This Is the Best Model Year to Buy a Used RAM 1500
The RAM 1500 has proved to be a formidable pickup truck even before it became its own brand for the 2012 model year. Competitively priced, high-performing, and functional, it’s easy to see why buyers continue to choose RAM trucks.
But if you’re in the market for a used pickup truck, it’s essential to understand that not every model year is created equal. In fact, there’s one used RAM 1500 model that has proven to be more reliable than any other.
The most reliable RAM 1500 model year
The people at CarComplaints.com compile data from a variety of sources to inform owners and potential buyers of the problems or complaints on a particular vehicle model year.
After gathering all research on RAM 1500 trucks, there is certainly proof that some model years may be a better investment than others. Out of all used model years, the 2018 RAM 1500 appears to have the least amount of overall complaints and receives CarComplaints.com’s rank as the best preowned RAM 1500 model year.
Garnering just 12 total complaints, the 2018 model year seems to be more reliable than other pre-owned RAM 1500s. The most common problem with the 2018 model year seems to be an issue with the fuel system, which includes four total complaints regarding fuel spills while refueling and difficulty refueling.
Though there aren’t too many complaints about the fuel system, CarComplaints.com still gives the issue a severity rating of 8.7, as it has an early onset timing of under 3,000 miles.
Aside from a few issues with the fuel system, there are only three complaints regarding interior accessory problems, two for engine problems, and one complaint in each of the paint/body, electrical, and transmission categories.
Though there are 13 total recalls by the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA), the likelihood that all issues were resolved at the dealership is high. Because the 2018 RAM 1500 isn’t very close to new, most recalls will have been dealt with prior to sale.
Used RAM 1500 model years to stay away from
Keep in mind that the information from CarComplaints.com is only derived from RAM 1500 model years 2012 and up and does not include pickups from when the automaker was under the Dodge brand.
But when looking at all these included years, it’s easy to see why some used RAM 1500 model years should be avoided at all costs. According to CarComplaints.com’s model year comparison of the RAM 1500, it’s clear that the 2014 model year has the most complaints.
The 2014 RAM 1500 has received an astounding 366 complaints, while the 2013 model year comes close behind with 279. There are more than 50 complaints regarding the 2014 RAM 1500’s transmission as well as interior accessories. More than 30 complaints exist about the model year’s electrical system and engine as well.
The 2019 Ram 1500 kicked off the latest generation, and you can get models from this year at an affordable price. They include updated tech and modern improvements. But the first model year of a new truck or car typically has more problems.
The 2020 Ram 1500 is a safe bet because the majority of issues with the new generation were solved by then. While the 2019 model has 143 complaints, the 2020 model only has 34 complaints. The 2018 model has 40 complaints.
What you’ll love about the 2018 RAM 1500
J.D.Power gave the 2018 Ram 1500 a reliability rating of 81 out of 100. This allows it to barely make it in the above-average category. Scores between 81 and 90 are above average, while scores between 70 to 80 are average. Also, anything between 91 and 100 is best.
This Ram 1500 model excels in having an attractive design, smooth and powerful performance, modern tech, a comfortable ride, practicality, safety, and tech. However, the 2019 model does have more modern features, but it only has a score of 69 for its reliability rating.
Reasons to avoid the 2018 Ram 1500 include its weak fuel economy and climate control system. The heating and air conditioning systems could be more effective.
But you can still get newer versions of this truck as well. The Ram 1500 Classic is based on the outgoing generation and still sells pretty well. Its attractive look and features are still popular.
