Are RAMs Expensive to Maintain?
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RAM trucks are known for their robustness and capability, appealing to those who need a vehicle that can handle heavy-duty tasks.
However, the cost of maintaining such a powerful machine is a crucial factor for prospective and current owners.
In this post, we'll explore the maintenance needs of RAM trucks, breaking down the factors that influence their upkeep costs.
Whether you're a long-time owner or considering your first RAM purchase, understanding these costs is essential for making an informed decision about investing in a truck that's as reliable at work as it is on the road.
Let's get started.
Table of Contents
Are RAMs Expensive to Maintain?
The average cost of regular maintenance for a Ram truck is around $858. However, this figure can vary depending on the model you own.
Compared to other vehicles, RAMs are more prone to experiencing issues and are more expensive to maintain.
Regular maintenance is required to keep your vehicle running smoothly. Certain models will cost more than others. For instance, a Ram 3500 truck will cost you more than a 1500 truck.
It would be best if you also understood that the name Ram and Dodge are no longer the same. In 2010, the company introduced different models under different brands.
The reliability of Ram vehicles is typically mediocre. Compared to other brands, they require more maintenance.
RepairPal claims that about 0.3 times a year, Ram owners go to the repair shop for unscheduled maintenance. The average rate for severe repairs is 15%, which is higher than the national average.
Toyotas are less likely to get severe repairs than Ford. Ford has the same frequency of tough repairs, while Toyotas only have a 12% probability of having issues.
You probably bought a Ram truck because it's something you need for your family or safety. You may also like big trucks for carrying heavy loads or towing.
Regardless, you probably didn't anticipate the high maintenance costs you'll have to pay in the first few years after you bought a Ram truck.
Ram 1500 Maintenance Costs
The cost of ownership for a new Ram 1500 will be around $17,677 for the first ten years. This is almost $9,000 higher than the average cost of a similar vehicle from other brands.
In addition, there is a 54.8% chance that you will need a major repair on your car. A major repair is typically something that costs over $500.
Ram 2500 Maintenance Costs
If you own a Ram 2500, you're probably paying a lot of money to keep your vehicle running smoothly.
In the first decade, this vehicle's average cost of repairs and maintenance is $25,464, which is almost $12,000 higher than the average for other vehicles in this segment. Also, there is a 79.19% chance that you'll need a major repair within that period.
Ram 3500 Maintenance Costs
CarEdge estimated that the average owner of a Ram 3500 pickup truck spends around $25,844 on service and maintenance costs during the first decade of their vehicle's ownership.
Given that you could get a new 2021 model for around $36,880, this amount is quite a bit.
The average cost of maintenance and repairs for a Ram 3500 is significantly higher than that of a heavy-duty pickup truck.
Like the rest of the vehicle segment, the Ram 3500 has a 79.19% chance that it will need major repairs within the next decade. The rate of major repairs that the Ram 3500 requires is 57.69% worse than other vehicles.
It's not surprising that the cost of repairs and maintenance for Ram trucks will increase yearly.
The average cost of ownership for a new Ram 1500 is around $567, while the cost of repairs for a Ram 3500 is $849, and for a Ram 2500 is $811.
These models start out relatively small, with a 5.65% chance that you'll need to repair during the first year and an 8.17% likelihood for the Ram 3500.
In the next five years, there's a 26.1% chance that you'll need to make a major repair on your vehicle and a 38.46% likelihood for the Ram 1500, 3500, and 2500.
By year ten, you'll have a 79.19% chance of having a major repair on your vehicle and a 54.7% likelihood for the Ram 2500.
The average cost of maintaining your vehicle in year five is around $1,340, $1,828, and almost $2,000.
Despite the high maintenance costs of the Ram 3500, you should be bold in keeping it.
If you're still planning on keeping the vehicle, make sure you set aside a small amount each month for repairs and maintenance.
This will allow you to avoid unexpected expenses and maintain your car running smoothly.
Are RAMs Reliable?
Before 2011, Dodge Ram trucks received low rankings in terms of reliability. However, since 2012, the company's vehicles have improved and ranked at the top of their class.
They're often compared to the Ford F-150, the other major vehicle manufacturer's flagship model.
The F-150 is usually the winner, but the RAM is close enough in terms of reliability that it often comes in second.
The 2019 Ram 1500, 2020 Ram 1500, and 2021 Ram 1500 were among the most reliable vehicles in the industry, according to J.D. Power's reliability ratings.
The Dodge Ram also offers the 3500 and 2500, which can handle more towing capacity than the Ram 1500.
In addition, the 2021 Dodge Ram 1500 was ranked 86 out of 100 on J.D. Power's reliability ratings.
If you're looking for a light-duty or heavy-duty pickup truck, the Dodge Ram is a great choice.
Besides being reliable, the company's vehicles also have various features that make them stand out from their competitors.
Other RAM Features
Aside from being reliable, the Dodge Ram is also highly regarded by consumers due to its various features.
These include its powerful engine, comfortable interior, and user-friendly navigation system.
The Dodge Ram 1500 is a great choice if you're looking for a heavy-duty or light-duty pickup truck.
The vehicle can be customized to meet your needs with various engine, trim, and package options.
Some consumers may feel that the car needs to have the towing capacity of its competitors, such as the Chevy Silverado or Ford F-150.
Some consumers praise the RAMs for being capable, ergonomic, and luxurious.
Although the fuel economy could be better, the most basic package of RAMs doesn't provide you with the most luxurious feel.
However, the higher-end models have leather seats comparable to those in luxury cars. The gear shifter is also a small rotary dial that can be found underneath the steering wheel.
It's no wonder the RAMs are known to be capable and ergonomic. The 2021 Dodge 1500 features extensive controls that allow drivers to easily access them even while wearing gloves.
Since trucks are typically used by construction workers, it's only natural that the company would make these features for farm workers.
The Cost of RAM Spare Parts and Services
Alternator Replacement
A new alternator for a Ram 1500 will set you back around $360 to $565. The new part should last you about 80,000 to 150,000 miles. Labor costs are about $100, while the parts cost around $300 to $500.
The battery is usually used to start your truck when the engines are running. It also powers various electronic components and recharges the truck's battery. However, the alternator will keep your vehicle running while you're driving or idle.
Oil Change
Ram 1500 owners should regularly change their oil at around 3,000 to 5,000 miles. Synthetic oil should be changed every 7,500 to 10,000 miles.
An oil change can cost you around $125 to $133, depending on the component and labor involved, though this doesn't include fees and taxes.
It's important to keep in mind that this service is only one component of your vehicle's overall maintenance.
The oil change intervals for most vehicles should be about 10,000 miles. They should also stay within 350 hours.
Wiper Blade
Those who want to install their own Wiper blades for their Ram 1500 can be picked up for around $40.
However, if you're planning on hiring a professional to fit them, you might be charged around $100 for the parts and labor.
Getting your own Wiper blades is a relatively simple and inexpensive fix you can easily do yourself. You can also find plenty of YouTube tutorials on how to install them.
Air Filter
RepairPal claims that replacing the air filter for a Ram 1500 can cost you around $68 to $79, not including fees and taxes. This is a relatively simple and inexpensive fix that should be performed annually.
After opening the hood, locate and remove the old air filter housing. Then, replace the housing cover with the new one.
Battery Replacement
RepairPal also claims that replacing the battery for a Ram 1500 can cost you around $200, not including taxes and fees.
Although there is no specific mileage recommendation for a vehicle's battery, it's important to note that it can eventually die.
The life of a battery can vary depending on various factors such as its climate and driving habits.
