How Long Do Rams Last?

Ram tucks usually run for about 200,000 miles or 15 years. The powerful and comfortable Dodge 2500 might be the most reliable heavy-duty model that Ram makes.
Written by Patrick Price
Reviewed by Melanie Reiff
Ram is known for producing high-quality trucks with mid-range reliability. The J.D. Power 2021 U.S. Initial Quality Study ranked Ram #1 in overall initial quality. But Rams do have a few common issues, especially with their transmissions, that keep them from being exceptionally reliable. 
Ram is a division of the Fiat Chrysler Automobiles Group that deals exclusively with trucks. There are plenty of manufacturers that outrank Ram in terms of reliability, but Rams have some of the longest average lifespans for trucks
But this doesn’t necessarily mean that any given Ram truck will have a long lifespan. Like any manufacturer, Ram has its superstars and its flops. If you’re shopping for a reliable Ram, there are some models to look for, and some to avoid. 
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Are Rams reliable? 

Reliability: The short answer is, it depends
J.D. Power’s 2020 vehicle dependability study rank: 20th 
Rams are neither exceptionally reliable nor particularly unreliable. According to Repair Pal (2022 ratings), Rams have a reliability rating of 3.0 out of 5.0. This puts Rams just slightly above average for overall reliability, meaning they will have pretty standard repair frequency and costs. On average, Ram owners can expect to pay about $858 in annual repairs

How many miles can a Rams last? 

On average, Rams will run for about 200,000 miles. However, if you stay up-to-date on oil changes, transmission, and radiator flushes, replacing brakes and rotors, tire rotations, any needed repairs, and other standard maintenance, these work-first machines can easily keep running for up to 300,000 miles. 

How many years can a Rams last? 

Despite their thoroughly average reliability ratings, Ram trucks tend to last longer than most trucks. The industry standard lifespan for trucks is between 7-10 years, while the average lifespan for a RAM is 13-17 years
That said, the owner and the elements will make a big difference in its actual lifespan. If your truck is exposed to icy roads that have been treated with salt, some exposed elements of the car can corrode. 
Key Takeaway With proper maintenance, your Ram truck could run for up to 300,000 miles, which is significantly longer than most trucks. 
MORE: How to get cheap truck insurance

The most reliable Rams models

Overall, Rams tend to last longer than most trucks, but some models are more reliable than others.
To get an accurate measure of each Ram’s reliability and cost we’ll use
J.D. Power’s
Quality & Reliability ratings, along with
Edmunds.com’s
True Cost to Own® pricing estimates.
Two 2021 Ram models stick out from the crowd in terms of reliability: The 1500 Classic and the Dodge 2500. Let’s take a closer look at these trucks: 

2021 Ram Truck 1500 Classic 

Image of a red 2021 Ram 1500
2021 starting price: $28,700
True cost to own (5 years): $39,584
J.D. Power Quality & Reliability Score: 86/100
Boasting an incredible reliability rating and a low cost to own, The
1500 Classic
is the most affordable and reliable Ram. 
Keep in mind though, the 1500 comes in a variety of trim levels—each with different features. The cheapest version of the 1500 Classic is the Tradesman which starts at $28,700.

2021 Dodge 2500 

Image of a red Dodge 2500.
2021 starting price: $37,120
True cost to own (5 years): $56,847
2021 J.D. Power Quality & Reliability Score: 86/100
The 2500 is an exceptionally durable heavy-duty truck perfect for those that like to work hard and play hard. Its unique coil-spring suspension, power-house engine, and towing power mean the 2500 is up to any job.
Its updated and comfortable interior makes it a pleasure to drive. The
Ram 2500
is Edmund’s top-rated choice for heavy-duty trucks in 2021. With an 86 reliability score, you can expect this Ram to be around for a while! 

The least reliable Rams models

Unfortunately, not all Ram trucks are as dependable as the 1500 Classic and the Dodge 2500. In fact, some models are downright unreliable. The Ram 3500 and the Ram Promaster City, for instance, are Ram’s least reliable models. 

2021 Ram 3500

Image of a dark gray Ram 3500.
2021 starting price: $37,120
True cost to own (5 years): $66,597
2021 J.D. Power Quality & Reliability Score: N/A
While the
3500
does not have a J.D. Power Quality & Reliability score, it has had a total of four recalls since it was released. There are known issues with the airbags, electrical systems, and wheels. If you’re looking for a reliable Ram, the 3500 is not your best bet. 

2021 Ram Promaster City

Image of a white Ram Promaster City.
2021 starting price: $27,410
True cost to own (5 years): N/A
2021 J.D. Power Quality & Reliability Score: N/A
This is a model that is best avoided. The Promaster City has already had three recalls, all related to safety. This hazardous vehicle has displayed serious functionality problems with its seat belts, exterior lights, and breaks. 
Key Takeaway If you’re looking for a reliable Ram, consider the 1500 Classic or the Dodge 2500. Make sure to avoid the Ram 3500 and the Promaster City. 

How to make your Rams last longer

How to treat your Ram will have a huge impact on how long it lasts. Proper care could mean the difference of more than 100,000 miles of use. Here’s what you’ll need to do to help extend the lifespan on your Ram: 
  • Invest in a truck cover and a bed liner
  • Keep your truck waxed to avoid scratches 
  • Stay up to date on tire rotations, brake checks, and oil changes.
  • Schedule regular inspections to look for unexpected problems 
  • Drive carefully to avoid damaging your truck
  • Keep a careful eye on your transmission and change the fluid at least every 30,000 miles
  • Minimize off-road driving
MORE: How to make your car last longer

How to find affordable Rams insurance

One of the most important things you can do to increase the lifespan of your Ram is to ensure that it has good insurance coverage. Finding reliable coverage for an affordable price is easier said than done, though. 
The number one way to keep your insurance costs down is to periodically compare rates from different car insurance companies. Normally, this is a tedious process since getting quotes from insurers requires time and paperwork. Fortunately, the car insurance comparison app
Jerry
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The app is free and saves its users an average of $887 a year! All you have to do is download the app and enter some basic information. Jerry will scour the market for the best rates and have 50+ quotes for you to choose from in less than 45 seconds!
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FAQs

Any truck over 100,000 miles will be considered a “high-mileage” vehicle. This applies to Rams as well, even though some models can keep running past 300,000 miles.
On average, Ram owners can expect to pay about $858 per year on repairs and maintenance. Your largest expense will end up being the transmission, as this tends to be a problem area for Rams.
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