Ram trucks are generally reliable, scoring 88/100 in quality and reliability. The Ram 1500, with a 3.5/5 rating, is praised for durability, comfort, and dependable performance.
In this guide, you’ll find more than just a score. This article gives you a complete, honest picture of Ram’s dependability, from credible reliability ratings and recall histories to owner feedback and cost analysis.
Overview of Ram Trucks and Their Reputation
Ram trucks have carved a strong position in the pickup truck world, known for their bold design, powerful towing capacity, and comfortable ride, once part of Dodge, the Ram brand split in 2009 to operate as its own identity under Stellantis.
Over the years, Ram trucks have attracted a loyal following, but just like any vehicle, buyers want to know one thing before purchasing: How reliable are Ram trucks in the real world?
Understanding Truck Reliability
Reliability in a truck doesn’t just mean it starts every morning—it’s about how well it holds up under heavy use, how often it needs repairs, and how costly those repairs are over time.
Organizations like JD Power, RepairPal, and Consumer Reports gather data from thousands of owners to measure:
- Defect frequency – how often something goes wrong
- Repair severity – whether it’s a minor fix or a significant job
- Maintenance cost – average annual expenses
- Longevity – how many years/miles it can realistically last
Latest Reliability Ratings for Ram Trucks (2025 Data)
Regarding professional reliability scores, Ram trucks perform well in some areas but have mixed reviews overall.
- JD Power rates the 2025 Ram 1500 at 89/100 for quality and reliability — placing it near the top in light-duty pickups.
- RepairPal gives the Ram 1500 an Above Average score of 3.5/5, with its class’s lowest annual maintenance cost at $691.
- Consumer Reports, however, predicts below-average reliability for the 2025 Ram 1500, based on historical performance trends of Stellantis vehicles.
1. Reliability Ratings Table
| Source | Model / Year | Score / Rating | Insight |
| JD Power | 2025 Ram 1500 | 89/100 | “Great” quality, top in pickup segment |
| RepairPal | Ram 1500 (All yrs) | 3.5/5 | Above-average reliability, low repair cost |
| Consumer Reports | 2025 Ram 1500 | – | Predicted below-average based on history |
What These Ratings Mean
JD Power’s score reflects how few issues real owners report—covering everything from engine to infotainment. A high rating like 89 means Ram owners are generally experiencing fewer defects.
RepairPal’s reliability rating is grounded in actual repair data and average costs, meaning the good score and low expense reflect real-world ownership.
Consumer Reports’ forecast, though futuristic, draws from historical reliability patterns from Stellantis-origin vehicles and suggests cautious buying for 2025 models.
Must Know: Is RAM Dodge? – Full Brand History & Facts!
Strengths That Make Ram Trucks Dependable
Ram trucks earn praise for:
- Proven Engines – The 5.7L HEMI V8 and 6.7L Cummins diesel are known for longevity. The newer Hurricane I6 is showing promise, but still new in the market.
- Ride Comfort – Many owners note smoother rides than Ford and Chevy, thanks to coil-spring rear suspension.
- Low Maintenance Costs – At $691/year (per RepairPal), they cost less to maintain than most competitors.
- Towing Confidence – Strong torque and well-tuned transmissions handle heavy loads without straining the engine.
Weak Points & Common Issues Owners Report
Even with strengths, Ram trucks have areas that need attention:
- Electrical Glitches – Problems with infotainment systems, backup cameras, and sensors are reported, especially in older models.
- First-Year Model Bugs – Early production years of redesigns sometimes have more issues (owners often recommend waiting until the second model year).
- Shifter System Recalls – Past recalls for shifter malfunctions affecting safety.
Long-Term Durability: How Many Miles Can a Ram Last?
With proper care, many Ram 1500s exceed 200,000 miles, and heavy-duty models like the 2500 and 3500 often go beyond 300,000 miles—especially with the Cummins diesel engine.
Owners who follow regular maintenance schedules and handle minor issues early tend to keep their trucks running reliably for over a decade.
Recall History & Its Effect on Reliability
Recalls are an important factor in reliability perception. While recalls don’t automatically make a truck unreliable, frequent or severe issues can influence buyer confidence.
Recent Major Recalls:
| Year | Recall Issue | Models Affected | Severity |
| 2025 | Gear shifter defect (BTSI) causing rollaway | 2013–2018 models | High |
| 2024 | Stability control software failure | 1.5M pickups | High |
| 2023 | Overheating electrical connector (fire risk) | 2021–2023 diesels | High |
Maintenance Cost & Ownership Experience
Owning a Ram truck doesn’t have to be expensive. According to RepairPal, the Ram 1500’s $691 annual maintenance cost is $245 lower than the average for full-size trucks.
Typical service items include:
- Oil changes every 6,000–8,000 miles
- Brake pad replacements every 40,000–60,000 miles
- Transmission service around 100,000 miles
Read Out: Dodge Interchangeable Parts List – Ultimate Guide!
