2011 Ram 2500

The 2011 Ram 2500 is a heavy-duty pickup truck known for its towing and hauling capabilities. Available engine options include the 5.7L HEMI V8 (383 hp and 400 lb-ft of torque), the 6.7L Cummins Turbo Diesel I6 (350 hp and 650-800 lb-ft of torque depending on configuration), and the 5.7L CNG. Transmission options include a 5-speed automatic (with the 5.7L CNG), a 6-speed automatic (with the 5.7L Hemi), and a 6-speed manual or 6-speed automatic (with the 6.7L Cummins). Owners appreciate the Ram 2500’s ruggedness, powerful engine options, and comfortable interior. However, some common complaints revolve around reliability issues, particularly with the electrical system and some engine components.

Engine

6.7L Cummins Turbo Diesel I6

• Turbocharger Failure
  • Description/Symptoms: Reduced power, excessive black smoke from the exhaust, whining or screeching noises from the turbocharger, and potential engine damage.
  • Solution: Replacement of the turbocharger.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $1500 - $3500+
  • Recalls: None Found
• EGR Cooler Failure
  • Description/Symptoms: Coolant loss, white smoke from the exhaust, overheating, and potential engine damage.
  • Solution: Replacement of the EGR cooler.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $800 - $1800+
  • Recalls: None Found
• Fuel Injector Issues
  • Description/Symptoms: Rough idling, misfires, decreased fuel economy, and black smoke from the exhaust.
  • Solution: Replacement of faulty fuel injectors.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $400 - $800+ per injector
  • Recalls: None Found

5.7L HEMI V8

• Hemi Tick (Exhaust Manifold Bolts)
  • Description/Symptoms: Ticking noise from the engine, especially when cold, often caused by broken exhaust manifold bolts.
  • Solution: Replacement of the exhaust manifold bolts and potentially the exhaust manifold if warped.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $300 - $800+
  • Recalls: None Found

5.7L CNG

No Issues Found

Transmission

6-Speed Automatic (68RFE) - 6.7L Cummins

• Torque Converter Failure
  • Description/Symptoms: Shuddering during acceleration, slipping between gears, and difficulty shifting.
  • Solution: Replacement of the torque converter.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $1500 - $3000+
  • Recalls: None Found
• Valve Body Issues
  • Description/Symptoms: Hard or erratic shifting, slipping between gears, and transmission failure.
  • Solution: Replacement or rebuild of the valve body.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $800 - $2000+
  • Recalls: None Found

6-Speed Automatic (66RFE) - 5.7L HEMI

No Issues Found

5-Speed Automatic - 5.7L CNG

No Issues Found

6-Speed Manual - 6.7L Cummins

No Issues Found

Suspension

• Ball Joint Failure
  • Description/Symptoms: Clunking noises from the front suspension, loose steering, and uneven tire wear.
  • Solution: Replacement of the ball joints.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $300 - $800+ per side
  • Recalls: None Found
• Track Bar Issues
  • Description/Symptoms: “Death wobble” at highway speeds, loose steering, and clunking noises from the front suspension.
  • Solution: Replacement of the track bar and potentially the track bar bracket.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $600+
  • Recalls: None Found

Electrical

• TIPM (Totally Integrated Power Module) Failure
  • Description/Symptoms: Intermittent starting issues, fuel pump relay failure, erratic electrical behavior (e.g., wipers, lights), and stalling.
  • Solution: Replacement of the TIPM.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $800 - $1500+
  • Recalls: None Found
• Sensor Failures (ABS, Wheel Speed)
  • Description/Symptoms: ABS light illumination, traction control issues, and speedometer malfunction.
  • Solution: Replacement of faulty sensors.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $100 - $400+ per sensor
  • Recalls: None Found

Exterior

• Rust (Wheel Wells, Rocker Panels)
  • Description/Symptoms: Rust developing on the wheel wells, rocker panels, and other areas prone to corrosion.
  • Solution: Rust repair, panel replacement, and repainting.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $500 - $3000+ (depending on severity)
  • Recalls: None Found

Interior

• Dashboard Cracking
  • Description/Symptoms: Cracking on the dashboard, especially in hot climates.
  • Solution: Replacement of the dashboard or installation of a dashboard cover.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $500 - $1500+
  • Recalls: None Found

Summary The 2011 Ram 2500 presents a mixed bag of issues. While it’s a capable truck, potential buyers should be aware of the common problems. The electrical issues related to the TIPM can be particularly frustrating and costly. Engine and transmission issues, especially with the Cummins diesel and 68RFE automatic transmission, can also lead to significant repair bills. Suspension issues, especially ball joints and track bar, can compromise safety. Repair costs can range from a few hundred dollars for minor fixes to several thousand dollars for major engine or transmission repairs. Addressing these issues promptly can help maintain the truck’s reliability and performance.