The Ram 5500 is a heavy-duty workhorse, known for its impressive towing capacity, robust engine options, and overall durability. However, like any vehicle, certain model years offer enhanced reliability and features compared to others. This guide will delve into the best years for the Ram 5500 and highlight some years you might want to approach with caution, ensuring you make an informed decision when purchasing this powerful truck.
Ram 5500 Model Year Overview: Reliability, Features, and Issues
| Model Year | Key Features & Improvements | Potential Issues & Considerations |
|---|---|---|
| 2011-2012 | Introduction of the 6.7L Cummins turbo-diesel engine, improved suspension, and available integrated trailer brake controller. | Potential for early EGR cooler failures on the Cummins engine. Check for proper maintenance records. Higher mileage examples may require more extensive repairs. |
| 2013-2018 | Minor interior updates, improved infotainment systems (Uconnect), and further refinement of the Cummins engine. Enhanced towing and payload capacities. | Some reports of transmission issues, particularly with the Aisin transmission under heavy load. Ensure proper servicing intervals have been followed. Monitor for any unusual shifting behavior. |
| 2019-2020 | Complete redesign. New frame, updated interior and exterior styling, improved ride quality, and advanced safety features. Introduction of the 12-inch Uconnect touchscreen. Enhanced Cummins engine performance. | First model year of a major redesign, which can sometimes lead to unforeseen issues. Potential for software glitches with the new Uconnect system. Check for any recalls or service bulletins related to the redesign. |
| 2021-2024 | Continued refinements to the 2019 redesign. Incremental improvements to the Uconnect system, safety features, and engine performance. Generally considered the most reliable and technologically advanced Ram 5500s. | While generally reliable, ongoing supply chain issues could affect part availability for repairs. Ensure all software updates have been performed. Some reports of sensor-related issues, although these are typically minor. |
| 2008-2010 | Carried over from the Dodge era. Simple and relatively easy to work on. Less technologically advanced than later models. | Older models are prone to rust, especially in areas with road salt. Expect higher maintenance costs due to age. The 6.7L Cummins engine was in its earlier stages, so potential for more issues compared to later iterations. |
Detailed Explanations
2011-2012: Introduction of the 6.7L Cummins Turbo-Diesel Engine, Improved Suspension, and Available Integrated Trailer Brake Controller. These model years marked a significant step forward for the Ram 5500. The introduction of the 6.7L Cummins engine provided a powerful and reliable workhorse, while the improved suspension enhanced ride quality and handling. The integrated trailer brake controller offered improved safety and control when towing heavy loads.
Potential for Early EGR Cooler Failures on the Cummins Engine. Check for Proper Maintenance Records. Higher Mileage Examples May Require More Extensive Repairs. Early iterations of the 6.7L Cummins engine were susceptible to EGR cooler failures, which could lead to coolant leaks and potential engine damage. Thorough maintenance records are crucial to determine if the EGR cooler has been replaced or if there are any signs of coolant loss. Also, be prepared for potential repairs due to the age and mileage of these vehicles.
2013-2018: Minor Interior Updates, Improved Infotainment Systems (Uconnect), and Further Refinement of the Cummins Engine. Enhanced Towing and Payload Capacities. These model years saw incremental improvements to the Ram 5500, including interior upgrades, enhanced infotainment features, and further refinement of the Cummins engine. The increased towing and payload capacities made these trucks even more capable for heavy-duty tasks.
Some Reports of Transmission Issues, Particularly with the Aisin Transmission Under Heavy Load. Ensure Proper Servicing Intervals Have Been Followed. Monitor for Any Unusual Shifting Behavior. While generally reliable, some owners have reported transmission issues, especially with the Aisin transmission, which is often paired with the Cummins engine. Maintaining proper servicing intervals, including regular fluid changes, is essential to prevent premature wear and tear. Pay close attention to any unusual shifting behavior, such as slipping or harsh engagement.
2019-2020: Complete Redesign. New Frame, Updated Interior and Exterior Styling, Improved Ride Quality, and Advanced Safety Features. Introduction of the 12-inch Uconnect Touchscreen. Enhanced Cummins Engine Performance. The 2019 model year marked a complete redesign of the Ram 5500, featuring a new frame, updated styling, improved ride quality, and advanced safety features. The introduction of the 12-inch Uconnect touchscreen offered a more modern and user-friendly infotainment experience. The Cummins engine also received further enhancements, boosting performance and efficiency.
First Model Year of a Major Redesign, Which Can Sometimes Lead to Unforeseen Issues. Potential for Software Glitches with the New Uconnect System. Check for Any Recalls or Service Bulletins Related to the Redesign. As with any major redesign, the 2019 model year may have experienced some initial teething problems. Software glitches with the new Uconnect system were a common concern. It's crucial to check for any recalls or service bulletins related to the redesign to ensure that any potential issues have been addressed.
2021-2024: Continued Refinements to the 2019 Redesign. Incremental Improvements to the Uconnect System, Safety Features, and Engine Performance. Generally Considered the Most Reliable and Technologically Advanced Ram 5500s. These model years represent the most refined and technologically advanced versions of the Ram 5500. Continued improvements to the Uconnect system, safety features, and engine performance have resulted in a highly capable and reliable work truck.
While Generally Reliable, Ongoing Supply Chain Issues Could Affect Part Availability for Repairs. Ensure All Software Updates Have Been Performed. Some Reports of Sensor-Related Issues, Although These Are Typically Minor. Despite their overall reliability, ongoing supply chain issues could potentially affect the availability of parts for repairs. Ensuring that all software updates have been performed is crucial for optimal performance and to address any known issues. While some owners have reported sensor-related problems, these are generally minor and easily resolved.
2008-2010: Carried Over from the Dodge Era. Simple and Relatively Easy to Work On. Less Technologically Advanced Than Later Models. These older models, carried over from the Dodge era, offer a simpler and more straightforward design, making them relatively easy to work on. However, they lack the advanced technology and features found in later models.
Older Models Are Prone to Rust, Especially in Areas with Road Salt. Expect Higher Maintenance Costs Due to Age. The 6.7L Cummins Engine Was in Its Earlier Stages, so Potential for More Issues Compared to Later Iterations. Due to their age, these models are prone to rust, particularly in regions with road salt. Expect higher maintenance costs as components begin to wear out. The 6.7L Cummins engine was in its earlier stages of development, so there's a higher potential for issues compared to later iterations.
Frequently Asked Questions
Which Ram 5500 year is the most reliable? The 2021-2024 model years are generally considered the most reliable due to continued refinements and technological advancements.
What are the common problems with the Ram 5500? Common problems can include EGR cooler failures in older Cummins engines, transmission issues with the Aisin transmission, and potential software glitches in the Uconnect system on newer models.
Is the 6.7L Cummins engine reliable in the Ram 5500? Yes, the 6.7L Cummins is generally a reliable engine, but earlier versions (2008-2012) may be more prone to certain issues like EGR cooler failures.
What should I look for when buying a used Ram 5500? Check for rust, proper maintenance records, any signs of transmission issues, and ensure all recalls and service bulletins have been addressed.
Are Ram 5500 trucks expensive to maintain? Maintenance costs can be higher than lighter-duty trucks due to the heavy-duty components and potential for more frequent repairs.
Conclusion
Choosing the right Ram 5500 model year depends on your specific needs and budget. The 2021-2024 models offer the most refined and technologically advanced experience, while the 2013-2018 models provide a good balance of features and reliability. Be sure to carefully inspect any used Ram 5500 and prioritize models with comprehensive maintenance records to ensure a long and reliable service life.