Ram 1500 4th gen (DS) (2009 – 2018)

Reliability score : 6.2/10

The 4th generation of the Ram 1500 (code name DS) marks a major turning point in the history of American pickup trucks. Initially launched under the Dodge brand in 2009, it simply became "Ram 1500" in 2010 following the split of the Chrysler group brands. It radically distinguishes itself from its competitors (F-150, Silverado) by abandoning rear leaf springs in favor of coil springs (and an optional air suspension), offering unmatched ride comfort in the category. In 2013, a facelift brought the highly renowned 8-speed ZF automatic gearbox (TorqueFlite 8) and the Pentastar V6. In 2014, Ram struck a major blow by introducing the 3.0L V6 EcoDiesel (supplied by the Italian VM Motori), becoming the first modern light-duty pickup to offer a diesel engine in the United States. While this engine

✅ Strengths

Exceptional ride comfort (rear coil springs)
Responsive and reliable 8-speed ZF automatic gearbox (from 2013)
Very intuitive Uconnect infotainment system (8.4 inches)
Timeless "mini-truck" look (Big Rig styling)
Spacious and well-finished cabin on high-end trims (Laramie, Longhorn)

⚠️ Weaknesses

Disastrous reliability of the 3.0L EcoDiesel engine (exorbitant repair costs)
Very temperamental air suspension (Active-Level) in cold weather (leaks, dead compressor)
Lower payload than the competition (trade-off for the coil springs)
Very high fuel consumption of the older engines (3.7 V6, 4.7 V8) and pre-2013 4/5/6-speed gearboxes
Susceptibility to corrosion on the rear wheel arches and rocker panels

🎯 Verdict

The 4th generation Ram 1500 is an extremely appealing pickup, offering the best comfort in its category and a killer look. However, the 3.0L EcoDiesel engine is to be avoided at all costs, unless the vehicle has already undergone the replacement of the HPFP pump, the EGR cooler, and the reluctor wheel, and you have a substantial repair budget. Breakdowns of this VM Motori engine are catastrophic and frequent. The best choice: Opt without hesitation for the 5.7L V8 Hemi coupled with the 8-speed ZF automatic gearbox (post-2013). Although the exhaust manifold studs must be monitored (the famous "Hemi tick"), it is a robust, high-performance package with excellent resale value. Also avoid the air suspension if you live in a cold region.

Common issues

Fissures du bloc moteur (moteurs 3.0L EcoDiesel des premières années) High

🔧 80 000 – 150 000 km

💶 8 000 – 15 000 €

Vérifier l'historique d'entretien, les rappels et si le véhicule a bénéficié d'une garantie étendue.

Défaillance de la pompe haute pression (HPFP - Bosch CP4) High

🔧 100 000 – 200 000 km

💶 6 000 – 12 000 €

Utiliser du carburant diesel de haute qualité et envisager un additif lubrifiant pour le carburant.

Problèmes du système EGR (refroidisseur et/ou vanne encrassés/fuyants) Medium

🔧 80 000 – 180 000 km

💶 800 – 2 000 €

Un nettoyage régulier ou un remplacement préventif peut éviter des pannes plus coûteuses.

Défaillance des composants du système DEF (AdBlue) : capteurs, injecteur, réchauffeur Medium

🔧 100 000 – 200 000 km

💶 500 – 1 500 €

Utiliser du liquide DEF de qualité et éviter de rouler avec un niveau bas.

Estimated maintenance costs

Oil change	£100 – 180
Timing chain	£1 200 – 2 500 (si remplacement nécessaire, hors entretien courant)
Complete brakes	£400 – 700
Estimated annual budget	£750 – 1 500

Indicative estimates (independent garage, UK market). Prices vary by region and year.