Similarly to the Ram 2500, the Ram 3500 started as a workhorse with few amenities and little in the way of tech. Initially housed under the Dodge brand, the Dodge Ram 350 was essentially just a mild refresh of the D350.
But as the generations progressed, this massive heavy duty truck gained lux-level amenities, along with better performance and towing capabilities. By the fourth and fifth generations, it had shifted from pure work truck to more of an everyday driver—even if the Ram 3500’s massive proportions are difficult to manage in towns and cities.
Primary competitors include the GMC Sierra 3500, the Chevrolet Silverado 3500, and the Ford F-350. The latest Ram 3500’s competitive advantage is its powerful Cummins turbo diesel engine, which provides class-leading maximum towing and payload capacities.
Today’s heavy-duty Ram trucks now have all the technology you’d expect from a daily driver, including Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, large touchscreen infotainment systems, wi-fi connectivity, cameras galore, and a whole bunch of standard safety features.
Ram 3500: Cost, Reliability, and the Best Years to Buy
- Frequently Asked Questions
- Ram 3500 Pros and Cons
- Ram 3500 Generations
- Ram 3500 Fifth Generation (2019–present)
- Ram 3500 Fourth Generation (2010–2018)
- Dodge Ram 3500 Third Generation (2003–2009)
- Dodge Ram 3500 Second Generation (1994–2002)
- Dodge Ram 3500 First Generation (1981–1993)
Frequently Asked Questions
Which Ram 3500 years are the best?
Though Ram typically gets a bad rap for reliability, newer models have proven more reliable than other trucks, and we’d point you in the direction of the current generation unless you’re really jonesing for a classic truck. CarComplaints.com shows few or no complaints for the current generation, for every year expect its inaugural one—2019—which has more complaints than any other model in this generation, so stick with 2020 and beyond.
What are the worst Ram 3500 years?
CarComplaints.com dubs 2003 the worst model year of the Dodge-branded 3500s, due to high repair costs and problems occurring at lower mileages. It also has the most overall complaints, many of which center around a cracked dashboard. During the Ram years, 2013 is considered the worst year due to suspension problems, and is known for its “death wobble”.
Is a used Ram 3500 a good deal?
You might be tempted to say the Ram 3500 is not a good deal because it’s relatively expensive, but it’s important to consider that prices are $10,000 to $12,000 less than the original MSRP. Looking at the 2020 models, Kelley Blue Book estimates you can pick up a base Tradesman regular cab for about $37,000—that’s $13,000 less than the original price. While it’s not an amazing deal, it could certainly be worse.
Ram 3500 Pros and Cons
Pros:
- Impressive towing and payload capability
- Powerful turbodiesel engine option
- Spacious and comfortable
Cons:
- Gargantuan proportions
- Noisy diesel engine
- Limited safety technology
Ram 3500 Generations
Ram 3500 Fifth Generation (2019–present)
The fifth-generation Ram 3500 adopted a lot of the changes we saw on the Ram 1500, and there was a huge focus on luxury and tech. It ditched the crosshair grille and added LED lighting and a more aerodynamic design. It also received a stronger frame, new suspension, and a new transmission for the Hemi models. It could tow more than 35,000 pounds and carry almost 8,000 pounds of payload, while the RamBox received a 115-volt outlet with up to 400 watts of power.
The interior also borrowed heavily from the 1500, with a serious upgrade in terms of materials and available luxury amenities. It got a revised instrument cluster and rotary gear selector for the eight-speed automatic transmission, as well as available features such as a 360-degree camera, adaptive cruise control, a 12-inch vertical infotainment system with wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, and a 750-watt Harman Kardon 17-speaker audio system. Additionally, the tire pressure monitoring system now had the ability to monitor up to 12 trailer tires.
At launch, fifth-generation Ram 3500 trim levels comprised Tradesman, Lone Star/Big Horn, Laramie, Laramie Longhorn, and Limited. It had Regular-, Crew-, Mega- and Chassis cab configurations, long and short bed availability, and 2WD and 4WD drivetrains, along with optional dual rear wheels.
The base engine was now the 6.4-liter Hemi V8, which was a carryover from the previous generation. The High-Output 6.7-liter Cummins turbo diesel inline six powertrain was introduced in 2019, and delivered specs including 1,000 pound-feet of torque—a first in the heavy-duty segment. Torque increased to 1,075 lb-ft then 1,150 lb-ft in 2021 and 2024, respectively.
When properly equipped, this heavy-duty Ram pickup can tow more than 35,000 pounds and carry nearly 8,000 pounds of payload.
