Over the past 15 to 20 years, Ram Trucks hasn’t exactly built a strong reputation when it comes to reliability.
The Ram 1500 scores a 3.5 out of 5, while the 2500 gets a 2.5, and the 3500 lags behind with just 2 out of 5. Still, like many manufacturers, Ram has managed to produce certain model years that go against the grain.
There are genuinely solid trucks in the lineup — it just takes a bit of research to find the models that stand out. As Repair Pal’s general ratings indicate, the Ram 1500 tends to be the most reliable overall.
However, since not every buyer is in the market for a half-ton truck, we’ve also included several 2500 and 3500 models due to their impressive towing capabilities.
For many prospective truck owners, factors like towing and payload capacity are just as important as reliability.
Our goal was to recommend trucks that offer both performance and a higher likelihood of dependability.
In order to ensure accuracy and relevance, the data we used was sourced from various trusted outlets. Each model was evaluated based on its reliability and towing performance.
2017 Ram 2500 6.7 Cummins
With a reliability score of 76 out of 100 from J.D. Power, this truck is geared toward buyers who need serious capability.
Producing 800 lb-ft of torque and boasting a towing capacity close to 18,000 pounds, this Cummins-powered beast has little trouble handling demanding tasks.
Under the hood, it packs a 6.7-liter inline-six Cummins diesel engine and offers either an Aisin HD six-speed automatic or a G56 six-speed manual transmission.
It delivers 370 horsepower and comes in both 4×2 and 4×4 driveline options. Maximum towing capacity is rated at 17,980 pounds, while max payload is 3,160 pounds, based on data from Ramtrucks.com.
There are minor reports of ABS issues, but they pale in comparison to the 2018 model year, which had the most complaints between 2012 and 2023.
While the 2017 2500 may still cost more to run than a smaller truck like a Tacoma or Ram 1500, it remains a very solid choice for buyers who prioritize strength and durability.
The 2017 Ram 2500 equipped with the 6.7L Cummins Turbo Diesel I6 engine stands out as a dependable heavy-duty pickup designed for serious work.
As part of the fourth generation of Ram HD trucks, the 2017 model benefits from years of refinement, making it a solid option in the used truck market.
Its 6.7L Cummins engine delivers up to 370 horsepower and 800 lb-ft of torque (when paired with the 6-speed automatic transmission), or 660 lb-ft with the 6-speed manual. Transmission options include a 6-speed manual (G56), a 6-speed automatic (68RFE), and an optional Aisin 6-speed automatic in select trims.
The truck is available in both 4×2 and 4×4 configurations, offering a maximum towing capacity of around 17,980 lbs and a payload capacity of up to 3,160 lbs when properly equipped.
2020 Ram 2500 6.7 Cummins
Next on the list is the 2020 Ram 2500 6.7 Cummins, which earns a reliability score of 4.0 out of 5.0 from Cars.com. Though it shares similar towing and payload stats with the 2017 model, the 2020 Ram benefits from being part of the newest generation of trucks.
The previous generation, which debuted during the early years of the Obama administration, had begun to show its age — especially inside the cabin.
In contrast, the 2020 model sports a far more modern design and includes Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, integrated via Chrysler’s well-regarded UConnect infotainment system.
This version also runs on a 6.7-liter inline-six Cummins diesel engine, paired with a 68RFE six-speed automatic transmission. It produces 370 horsepower and 850 lb-ft of torque, available in both 4×2 and 4×4 configurations.
Its maximum towing capacity reaches 19,680 pounds, with a max payload of 2,810 pounds.
Still, potential buyers should confirm that any outstanding recalls — including one related to the high-pressure fuel pump — have been addressed. Fortunately, no major powertrain problems have surfaced so far.
Its early reliability data, combined with strong towing performance and a much-improved interior, make the 2020 Ram 2500 a compelling pick for those who want both form and function.
2018 Ram 1500 5.7L
If towing a small moon isn’t part of your daily duties, then the 2018 Ram 1500 equipped with the 5.7L Hemi V8 is likely the most budget-friendly route.
While it doesn’t deliver the same heavy-duty grunt as the Cummins, the Hemi still offers more than enough strength for the average user, boasting a towing capacity of 10,620 pounds.
The 2018 model year is also noteworthy as it marked the first time Apple CarPlay and Android Auto were made available in the Ram 1500, giving it a more modern feel without losing its workhorse appeal.
In terms of performance, the 2018 Ram 1500 with the 5.7L Hemi delivers 395 horsepower and 410 lb-ft of torque, paired with an 8-speed automatic transmission. Buyers have the option of 4×2 or 4×4 drivetrains. Its payload capacity tops out at 1,790 pounds.
According to data gathered from Ramtrucks.com, these figures make it a well-rounded pick for those who need capability without stepping into HD territory.
Reliability-wise, 2018 stands out as the least problematic model year of the previous generation Ram trucks, as reported by Car Complaints
Though it’s certainly not going to match a Toyota Camry for maintenance costs, Repair Pal lists the 2018’s average annual repair cost at just $539—the lowest among Ram 1500s from 2011 to 2019.
