2009 Dodge Ram 1500 Review: A Redesigned Comfortable Half Ton Truck 

Expensive but reliable, the 2009 Dodge Ram has fewer complaints from owners than competitors, but there are some computer problems. Ranging in price from $14,924 to $20,193, 2009 was a good year for the Ram with fewer problems, including transmission issues, than other years, lasting over 250,000 miles.

2009 Dodge Ram 1500: Quick Overview

• 2009 is the first model year of the fourth generation of the Dodge Ram 1500 with all-new styling and powertrains.
• Reliability ratings from J.D. Power were average when the truck was new. Computer and engine problems over the years have decreased long-term reliability ratings.
• Three engines are available including a very weak V6 for the class, and 2 V8 choices which are better options for buyers looking to haul and tow.
• Fuel economy is average for a truck from 2008 tying for 3^rd place out of 7 trucks tested, getting a combined rating of up to 16 miles per gallon.
• Safety scores are great for the class, earning a perfect 5-star rating in government crash tests.
• The 2009 Dodge Ram 1500 series ranks 10^th out of 13 full size trucks based on owner reviews. 2009 is a good year for the truck even with the low ranking since there is a luxurious interior and capable engines for the price while still lasting as long as the competition.

What Problems Does the 2009 Dodge Ram 1500 Have?

The 2009 Dodge Ram 1500 series has an average number of complaints compared to other full size trucks from the same year. The 2010 model has fewer reported problems, but they are more severe on the newer truck, making 2009 a better year.

Air conditioning and heater problems are the most common complaints, happening around 50,000 miles. There are problems with the blend door actuator and gears. When the parts fail there is a grinding noise behind the dash, and airflow is reduced. Replacing the blend door components costs about $300.

Totally integrated power module (TIPM) failures are another frequent problem around 100,000 miles. The TIPM is the main computer and is a weak spot across many Chrysler, Dodge, and Jeep vehicles from 2009. When the module fails the truck will not run, and the only solution are replacements, costing about $800 depending on local labor rates.

Engine problems, including knocking and a loss of compression, are another complaint from owners at around 70,000 miles. The source of the engine knock varies, but in some cases there is a problem with the cams and lifters. In rare cases some owners have had to replace entire engines. Cam and lifter replacements cost about $1,400, and a new engine is over $4,000.

There are 8 recalls, which is an average number for a truck from 2008. The recalls include the clutch pedal connecting rod, windshield wiper modules, heating and ventilation modules, brake booster input rod, tie rod ends, and rear axle pinion nut. Most serious are tie rod problems, which can cause an accident when they fail.

How Much is the 2009 Dodge Ram 1500 Worth?

The 2009 Dodge Ram 1500 series is more expensive than other half ton trucks on the market, with a price range of $14,924 to $20,193, depending on the model and mileage. When new, the price range was $21,520 to $43,490. Depreciation is average for the class, and in current market conditions only drops about 5% in value per year.

What Are the Models & Specs?

ST is the entry-level model with:

• 17-inch steel wheels,
• Vinyl seats
• Air conditioning
• 6-speaker stereo system
• AM/FM/CD playback
• AUX port

SLT is next in the lineup, adding:

• 17-inch alloy wheels
• Cloth seating
• Power door locks and windows
• Cruise control
• RamBox storage in the bed

Laramie is the flagship model and has luxury features including:

• 20-inch chrome wheels
• Leather seating
• Wood interior trim
• Dual-zone climate control
• Heated steering wheel
• Remote starter
• Bluetooth connectivity
• Navigation
• Surround sound stereo system

How Long Will the 2009 Dodge Ram 1500 Last?

A properly cared for 2009 Dodge Ram 1500 will last over 250,000 miles, which is an average lifespan for a full size truck. Regular annual costs are average for the class, and Repair Pal estimates them to be $671 per year.

There are some common costly failures on the Ram 1500 trucks with over 100,000 miles. They include steering knuckles for $2,300, timing chain tensioners for about $430, and window regulators costing about $300.

What Technology & Safety Features Are Included?

Technology in the 2009 Dodge Ram 1500 series is better than other trucks from the same year, but is dated compared to more modern vehicles.

• Standard technology includes an AM/FM/CD stereo system with a 3.5mm AUX input, and 6 speakers.
• Optional upgrades include satellite radio, Bluetooth and USB connectivity, a 7-inch touchscreen navigation system, and a premium 9-speaker stereo system.
• Standard safety features include antilock disc brakes, air bags, as well as stability control.

What Engine Options are Available?

Performance is good in the 2009 Dodge Ram 1500 series, and with the largest engine goes from 0 to 60 miles per hour in 7.6 seconds. The towing capacity is lower than some competitors, maxing out at 9,100 pounds.

• The base engine is a 3.7L V6 with 215 horsepower and 235 lb.-ft. of torque.
• Next in the lineup is the 4.7L V8, which has 310 horsepower and 330 lb.-ft. of torque.
• The most desirable engine is the 5.7L HEMI V8, which produces 390 horsepower and 407 lb.-ft. of torque.

What Color Options are Available?

How Big is the Ram 1500?

The 2009 Dodge Ram 1500 series is a full size half-ton truck, similar in size to the Ford F-150 and Silverado 1500 series. Three cabin sizes are available including a 2-door regular cab, 4-door quad cab, and even larger 4-door crew cab. The passenger room is class-leading in the back seats of the crew cab.

There are also three bed lengths available including 5-foot-7-inch, 6-foot-4-inch, and 8-foot versions. The Ram also offers the RamBox locking storage in the side of the bed, allowing owners to securely store supplies in a box similar to a trunk.

How Does the 2009 Dodge Ram 1500 Compare to Other Trucks?

Ranking 10^th out of 13 full size pickup trucks based on owner reviews, the 2009 Dodge Ram 1500 series is near the bottom of the class.

The highest-rated half-ton truck of 2009 is the more costly Toyota Tundra. Where the Tundra stands out is with class-leading reliability ratings, and more power from a standard V8 engine, which is an option on the Ram. On the other hand, the Ram offers more passenger room, and higher quality interior components. Overall, the Tundra is a better truck though, since they last longer and are more affordable to own.

Another competitor in the same price range is the Ford F-150. The F-150 stands out with class-leading towing capacity, as well as better fuel economy. Where the Ram wins is with a smoother suspension, and a higher quality interior. Overall, both are decent trucks, and the decision comes down to personal preference.

Final Verdict: Is the 2009 Dodge Ram 1500 a Good Truck?

Yes, the 2009 Dodge Ram 1500 series is a good truck based on information including 65 verified owner reviews, and 18 government and automotive websites. The positives include an upscale cabin, and better technology than the rivals. Downsides include TIPM computer problems, and a lower towing capacity. Although the 2009 Ram 1500 isn’t the highest rated truck on the market, it still does a great job of doing everything a full size truck needs to do, earning our recommendation.