Key Takeaways

  • The Ram 2500 is a top-notch full-size truck with excellent design, high towing capacity, and outstanding performance.
  • The worst years to buy a used Ram 2500 are 2013, 2012, and 2015 due to various engine, electrical, and steering problems.
  • With proper maintenance and care, the Ram 2500 can easily reach 350,000 trouble-free miles, but it requires following manufacturer-recommended routines.

If you’re looking for a pickup truck that combines excellent design, high towing capacity, and top-notch performance, look no further than the Ram 2500 series. The Ram 2500 is one of the best heavy-duty trucks on the market and checks every important box regarding a full-size truck. Though, if you were looking for something smaller, the upcoming 2024 Ram Rampage should have you covered.

Updated September 2023: We've updated this article to reflect the potential issues you may face when buying a used Ram 2500 truck, including recalls, maintenance items to look out for and more.

If you are on the lookout to buy a used Ram 2500, you have to make sure that you are aware of all the flaws and shortcomings of its models. So, let’s get into details and see the worst years of the Ram 2500, how long it will last, and everything you need to know before buying one.

We've compiled data from CarEdge, RepairPal, Cars.com, JD Power and Consumer Reports to offer up the full picture of Ram 2500 ownership.

Related: 10 Best Used Pickup Trucks For Performance And Comfort

Does The Ram 2500 Have Problems?

Reliability Rating: 2.5/5 (RepairPal)

  • Avg. Yearly Maintenance Costs: $1,070 (RepairPal)
  • Est. Maintenance Costs After 5 Years: $6,516 (CarEdge)
  • Recalls: 49 (Cars.com)
  • Worst Ram 2500 Year To Buy Used: 2013

The Ram 2500 is a robust, durable truck that is the touchstone for full-size trucks, offering outstanding performance, high-level towing capacity, and convenient design. But every vehicle has its bad years. The 2013, 2012, and 2015 models of the Ram 2500 have had the most problems among its different makes. Avoid these model years to lower the chances of getting a lemon. Also, make sure to inspect your vehicle of interest with a trusted technician to avoid any potential hassle.

Related: 10 Full-Size Pickups To Avoid Like The Plague

Which Ram 2500 To Avoid?

2012 Ram 2500 In Silver
Via Ram

Specifications

2013 Ram 2500

Engine

5.7-liter V8

Transmission

6-speed AT

Power

383 hp

Torque

400 lb-ft

Max towing capacity

17,450 lbs

Price (when new)

$36,005

According to the CarComplaints website, the 2012 Ram 2500 has the highest number of complaints; however, the 2013 model year is considered the worst Ram 2500 as it has high-cost issues.

The 2013 model year has major engine problems. Many have reported that the check engine light turns on frequently and in low mileages. Different solutions have been issued, and the typical repair cost is around $3,700. Another problem in the engine department is the delayed acceleration.

A 2013 Ram 2500 owner reported this issue, “The latest incident occurred as I just picked up groceries... I started the truck, runs smooth, with no warning lights; I placed it in drive and no acceleration in any gear. It's not poor acceleration or limp mode but only idle, with no pedal variance. This is actually the third instance that is months apart... A system reboot, accomplished by removing power from the system, seems to clear the problem but obviously does not resolve it.” The manufacturer has not yet issued any particular reason or solution for this issue.

Common Ram 2500 Issues & Complaints

1994-2002 Dodge Ram 2500 Cummins front
CJC Off Road

Also, big on the 2013 model are the electrical problems. Owners have reported that the engine continues to run after removing the key. This problem is a mysterious one as there is no data on how to fix it or how much it costs.

Steering problems are the most recurring issues regarding the 2012 model. All sorts of steering problems happen with this vehicle, from shaking violently to locking and losing power. This occurs relatively early and makes quite the hassle. The 2012 model year returns poor fuel mileage as well. Several customers have reported numbers way below the promoted number.

The 2015 model year features major exhaust system issues. Many have reported the diesel exhaust fluid pump failure as the biggest hassle regarding the 2015 Ram 2500. This happens on average under 40k miles, and there is no certified solution to this issue.

A massive chunk of reports on the NHTSA shows excessive vibrations at higher speeds. This shaking becomes so violently prevalent that people lose control of the steering. This can make quite the scene on highways and can cause damage.

Related: 10 Most Potential Problems With Car Engines

The Ram 2500 Can Rack Up 350,000 Trouble-Free Miles If Maintained

2013 Ram 2500 Side View
Ram

Ram 2500 is as durable and long-lasting as it gets. You can expect it to go past 350,000 miles easily as Ram 2500 owners have recorded numbers like 500,000 miles. You can also aspire to make it just as far with proper care.

However, that number will not fall out of the sky. You have to follow the suggested routines by the manufacturer to make sure that the vehicle is in its best shape and form. Here are some of the most crucial stages of maintaining a Ram 2500 provided by the company:

  • At 8,000 miles: change the oil and oil filter, rotate the tires
  • At 16,000 miles: inspect the engine air cleaner filter, lube the front drive shaft fitting, inspect the exhaust system, and front suspension
  • At 32,000 miles: change the engine air cleaner filter, replace spark plugs, adjust the parking brake, inspect the front suspension, tie rod ends and boot seals (replace if necessary)
  • At 64,000 miles: replace the ignition cables, change the automatic transmission fluid, and transfer case fluid
  • At 120,000 miles: change transmission fluid, coolant, differential fluid, and timing belt, inspect the brake pads, engine mount, and front suspension

According to RepairPal, the average yearly cost of maintaining a Ram 2500 is $1070, higher than the average of $936 for full-size trucks.

Sources: RepairPal, CarEdge, Cars.com, CarComplaints, Auto Trader, Consumer Reports