How Ram Reliability Compares to Ford, Chevy & Toyota
| Truck Model | Reliability Score | Annual Maintenance Cost | Recalls (3 Years) |
| Ram 1500 | 89/100 (JDP) | $691 | 3 |
| Ford F-150 | 85/100 | $788 | 4 |
| Toyota Tundra | 90/100 | $606 | 2 |
| Chevy Silverado 1500 | 83/100 | $714 | 5 |
The Toyota Tundra leads slightly in reliability, but the Ram 1500 offers a strong balance of comfort, performance, and lower maintenance costs.
Are Newer RAM models More Reliable Than Older Ones?
Yes — post-2020 Rams tend to have fewer widespread issues than older models. Improvements in build quality, better rust protection, and more advanced safety systems contribute to higher satisfaction scores.
Ram HD Models (2500 & 3500) vs Ram 1500 Reliability
Heavy-duty Rams are built tougher but may face higher maintenance costs due to their bigger engines and towing use.
The Cummins-powered 2500/3500 models have a reputation for exceptional longevity, though repair bills for heavy-duty parts can be higher.
Real-World Owner Reviews & Feedback
From Reddit to owner forums, the feedback is consistent:
- Positive: Smooth ride, powerful engines, dependable in towing and daily use.
- Negative: Occasional electrical gremlins, especially in early production years.
Expert Tips to Keep Your RAM Running Reliably for Years
- Follow the maintenance schedule in your owner’s manual.
- Keep software and firmware updated for electronic systems.
- Check recall notices regularly via the NHTSA site.
- Use OEM or high-quality aftermarket parts for replacements.
- Avoid overloading or pushing towing limits.
Ram 1500 Reliability By Year
Ram 1500’s overall reliability varies by model year. Historically, it has averaged 3.5/5 on RepairPal, ranking first among full-size trucks for reliability and boasting an annual repair cost of around $691, with only 0.2 unscheduled visits per year and just 13 % being severe.
Ram 1500 Years To Avoid
Several Ram 1500 model years are best avoided due to frequent complaints. These include 2001, 2002, 2003, and then 2010 through 2016, with issues ranging from dashboard cracks and engine failure due to oil sludge to accessory and electrical malfunctions.
How Reliable Are Ram Trucks 2025
The 2025 Ram 1500 shows strong reliability—scoring 89/100 from JD Power for quality and reliability, and noted for a smooth ride and refined interior.
However, owners have reported early model teething issues and mixed feedback on new features.
How Reliable Are Ram Trucks 2022
Specific ratings for the 2022 Ram 1500 aren’t readily available. Still, it shares the strong powertrain legacy of its generation, and RepairPal consistently ranks it above average in reliability, with modest repair costs and few severe maintenance events.
How Reliable Are Ram Trucks 2020
The 2020 Ram 1500 earned a solid 80/100 from JD Power for quality and reliability and a 4.5/5 expert score from KBB.
It’s generally praised for its performance and cabin comfort, suggesting reliable daily use when well maintained.
How Reliable Are Ram Trucks 2021
While exact reliability scores for the 2021 Ram 1500 are less cited, it continues the fifth-generation build quality consistently rated above average by sources like RepairPal, implying dependable performance if kept up with routine service.
FAQs
1. Do Ram trucks have reliability issues?
Some Ram trucks face engine, transmission, or electrical issues, but regular maintenance and choosing reliable model years help reduce major problems significantly.
2. Do Ram trucks last long?
Yes, Ram trucks can easily last over 200,000 miles with reasonable care, offering years of strong performance and dependable driving.
3. Is Ram more reliable than Chevy?
Ram often scores slightly higher in comfort and performance, while Chevy sometimes edges ahead in long-term reliability, depending on the model year.
4. What truck brand has the fewest problems?
Toyota trucks, especially the Tacoma and Tundra, are often ranked highest for having the fewest problems and longest-lasting performance in the market.
5. What years to avoid for Ram trucks?
Avoid 2001–2003 and 2010–2016 Ram trucks due to standard engine, transmission, and electrical complaints reported by many owners over the years.
6. Is RAM more reliable than Ford?
Ram and Ford compete closely, but Ford trucks often win in durability ratings, while Ram excels in ride comfort and luxury features.
7. Are Ram trucks high maintenance?
Ram trucks usually have average maintenance costs, but neglecting service can make repairs costly, especially for transmission or suspension components.
8. What is the best Ram truck to buy?
The 2020 Ram 1500 is often recommended for its smooth ride, strong reliability, and comfortable interior without major widespread issues reported.
9. What is the best truck to buy?
The Toyota Tundra is considered one of the most reliable trucks, followed closely by the Ram 1500 for comfort and towing power.
10. Are RAM transmissions reliable?
Modern Ram transmissions are more reliable than older ones, but earlier models faced common failures. Regular fluid changes significantly improve longevity.
Conclusion
Ram trucks have earned their place as dependable workhorses, offering power, comfort, and long-lasting performance. Models like the Ram 1500 consistently score well in quality and reliability, with affordable maintenance costs compared to competitors. While some model years come with known issues, choosing wisely and staying on top of regular maintenance can keep a Ram running strong for many years. Whether for towing, daily driving, or heavy-duty tasks, Ram trucks deliver a solid balance of capability and value for truck owners.
