Are Dodge Ram Trucks Reliable? [Explained!]

Getting a brand new truck or even a used one is a big investment, so it’s important that you know if the truck is reliable. If you are considering the Dodge Ram, it is understandable to wonder if it is a good and reliable vehicle. 

The Dodge RAM hasn’t always received the best reliability ratings in the past. Dodge has made significant changes to make the RAM more reliable since 2012. The most reliable Dodge RAM is the 2021 1500 model, which received a great reliability score from JD Power. 

Dodge RAM trucks are fairly reliable vehicles that you should consider driving. Keep reading to learn more about the most reliable Dodge RAM trucks.

Dodge Ram Reliability Scores

Dodge Ram trucks made before 2011 didn’t receive high rankings in terms of reliability. Fortunately, since 2012, RAM trucks have improved, ranking them at the top of their class. RAMs are often compared to their rival, the Ford F-150. There are times when the F-150 has come out on top, but the RAM is a close competitor, with its fair share of high rankings. 

Take a look at the table to see the RAM 1500 reliability ratings from J.D. Power, U.S. News, and World Report, as well as the truck’s class ranking. 

Year	Reliability Rating	Class Ranking
2021	86/100	N/A
2020	85/100	#3 Large Light Duty Pick Up
2019	77/100	#6 Large Light Duty Pick Up
2018	81/100	#3 Large Light Duty Pick Up
2017	81/100	#3 Large Light Duty Pick Up
2016	78/100	#4 Large Light Duty Pick Up
2015	79/100	#3 Large Light Duty Pick Up
2014	78/100	#2 Large Light Duty Pick Up
2013	83/100	#1 Large Light Duty Pick Up

The 2013, 2017, 2018, 2020, and 2021 RAM 1500s received the highest reliability scores from J.D. Power. But what if you are looking for a truck that can tow more than the Ram 1500 that still has great reliability. 

The Dodge Ram also offers the 2500 and 3500, which have higher hauling capabilities than the Ram 1500. The 2021 Dodge Ram 2500 was also given an 86/100 ranking on J.D. Power, and the 3500 has yet to be ranked. So whether you want a heavy-duty or a light-duty pickup truck, Dodge Rams are a great option to consider. Not only do they have great reliability rankings, but they also have other features that set them apart from their competitors. 

Other Dodge Ram Features

The Dodge Ram is not only highly regarded for its reliability. Many consumers praise the pickup truck’s powerful engine, comfortable interior, user-friendly infotainment system, and relative affordability. 

The Dodge Ram 1500 is a great truck. Customers can choose from various engine, trim, and package options for their RAM 1500. Some may complain that the Dodge Ram doesn’t have great hauling capability compared to competitors, such as the Ford F-150 or the Chevy Silverado, but the Dodge has more to offer than these other cars. 

Many users praise RAMs for being luxurious, ergonomic, and capable. Dodge RAMs drive and handle well. The fuel economy isn’t the best, but this is often expected for a full-sized truck. The most basic package might not give you the most luxurious feel, but the higher-end trims have beautiful leather seats that compete with luxury European-made cars. The gear shifter is just a small rotary dial located underneath the steering wheel. This smaller shifting mechanism leaves more room for cupholders and comfort.

Since trucks are known for being work vehicles, it would only make sense that the Dodge RAM trucks would make ergonomic features that apply to farm and construction workers alike. The controls on the 2021 Dodge 1500 are big enough and allow drivers to easily access them, even with work gloves on, which is a bonus. 

Another important aspect of the RAM trucks is how well they tow, the MPG, etc. Take a look at the other specs that make the Dodge Ram stand out from its competitors:

• MPG: 15-22 City / 21- 32 City (which is better in comparison to the 2021 Ford F-150)
• 250-702 Horsepower
• Automatic Transmission
• 269-410 lb-ft of torque

Aspects of the Drivetrain 

When you are looking at the reliability of a car, you need to consider the aspects of the drivetrain, such as the transmission and the engine. As mentioned earlier, customers can choose the engine for their Dodge RAM 1500. Engine options include a 3.6 L, V6 engine, and a 5.7 L, V8 engine.

Both engine options include an 8-speed transmission. The 3.6 L V6 Penstar is one of the most popular and advanced engines, which is why the Dodge RAM is known for having such a reliable engine. The 5.7 L V8 HEMI isn’t the best of engines, so it would be best to choose the 3.7 L V6 if you have the option.

The 3.7 L V6 engine might not have the power that the HEMI engine has, but it is much more reliable. With the less powerful engine, you and your Dodge RAM can take on more miles than the V8 engine in the long run.

Chassis 

The chassis of any RAM truck is built to be versatile and sturdy. The size and trim package of the vehicle will alter the chassis it uses. Some of the chassis for the Ram 1500 include different uplift options such as the landscaper, gooseneck, contractor, mechanic, etc.

It’s very important to get a good chassis in a truck because it houses the suspension and handling system of the car. Fortunately, RAM is rated highly for its handling and driving experience, which proves the quality of the chassis.

Conclusion

If you are still on the fence about purchasing a Dodge RAM truck, you should consider purchasing one because they are one of the top-rated trucks with some of the highest reliability ratings. Not only is it highly rated in terms of reliability, but it is also known for its luxury, easy-to-use infotainment system, great handling, and overall driving experience. If you need a full-sized truck, the Dodge RAM full-sized truck is for you.