Ram common problems & weak spots
The most widely documented Ram weak spots in Canada: what breaks, what it costs to fix, and what to inspect before buying used.
Known issues
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Watch out
5.7L Hemi lifter tick and exhaust manifold bolts
Broken exhaust manifold bolts tick like lifters \u2014 but real MDS lifter failure wipes the cam. Diagnose the tick properly before paying.
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Watch out
EcoDiesel EGR and cooler failures (2014\u20132019)
The 3.0 EcoDiesel\u2019s EGR system clogs and coolers leak \u2014 expensive diesel repairs. Verify every recall and software update was completed.
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Common
Air suspension (Rebel, Limited, Laramie)
Air bags and compressors fail, worst in cold climates. A truck that won\u2019t rise in the morning needs suspension work.
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Common
Box and cab rust
Rear wheel arches, rockers and cab corners rust in the salt belt. Check the box floor too \u2014 liners hide rot.
Ram 1500
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Watch out
Hemi tick diagnosis and EcoDiesel history
On the 5.7, distinguish manifold-bolt tick from lifter tick. On the EcoDiesel, demand full recall and EGR service history.
Pick another make
Get it inspected before you buy
A pre-purchase inspection on a lift reveals rust, leaks and hidden problems before you pay for the car.