In 2019, the Ram 3500 added lane keep assist, adaptive steering, and blind-spot monitoring as well as an optional 50-gallon fuel tank. In 2021, the max tow rating increased by 2,000 pounds and a digital rearview mirror was aded. In 2022, we saw the addition of Uconnect 5 and a new trailer 360-view camera, while 2023 brought a refresh, including a new digital cluster. The camera system was upgraded, and there was also a new trailer reverse steering system. There were no significant changes or upgrades for 2024.
Used vehicles in this generation are plentiful and pricey. We didn’t see a single truck for sale below $12,000, and on the low-end of the scale, we saw a Tradesman chassis-cab with 350,000 miles for $14,000. At the other end of the spectrum were custom trucks with low mileage for $140,000. If you want a truck with less than 100,000 miles on it, you can find something decent at around $50,000.
Ram 3500 Fourth Generation (2010–2018)
It was in the fourth generation that the Dodge Ram 3500 became the Ram 3500, as Ram Trucks split off into its own brand. The first year still fell under the Dodge moniker, but by 2011, the transition to Ram Trucks was complete.
More than just a work truck at this point, the Ram 3500 added luxurious interiors and upscale versions, such as the Laramie trim, the Longhorn trim, and the Limited trim. Parent company, Chrysler LLC, was trying hard to keep its trucks competitive, and it introduced new features such as the RamBox and the Hemi engine during this generation. It also introduced new technology, such as the Uconnect infotainment system, premium sound systems, and smart cabin materials. It was available in Regular-, Quad-, Mega-, and Chassis-cab configurations, with 2WD and 4WD drivetrains.
Engine options for this generation included the 5.7-liter Hemi V8, the 6.4-liter Hemi V8, and the 6.7-liter Cummins turbo diesel. The Ram 3500 retained its manual transmission option throughout this generation, which was significant, because both General Motors and Ford had both dropped theirs by the 2011 model year. In 2013, the 3500 also introduced the first Aisin heavy-duty automatic transmission for improved towing with the diesel engine.
Trims available in this generation included the Tradesman, the Big Horn, the Laramie, the Limited Longhorn, and the Limited. The top-tier Ram 3500 Limited was available with only the 6.4-liter Hemi V8 or the 6.7-liter Cummins diesel, and added features such as a leather interior and keyless push-button start.
This generation also heralded new safety and driver assist technology, including front automatic emergency braking, adaptive cruise control, lane keep assist, blind-spot monitoring, and front and rear parking sensors. Maximum towing capacity in this generation ranged from 18,000 pounds for early models to nearly 30,000 pounds at the end, depending on the cab configuration.
In 2011, the Ram 3500 added a new Outdoorsman trim and an optional navigation radio system. The RamBox was added in 2012, and a refresh in 2013 included new interior and exterior styling, with available features such as a leather-wrapped steering wheel and power-folding side mirrors. Optional air suspension was added in 2014, along coil-spring suspension, instead of old-fashioned leaf springs. In 2017, it got a new Off-Road Package with bed-side graphics, off-road suspension, front tow hooks, and the protection package. This was also the year the Power Wagon returned. Though 2018 was the last year of this generation, there were significant tech upgrades, including HD Radio, a new 4G LTE modem and hot spot provided by AT&T Wireless, Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, and the Uconnect 8.4 infotainment system with an upgraded user interface.
We saw more than a thousand used Ram 3500 trucks in this generation listed online, with prices ranging from $4,500 for mid-generation high-mileage trucks to $89,000 for a 2011 Ram 3500 Laramie Longhorn with 73,500 miles. You should be able to get an example from the end of this generation with around 100,000 miles in the $40,000 range.
Dodge Ram 3500 Third Generation (2003–2009)
When the third-generation Dodge Ram 3500 finally entered the picture—a year after the 1500’s redesign—it got an all-new frame, new suspension, new interior, and new sheet metal. This generation saw the addition of enhanced tech, navigation systems, and better quality materials.
The 3500 retained its live axels for the sake of durability, and the RWD models had class-exclusive rack-and-pinion steering for their independent front suspension. At launch, the then-new Ram 3500 was available in Regular Cab or Quad Cab configurations, and in 2006, it added the Mega Cab option. It had 2WD and 4WD drivetrain options as well as standard- and long-beds.
Trims in this generation included the ST, SXT, SLT, Laramie and Limited. The Ram 3500 SLT offered amenities such as power accessories, upgraded cloth seats, and satellite radio. Upgrading to the Ram 3500 Laramie added the likes of heated-and-ventilated front seats, a touchscreen infotainment system, and an Alpine premium audio system.
The third-generation Dodge Ram 3500 launched with three engine options: a 5.7-liter Hemi V8, the 5.9-liter Cummins diesel, and an 8.0-liter Magnum V10. The V10 was discontinued after 2003, and in 2007, a 6.7-liter Cummins diesel replaced the 5.9-liter option. A new six-speed automatic transmission was also introduced at this time, and manual and automatic transmission options were available throughout the generation.
