2012 Ram 4500

The 2012 Ram 4500 is a heavy-duty truck designed for serious work, often used in commercial applications. Engine options for the 2012 Ram 4500 included the 6.7L Cummins Turbo Diesel I6, producing 325 hp and 650 lb-ft of torque. A gasoline engine was also available, the 5.7L Hemi V8. Transmission options include a 6-speed automatic. Owners often praise the Ram 4500 for its towing capacity and ruggedness, but some dislike its fuel economy and ride quality.

Engine

6.7L Cummins Turbo Diesel I6

• Turbocharger Failure
  • Description/Symptoms: Loss of power, excessive black smoke, loud whistling noise from the turbo. Can be caused by oil leaks, debris, or overspeeding.
  • Solution: Replace the turbocharger.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $1500 - $3500+
  • Recalls: None Found
• Fuel Injector Issues
  • Description/Symptoms: Rough idling, misfires, reduced fuel economy, and black smoke.
  • Solution: Replace faulty fuel injectors.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $400 - $800+ per injector
  • Recalls: None Found
• EGR Valve Problems
  • Description/Symptoms: Poor performance, excessive black smoke, check engine light. The EGR valve can become clogged with soot and carbon deposits.
  • Solution: Clean or replace the EGR valve.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $300 - $700+
  • Recalls: None Found

5.7L Hemi V8

• “Hemi Tick” (Lifter Noise)
  • Description/Symptoms: Ticking or knocking noise coming from the engine, especially at idle or low speeds. Often caused by worn lifters.
  • Solution: Replace lifters and potentially the camshaft.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $1500 - $4000+
  • Recalls: None Found
• Manifold Bolts Broken
  • Description/Symptoms: Exhaust leak sound, loss of power, decreased fuel efficiency
  • Solution: Replace exhaust manifold and bolts
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $600 - $1200+
  • Recalls: None Found

Transmission

6-Speed Automatic

• Torque Converter Issues
  • Description/Symptoms: Shuddering during acceleration, slipping between gears, difficulty shifting.
  • Solution: Replace the torque converter.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $800 - $2000+
  • Recalls: None Found
• Harsh Shifting/Slipping
  • Description/Symptoms: Rough or delayed gear changes, transmission slipping out of gear.
  • Solution: Could be due to low fluid, faulty solenoids, or more severe internal damage requiring a rebuild or replacement.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 (fluid change) - $4000+ (rebuild or replacement)
  • Recalls: None Found

Suspension

• Worn Ball Joints
  • Description/Symptoms: Clunking or rattling noise from the front end, especially when going over bumps. Poor handling and steering wander.
  • Solution: Replace worn ball joints.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $300 - $800+ per side
  • Recalls: None Found
• Leaf Spring Sagging/Cracking
  • Description/Symptoms: Rear end sagging, reduced load capacity, rough ride.
  • Solution: Replace leaf springs.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $500 - $1500+ per side
  • Recalls: None Found

Electrical

• TIPM (Totally Integrated Power Module) Problems
  • Description/Symptoms: Intermittent starting problems, fuel pump issues, lighting malfunctions, power window/door lock problems. This is a common failure point in many Chrysler/Ram vehicles of this era.
  • Solution: Replace the TIPM.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $800 - $1500+
  • Recalls: Some recalls related to electrical issues may apply, check with the NHTSA using the VIN.
• Sensor Failures
  • Description/Symptoms: Check engine light illumination, poor performance, inaccurate readings (e.g., temperature, pressure). Common sensors include oxygen sensors, mass airflow sensors, and crankshaft position sensors.
  • Solution: Diagnose and replace the faulty sensor.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $100 - $500+ per sensor
  • Recalls: None Found

Exterior

• Rust
  • Description/Symptoms: Rust forming on the frame, body panels, and undercarriage, especially in areas exposed to salt and moisture.
  • Solution: Rust repair, body panel replacement.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $5000+ depending on severity
  • Recalls: None Found

Interior

• Dashboard Cracking
  • Description/Symptoms: Cracks appearing in the dashboard plastic, particularly in areas exposed to direct sunlight.
  • Solution: Dashboard replacement or repair.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $300 - $1500+
  • Recalls: None Found

Summary

The 2012 Ram 4500, while a capable work truck, does have several common issues. Engine problems range from turbocharger and fuel injector issues on the diesel to lifter noise on the Hemi. Transmission issues include torque converter problems and harsh shifting. Electrical problems, particularly with the TIPM, are also prevalent. Suspension components like ball joints and leaf springs can wear out, and rust can be a significant concern, especially in certain climates. Costs for repairs can vary widely, from a few hundred dollars for sensor replacements to several thousand for major engine or transmission work. Addressing these issues proactively can help ensure the longevity and reliability of the vehicle.