Used Ram buying guide
About Ram
RAM focuses on selling full-size and heavy-duty pickup trucks in addition to commercial trucks and vans. In recent years, RAM trucks have been known for their upscale interiors and large vertical infotainment screens. One of the more unique features introduced for the fourth generation (2009-2024) 1500 is the RamBox®, a lockable cargo box built into the side rails of the truck bed. It is now available on the 1500, 2500, and 3500. RAM replaced the 395-hp 5.7L V8 Hemi® option in the 1500 for 2025 with a twin-turbo inline-six called the Hurricane. RAM trucks were originally part of the Dodge brand, but many people still call them "Dodge Ram."
What CarMax customers like
Ride and Handling
Interior Space
Power
What CarMax customers don’t like
Fuel Economy
Technology and Entertainment
Reliability
Ram FAQs
Since the RAM brand has existed since 2011, there are plenty of used vehicles available. We have thousands of models available at CarMax. Although there are ProMaster vans available, the most listed vehicles are full-size and heavy-duty trucks.
Some older RAM trucks have reports of engine problems, so take a close look at vehicle maintenance records. You should also visit the NHTSA.gov website to look at recalls, complaints, and investigations for a specific model year.
RAM currently has six models available, with other models planned for future release. It has three pickups—the 1500, 2500, and 3500—as well as a Chassis Cab, ProMaster® van, and ProMaster EV van. On the horizon is the range-extended electric RAM 1500 Ramcharger. On CarMax.com, you can find a range of used models from 2014 onward.
According to RepairPal.com, RAM reliability ratings are average overall, with annual repair costs averaging around $900. Based on this, the top models for the brand are the 1500 and the ProMaster City, which both have above-average reliability ratings.
Compare Used RAM Models
Based on the popular Ram pickup, the 2026 Ram 1500 and Ramcharger are half-ton trucks with an important difference: The Ram 1500 is an internal combustion vehicle, while the Ramcharger is a range-extended EV. The Ram 1500 Ramcharger is powered by a pair of electric motors and a 3.6L V6 engine that recharges the 91.8-kWh battery to extend the range. Powering the Ram 1500 is your choice of V8 or twin-turbocharged V6 engine options.
When properly equipped, the Ram 1500 V6 can tow up to an estimated 11,610 pounds.
Both trucks offer a range of trims, from functional to luxurious, with modern tech and attractive styling.If you want the towing power of an electric truck, the Ramcharger is worth considering, but if you’re looking for a more traditional powertrain, the Ram 1500 is a better option.
Take a look at our comparison tool to see these two trucks side by side.
Whether it’s at the worksite or hauling your favorite recreational towables, these two trucks from the Ram family are up to the task. As stylish as it is comfortable, the 2026 Ram 1500 is available with a twin-turbocharged V6 or a V8 engine.
The 2026 Ram 2500 boosts power for heavy-duty jobs with an available 6.7L Cummins® diesel engine that can tow an estimated 20,000 pounds when properly equipped.
On the road, a Ram 1500 is more composed thanks to its four-corner coil-spring suspension, and the available air suspension elevates the ride to luxurious levels. For everyday mid-duty towing, the Ram 1500 is an excellent truck. However, if you have heavy-duty hauling to do, then you’re looking at a truck like the Ram 2500.
Compare them side by side in our comparison tool.
Tackle the road less traveled in a 2026 Ram 1500 RHO or Ram 1500 Rebel. Building on the features from the Warlock and Laramie trims, the Ram 1500 RHO adds full underbody skid plates for added off-road protection. A digital dashboard also gives you information about the vehicle's pitch. If that isn’t enough, the Ram 1500 RHO is built for the extremes, adding long-travel Bilstein® adaptable suspension for impressive off-roading and a 540-hp high-output engine.
Built for conquering the trails, the Ram 1500 RHO’s blend of equipment and technology will appeal to enthusiasts, while the Ram 1500 Rebel is better suited for the weekend warrior.
Get a closer look at how they stack up in our comparison tool.
Sitting at either end of the Ram 1500 trim levels, the Tungsten and Tradesman give you the choice between fashion and function. Despite being the base trim level, the 2026 Ram 1500 Tradesman is surprisingly well equipped, including smartphone integration, an 8.4-inch touchscreen, and a suite of essential driver-assist features.
The 2026 Tungsten, however, rivals many luxury sedans, loaded with soft leather surfaces and open-pore wood trim. Features such as a surround-view camera, a 23-speaker sound system, and adaptive air suspension are among the high-end features of a Ram 1500 Tungsten.
The Ram 1500 Tradesman is a well-equipped truck with a worksite-friendly interior ideal for jobsites or anywhere that gets dirty, while the Ram 1500 Tungsten delivers a premium passenger experience with similar capability.
Compare the two using our comparison tool.
The 2026 Ram 1500 is a capable half-ton truck with a variety of trims, making it suitable for everything from the job site to the family road trip. For example, the Ram 1500 Tradesman is tailored for work, with hard surfaces and easy-to-clean seats. But its functional focus doesn’t mean you’ll have to miss out on features, since the Ram 1500 Tradesman also includes smartphone integration and an 8.4-inch touchscreen. In the same functional vein, the 2026 Ram ProMaster is a work van available in 1500, 2500, and 3500 configurations and with multiple roof heights.
It’s an ideal vehicle for loading up with tools or up to 524 cu-ft of cargo in the super-high roof body. The Ram ProMaster is best suited for contractors and trades, while the Ram 1500 is a truck at home in the driveway or on a work site.
Be sure to check out our comparison tool for a side-by-side look at these two vehicles.
Ready to find your used Ram?
RepairPal reliability ratings
RepairPal Reliability Ratings are based on the actual cost, frequency, and severity of unscheduled repairs and maintenance on make/model data for select 2008-2022 vehicles. The reliability of a specific vehicle may vary depending on its maintenance and driving history, model year, trim, and features. RepairPal Reliability Ratings are provided by RepairPal and CarMax is not responsible for their accuracy. These ratings are based on RepairPal Reliability data as of August 2023. Learn more about RepairPal reliability ratings.
Unless otherwise noted, information related to these featured vehicles comes from third-party sources, including manufacturer information. We make every effort to provide accurate information, but please verify before purchasing. Product and company names may be trademarks or registered trademarks of third-party entities. Use of them does not imply any affiliation with or endorsement by these entities. We hope you found this information helpful. This content is intended to inform and is not meant to indicate that a particular vehicle is currently available or recommended for you.
RepairPal Reliability Ratings are provided by RepairPal and CarMax is not responsible for their accuracy. These ratings are based on RepairPal Reliability data as of 3/18/2025. Learn more at repairpal.com/reliability.
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Various factors may impact towing capacity, including weight of passengers, cargo, and options/accessories.
We hope you found this information helpful. This content is intended to inform and is not meant to indicate that a particular vehicle is currently available or recommended for you.
Statements of fuel economy or EV range are based on EPA and other third-party estimates for vehicles when new. Fuel economy and EV range will degrade with time and vary based on age, driving conditions, vehicle history, and other conditions. See fueleconomy.gov for more info.
Unless otherwise noted, information related to featured vehicles comes from third-party sources, including manufacturer information. Product and company names may be trademarks or registered trademarks of third-party entities. Use of them does not imply any affiliation with or endorsement by these entities. By clicking on any video links, you will be taken to a third-party site maintained by YouTube, Inc.
We make every effort to provide accurate information, but please verify before purchasing.