The third-gen 3500 was the first heavy-duty truck with factory-integrated exhaust brake (with the Cummins engine) and maximum towing power at the end of this generation ranged from about 9,000 pounds to 16,000 pounds, depending on the model year.
While this was a relatively short generation, a Ram 3500 Power Wagon was introduced on the 3500 platform for 2005. It was available with the regular cab and long bed or the quad cab and the short bed. It was equipped with the 5.7-liter Hemi V8, electronic locking differentials, electronic disconnecting front sway bar, off-road tires, factory lift springs, fender flares, full underbody skid plates, Power Wagon nameplates instead of the standard Ram badging, and a 12,000-pound winch.
We also saw a 3500 Chassis Cab introduced in 2007 for the first time, with industry-standard rear frame width and wiring to accommodate upfitters. Engine options included the 5.7-liter V8 or the 6.7-liter Cummins diesel.
There were even more Dodge Ram 3500 pickup trucks available in this generation in the classifieds online, with prices ranging from $6,000 for high-mileage trucks in good condition to $60,000 for a low-mileage truck in excellent condition. We saw a lot of trucks in the $23,000 to $26,000 price range with about 100,000 miles and in good condition.
Dodge Ram 3500 Second Generation (1994–2002)
The second generation also fell under the Dodge brand, but the 350 designation disappeared, in favor of the 3500, which was a one-ton truck. Similar to the full-size 1500 trucks, the 3500 was completely redesigned, with a more aggressive big-rig-style front end that was deemed risky at the time, along with a larger grille and bigger bumpers. It also got improved seats, a more comfortable interior, and basic tech upgrades.
The second-gen Dodge Ram 3500 was available in Regular-, Club- and Crew-Cab configurations It had both 2WD and 4WD drivetrain options as well as a dual rear-wheel option for improved towing stability. Both short and long beds were available depending on cab configurations.
Trim levels comprised the Tradesman, Big Horn, Laramie, Limited Longhorn, and Limited. The Ram 3500 Big Horn was the volume seller in this generation, offering chrome bumpers, carpet flooring, cloth upholster, and chrome-clad alloy wheels.
The Cummins diesel engine was a carryover from the previous generation, and the second-gen Dodge Ram 3500 added an 8.0-liter V10. This made the 3500, along with the 2500, the first factory V10-powered truck, and it delivered 300 horsepower and 450 lb.-ft. of torque. Other available engines included a 3.9-liter V6 and a 5.2-liter V8, while manual and automatic transmission options were available.
The Dodge Ram 3500 was updated in 1998, with the addition of fold-out towing mirrors, revised interior and instrument panel, dual airbags, and a digital odometer. In 2000, the heavy-duty pickup truck got the options of heated leather seats and an upgraded braking system.
Though the 1500 entered its third-generation for 2002, the 3500 was carried over an extra year, due to a hold up with the new 5.7-liter Hemi engine.
This generation of Dodge Ram 3500 is less common than later generations, and we saw everything from junkyard finds for $1,000 to lower-mileage trucks in good condition for about $40,000. While prices vary widely, you’ll see some good trucks with about 100,000 miles at the $25,000 price point.
Dodge Ram 3500 First Generation (1981–1993)
The first-generation Ram 3500 fell under the Dodge brand, and replaced the D-Series trucks introduced in 1972. In fact, the original Dodge Ram, was just a facelifted version of that truck, and was known as the “square body” truck, due to its hard edges, dual rectangular headlamps, and larger wraparound tail lamps. Dubbed the Dodge Ram 350, this one-ton, heavy-duty truck came in Regular Cab and Club Cab configurations, had both 2WD and 4WD options, and was available with 6.5-foot or eight-foot bed.
At launch, the first-gen Dodge Ram 3500 was equipped with a 5.9-liter, gas-powered V8 engine. Then, starting in 1989, it was powered by a 5.9-liter inline-six cylinder Cummins diesel engine, delivering 160hp and 400 lb.-ft. of torque. This gave the Dodge Ram heavy-duty trucks a competitive advantage over Ford and General Motors, as this engine had direct injection, and the Cummins unit was also turbocharged, whereas Ford and GM engines were naturally aspirated. Maximum towing capacity with this engine was 11,000 pounds and both manual and automatic transmission options were available.
You aren’t really going to see any first-generation Dodge Ram trucks on used car websites, and it’s likely that any you do see will be more collectible than drivable. Classic.com lists the average transaction price for a truck in this generation as around $27,000, and the top sale listed on the site was $77,000 for a 1991 modified truck.
