2012 Ram 3500

The 2012 Ram 3500 is a heavy-duty pickup truck known for its towing and hauling capabilities. Engine options include the 5.7L Hemi V8 (383 hp, 400 lb-ft of torque), the 6.7L Cummins Turbo Diesel inline-6 (350 hp, 650-800 lb-ft of torque depending on configuration), and the 6.4L Hemi V8 (410 hp, 429 lb-ft of torque). Transmission options included a 6-speed manual and a 6-speed automatic. Owners generally appreciate the Ram 3500’s powerful engine options and ruggedness, but common complaints often revolve around reliability issues.

Engine

6.7L Cummins Turbo Diesel

• EGR Cooler Failure
  • Description/Symptoms: Coolant leak, white smoke from exhaust, overheating, and potential engine damage.
  • Solution: Replace the EGR cooler.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $800 - $1500+
  • Recalls: None Found
• Fuel Injector Failure
  • Description/Symptoms: Rough running engine, misfires, decreased fuel economy, and black smoke from the exhaust.
  • Solution: Replace faulty fuel injectors.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $500 - $1000+ (per injector, if multiple fail, cost increases significantly)
  • Recalls: None Found
• Turbocharger Issues
  • Description/Symptoms: Loss of power, whistling or screeching noises from the engine, excessive black smoke, and potential engine damage.
  • Solution: Repair or replace the turbocharger.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $1500 - $3500+
  • Recalls: None Found

5.7L Hemi V8

• Hemi Tick
  • Description/Symptoms: Ticking or knocking noise coming from the engine, especially at idle. Often attributed to exhaust manifold bolts breaking.
  • Solution: Replace the exhaust manifold bolts and gasket or replace the entire manifold.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $500 - $1200+
  • Recalls: None Found
• Camshaft/Lifter Failure
  • Description/Symptoms: Misfires, rough idling, decreased power, and a check engine light. Often caused by worn or failed lifters damaging the camshaft.
  • Solution: Replace the camshaft and lifters.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $2500 - $5000+
  • Recalls: None Found

6.4L Hemi V8 No Issues Found

Transmission

6-Speed Automatic (68RFE)

• Transmission Slipping/Harsh Shifting
  • Description/Symptoms: Delayed engagement, slipping between gears, harsh or erratic shifting, and transmission overheating.
  • Solution: Rebuild or replace the transmission.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $3000 - $6000+
  • Recalls: None Found
• Torque Converter Failure
  • Description/Symptoms: Shuddering at low speeds, stalling, or complete loss of power transfer.
  • Solution: Replace the torque converter.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $800 - $1500+
  • Recalls: None Found

Suspension

• Ball Joint Failure
  • Description/Symptoms: Clunking or popping noises from the front end, uneven tire wear, and loose steering.
  • Solution: Replace the ball joints.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $300 - $800+ (per side)
  • Recalls: None Found
• Worn Control Arm Bushings
  • Description/Symptoms: Clunking or rattling noises, especially over bumps, and wandering steering.
  • Solution: Replace the control arm bushings or the entire control arm.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $600+ (per side, depending on whether bushings or entire arm is replaced)
  • Recalls: None Found

Electrical

• TIPM (Totally Integrated Power Module) Issues
  • Description/Symptoms: Intermittent starting problems, fuel pump relay failure, random electrical malfunctions (lights, wipers, etc.).
  • Solution: Replace or repair the TIPM.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $500 - $1500+
  • Recalls: None Found
• Wheel Speed Sensor Failure
  • Description/Symptoms: ABS light illumination, traction control light illumination, speedometer malfunction, and potential brake issues.
  • Solution: Replace the faulty wheel speed sensor.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $150 - $400+ (per sensor)
  • Recalls: None Found

Exterior

• Rust on Undercarriage/Frame
  • Description/Symptoms: Visible rust on the frame, suspension components, and other undercarriage parts.
  • Solution: Rust removal and prevention treatment, or in severe cases, frame repair or replacement.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $5000+ (depending on severity)
  • Recalls: None Found

Interior

• Dashboard Cracking
  • Description/Symptoms: Cracks appearing on the dashboard surface, particularly in areas exposed to sunlight.
  • Solution: Dashboard replacement or repair with a cover.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $300 - $1500+ (depending on repair vs. replacement)
  • Recalls: None Found

Summary

The 2012 Ram 3500, while powerful and capable, can suffer from several common issues. Engine problems, particularly with the 6.7L Cummins and 5.7L Hemi, and transmission issues with the 6-speed automatic can be costly to repair. Electrical issues related to the TIPM are also frequent. Suspension components are also known to wear down, especially on higher mileage vehicles. Rust is a concern in certain climates. These issues range in severity from minor inconveniences to major repairs, with costs potentially reaching several thousand dollars.