2017 Ram 1500
2017 Ram 1500
Overview
The 2017 Ram 1500 is a popular full-size pickup truck known for its robust build and capability. Generally, it offers good reliability, especially for its class. However, like any vehicle, specific components and powertrains can exhibit certain issues. This analysis focuses on documented, non-wear-and-tear related problems reported by owners and technicians, covering the primary engine and transmission options available for the 2017 model year. We will examine common concerns within the Engine, Transmission, Suspension, Electrical, Exterior, and Interior categories to provide a comprehensive reliability picture.
Engine
3.6L Pentastar V6
Oil Leaks (Valve Cover Gaskets)
- Symptoms: Visible oil on the engine block, oil smell, low oil level.
- Solution: Replacement of valve cover gaskets.
- Cost: $300 - $600
Coolant Leaks (Water Pump)
- Symptoms: Puddles of coolant under the vehicle, overheating, steam from engine bay.
- Solution: Replacement of the water pump.
- Cost: $400 - $700
5.7L HEMI V8
Lifter/Camshaft Wear
- Symptoms: Ticking noise from the engine, rough idle, loss of power.
- Solution: Replacement of lifters and potentially camshaft.
- Cost: $1,500 - $3,000
Oil Cooler Line Leaks
- Symptoms: Visible oil leaks around the oil cooler lines, potential for oil loss.
- Solution: Replacement of the oil cooler lines.
- Cost: $300 - $500
3.0L EcoDiesel V6
Diesel Particulate Filter (DPF) Issues
- Symptoms: Check engine light, reduced engine power, failed emissions tests.
- Solution: DPF regeneration cycle, cleaning, or replacement.
- Cost: $1,000 - $3,000
EGR System Problems
- Symptoms: Rough idle, stalling, check engine light, black smoke.
- Solution: Cleaning or replacement of EGR components.
- Cost: $500 - $1,200
Transmission
8-Speed Automatic (8HP70)
Harsh Shifting / Hesitation
- Symptoms: Jerky gear changes, delayed engagement, shuddering.
- Solution: Software update, transmission fluid flush and fill, or internal component repair.
- Cost: $300 - $1,500
6-Speed Automatic (68RFE)
Torque Converter Shudder
- Symptoms: Vibration or shuddering during acceleration, especially at lower speeds.
- Solution: Torque converter replacement or transmission fluid service.
- Cost: $800 - $2,000
Suspension
Standard Chassis
No Major Issues
- Symptoms: No widespread issues reported.
- Solution: No widespread issues reported.
- Cost: No widespread issues reported.
Electrical
General Electrical System
Uconnect System Glitches
- Symptoms: Infotainment screen freezing, unresponsiveness, Bluetooth connectivity issues.
- Solution: Software update, system reset, or head unit replacement.
- Cost: $100 - $800
Battery Drain
- Symptoms: Vehicle fails to start, battery dies prematurely.
- Solution: Diagnosis of parasitic draw, replacement of faulty module or battery.
- Cost: $200 - $600
Exterior
Body and Trim
No Major Issues
- Symptoms: No widespread issues reported.
- Solution: No widespread issues reported.
- Cost: No widespread issues reported.
Interior
Cabin Components
No Major Issues
- Symptoms: No widespread issues reported.
- Solution: No widespread issues reported.
- Cost: No widespread issues reported.
Summary Verdict
The 2017 Ram 1500 demonstrates solid reliability overall, with the Pentastar V6 and HEMI V8 engines being generally robust, though prone to common issues like oil and coolant leaks. The EcoDiesel engine, while efficient, has a higher propensity for DPF and EGR-related problems, which can be costly to repair. Transmission issues, particularly with the 8-speed automatic, are often software-related or fluid-dependent, while the 6-speed may experience torque converter shudder. Electrical gremlins, such as Uconnect system glitches and battery drain, are present but typically manageable. Suspension, exterior, and interior components are largely free of widespread critical failures. For potential buyers, careful consideration of the specific powertrain and its associated potential issues is advised.