What are the most common RAM 2500 problems?
According to Au7o's analysis of 16,600+ owner reports, the 2025 RAM 2500 has 7 documented issues. The most frequently reported are: Front End "Death Wobble" Steering Oscillation, Diesel Exhaust Fluid (DEF) System Failures, Steering Gear Box Leak and Excessive Play. Of these, 5 are rated critical and should be addressed promptly.
Is the RAM 2500 reliable?
The 2025 RAM 2500 has 7 known issues documented across 16,600+ owner reports. 5 issues are rated critical: Front End "Death Wobble" Steering Oscillation and Diesel Exhaust Fluid (DEF) System Failures and Steering Gear Box Leak and Excessive Play and 6.7L Cummins CP4.2 High-Pressure Fuel Pump Catastrophic Failure and Rear Axle U-Joint Premature Failure. Prospective buyers should inspect for these issues and factor potential repair costs into their purchase decision. Regular maintenance following the manufacturer's schedule helps prevent many common problems.
How much does it cost to fix common RAM 2500 problems?
Repair costs for known RAM 2500 issues range from $100 to $12,000, depending on the specific problem and whether you choose DIY or professional repair. The most critical issue, Front End "Death Wobble" Steering Oscillation, typically costs $500-$3,000 to repair. Au7o provides step-by-step DIY maintenance guides that can help reduce repair costs.
What is the 2003-2025 RAM 2500 Front End "Death Wobble" Steering Oscillation?
The RAM 2500 (and 3500) with solid front axle experiences a violent front-end oscillation known as "death wobble" that occurs at highway speeds (45-65 mph), typically triggered by hitting a bump or pothole. The steering wheel shakes uncontrollably and the entire front end vibrate… Repairs typically run $500-$3,000. Severity: high.
What is the 2013-2025 RAM 2500 Diesel Exhaust Fluid (DEF) System Failures?
The 2013+ RAM 2500 6.7L Cummins diesel DEF (Diesel Exhaust Fluid) system is plagued with failures of the DEF heater, DEF pump, DEF injector, NOx sensors, and SCR catalyst. The DEF system is required for emissions compliance, and when it fails, the truck enters a "limp mode" that… Repairs typically run $300-$3,500. Severity: high.
What is the 2003-2025 RAM 2500 Steering Gear Box Leak and Excessive Play?
The RAM 2500/3500 steering gear box (power steering box) develops fluid leaks from the input shaft seal and sector shaft seal, and excessive play in the steering. The leak starts as a slow drip and worsens over time, eventually causing low power steering fluid and potential pump… Repairs typically run $100-$1,500. Severity: high.
What is the 2019-2025 RAM 2500 6.7L Cummins CP4.2 High-Pressure Fuel Pump Catastrophic Failure?
The 2019+ RAM 2500 with the 6.7L Cummins diesel uses a Bosch CP4.2 high-pressure fuel injection pump that is prone to catastrophic self-destruction. The CP4.2 relies on diesel fuel for internal lubrication, and any contamination, water intrusion, or low fuel levels cause the pump… Repairs typically run $8,000-$12,000. Severity: high.
What is the 2010-2025 RAM 2500 Rear Axle U-Joint Premature Failure?
The rear driveshaft U-joints in the RAM 2500 fail prematurely, particularly on trucks used for towing. The factory U-joints are undersized for sustained heavy load use, and the grease fittings (where present) are often overlooked during maintenance. Symptoms start with a clicking… Repairs typically run $200-$600. Severity: high.
What is the 2010-2025 RAM 2500 Transfer Case Fluid Leak (BW4470/BW4494)?
The BorgWarner BW4470 (part-time 4WD) and BW4494 (full-time 4WD) transfer cases develop fluid leaks at the front and rear output shaft seals and at the case halves. The leaks are often slow and go unnoticed until the fluid level drops enough to cause whine, grinding, or failure t… Repairs typically run $200-$500. Severity: medium.
What is the 2010-2025 RAM 2500 Exhaust Manifold Cracking (6.7L Cummins)?
The cast iron exhaust manifold on the 6.7L Cummins turbo diesel cracks due to thermal cycling stress, particularly near the center cylinders (#3 and #4). Cracks allow exhaust gases to escape, creating a ticking noise on cold start that diminishes as the manifold expands when warm… Repairs typically run $600-$1,500. Severity: medium.
