14 Best & Worst Ram 2500 Years (With Facts & Stats)

The Ram 2500, made its debut starting with the 2011 model year, continuing the legacy of its predecessor, the Dodge Ram.

It is renowned for its exceptional payload and towing capacities, advanced infotainment tech, and remarkable durability.

In this article, we’ll be checking out all of its best and worst model years.

Here’s The Short Answer To What The Best And Worst Years For The Ram 2500 Are:

The best Ram 2500 model years are 2024, 2023, 2022, 2021, 2020, and 2019. The worst model years of this model are 2018, 2017, 2016, 2015, 2014, 2013, 2012, and 2011. This is based on auto industry reviews, NHTSA statistics, reported problems, and consumer feedback.

What Are The Best Years For The Ram 2500?

2024, 2023, and 2022 Ram 2500

The 2024, 2023, and 2022 Ram 2500 model years are the most technologically advanced iterations.

All Fifth-gen models are largely similar although some updates that have been introduced include:

• New trim (Rebel)
• Upgraded trailer towing technology
• Optional digital instrumentation
• Advanced infotainment system
• Additional equipment packages
• Improved lighting

There are a total of 8 trims: Tradesman, Lone Star, Big Horn, Laramie, Rebel, Power Wagon, Limited Longhorn, and Limited. 

Base pricing ranges from approximately $52,000 to $90,000.

The variation in trims allows users to select a truck build that is suitable for their particular needs.

Without delving too deeply into the details, opting for the base-level Tradesman trim is a safe choice for most owners.

This variant is powered by a standard 6.4-liter V8 engine (410 horsepower, 429 pound-feet of torque) and an optional four-wheel-drive configuration.

Maximum towing capacity is around 20,000 pounds, more than enough to haul even the larger-than-average trailers and campers. 

2023 Ram 2500:

• Edmunds: 3.1 / 5.0
• Kelley Blue Book: 4.3 / 5.0
• JD Power: NA

2022 Ram 2500:

• Edmunds: 3.1 / 5.0
• Kelley Blue Book: 4.3 / 5.0
• JD Power: 82 / 100

2022 Ram 2500, Edmunds Review:

“1 year and 10 months later, we have 31 thousand miles on it. Runs and drives like a Top. No problems whatsoever. I changed the oil myself regularly using Pennzoil 0W 40 KN oil Filter. Rotate the tires at the dealer or local tire shop whichever one suits me when the need arrives. I have absolutely zero regrets and would buy this all over again. It’s a wonderful truck…”

2021, 2020, and 2019 Ram 2500

These models are the first installments of the fifth generation, marking a notable departure from the previous fourth generation, marred by widespread problems.

The fifth generation of the 2019 Ram 2500 boasts a complete redesign with stronger and lighter frame components. It also introduces upgraded powertrains and transmissions along with fresh interior and exterior styling.

Noteworthy positive aspects about these model years include:

• Comfort
• Towing capability
• Interior 
• Seats
• Handling
• Steering
• Fuel economy
• Safety

There are 7 unique trim levels: Tradesman, Big Horn, Lone Star, Laramie, Limited Longhorn, Limited, and Power Wagon.

Critics have praised these models’ technology, towing, and storage capabilities.

On the technology front, these models boast a large 12.3-inch touchscreen rivaled only by the luxury trucks offered by the likes of Mercedes and Audi.

When it comes to storage and the placement of compartments, the design and layout are exceptionally well thought out.

These fifth Gen models offer a choice between a standard 6.4-liter gasoline V8 and an optional turbocharged 6.7-liter six-cylinder diesel, providing exceptional power and versatility for various driving needs.

2021 Ram 2500:

• Edmunds: 3.8 / 5.0
• Kelley Blue Book: 4.3 / 5.0
• JD Power: 82 / 100

2020 Ram 2500:

• Edmunds: 4.1 / 5.0
• Kelley Blue Book: 4.3 / 5.0
• JD Power: 79 / 100

2019 Ram 2500:

• Edmunds: 4.2 / 5.0
• Kelley Blue Book: 4.3 / 5.0
• JD Power: NA

2019 Ram 2500, Edmunds Review:

“This is about my tenth ram and is so far the best. It’s the tradesman crew cab. Like the restyled black interior and finally no more gray. I had the seat covers changed by a local upfitter to black leather. Impressed with the fuel mileage at 20 to 23 mpg empty and 12 pulling a loaded trailer…”

Consumer Scores For Best Ram 2500 Years

Related: How Long Do Ram 2500 Last? (Solved and Explained)

What Are The Worst Years For The Ram 2500?

2018 Ram 2500

Statisitcally, the 2018 Ram 2500 stands out as the most troublesome model year ever manufactured, surpassing others by a significant margin.

Most of the issues experienced by owners revolved around a variety of brake-related and electronic issues. 

Multiple reports indicate defective anti-lock braking system (ABS) and traction control, as evidenced by the intermittent illumination of their corresponding warning lights.

• Repeated warning lights for ABS and Electronic Brake System.
• Intermittent flashing of warnings and chimes.
• Disruption of cruise control.