It might not be the most advanced truck on the market, but its combination of modern features and strong dependability makes the 2018 Ram 1500 a safe and smart choice in the used pickup segment.
2019 Ram 3500 6.7L Cummins
Now, if your needs do include towing something close to the size of a small moon, the 2019 Ram 3500 with the 6.7L Cummins High-Output diesel engine is the truck for the job.
With over 1,000 lb-ft of torque and a maximum towing capacity of 35,100 pounds, this is a serious machine built for massive loads.
The 2019 model marks the beginning of the latest generation, and while most first-year models come with a caution label, the 3500’s powertrain is largely a continuation from the previous generation, reducing typical first-year risks.
Tech-wise, the 2019 3500 is packed with modern features similar to what you’d find in the Ram 2500, but one major difference lies in the suspension.
Unlike the 1500 and 2500, which use coil springs in the rear for a smoother ride, the 3500 sticks with traditional leaf springs. This results in a stiffer ride, but it pays off in the form of a much higher payload capacity—up to 6,570 pounds.
The truck delivers 400 horsepower through an Aisin HD 6-speed automatic transmission and comes in both 4×2 and 4×4 configurations.
Although Repair Pal hasn’t published running costs for the 2019 model year yet, the average for 2011–2017 sits at about $1,270 annually, which gives a reasonable estimate of what owners can expect.
Car Complaints notes the 2019 model year as one of the most reliable for the 3500 lineup, making it an excellent choice for buyers who demand extreme towing performance without sacrificing long-term durability.
2017 Ram 3500 6.7L Cummins
The 2017 Ram 3500 with the 6.7L Cummins engine represents a strong entry in the heavy-duty truck segment, especially for that model year.
With this being the fourth 2017 Ram truck on the list, it’s clear that year was a solid one for the brand. As the second-to-last year of the fourth-generation Ram pickups, 2017 benefitted from the typical end-of-generation polish, where manufacturers have usually worked out the major issues.
Performance-wise, the truck holds its own, with a 6.7L Cummins High-Output Diesel engine paired with either an Aisin HD 6-speed automatic or a G56 6-speed manual transmission.
It delivers 385 horsepower and 900 lb-ft of torque, with a maximum towing capacity of 31,210 pounds and a payload rating of up to 6,580 pounds. Buyers could choose between 4×2 and 4×4 drivetrains. This data was collected directly from Ramtrucks.com.
While its performance specs are comparable to the newer 2019 model, the 2017 version lacks some of the modern features such as Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, which could be a drawback for tech-focused buyers.
However, the trade-off might actually work in its favor—its simpler design may lead to better reliability. Even though it doesn’t initially appear to be the least problematic year on Car Complaints, a closer examination reveals a different story.
For instance, the 2018 model had over 300 reports of ABS-related failures filed with the NHTSA, while the 2017 model had just 84. Furthermore, Repair Pal reports that the 2017 Ram 3500 has the lowest average annual maintenance cost among its peers at $1,184.
While that’s still a hefty maintenance bill, what you get in return is a truck capable of hauling over 30,000 pounds and one that statistically sees fewer reported issues compared to the slightly newer or older model years.
2023 Ram 1500 Classic 5.7L
As for those interested in a full-size pickup with a more old-school DNA, the 2023 Ram 1500 Classic with the 5.7L Hemi offers a compelling proposition.
If the idea of a truck built on a platform that dates back to 2009 appeals to you—an era when Taylor Swift was still known exclusively for country music—then this is likely your best bet.
Unlike the newer fifth-generation Ram 1500 that launched in 2019, Stellantis continues to sell the previous-gen Ram 1500 under the “Classic” nameplate.
This dual-generation strategy allows Ram to cater to a broader market, especially price-conscious buyers. The 1500 Classic starts at under $40,000 for a 4×4-equipped model, significantly lower than the nearly $48,000 starting price for the fifth-gen version.
For just $2,500 more, you can equip it with the 5.7L Hemi engine, giving you nearly 400 horsepower and a maximum towing capacity of 10,620 pounds—figures that outperform even a base-model rear-wheel-drive V6 Ram 1500 from the newer generation.
In terms of specifications, the 2023 Ram 1500 Classic comes with a 5.7L Hemi engine mated to an 8-speed automatic transmission, producing 395 horsepower and 410 lb-ft of torque. Available in both 4×2 and 4×4 driveline configurations, it can haul up to 1,930 pounds of payload.
Like the 3500, this information was also sourced from Ramtrucks.com. Beyond its raw capability, the 1500 Classic shines in reliability. It earned an 88/100 score from J.D. Power and shows little to no widespread issues according to Car Complaints.
That said, no truck is immune to problems, but the advantage of the Classic’s long production run is that most of the earlier issues have already been addressed by now.
For buyers seeking a brand-new truck with the reliability of a well-aged platform and the affordability to match, the 1500 Classic is a hard deal to overlook.
2022 Ram 1500 3.6L
The 2022 Ram 1500 equipped with the 3.6L Pentastar V-6 stands on the opposite end of the spectrum from the heavy-duty 3500 6.7L Cummins but proves to be a solid option in its own right.
