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Dodge Ram Problems

The Dodge Ram represents the full-size pickup truck lineup before the brand was spun off as simply Ram in 2010. With nearly 11,000 complaints and 54 reported deaths, the older Dodge Ram trucks were workhorses with both strengths and weaknesses. The Ram brand has since become its own standalone brand separate from Dodge. These pre-2010 trucks remain popular for their capability and available Cummins diesel option.

10,978
Total Complaints
12
Total Recalls
33
Model Years
54
Reported Deaths
!

Years to Avoid

These years have significantly more complaints than average.

2001 1999 1998
✓

Best Years

These years have the fewest reported problems.

1976 1977 1979

Common Problem Categories

Service Brakes, Hydraulic 1,920
Power Train 1,460
Steering 826
Engine And Engine Cooling 802
Electrical System 798

Complaints by Model Year

All Model Years

Year ↓ Complaints Recalls Crashes Fires Rating
2011 0 4 0 0 Good
2010 66 5 8 6 Good
2009 26 2 0 2 Good
2008 66 1 14 4 Good
2007 40 0 2 2 Good
2006 72 0 2 2 Good
2005 94 0 10 2 Good
2004 142 0 20 0 Good
2003 130 0 18 2 Good
2002 304 0 42 8 Average
2001 834 0 132 22 Avoid
2000 424 0 74 24 Average
1999 992 0 104 18 Avoid
1998 1,288 0 188 18 Avoid
1997 1,026 0 102 38 Avoid
1996 1,810 0 168 52 Avoid
1995 1,704 0 164 78 Avoid
1994 1,246 0 106 62 Avoid
1993 132 0 8 2 Good
1992 150 0 8 10 Good
1991 126 0 6 4 Good
1990 46 0 4 10 Good
1989 70 0 12 4 Good
1988 54 0 8 2 Good
1987 42 0 0 0 Good
1986 40 0 6 10 Good
1985 28 0 2 2 Good
1984 4 0 0 2 Good
1983 2 0 0 0 Good
1981 4 0 0 2 Good
1979 8 0 2 4 Good
1977 4 0 0 0 Good
1976 4 0 0 0 Good

Dodge Ram Years to Avoid

The 1996 Dodge Ram is the worst model year with transmission failures, dashboard cracking, and various quality issues that plagued the second-generation trucks. The 1994-2002 second-generation Rams had widespread dashboard cracking problems in warm climates and transmission concerns. The 46RE and 47RE automatics were prone to failure under stress. The 1999-2002 trucks had some front end component issues. The 54 deaths reflect the trucks involvement in various incidents over years of production.

Best Dodge Ram Years

The 1983 Dodge Ram represents the first-generation fullsize with simpler systems and proven durability. The 2006-2009 third-generation Rams with the 5.7L Hemi are good choices with improved transmissions. The 2008-2009 models benefit from production refinement. Any Ram with the Cummins diesel tends to outlast the truck around it.

Frequently Asked Questions

What are the most common problems with the Dodge Ram?

Dashboard cracking in 1994-2002 models is extremely common in warm climates. Transmission failures, particularly the 46RE and 47RE automatics, are expensive issues. Other concerns include front end wear, ball joint failures, and some Hemi engine issues in later models. The Cummins diesel is generally reliable.

Is the Dodge Ram transmission reliable?

The automatic transmissions in older Dodge Rams, particularly the 46RE and 47RE, are weak points prone to failure especially under towing stress. Many owners have rebuilt or replaced these transmissions. Later trucks with the 545RFE and 68RFE improved somewhat. Manual transmissions are more durable.

Why does the Dodge Ram dashboard crack?

The 1994-2002 Ram dashboard material was not formulated to withstand heat and UV exposure. In warm climates, the dashboard cracks extensively. This was a widespread issue affecting millions of trucks. Replacement dashboards and covers are available.

Should I buy an old Dodge Ram?

Older Dodge Rams can be affordable workhorses if you choose carefully. Budget for potential transmission work on automatic trucks. The Cummins diesel is worth seeking out for durability. Check for dashboard condition and front end wear. Rust is a concern in northern climates.

Is the Dodge Ram Cummins reliable?

Yes, the Cummins diesel engines (5.9L and 6.7L) are legendary for durability, often exceeding 300,000-500,000 miles. The truck components around the engine typically fail before the Cummins. The Cummins commands a price premium but delivers exceptional longevity.