2015 Ram 5500

2015 Ram 5500

Overview

The 2015 Ram 5500 is a heavy-duty truck designed for commercial and demanding applications. Its reliability is generally considered robust, particularly concerning its powertrain, which is built for durability under load. However, like any complex vehicle, specific components can experience issues. This analysis focuses on documented technical reliability concerns beyond routine maintenance, examining common problem areas across its available configurations. Owners can expect a dependable platform, but awareness of potential issues can aid in proactive maintenance and cost management.

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Engine

6.7L Cummins Turbo Diesel

EGR Cooler Failure

• Symptoms: Coolant loss, white smoke from exhaust, overheating, check engine light.
• Solution: Replacement of the EGR cooler assembly.
• Cost: $800 - $1500

Turbocharger Issues

• Symptoms: Loss of power, whistling noises, black smoke, excessive oil consumption.
• Solution: Repair or replacement of the turbocharger.
• Cost: $1200 - $2500

Transmission

68RFE 6-Speed Automatic

Torque Converter Problems

• Symptoms: Slipping, shuddering, delayed engagement, overheating.
• Solution: Replacement of the torque converter and potentially transmission fluid and filter.
• Cost: $1000 - $2000

Overheating Under Heavy Load

• Symptoms: Transmission fluid temperature warning, slipping, reduced performance.
• Solution: Installation of an auxiliary transmission cooler.
• Cost: $400 - $800

G56 6-Speed Manual

Clutch Wear

• Symptoms: Slipping, difficulty shifting, burning smell.
• Solution: Replacement of the clutch assembly.
• Cost: $900 - $1800

Suspension

Heavy-Duty Leaf Spring Suspension

Leaf Spring Breakage

• Symptoms: Sagging rear end, uneven ride height, clunking noises.
• Solution: Replacement of broken leaf springs.
• Cost: $300 - $700 per spring

Electrical

Body Control Module (BCM)

Intermittent Electrical Malfunctions

• Symptoms: Random warning lights, non-functional accessories (lights, wipers, power windows), communication errors.
• Solution: Diagnosis and potential reprogramming or replacement of the BCM.
• Cost: $500 - $1200

Alternator

Premature Failure

• Symptoms: Dimming lights, battery warning light, starting issues, dead battery.
• Solution: Replacement of the alternator.
• Cost: $400 - $800

Exterior

Body Panels and Trim

No Major Issues

• Symptoms: No widespread issues reported.
• Solution: No widespread issues reported.
• Cost: N/A

Interior

Infotainment System

Screen Freezing/Unresponsiveness

• Symptoms: Touchscreen becomes unresponsive, system freezes, audio issues.
• Solution: Software update or replacement of the infotainment unit.
• Cost: $500 - $1500

HVAC System

Blower Motor Failure

• Symptoms: No air coming from vents, intermittent fan speed.
• Solution: Replacement of the blower motor or resistor.
• Cost: $200 - $500

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Summary Verdict

The 2015 Ram 5500 demonstrates strong overall reliability, especially with its robust 6.7L Cummins Turbo Diesel engine and heavy-duty transmissions. The most commonly reported issues tend to be related to the EGR cooler and turbocharger on the diesel engine, and torque converter or overheating issues with the automatic transmission. Manual transmissions are generally solid, though clutch wear is a factor. Electrical components like the BCM and alternator can occasionally fail. Suspension leaf springs may break under extreme use. Interior electronics, particularly the infotainment screen and HVAC blower motor, can also present issues. Despite these points, the Ram 5500 remains a dependable choice for heavy-duty work when properly maintained.