2020 Ram 5500

2020 Ram 5500

Overview

The 2020 Ram 5500 is a heavy-duty commercial truck designed for demanding vocational applications. Reliability is a key factor for fleet owners and operators, and this model generally performs well in its class. While robust, like any commercial vehicle, it can experience specific issues related to its powertrain and heavy-duty components. This analysis focuses on documented technical reliability concerns, excluding routine maintenance and standard wear and tear, to provide a clear picture of potential problem areas and their associated costs for the various engine and transmission configurations available.

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Engine

6.7L Cummins Turbo Diesel

Fuel Injector Issues

• Symptoms: Rough idle, loss of power, increased exhaust smoke, check engine light.
• Solution: Replacement of faulty fuel injectors.
• Cost: $800 - $1500 per injector

EGR Cooler Leaks

• Symptoms: Coolant loss, white smoke from exhaust, overheating, coolant in oil.
• Solution: Replacement of the EGR cooler assembly.
• Cost: $700 - $1200

Transmission

AISIN AS69RC 6-Speed Automatic

Torque Converter Shudder

• Symptoms: Vibration or shuddering during acceleration or at low speeds.
• Solution: Torque converter replacement or transmission fluid flush and filter change.
• Cost: $1500 - $3000

Transmission Fluid Leaks

• Symptoms: Visible fluid leaks, low transmission fluid level, slipping gears.
• Solution: Inspection and repair of seals, lines, or transmission case.
• Cost: $300 - $800

G56 6-Speed Manual

Clutch Wear

• Symptoms: Slipping clutch, difficulty shifting gears, burning smell.
• Solution: Clutch kit replacement (clutch disc, pressure plate, release bearing).
• Cost: $1200 - $2500

Shifter Linkage Issues

• Symptoms: Stiff or loose shifter, difficulty engaging gears.
• Solution: Adjustment or replacement of shifter linkage components.
• Cost: $200 - $500

Suspension

Heavy-Duty Leaf Spring Suspension

Leaf Spring Breakage

• Symptoms: Sagging rear end, uneven ride height, clunking noises over bumps.
• Solution: Replacement of broken leaf springs.
• Cost: $400 - $900 per axle

Electrical

General Electrical System

Alternator Failure

• Symptoms: Dimming lights, battery warning light, dead battery, electrical system malfunctions.
• Solution: Replacement of the alternator.
• Cost: $500 - $900

Wiring Harness Corrosion

• Symptoms: Intermittent electrical faults, non-functioning accessories, corrosion on connectors.
• Solution: Inspection, cleaning, and repair or replacement of affected wiring harnesses.
• Cost: $300 - $700

Exterior

Body Panels 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.

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Summary Verdict

The 2020 Ram 5500 demonstrates solid reliability, particularly with its robust 6.7L Cummins Turbo Diesel engine and available transmissions. The most commonly reported technical issues revolve around the powertrain, specifically fuel injectors and EGR coolers for the diesel engine, and torque converter shudder or fluid leaks for the automatic transmission. Manual transmission concerns include clutch wear and shifter linkage. Suspension components like leaf springs can experience breakage under heavy use. Electrical system issues, such as alternator failure and wiring harness corrosion, are also noted. Overall, the Ram 5500 is a dependable workhorse, but owners should be aware of these potential areas for maintenance and repair, especially in demanding vocational environments.