“Electronic Braking system failure affecting the ABS system, Traction control, and cruise control. It puts the safety of everyone in the vehicle and on the road at risk because the ABS and cruise control will fail causing unexpected adverse conditions that can lead to an accident. This is a known problem for RAM and there is no fix at this time other than making the customer pay out of pocket for the broken parts to be replaced with the same parts that will fail shortly after…” – NHTSA.gov

Unfortunately, a lot of owners were frustrated by the lack of permanent fixes from the manufacturer. To this day, reports continue to come in for this model year.

• The 2018 Ram 2500 had a total of 50 complaints on CarComplaints.com and 1,266 problems based on NHTSA.gov data.

Common problems:

• ABS light and traction control issues
• Electronic stability control (ESC) failure

2017, 2016, 2015, and 2014 Ram 2500

The 2017, 2016, 2015, and 2014 Ram 2500 models faced similar issues as the 2018 model discussed earlier, but this group exhibited a more diverse range of prominently reported problems and defects.

One standout issue was a defective hydraulic control unit, leading to unpredictable and unreliable braking. 

Despite reports of a repair cost ranging from $1,100 to $1,300, the fact that this issue existed initially is a cause for concern.

“ … while driving at an undisclosed speed, the ABS warning light and the traction control warning light intermittently illuminated. The vehicle was taken to the dealer where it was diagnosed that the hydraulic control unit had failed and needed to be replaced. The vehicle was repaired; however, the failure recurred. The vehicle was taken to an independent mechanic where it was diagnosed that the HCU had failed and needed to be replaced…” – NHTSA.gov

Instances of oil leakage were frequent, often accompanied by various engine-related complications, and there were also specific issues that arose when towing heavy loads.

“An oil leak has formed at 46k miles and it is dripping all over the engine and the entire undercarriage of the truck. This is common in the 6.7 cummins. The truck is under warranty but mopar refused to fix the truck. The oil gets on things that cause smoking and burning smells. This has caused the engine to lose oil pressure and shut off on the highway.” – NHTSA.gov

• The 2017 Ram 2500 had a total of 26 complaints on CarComplaints.com and 384 problems based on NHTSA.gov data.
• The 2016 Ram 2500 had a total of 30 complaints on CarComplaints.com and 220 problems based on NHTSA.gov data.
• The 2015 Ram 2500 had a total of 45 complaints on CarComplaints.com and 190 problems based on NHTSA.gov data.
• The 2014 Ram 2500 had a total of 38 complaints on CarComplaints.com and 315 problems based on NHTSA.gov data.

Common problems:

• Brake failure
• ABS failure
• Electrical issues
• Warning lights illuminating
• Paint peeling and chipping
• Bounces, wobbles, and shakes
• Satellite signal issues
• Excessive vibration at highway speeds
• Diesel exhaust fluid pump failure
• Noise on cold startup
• Loss of engine power
• Engine knocking

2013, 2012, and 2011 Ram 2500

The 2013, 2012, and 2011 Ram 2500 models, despite being the least problematic trucks on this list, should be avoided due to a variety of electrical, braking, and steering issues.

These models possessed much of the same electrical and brake-related issues reported by owners of the previous models on this list.

Another prominent area of concern that is specific to this batch of models is steering.

There were numerous reports of the so-called death wobble, which is a violent shaking of the vehicle, commonly occurring at highway speeds. 

This issue led to difficulties in properly controlling the vehicle and would only resolve if speed is significantly lowered (which is not safe when trying to travel on the interstate).

“Death wobbles at interstate 70 mph speeds, no control until speed drops to 30. has happened 5 times.-first time feb 2019 with about 55k miles. The last time was Aug 2020 with less than 60k miles. have spent considerable time and money to no avail. the condition is extremely dangerous as it happens with no warning and is alarmingly violent…” – NHTSA.gov

• The 2013 Ram 2500 had a total of 34 complaints on CarComplaints.com and 174 problems based on NHTSA.gov data.
• The 2012 Ram 2500 had a total of 44 complaints on CarComplaints.com and 278 problems based on NHTSA.gov data.
• The 2011 Ram 2500 had a total of 292 problems based on NHTSA.gov data.

Common problems:

• Check engine light on
• Death wobble
• Complete engine failure
• Camshaft issues
• Engine will not turn over
• Unreliable steering

Related: 14 Best & Worst Ram 3500 Years (With Facts & Stats)

What Years Have The Most Complaints?

What Problems Do Ram 2500 Have?

• Check engine light on
• Loss of engine power
• Transmission failure
• ABS and traction control issues
• Electronic stability control (ESC) problems
• Excessive vibrations at highway speeds
• Diesel exhaust fluid pump issues
• Noise on cold startup
• Camshaft failure
• Engine will not turn over
• Steering problems

What Are The Best Alternatives To The Ram 2500?

Source: cars.usnews.com, edmunds.com

References

• https://cars.usnews.com/cars-trucks/ram/2500
• https://www.edmunds.com/ram/2500/
• https://www.kbb.com/ram/2500-trucks/
• https://www.jdpower.com/cars/2023/ram/2500
• https://www.carcomplaints.com/Ram/2500/
• https://www.carproblemzoo.com/tsb/ram/
• https://www.cars.com/research/ram-2500/recalls/
• https://www.nhtsa.gov/