The 2005 Ram 1500 can last around 250,000 miles, but there are some engine and drive shaft issues. At $3,725 – $12,225, it’s expensive for an old truck with that many problems.
Is the 2005 Dodge Ram 1500 a Good Used Truck?
- No, 2005 is a bad year. Owners complain about noise issues, head gasket failures, and high ownership costs.
- Reliability ratings are below average. Models from 2008 and newer are a better choice with fewer mechanical problems.
- Performance is weak from the V6 engine, but the larger V8 offers excellent power.
- The Ram 1500 is a safe truck, earning a perfect 5-star rating in government crash tests.
- Fuel economy is poor, at up to 16 MPG combined.
Positive Owner Reviews
Negative Owner Reviews
What Do Critics Say About the Ram 1500?
- Consumer Reports finds the Ram 1500 to be jittery and difficult to steer, with low owner satisfaction ratings.
- Edmunds gives the Ram 1500 a 4.7/5 liking the HEMI V8, but disliking the cramped cabin.
- Kelley Blue Book users give the Ram 1500 a 4.5/5 and like the towing performance, but dislike the fuel economy.
What Common Problems Does the 2005 Dodge Ram 1500 Have?
Problems with the 2005 Ram 1500 are fairly serious and include stalling engines, separated drive shafts, and warped rotors.
Stalling engines are the most common complaint, at around 75,000 miles. There are several sources including EGR valves which cost $380, throttle bodies costing $700, and cylinder head failures at over $2,000.
Drive shaft failures show up on many models at roughly 90,000 miles. The drive shaft separates from the differential, and replacing the entire assembly costs over $2,600. There is a recall related to this issue, but it does not always cover the problem.
Warped brake rotors are another problem happening every 20,000 miles. The rotors tend to get damaged easier than other cars, and a new set is around $400.
There are 12 recalls, with the most serious being for the rear axle pinion nut which can cause the driveshaft to detach, increasing the risk of an accident. Many of the other recalls are for air bags and lighting issues.
How Long Will the 2005 Dodge Ram 1500 Last?
A properly maintained 2005 Ram 1500 series should last around 250,000 miles, about 100,000 miles shorter than a top competitor like the Tundra. Regular annual maintenance costs are expensive, according to Repair Pal at $495 per year.
Ram 1500 models from 2005 likely have over 100,000 miles, so buyers should prepare to replace radiator hoses for $410, exhaust manifolds costing $550, and ball joints which cost $425.
As of right now it never gave me any problems other than rust by the back tires. It's not that great in the snow..
I haven't come across any significant problems when I have had it. Just headlights seem to go out pretty fast. Other than that that is really the only problem I have had.
Yes it is very reliable. Besides normal wear and tear like wheel bearings and brakes, we have had no problems with it
Very Reliable. It has just started having wear and tear issues, New fuel pump. Needs a new Starter. Probably a sensor but at 2245 we can't complain.
Has lights in and sensors go off all the time the front end is not the greatest it has been redone but still isn't good and tires are going bad can't afford much of anything sadly
Incredibly reliable. No problems, whatsoever. Regular maintenance like any vehicle requires, but no problems.
How Much Is the 2005 Dodge Ram 1500 Worth?
Blue book values range from $3,725 – $12,225, making the Ram 1500 around $500 cheaper than an F-150 or Silverado 1500. When new, the price range was $21,455 to $35,475. Depreciation is similar to other trucks, losing about 5% of its current value per year.
What are the Different Models of the Ram 1500?
There are three models of the Ram 1500 series available. Technology is outdated, with a refresh adding a new infotainment system for 2006.
ST is the entry-level model with:
- 17-Inch Steel Wheels
- Manual Door Locks & Windows
- Vinyl Seating
- Manual Air Conditioning
- AM/FM Stereo System With 4 Speakers
SLT is a step up adding features including:
- 17-Inch Chrome Steel Wheels
- Cloth Seating
- Remote Keyless Entry System
- Chrome Exterior Bumpers
Laramie is the luxury version and adds:
- 20-Inch Chrome Wheels
- Leather Seating
- Heated Exterior Mirrors
What Engines Come In the Ram 1500?
- The base engine is a relatively weak 3.7L V6 with only 215 horsepower, which gets up to 16 MPG combined.
- An available upgrade is the slightly more powerful 4.7L V8 making 235 horsepower and getting up to 14 MPG combined.
- The most powerful engine is the 5.7L V8, which makes 345 horsepower and gets up to 13 MPG combined. It can tow up to 8,200 pounds when properly equipped.
What Colors Does the Ram 1500 Come In?
How Big Is the Ram 1500?
The 2005 Ram 1500 is an average sized half-ton truck similar to the Silverado and F-150. Passenger space is decent in the largest 4-door model, but the other cabs are very cramped for adults.
There are two bed lengths available including a 6-foot-3-inch standard bed, and 8-foot long-bed.
How Does the Ram 1500 Compare to the Competition?
The Ford F-150 is a close competitor costing about $500 more. Reliability ratings are better in the F-150, but the Ram 1500 has a nicer cabin. We recommend the F-150, which will last much longer.
The Toyota Tundra is another rival which costs about $2,000 more. Life-expectancy is much higher in the Tundra, but the Ram 1500 tows more weight. We recommend the Tundra since it’s a more affordable truck to keep running.
Do Owners Recommend the Dodge Ram 1500?
The truck is a great vehicle it gets me where I need to get. It also I am able to get big objects home.
It is a great vehicle. Even for an older truck it never seems to have any problems. I would recommend this for anyone who was looking for a smaller but very reliable truck.
Yes it is a very good vehicle. Have had no mechanical problems besides regular wear and tear. Has made dodge the only type of truck I will ever want
YES. Very dependable. It has 245k registered with minor mechanical problems. We need it for business and it performs admirably.
No it’s not it gave a lot of issues and it’s not always the greatest but it is able to go continuously still which is good
It's one of the best vehicles 7 have ever owned, and by for the most dependable truck I have ever used for work.