RAM Trucks Reliability: Do They Live Up to Expectations Compared to Ford and Chevy?
When discussing the reliability of pickup trucks, the names Chevrolet (Chevy) and Ford often come up. However, many owners of RAM trucks report that they face unique challenges that may not be as commonly experienced with rival brands. This article aims to explore the reliability of RAM trucks as compared to Ford and Chevy, by examining real-life owner experiences and expert insights.
RAM Truck Reliability: A Personal Journey
Let's dive into the firsthand experiences of a 2021 RAM D550 owner, who shares their detailed account of reliability issues and maintenance challenges they faced. They mention that their truck, initially, faced significant issues with oil consumption. The owner reported that the truck consumed 7 quarts of oil before the first oil change, and it happened twice. Thankfully, after thorough checks, the issue was resolved, and the truck did not continue to use excessive oil.
However, the story doesn't end there. The owner also mentioned three instances where the check engine light came on, often leaving the truck in a "limp mode" with improper shifting. Despite the dealership being unable to find any issues, a combination of shutting down and restarting the truck worked sometimes to correct these problems.
Another recurring issue was a lag in acceleration that the owner could not easily address. Additionally, the dashboard settings often changed on their own, making it difficult for the owner to navigate. The standard dashboard was all the owner had, which made it challenging to operate the vehicle effectively.
Moreover, the truck experienced minor imperfections such as blemishes in the chrome and missing valve caps. In an unfortunate incident, the paint on the inside door wore down to bare metal due to frequent closing. The PTO "prep package" was another disappointment, with the owner suggesting that it was more of a fancy wiring harness than an actual functioning component.
Regarding the costs, the owner incurred additional expenses beyond the 295 USD PTO prep package to make the PTO operational. This additional expenditure added further strain to the owner's finances.
RAM Truck Reliability: An Owner's Perspective
From another perspective, an owner who has owned two RAM trucks, as well as a Chevy, offers a blunt assessment. They state that if purchasing a RAM truck, it is better to buy a new one and dispose of it the moment the warranty expires. This comment suggests that the maintenance costs and reliability issues can be significant, potentially outweighing the benefits of owning a RAM truck.
A Comparison with Ford and Chevy
Comparatively, a longtime owner of a 1993 Dodge Cummins shares a different perspective. Despite the truck being a daily driver with 491,000 miles, the engine has never needed its pan heads to be removed. This level of durability speaks well for the reliability of Dodge and Chrysler products over the years, though it's important to note that this is just one anecdotal example.
Many reviewers and experts tend to agree that among the big three American brands (Ford, Chevy, and RAM), Ford and Chevy often receive higher reliability ratings. However, this does not mean that RAM trucks are unreliable. It is a matter of perspective and individual experiences. RAM trucks are known for their performance and style but may face higher maintenance costs and certain reliability issues.
Conclusion
While RAM trucks can offer impressive performance and durability, their reliability may not always live up to the expectations of some owners, especially when compared to Ford and Chevy. Personal experiences can vary widely, and it is important for potential buyers to conduct thorough research and consider their individual needs and priorities. For some, the reliability issues may be manageable, while for others, the costs and frustrations might be too significant.
It's crucial to factor in the long-term costs and maintenance requirements before making a purchase. Additionally, staying informed about potential reliability issues through forums, reviews, and industry analyses can be beneficial.