2012 Ram 5500

Introduction

The 2012 Ram 5500 is a heavy-duty pickup truck that is offered with two engine options: a 6.7L Cummins inline-6 turbodiesel engine and a 6.4L Hemi V8 gasoline engine. The Cummins engine offers 350 horsepower and 660 lb-ft of torque, while the Hemi V8 produces 410 horsepower and 429 lb-ft of torque. Both engines are paired with a 6-speed automatic transmission. The Ram 5500 is available in both two-wheel drive and four-wheel drive configurations.

Owners of the 2012 Ram 5500 generally praise the truck’s powerful engines, comfortable interior, and impressive towing and payload capacities. However, they also report some common issues, which are detailed below.

Engine

6.7L Cummins I6 Turbodiesel

• Faulty Exhaust Gas Recirculation (EGR) System: The EGR system can fail prematurely, causing a loss of power and increased emissions.
  • Solution: Replace the EGR valve and cooler.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $1,000 - $2,000+
  • Recalls: None Found
• Turbocharger Failure: The turbocharger can fail, resulting in reduced power and increased exhaust smoke.
  • Solution: Replace the turbocharger.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $2,000 - $3,000+
  • Recalls: None Found
• Fuel Injection System Issues: Fuel injectors can malfunction, causing rough idling, poor fuel economy, and increased emissions.
  • Solution: Replace the fuel injectors.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $400 - $800+
  • Recalls: None Found

6.4L Hemi V8

• Intake Manifold Gasket Failure: The intake manifold gasket can fail, causing a loss of coolant and overheating.
  • Solution: Replace the intake manifold gasket.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $500 - $1,000+
  • Recalls: None Found
• Spark Plug Failure: Spark plugs can fail prematurely, causing misfires and reduced engine performance.
  • Solution: Replace the spark plugs.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $100 - $200+
  • Recalls: None Found

Transmission

6-Speed Automatic Transmission

All Engines

• Shifting Issues: The transmission may experience rough shifting, slipping, or delayed engagement.
  • Solution: Replace the transmission fluid and filter. In some cases, the transmission may need to be rebuilt or replaced.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $500 - $3,000+
  • Recalls: None Found

Suspension

• Front Suspension Wear: The front suspension components, such as ball joints and tie rods, can wear prematurely, causing clunking or rattling noises.
  • Solution: Replace the worn suspension components.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $300 - $1,000+
  • Recalls: None Found
• Rear Leaf Spring Failure: The rear leaf springs can fail prematurely, causing the truck to sag and reducing load-carrying capacity.
  • Solution: Replace the leaf springs.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $500 - $1,500+
  • Recalls: None Found

Electrical

• Battery Drain: The battery can discharge prematurely, even when the truck is parked.
  • Solution: Test the electrical system for parasitic draw and replace any faulty components.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $100 - $500+
  • Recalls: None Found
• Electrical Shorts: Electrical shorts can occur in various parts of the vehicle, causing a variety of issues, such as flickering lights, loss of power, or inoperable components.
  • Solution: Repair or replace the affected wiring harnesses and components.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $1,000+
  • Recalls: None Found

Exterior

• Rust: The truck’s body can rust prematurely, especially in areas such as the fenders, rocker panels, and tailgate.
  • Solution: Treat the rust spots and apply a protective coating to prevent further corrosion.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: Varies depending on severity and location of rust.
  • Recalls: None Found

Interior

• Infotainment System Display Failure: The touchscreen display on the infotainment system can become unresponsive or display glitches.
  • Solution: Replace the infotainment system.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $500 - $1,500+
  • Recalls: None Found
• Climate Control Malfunction: The climate control system can malfunction, causing the air conditioner or heater to work improperly.
  • Solution: Repair or replace the climate control module.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $500+
  • Recalls: None Found

Summary

The 2012 Ram 5500 is a powerful and capable pickup truck, but it is not without its issues. The engine and transmission can experience costly failures, while the suspension and electrical systems can have premature wear and tear. The severity and cost of these issues can vary depending on the specific problem and the age and mileage of the truck. Potential buyers should be aware of these issues and factor them into their decision-making process.