2016 Ram 4500
2016 Ram 4500
Overview
The 2016 Ram 4500 is a heavy-duty truck designed for commercial and demanding vocational use. Reliability for this model year is generally considered robust, particularly for its powertrain, which is built to withstand significant stress. Owners and fleet managers often prioritize durability and performance in this segment. While no vehicle is entirely without potential issues, the 2016 Ram 4500 demonstrates a strong track record in key areas. This analysis focuses on documented technical issues beyond routine maintenance, providing insights into common problems and their potential resolutions for specific components and systems.
Engine
6.7L Cummins Turbo Diesel
No Major Issues
- Symptoms: No widespread issues reported.
- Solution: No widespread issues reported.
- Cost: N/A
Transmission
68RFE 6-Speed Automatic
No Major Issues
- Symptoms: No widespread issues reported.
- Solution: No widespread issues reported.
- Cost: N/A
G56 6-Speed Manual
No Major Issues
- Symptoms: No widespread issues reported.
- Solution: No widespread issues reported.
- Cost: N/A
Suspension
Heavy-Duty Suspension Components
No Major Issues
- Symptoms: No widespread issues reported.
- Solution: No widespread issues reported.
- Cost: N/A
Electrical
Body Control Module (BCM)
Intermittent Electrical Gremlins
- Symptoms: Random warning lights, non-functional accessories, or communication errors.
- Solution: Diagnosis and potential reprogramming or replacement of the BCM.
- Cost: $400 - $1200
Alternator
Premature Failure
- Symptoms: Battery warning light illumination, dimming headlights, or failure to start.
- Solution: Replacement of the alternator.
- Cost: $500 - $900
Exterior
Body Panels and Paint
No Major Issues
- Symptoms: No widespread issues reported.
- Solution: No widespread issues reported.
- Cost: N/A
Headlights/Taillights
Condensation
- Symptoms: Moisture buildup inside light housings.
- Solution: Ensure seals are intact; replacement of housing if seal is compromised.
- Cost: $150 - $500 per unit
Interior
Upholstery and Trim
No Major Issues
- Symptoms: No widespread issues reported.
- Solution: No widespread issues reported.
- Cost: N/A
Infotainment System
Software Glitches
- Symptoms: Screen freezing, unresponsiveness, or Bluetooth connectivity issues.
- Solution: Software update or reset; potential replacement of head unit.
- Cost: $100 - $800
Summary Verdict
The 2016 Ram 4500 generally exhibits strong reliability, especially concerning its core powertrain components like the 6.7L Cummins Turbo Diesel engine and its available transmissions. These are built for heavy-duty applications and typically perform well under demanding conditions. The most frequently cited technical issues tend to be in the electrical system, with some reports of Body Control Module (BCM) glitches and occasional alternator failures. Exterior and interior components are largely free of widespread problems, though minor issues like headlight condensation can occur. Overall, the 2016 Ram 4500 is a dependable workhorse, with most potential issues being manageable and not indicative of systemic design flaws.