2020 Ram 3500
2020 Ram 3500
Overview
The 2020 Ram 3500 is a heavy-duty pickup truck designed for demanding work and towing. It offers robust powertrains and a sturdy chassis, contributing to its overall capability. Reliability for this model year is generally strong, with most reported issues being minor or specific to certain configurations. Owners often praise its towing capacity and comfortable ride for a truck of its class. However, like any complex vehicle, specific components can experience issues, particularly those related to emissions systems on diesel engines or advanced electrical features. This analysis focuses on documented, non-wear-and-tear related reliability concerns.
Engine
6.4L HEMI V8
No Major Issues
- Symptoms: No widespread issues reported.
- Solution: No widespread issues reported.
- Cost: N/A
6.7L Cummins Turbo Diesel
DEF (Diesel Exhaust Fluid) System Issues
- Symptoms: Check Engine light illumination, reduced engine power, DEF quality warnings.
- Solution: Cleaning or replacement of DEF injector, pump, or tank sensors. Software updates may also be required.
- Cost: $300 - $1200
DPF (Diesel Particulate Filter) Regeneration Issues
- Symptoms: Increased exhaust backpressure, reduced fuel economy, Check Engine light, potential for filter clogging.
- Solution: Forced regeneration cycles, cleaning of the DPF, or replacement if severely clogged.
- Cost: $500 - $2500
Transmission
6-Speed Automatic (68RFE)
No Major Issues
- Symptoms: No widespread issues reported.
- Solution: No widespread issues reported.
- Cost: N/A
6-Speed Manual (G56)
No Major Issues
- Symptoms: No widespread issues reported.
- Solution: No widespread issues reported.
- Cost: N/A
Aisin 6-Speed Automatic (AS69RC)
No Major Issues
- Symptoms: No widespread issues reported.
- Solution: No widespread issues reported.
- Cost: N/A
Suspension
Standard Chassis
No Major Issues
- Symptoms: No widespread issues reported.
- Solution: No widespread issues reported.
- Cost: N/A
Electrical
Infotainment System
Uconnect System Glitches
- Symptoms: Screen freezing, unresponsiveness, Bluetooth connectivity issues, navigation errors.
- Solution: Software updates, system resets, or potential replacement of the head unit.
- Cost: $100 - $1500
Sensor Failures
ABS/Traction Control Sensor Issues
- Symptoms: ABS or traction control warning lights illuminated, intermittent system operation.
- Solution: Replacement of faulty wheel speed sensors or related wiring.
- Cost: $150 - $400
Exterior
Body Panels
No Major Issues
- Symptoms: No widespread issues reported.
- Solution: No widespread issues reported.
- Cost: N/A
Lighting
No Major Issues
- Symptoms: No widespread issues reported.
- Solution: No widespread issues reported.
- Cost: N/A
Interior
Upholstery and Trim
No Major Issues
- Symptoms: No widespread issues reported.
- Solution: No widespread issues reported.
- Cost: N/A
HVAC System
No Major Issues
- Symptoms: No widespread issues reported.
- Solution: No widespread issues reported.
- Cost: N/A
Summary Verdict
The 2020 Ram 3500 demonstrates solid reliability, particularly with its gasoline HEMI V8 engine and standard transmissions. The primary areas of concern are concentrated within the diesel powertrain’s emissions control systems (DEF and DPF), which can be complex and costly to repair if issues arise. Electrical gremlins, mainly related to the Uconnect infotainment system and ABS sensors, are also noted but not considered widespread. Overall, for a heavy-duty truck, the 2020 Ram 3500 offers a dependable ownership experience, provided regular maintenance is performed and potential diesel emissions system issues are addressed promptly.