2021 Ram 1500
Common problems & what to know before you buy
Before you message the seller, know the documented failure patterns, repair cost exposure, and risk level for the 2021 Ram 1500.
What to watch for on the 2021 Ram 1500
Hemi Lifter Failure
Cylinder deactivation (MDS) lifters can collapse on 5.7L Hemi, scoring the camshaft. A preventative MDS delete or AFM disabler is recommended on high-mileage trucks.
Exhaust Manifold Bolt Breakage
The infamous 'Hemi tick' — exhaust manifold bolts snap, causing a ticking noise on cold start common to Chrysler V8s. Broken bolts must be drilled out.
2 more known problems on the 2021 1500
Your guide shows all of them and which apply to the exact car, and what to ask the seller.
2021 Ram 1500 price ranges
Avoid early 2019 models with first-year issues. Air suspension is comfortable but costly to repair. The Limited trim cabin rivals luxury SUVs.
Recalls on the 2021 Ram 1500
Back over prevention: display function
The rearview camera image may not display.
Back over prevention: display function
The Trailer Reverse Steering Control Module (TRSCM) may prevent the rearview image from displaying.
Tires: temporary/emergency spare tire
The incorrect-size spare tire may have been installed, which does not match the tire size and inflation pressure information on the tire…
12 more in the guide, with whether each one was done on the car you're looking at.
Source: NHTSA
What 683 owners reported
Source: NHTSA
2021 Ram 1500 at a glance
- Trims
- Big HornLaramieLimitedLone StarLonghornRebelTradesmanTRX
- Engine
- 3.6L 6-Cylinder, 5.7L 8-Cylinder, 3.0L 6-Cylinder Turbo Diesel, 6.2L 8-Cylinder Supercharged
- Transmission
- Automatic 8-spd
- Drivetrain
- 4WD, RWD
- Fuel
- Gasoline, Diesel
- Body style
- Truck
Ram 1500 (DT) Buyer's Guide
Hemi V8 and eTorque Issues
The DT Ram 1500 (2019-2024) set the standard for truck interiors with its luxurious cabin, available air suspension, and the 12-inch vertical touchscreen. The Hemi V8 with eTorque mild hybrid system is the flagship powertrain.
Engine choices: The 5.7L Hemi V8 with eTorque is the volume leader — the 48-volt mild hybrid system smooths the start-stop and adds low-end torque. The 3.6L Pentastar V6 with eTorque is the fuel-economy pick. The 3.0L EcoDiesel was available through 2023.
What to look for: Hemi tick (exhaust manifold bolts) and lifter failure are the main concerns. Air suspension is a love-it-or-hate-it option — great ride but expensive to repair. The 8HP75 ZF 8-speed is one of the best transmissions on the market.
About the DT
The 2019-2024 Ram 1500 represents the fifth-generation DT model, a comprehensive redesign that shed significant weight through extensive use of aluminum body panels and introduced a coil-spring rear suspension for improved ride quality. This generation offered two cab configurations, Crew Cab and Quad Cab, paired with multiple bed lengths. Powertrain choices included a 3.6L V6, a 5.7L V8, a 3.0L turbodiesel V6, and the supercharged 6.2L V8 reserved for the high-performance TRX. An eight-speed automatic transmission was standard across all engines, with rear-wheel drive or four-wheel drive available. The TRX trim debuted in 2021 as a direct competitor to the Ford F-150 Raptor, while the Classic model continued the previous generation's DS body alongside the DT for the 2019 model year only. Compared to its predecessor, the DT generation delivered a more refined interior with available 12-inch touchscreen and upgraded materials. As a used buy, the 2019-2024 Ram 1500 suits buyers prioritizing cabin comfort and on-road manners, though the coil-spring rear suspension reduces payload and towing capacity relative to leaf-spring rivals. The generation holds a generally favorable reputation for its ride quality and interior execution, with the TRX standing out as a unique off-road performer.
Other Ram 1500 years
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Frequently asked questions
Is the Ram 1500 more reliable than F-150?
The Ram's ZF 8-speed is more reliable than Ford's 10R80, but the Hemi's cylinder deactivation and exhaust manifold issues are real downsides. Both have similar overall reliability.
Is air suspension worth it?
The ride quality is genuinely better than coil springs. But expect a $1,500-2,000 repair if the compressor fails. Many owners prefer the predictability of conventional suspension.
Squeezed is a buyer guide based on public data and industry patterns, not a mechanical inspection. Always get a professional pre-purchase inspection before you buy.