Gen 4 redesign arrived for 2009 models.
Notable engines and configurations
Engine options varied by model and year, with gasoline engines common across the lineup and diesel options in the heavy-duty segment. The following lists summarize typical powertrains available during the Gen 3 era.
Gasoline engines
- 4.7 L V8
- 5.7 L Hemi V8
Availability depended on trim and year, with the 5.7 Hemi becoming increasingly common in later years of Gen 3, complemented by the dependable 4.7 L V8 across several configurations.
Diesel engines
- Cummins 5.9 L Turbo Diesel
- Cummins 6.7 L Turbo Diesel (introduced late in the Gen 3 era for HD models)
Diesel options were primarily offered in Ram 2500 and 3500 heavy-duty models, with the larger 6.7 L turbo-diesel appearing toward the end of the Gen 3 cycle and expanding capability for work trucks.
Legacy and impact
The Gen 3 generation is widely regarded as a turning point for Ram, consolidating a modernized design language and a more capable HD lineup that would carry into Gen 4. It remains popular among enthusiasts for its distinctive styling, strong diesel options, and the balance of comfort and grit that defined early-2000s Ram trucks.
Summary
Gen 3 Dodge Ram corresponds to the third-generation Ram pickups, produced for model years 2002 through 2008. It introduced a modernized design, updated interiors, and a range of engines, including the 5.7 Hemi and Cummins diesels, setting the stage for the 2009 Gen 4 refresh.
What year are 5th gen RAMs?
The 5th generation of Ram trucks covers the model years 2019 to the present. This generation began with a full redesign for the 2019 Ram 1500 and applies to both light-duty (1500) and heavy-duty (2500, 3500, etc.) models.
- 2019 model year: Marks the beginning of the 5th generation, with a completely redesigned Ram 1500.
- Current generation: The 5th generation continues to be produced for the 2025 model year and beyond.
- Applies to: Both the light-duty Ram 1500 and the heavy-duty Ram 2500/3500/4500/5500 series trucks.
What year 5.7 hemi to avoid?
You should be wary of the 2003, 2004, 2005, and 2006 Hemi engines, especially in the Dodge Ram and other LX-platform cars, as they were prone to issues like exhaust manifold bolts, engine stalling, and electrical problems. The 2011 and 2012 model years, particularly the 2012 Ram, are also considered problematic and should be avoided due to significant Hemi tick from lifter failure and other transmission issues.
Years to avoid
- 2003: Prone to transmission failure and engine problems, including issues with exhaust manifold bolts.
- 2004: Experienced continued engine stalling and power train concerns, which led to crashes and fires.
- 2005 and 2006: Especially in LX-platform cars like the Magnum, these years had significant issues with stalling after refueling, along with other electrical and engine problems.
- 2011 and 2012: The 2012 model is particularly notorious for the Hemi tick (lifter failure), and both years had issues with their transmissions and other engine components.
Common problems across multiple years
- Exhaust manifold bolts: Many years had weak or brittle exhaust manifold bolts that would break, causing exhaust leaks and a ticking sound.
- Hemi tick: A loud ticking sound that can be caused by exhaust leaks or, more seriously, failing lifters. The issue was more common in pre-2022 models due to lower oil pressure during idling.
- Transmission failures: Some years, particularly the 2003 and certain Ram 1500 models in 2012, 2013, and 2015, had documented transmission issues that could lead to costly repairs or replacement.
- Electrical problems: Several years, including 2003, 2014, and 2015, were prone to electrical issues that affected everything from the dashboard to steering.
What year is Gen 3 Ram 1500?
The 3rd generation Ram 1500 was produced for the model years 2002 to 2008. This generation was a major overhaul with a new frame, suspension, engines, and body styles like the Quad Cab and Mega Cab.
You can watch this video to learn more about the evolution of Ram 1500 models from 1981 to 2025, including the 3rd generation: 1mGraphic Cars EvolutionYouTube · Mar 9, 2024
- Model years: 2002–2008
- Key features:
- New frame, suspension, and powertrains
- Body styles included Regular Cab, Quad Cab, and Mega Cab
- Available engines ranged from a V6 to V8s, including the 5.7L HEMI
- Note: While the light-duty 1500 ended in 2008, the medium and heavy-duty models (2500 and 3500) continued through 2009, marking the end of the 3rd generation for those variants.
What year is the 4th gen Dodge Ram?
The 4th generation Ram trucks were produced from 2009 to 2018. While the initial launch was as the Dodge Ram, the Ram brand separated from Dodge in 2011. This generation included the 1500, 2500, 3500, and chassis cab variants.
You can watch this video to learn more about the 4th generation Ram 1500: 55sDriven CompanionYouTube · Aug 11, 2020
- Years: 2009–2018
- Launch: The generation officially launched in 2009 as the Dodge Ram.
- Branding: The truck was produced under the Dodge brand for the first two years, and the Ram brand was officially separated in 2011.
- Models: This generation includes the Ram 1500, 2500, 3500, and 4500 models.
- Note: Even after the generation officially ended in 2018, the 4th generation Ram 1500 was produced as the "Ram 1500 Classic" for the 2019 and subsequent model years.
