Summary of "Ram Engines to AVOID — and the Ones That Last Forever"

Ram Truck Engines: Buyer’s Guide and Reliability Analysis

The video provides an in-depth analysis of Ram truck engines, dividing them into two categories: engines to avoid due to known reliability issues, and engines renowned for long-term durability. This guide helps buyers avoid costly mistakes by highlighting common failures, repair costs, and maintenance tips based on owner reports, service data, and NHTSA complaints.

Five Ram Engines to Research Carefully (Avoid or Approach with Caution)

3.0L EcoDiesel V6 (2014-2016)
- Issues:
  - EGR cooler cracks causing coolant leaks, risking overheating and fires
  - Bosch CP4 fuel pump failures contaminating the fuel system
- Repairs:
  - EGR cooler replacement: $2,000–$4,000
  - Full fuel system rebuild if CP4 fails: $8,000–$12,000
- Notes:
  - Ram ignored early design flaws
  - Many owners use CP3 pump conversion kits (may affect warranty and emissions compliance)
5.7L Hemi V8 (2011-2012)
- Issues:
  - “Hemi tick” caused by failed lifter rollers damaging the camshaft
  - Broken exhaust manifold bolts leading to leaks and fire hazards
- Repairs:
  - Valve train rebuild: $4,500–$8,000
  - Manifold bolt extraction and replacement: $1,000–$2,000
- Notes:
  - Installing a high volume oil pump is recommended to improve lubrication
4.7L Power Tech V8 (2000-2004)
- Issues:
  - Oil sludge buildup due to poor ventilation and extended oil change intervals
  - Dropped valve seats from overheating
- Repairs:
  - Engine flushes or head gasket replacements: $2,500+
  - Head machining or replacement: $3,000–$5,000
- Prevention:
  - Use synthetic oil and an upgraded radiator
6.7L Cummins Diesel (2007.5-2012)
- Issues:
  - Emissions equipment failures including soot-clogged VGT turbo, DPF, and EGR system
- Repairs:
  - Turbo replacement: $2,500–$4,000
  - DPF/EGR repairs: $3,000–$6,000
- Notes:
  - Sensitive to short trips
  - Many owners perform emissions deletes (illegal for street use)
3.7L Magnum V6 (2002-2010)
- Issues:
  - Shares sludge and overheating problems with the 4.7L but with less power, leading to premature failure
- Repairs:
  - Cooling system refresh: $1,000–$2,000
  - Engine rebuilds: $4,000+
- Notes:
  - Poor choice for heavy truck duty due to inadequate power and reliability

Five Ram Engines Known for Longevity and Reliability

5.9L 12-Valve Cummins Diesel (1994-1998)
- Features:
  - Mechanical simplicity with no emissions equipment
  - Bosch P710 injection pump
  - High mileage potential (500,000 to 1 million miles)
- Maintenance:
  - Secure the dowel pin to avoid timing gear damage
- Notes:
  - Preferred by commercial operators for durability
3.6L Pentastar V6 (2013-Present)
- Features:
  - Robust timing chain, naturally aspirated, aluminum construction
  - Fuel efficient and reliable
- Maintenance:
  - Watch for plastic oil filter housing leaks; many owners upgrade to aluminum housings
- Notes:
  - Low maintenance cost compared to diesels and turbocharged engines
5.7L Hemi V8 (2017-2024)
- Features:
  - Improved lifter design and manifold bolts
  - Addresses earlier “Hemi tick” and bolt breakage issues
- Maintenance:
  - Recommended oil changes every 5,000 miles
  - Minimize idle time
- Notes:
  - Classic V8 performance with improved reliability
5.9L 24-Valve Common Rail Cummins Diesel (2003-2007)
- Features:
  - Combines old block strength with modern fuel injection
  - No heavy emissions equipment
- Maintenance:
  - Consider aftermarket lift pump to protect injectors
- Notes:
  - Popular among commercial users for balance of power and reliability
6.7L Cummins Diesel (2019-Present)
- Features:
  - CGI block for strength and lightness
  - Improved heat management
  - Switched back to Bosch CP3 fuel pump
- Maintenance:
  - Avoid short city trips to allow proper DPF regeneration
- Notes:
  - Balances power, efficiency, and emissions better than predecessors

Key Takeaways

Ram’s reliability varies widely by engine model and production year.
Early EcoDiesel and 2011-2012 Hemi engines have significant reliability issues.
Classic Cummins diesels and modern Pentastar and updated Cummins engines offer dependable performance.
Always check service history, NHTSA complaints, and recall completions for any used Ram engine.
Maintenance habits and driving conditions greatly affect engine longevity.
Research and informed decisions based on real-world data can prevent costly repairs.

Main Speaker / Source

The video is presented by an automotive expert providing honest, experience-based advice aimed at helping buyers avoid expensive mistakes when purchasing used Ram trucks.