Know Your TruckChecklist

Ram 3500 best and worst years

Each year is compared with the typical (middle) complaint count of the heavy-duty trucks we cover from the same model year, using owner complaints filed with NHTSA. Comparing within a year is fairer than one overall ranking, because older trucks have had more time to collect complaints.

Fewest complaints for their age

  1. 2005196 complaints vs. 376 typical
  2. 2004214 complaints vs. 348 typical
  3. 2008177 complaints vs. 286 typical
  4. 2006257 complaints vs. 384 typical
  5. 2015136 complaints vs. 178 typical

Most complaints for their age

  1. 2018805 complaints vs. 127 typical
  2. 2010150 complaints vs. 62 typical
  3. 2007216 complaints vs. 98 typical
  4. 2022189 complaints vs. 103 typical
  5. 2014202 complaints vs. 149 typical

Every year

YearComplaintsTypical that yearCompared
2003286290About average
2004214348Below average
2005196376Below average
2006257384Below average
200721698Above average
2008177286Below average
200910782Above average
201015062Above average
2013114102About average
2014202149Above average
2015136178About average
2016134131About average
2017312245Above average
2018805127Above average
2019136105Above average
2020116112About average
20216274About average
2022189103Above average

Years not listed are too new to compare fairly, have too few trucks to compare against, or NHTSA lumps them in with other trucks.

What each generation is known for

  • 2003–2009
    5.9L and 6.7L Cummins diesel, 5.7L Hemi V8 gas

    Steering parts lead the complaints and the left tie rod was recalled; Takata airbag recalls are common; the 5.9L Cummins is well regarded.

  • 2010–2012
    6.7L Cummins diesel and 5.7L Hemi V8 gas

    Steering parts lead the complaints with a tie rod recall; early 6.7L Cummins emissions parts are the common engine repairs.

  • 2013–2018
    6.7L Cummins diesel, 6.4L and 5.7L Hemi V8 gas

    2017–2018 trucks had a recalled ABS unit failure that drives most complaints; the 6.7L Cummins is generally well regarded.

  • 2019–2026
    6.7L Cummins diesel and 6.4L Hemi V8 gas

    2019–2020 diesels had a fuel pump recall; transmission fluid leak and heater relay fire recalls are the other big items.

Read this before deciding. Complaint counts aren't reliability scores. Best-selling trucks collect more complaints simply because more are on the road, and one widely reported problem (or a recall) can drive a year's numbers. The condition and history of the specific truck you're looking at matter more than its year. Always get a pre-purchase inspection and bring our inspection checklist.