Ram 1500 4th gen (DS) (2009 – 2018)

Reliability score : 7.2/10

The 4th generation Ram 1500 (DS) marked a major turning point in the full-size pickup segment. Initially launched under the Dodge brand in 2009 before Ram became an independent brand in 2010, it stood out by abandoning rear leaf springs in favor of a coil spring suspension (and later optional air suspension), offering unmatched ride comfort in the category. It received a major facelift in 2013, introducing the Pentastar V6, the excellent 8-speed ZF automatic gearbox (TorqueFlite 8), a significantly higher quality interior, and the Uconnect multimedia system. Although replaced by the 5th generation (DT) in 2019, this model continued to be produced under the name Ram 1500 Classic due to its immense popularity and value for money. It is an extremely versatile pickup, but one that requires spe

✅ Strengths

⚠️ Weaknesses

🎯 Verdict

The 4th generation Ram 1500 is an excellent pickup, particularly appreciated for its ride comfort and refined interior (post-2013). The ideal choice is a 2014-2018 model equipped with the 5.7L HEMI V8 and the 8-speed ZF gearbox, provided it is purchased with full knowledge of the 'HEMI tick' (plan a budget for the exhaust studs or meticulously inspect the lifters). The 3.6L Pentastar V6 is a very rational and reliable alternative for light use. On the other hand, avoid the 3.0L EcoDiesel unless the recall history is crystal clear and you like risk, and avoid the air suspension if you live in a cold region.

Common issues

Boulons de collecteur d'échappement cassés (moteurs Hemi) Medium
🔧 80 000 – 150 000 km
💶 800 – 1 500 €
Écoutez un 'tic-tic' au démarrage à froid. Vérifiez l'historique d'entretien.
Défaillance du module TIPM (Totally Integrated Power Module) High
🔧 100 000 – 200 000 km
💶 1 000 – 1 800 €
Peut causer des problèmes électriques variés. Assurez-vous que les rappels ont été effectués.
Actionneurs de volets de mélange CVC (HVAC blend door actuators) Low
🔧 80 000 – 180 000 km
💶 300 – 700 €
Vérifiez le bon fonctionnement du chauffage/climatisation et de la direction de l'air.
Problèmes de suspension pneumatique (compresseur, fuites) si équipé Medium
🔧 100 000 – 180 000 km
💶 800 – 1 600 €
Inspectez le véhicule pour tout affaissement ou message d'erreur de suspension.

Estimated maintenance costs

Oil change £90 – 160
Complete brakes £300 – 650
Estimated annual budget £650 – 1 350

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