It boasts a strong 4.5/5.0 reliability rating, reinforcing its reputation as a dependable choice. The 2020–2023 Ram models in general are known for higher reliability ratings, and opting for the smaller V-6 engine often results in lower repair and maintenance costs, although this isn’t a guarantee in every case.
Still, owners have shared favorable experiences with their V-6-powered Rams, appreciating the balance of performance and affordability.
While there’s no concrete data yet available for annual repair costs, it’s suspected that the 3.6L model will be slightly more economical to operate and maintain when compared to similarly equipped late-model Rams that feature the more powerful 5.7L Hemi V-8.
In terms of specifications, the 2022 Ram 1500 with the 3.6L Pentastar V-6 comes with an 8-speed automatic transmission, producing 305 horsepower and 269 lb-ft of torque. Available driveline options include both 4×2 and 4×4.
It has a maximum towing capacity of 7,730 pounds and a maximum payload capacity of 1,820 pounds. While this configuration isn’t necessarily aimed at buyers who plan to tow heavy loads regularly, it still offers impressive capability.
In fact, the 7,730-pound towing figure exceeds what you get from other naturally aspirated V-6 mid-size trucks, including the Toyota Tacoma, Honda Ridgeline, and Chevy Colorado.
On top of that, none of those rivals offer the option of an 8-foot bed, which the Ram 1500 does, making it a more versatile and practical option for those prioritizing utility over brute towing strength.
2017 Ram 2500 5.7L
Meanwhile, the 2017 Ram 2500 powered by the 5.7L Hemi V-8 presents a strong middle ground for buyers torn between the more modest 1500 Hemi and the heavy-duty 2500 or 3500 Cummins diesel trucks.
While the Hemi doesn’t quite match the Cummins in towing capacity—offering a maximum of 11,890 pounds—it benefits from being mounted on the more robust 2500 chassis, which significantly increases its payload potential.
Depending on how the truck is spec’d, the payload capacity can reach over 3,000 pounds. Even more appealing is the fact that this model year achieved a high 4.6/5.0 reliability score. This places it ahead of its diesel counterparts in terms of reliability and expected maintenance costs.
Performance-wise, the 2017 Ram 2500 with the 5.7L Hemi V-8 features a 6-speed automatic transmission, generating 383 horsepower and 400 lb-ft of torque. It’s available in both 4×2 and 4×4 configurations.
As mentioned, towing tops out at 11,890 pounds, with a maximum payload of 3,060 pounds. For buyers who don’t frequently need to tow, the gas-powered 2500 strikes a very appealing balance, offering the higher load capacity of the HD frame with the more affordable maintenance profile typically associated with the 1500 series.
2017 Ram 1500 5.7L
The 2017 Ram 1500, while not vastly different from the 2018 model featured earlier at number 8, stands out as the final model year to offer the six-speed automatic transmission and notably does not include Apple CarPlay or Android Auto.
Although its annual maintenance cost is slightly higher at $568, according to Repair Pal, Car Complaints indicates that this model year has fewer reported issues related to the electrical and fuel systems. With these factors in mind, the 2017 Ram 1500 still holds its own in the used truck market.
In terms of performance specifications, the 2017 Ram 1500 is powered by a 5.7L Hemi V-8 engine, paired with a 6-speed automatic transmission.
It delivers 395 horsepower and 410 lb-ft of torque, and is available in both 4×2 and 4×4 driveline configurations. The truck can tow up to 10,620 pounds and has a maximum payload capacity of 1,700 pounds.
These specs, along with the reliability, highlight why the final years of the fourth-generation Ram 1500 pickups are often seen as the sweet spot for balancing reliability, technology, and capability.
Like any truck on this list, the 2017 Ram 1500 has its pros and cons, but a 4.6/5.0 reliability score from Cars.com makes it a worthy contender for any truck buyer’s shortlist.
2023 Ram 1500 5.7L
On the other end of the spectrum sits the 2023 Ram 1500, which carries a 5.7L Hemi and boasts a stellar 4.8/5.0 reliability score on Cars.com. Given its recency, it’s expected to perform well, and so far, 2023 is proving to be a strong year for the Ram 1500 lineup.
Performance-wise, this model also features an 8-speed automatic transmission, producing 395 horsepower and 410 lb-ft of torque. Like previous iterations, it comes in 4×2 and 4×4 driveline options.
The 2023 model, however, edges ahead in utility, with a maximum towing capacity of 12,750 pounds and a payload capacity of up to 2,300 pounds.
Being the newest in the lineup, the 2023 Ram benefits from all the latest advancements in technology and passenger comfort.
More significantly, it marks the end of an era. Beginning with the 2025 model year, the Ram 1500 will no longer offer the 5.7L V-8 Hemi, replacing it with the newer 3.0L Hurricane inline-6.
While this new engine is said to be both powerful and smooth, its long-term reliability has yet to be proven. For those who want a tried-and-true, old-school V-8 under the hood, now is the time to grab the Hemi while it’s still available.