2012 Ram 3500
Introduction:
The 2012 Ram 3500 is a heavy-duty pickup truck from Ram Trucks. It is available with three engine options: a 5.7L V8, a 6.7L Cummins I6 turbodiesel, and a 6.4L V8 HEMI. Transmission options include a six-speed automatic and a six-speed manual. The 5.7L V8 produces 383 horsepower and 400 lb-ft of torque, while the 6.7L Cummins diesel produces 350 horsepower and 850 lb-ft of torque. The 6.4L V8 HEMI produces 410 horsepower and 429 lb-ft of torque. The Ram 3500 is praised for its powerful engines, impressive towing and payload capacities, and comfortable interior. However, it is criticized for its fuel economy and stiff ride quality.
Engine
5.7L V8
- Intake Manifold Gasket Failure:
- Description/Symptoms: Leaking coolant, reduced engine power, rough idle
- Solution: Replace intake manifold gasket
- Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $400+
- Recalls: None Found
6.7L Cummins I6 Turbodiesel
- Fuel Injector Failure:
- Description/Symptoms: Hard starting, reduced engine power, increased emissions
- Solution: Replace fuel injectors
- Estimated Cost to Fix: $1,000 - $2,000+
- Recalls: None Found
- Turbocharger Failure:
- Description/Symptoms: Loss of power, black smoke from exhaust
- Solution: Replace turbocharger
- Estimated Cost to Fix: $1,500 - $3,000+
- Recalls: None Found
6.4L V8 HEMI
- Lifter Failure:
- Description/Symptoms: Valve train noise, reduced engine power, rough idle
- Solution: Replace lifters and camshaft
- Estimated Cost to Fix: $1,000 - $2,000+
- Recalls: None Found
Transmission
Six-Speed Automatic
- Torque Converter Shudder:
- Description/Symptoms: Vibration at low speeds, delayed engagement
- Solution: Replace torque converter
- Estimated Cost to Fix: $1,200 - $2,000+
- Recalls: None Found
- Transmission Slippage:
- Description/Symptoms: Loss of power, hesitation during acceleration
- Solution: Rebuild or replace transmission
- Estimated Cost to Fix: $2,000 - $4,000+
- Recalls: None Found
Six-Speed Manual
- No Issues Found
Suspension
- Leaf Spring Breakage:
- Description/Symptoms: Sagging rear suspension, loss of stability
- Solution: Replace leaf springs
- Estimated Cost to Fix: $500 - $1,000+
- Recalls: None Found
- Shock Absorber Failure:
- Description/Symptoms: Rough ride quality, reduced handling
- Solution: Replace shock absorbers
- Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $400+
- Recalls: None Found
Electrical
- Alternator Failure:
- Description/Symptoms: Battery not charging, warning light on dashboard
- Solution: Replace alternator
- Estimated Cost to Fix: $300 - $600+
- Recalls: None Found
- Starter Failure:
- Description/Symptoms: Engine will not start, clicking sound when turning key
- Solution: Replace starter
- Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $500+
- Recalls: None Found
- Battery Drain:
- Description/Symptoms: Battery dies prematurely, lights dim when engine is off
- Solution: Identify and fix source of drain (e.g., parasitic draw, faulty module)
- Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $1,000+
- Recalls: None Found
Exterior
- No Issues Found
Interior
- HVAC Control Panel Failure:
- Description/Symptoms: Climate control not functioning properly, buttons not responding
- Solution: Replace HVAC control panel
- Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $400+
- Recalls: None Found
- Dashboard Cracking:
- Description/Symptoms: Cracks developing on dashboard surface
- Solution: Replace dashboard
- Estimated Cost to Fix: $500 - $1,000+
- Recalls: None Found
Summary:
The 2012 Ram 3500 exhibits a range of issues, primarily related to the engine, transmission, and suspension components. The severity of these issues can vary from minor inconveniences to expensive repairs. Overall, the cost to fix these issues can range from a few hundred dollars to several thousand dollars.