When was the first Dodge Ram truck made?
The first Dodge Ram pickup arrived for the 1981 model year, with production beginning in 1980, marking Dodge's shift to the Ram branding for its full-size trucks.
Background and origins
In the late 1970s, Dodge redesigned its flagship pickup line to emphasize a bold new identity. The brand introduced the Ram nameplate as part of a broader refresh of Dodge's light-duty and heavy-duty trucks. The change culminated in the 1981 model year, when the Ram branding replaced the long-running D-Series designation on Dodge's full-size pickups.
What defined the Ram era
The Ram era blended proven mechanicals from the D-Series with new styling cues and the distinctive Ram badge. The most visible change was the grille and hood ornament featuring a ram’s head, signaling a modern, more aggressive look while preserving the trucks' workhorse capabilities.
Key milestones in the Ram's early history
These items outline the essential steps in the introduction of the Ram name and the transition from the D-Series to Ram-branded pickups.
- The Dodge Ram pickup debuted for the 1981 model year; production began in 1980, marking Dodge's branding shift from D-Series to Ram.
- The Ram nameplate and ram-horn grille badge became defining features of the trucks, replacing the plain D-Series insignia on the grille and tailgate.
- Early Ram trucks shared the D-Series chassis and mechanicals but featured updated styling and branding that set the tone for subsequent generations.
These early decisions established a lasting identity for Dodge's large pickups and laid the groundwork for the Ram lineage that continues today.
Impact for enthusiasts and collectors
For enthusiasts and collectors, the 1981 Dodge Ram marks the beginning of a long-running lineage of Ram-branded pickups that evolved in power, capability, and design through multiple generations.
Summary
The first Dodge Ram truck was introduced for the 1981 model year, with production starting in 1980. This shift signaled Dodge’s move to a dedicated Ram branding for its full-size pickups, a decision that defined the brand for decades and remains a cornerstone of Ram-branded trucks today.
Why are Ram trucks no longer called Dodge?
Chrysler bought Dodge in 1928, changing the brand's path. Under Chrysler, Dodge trucks kept getting better. This led to the 2010 split, making Ram its own brand. Now, Ram focuses on trucks, while Dodge makes performance cars like the Challenger, Charger, and Durango.
What came first, Ram or Dodge?
History of the Dodge Ram
The Dodge brand was founded in 1900, it is the oldest surviving American automotive brand. In 1928 Chrysler purchased Dodge. Dodge Ram was created in 1981.
What was the name of the 1950 Dodge truck?
The B-series pickup trucks were sold from 1948 to 1953. They replaced the prewar Dodge truck and were replaced by the Dodge C series in 1954. The B-series trucks came in several different variants. The B1-B were ½-ton trucks standard with a 95 hp flathead-straight-six engine.
What year RAM truck to stay away from?
Years to avoid for Dodge Ram trucks include 2003 (especially Ram 1500 and 3500) due to safety and mechanical issues like airbag failures, dashboard cracking, and engine problems. Other years to be cautious of are 2012, 2013, 2014, 2015, and 2016 across different models due to widespread complaints and recalls related to engines, electrical systems, and transmissions.
You can watch this video to learn about potential issues with the Ram 1500's eco diesel engine, transmission, and other electronic systems: 1mDriving.caYouTube · Sep 12, 2025
Dodge Ram 1500
- 2003: Frequent reports of airbag failures, engine misfires, and transmission issues.
- 2012-2013: These years had high numbers of complaints, particularly with engine and transmission problems.
- 2014-2016: These models are noted for numerous recalls and issues with engines, electrical systems, and transmissions.
- 2019: Problems with electrical and infotainment systems were common.
This video discusses some reasons to avoid Ram 1500, including potential issues with the engine and transmission: 1mSpeed SpectrumYouTube · Sep 23, 2024
Ram 2500 and 3500
- 2003 (3500): Considered one of the worst years due to high repair costs and problems with cracked dashboards, steering, and a problematic Bosch injection system.
- 2012-2014: These model years have high complaint and recall numbers, with issues spanning from engine problems to electrical system failures.
- 2018: Brake system issues were a primary concern for this model year.
Dodge Cummins (Diesel)
- 2001, 2006, 2007, 2008, and 2011: These years are known for problems with the fuel system, cracked engine blocks, injectors, and the "death wobble" suspension issue.
