Is the Ram 1500 Really That Unreliable?
It’s time to solve another mystery, but this time we’re taking a closer look at the Ram 1500. We’ve noticed that even though it has incredible rankings for value and comfort, it’s still falling behind the Ford F-150 and Chevy Silverado 1500. Is that because the Ram 1500 has a bad reputation?
How reliable is the 2023 Ram 1500?
The 2023 Ram 1500 has an average reliability ranking. RepairPal gave it a score of 3.5 out of 5.0, which is slightly above average.
J.D.Power gave the 2022 model a reliability ranking of 80 out of 100. This is an average rating. Scores between 70 and 80 are average, and anything between 81 and 90 is above average. It was only one point away from reaching a better category.
The 2021 model also got an 80 out of 100, so this truck’ quality and reliability scores don’t seem to be fluctuating. But the 2023 F-150 dropped by eight points with a score of 78.
You can expect the average full-size Ram pickup to make it between 200,000 to 300,000 miles. It can also easily make it past 300,000 miles with proper care and maintenance. It’s almost on the same level as the Toyota Tundra.
A well-maintained Ram truck can provide 20 years of service on the road if you drive about 15,000 miles annually. Also, it costs about $670 to maintain yearly, which is lower than the average annual cost of $936 for full-size trucks.
Why do Ram trucks have a bad reputation?
While the Ram 1500 is currently a reliable option with a durable build quality, it has a bit of a seedy past. In 2019 when the Ram truck was redesigned to kick off the fifth generation, tons of significant improvements were made.
Some people might be hesitant because the Ram pickup truck does have a reputation for poor quality and reliability. So, we might have an ugly duckling situation on our hands. Before the Ram turned into a beautiful swan, it faced mechanical issues.
The 2015, 2014, and 2013 models have the most complaints about mechanical issues. Ram 1500 problems range from transmission problems, engine issues, interior accessory problems, and electrical problems.
Expensive engine and transmission problems like no acceleration, slipping gears, shuddering, stalling, and failure don’t promote confidence.
Plus, there are reports of interior problems such as cracking dashboards, collapsing seat cushions, freezing radios, ripping upholstery, and flickering lights that probably don’t help.
But newer models have a substantial amount of complaints. This indicates that the older problems may have been corrected.
How did the Ram truck improve?
The Ram 1500 was developed to fit the needs of workers and families. While tons of trucks are used as utility vehicles to make money, about 50% are sold as family vehicles. So, it was the first truck to switch to a unique coil-spring suspension system.
It provides a smooth ride without compromising its towing capabilities. Plus, the interior has a spacious layout with plenty of room for adults in the front and second rows. There are tons of innovative storage solutions for tools, gear, and luggage.
The Ram 1500 also leads the way in tech. It was the first truck to introduce a massive touchscreen to make towing and off-roading easier. The systems are fast and easy to use.
Also, critics are impressed by the luxurious interior quality. The interior is peaceful, and the large leather seats are well-padded for hours of comfort. If you can get past Ram’s dark past, then the new 1500 is worth checking out.
