2012 Ram 2500

The 2012 Ram 2500 is a heavy-duty pickup truck known for its towing capacity and robust build. Engine options include the 5.7L Hemi V8 producing 383 horsepower and 400 lb-ft of torque, the 6.4L Hemi V8 producing 410 horsepower and 429 lb-ft of torque, and the Cummins 6.7L Turbo Diesel inline-6 that delivers 350 horsepower and 650-800 lb-ft of torque (depending on configuration). Transmission options include a 6-speed automatic for the gasoline engines and a 6-speed manual or 6-speed automatic for the diesel. Owners often praise the Ram 2500 for its powerful engine options and comfortable ride for a heavy-duty truck. Common dislikes include the fuel economy, particularly with the gasoline engines, and some reported reliability issues.

Engine

5.7L Hemi V8

• Hemi Tick
  • Description/Symptoms: A noticeable ticking or tapping sound emanating from the engine, especially when cold. It’s often attributed to worn or collapsed hydraulic lifters, exhaust manifold leaks, or piston slap.
  • Solution: Diagnosis is crucial to pinpoint the source. Lifter replacement, manifold repair/replacement, or in severe cases, engine rebuild/replacement may be required.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $500 - $3,000+
  • Recalls: None Found
• Exhaust Manifold Bolts
  • Description/Symptoms: Broken exhaust manifold bolts, leading to exhaust leaks, reduced performance, and increased engine noise.
  • Solution: Replacement of broken bolts and possibly the exhaust manifold.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $300 - $800+
  • Recalls: None Found

6.4L Hemi V8 No Issues Found

6.7L Cummins Turbo Diesel

• EGR Cooler Failure
  • Description/Symptoms: Cracks or leaks in the EGR cooler, leading to coolant loss, white smoke from the exhaust, and potential engine damage.
  • Solution: Replacement of the EGR cooler.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $800 - $1,500+
  • Recalls: None Found
• CP4 Fuel Pump Failure (Primarily 2019+ models but can occur due to cross-contamination or aftermarket parts on older trucks)
  • Description/Symptoms: Catastrophic failure of the CP4 high-pressure fuel pump, contaminating the entire fuel system with metal shavings. Results in rough running, no start condition, and extensive damage.
  • Solution: Complete fuel system replacement, including the fuel pump, injectors, fuel rails, and fuel lines. Installation of a CP3 conversion kit (replacing the CP4 with a more reliable CP3 pump) is a common preventative measure.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $8,000 - $12,000+
  • Recalls: None Found for 2012 models.

Transmission

6-Speed Automatic (Gas Engines) No Issues Found

6-Speed Manual (Diesel Engine) No Issues Found

6-Speed Automatic (Diesel Engine)

• Torque Converter Issues
  • Description/Symptoms: Shuddering or vibrations during gear shifts, especially under load. Can also lead to slippage and eventual failure of the torque converter.
  • Solution: Replacement of the torque converter. In some cases, the transmission may require a rebuild.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $1,500 - $4,000+
  • Recalls: None Found

Suspension

• Ball Joint Failure
  • Description/Symptoms: Clunking or popping noises from the front suspension, excessive tire wear, and loose steering.
  • Solution: Replacement of the worn ball joints.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $300 - $800+ per side.
  • Recalls: None Found
• Track Bar Bushing Wear
  • Description/Symptoms: “Death wobble” at highway speeds, characterized by violent shaking of the front end. Loose steering and wandering can also occur.
  • Solution: Replacement of the worn track bar bushings or the entire track bar assembly.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $150 - $500+
  • Recalls: None Found

Electrical

• TIPM (Totally Integrated Power Module) Issues
  • Description/Symptoms: Intermittent electrical problems, including fuel pump relay failure (resulting in no-start condition), stalling, erratic wiper operation, and malfunctioning power windows/locks.
  • Solution: Replacement of the TIPM.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $800 - $1,500+
  • Recalls: None Found
• Wiring Harness Issues
  • Description/Symptoms: Corrosion or damage to wiring harnesses, leading to various electrical malfunctions.
  • Solution: Repair or replacement of the affected wiring harness section.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: Varies greatly depending on the location and extent of the damage.

Exterior

• Wheel Well Rust
  • Description/Symptoms: Rust forming on the wheel wells, especially in areas with road salt exposure.
  • Solution: Rust repair and repainting.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $500 - $1,500+ per wheel well
  • Recalls: None Found

Interior

• Dashboard Cracking
  • Description/Symptoms: Cracks appearing on the dashboard surface, particularly in areas exposed to sunlight.
  • Solution: Replacement of the dashboard or installation of a dashboard cover.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $500 - $1,500+
  • Recalls: None Found
• Blend Door Actuator Failure
  • Description/Symptoms: Malfunctioning climate control system, with air blowing only hot or cold, or uneven temperatures on different sides of the vehicle.
  • Solution: Replacement of the faulty blend door actuator.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $500+
  • Recalls: None Found

Summary

The 2012 Ram 2500 can be a reliable truck, but owners should be aware of potential issues. Engine issues such as “Hemi tick” and EGR cooler failures are common, and electrical problems with the TIPM can also occur. Suspension components like ball joints and track bar bushings are prone to wear, potentially causing expensive repairs. Interior and exterior issues such as dashboard cracking and rust are also something to consider. The severity and cost of repairs can vary widely depending on the specific issue and the extent of the damage, but it’s best to inspect the vehicle carefully before purchasing and to stay on top of routine maintenance.