2006 Dodge Ram 1500 Review: A Problem Ridden Truck That’s Too Expensive

The 2006 model is a bad year for the Ram, only lasting 200,000 miles with serious engine problems. It’s not worth the money, currently valued at $12,854 to $17,403.

2006 Dodge Ram 1500: Quick Overview

• The 2006 Dodge Ram 1500 reliability is poor, with common engine and suspension problems. The 2006 is a year to avoid, we recommend the 2007 – 2010 models with fewer complaints.
• Three engines are available. There’s an efficient V6, and two V8 engines with a better towing capacity at up to 8,600 pounds.
• Fuel economy is poor for a truck at 16 MPG.
• Safety ratings are great, getting a perfect 5-star rating in government crash tests.
• Consumer Reports found the Ram 1500 to be quick, but with below-average owner satisfaction ratings.
• We don’t recommend the 2006 Dodge Ram 1500, ranking 11^th out of 20 full size trucks based on owner reviews. There are simply too many mechanical issues to recommend it.

What Problems Does the 2006 Dodge Ram 1500 Have?

There are an average number of complaints on the 2006 Dodge Ram 1500 compared to other trucks including the F-150 and Silverado 1500. The 2006 model has more complaints than the newer 2007 Ram, making the upgrade worth the extra $1,200.

Air conditioning system problems including blend door failures are very common, happening around 50,000 miles. When the blend door fails the temperature of the A/C cannot be controlled. Replacing the blend door costs about $500 depending on local labor rates.

Engines stalling while driving are another frequent complaint on trucks with 75,000 miles. The computer is usually the source of the problem, and a replacement is necessary in some cases. A new computer costs about $400.

Suspension problems, including extreme shaking and loss of steering commonly called a “death wobble” occur around 150,000 miles. Frequently the problem is caused by a worn out track bar, or ball joints. Repairing the issue costs about $800, depending on local labor rates.

There are 16 recalls, which is way more than other full size trucks. The recalls include the transfer case control module, ABS ECU, reflectors, seat belts, air bags, wheel bearings, glass, steering linkage, wiper motors, pitman arms, wheel hub, tie rod, clutch ignition switch, and air bags. Many of the issues are very serious, affecting mechanical reliability of the truck.

How Much is the 2006 Dodge Ram 1500 Worth?

Blue book prices range from $12,854 to $17,403, more expensive than the Silverado 1500 and F-150. When new, prices ranged from $21,435 to $40,375. Depreciation is average for a full size truck, only losing 5% of its current value per year.

What Are the Models & Specs?

ST is the stripped-down entry-level model with:

• 17-Inch Steel Wheels
• Vinyl Bench Seating
• Manual Locks and Windows

SLT is next in the lineup adding good features including:

• 17-inch Alloy Wheels
• Cloth Seating
• Cruise Control
• Power Windows
• Keyless Entry

Laramie is the luxurious model, adding:

• 17-Inch Chrome Wheels
• Leather Seating
• Dual-Zone Climate Control
• Power Driver’s Seat
• Steering-Wheel Audio Controls

How Long Will the 2006 Dodge Ram 1500 Last?

Regular maintenance will help a 2006 Dodge Ram 1500 series last over 200,000 miles, which is 100,000 miles shorter than the Silverado 1500 series and F-150. Average annual maintenance costs are about $100 cheaper than some competitors, according to Repair Pal, at $480 per year.

As the Ram reaches 150,000 miles, there are some parts that will need to be replaced. They include fuel pumps for $700, power steering pumps costing $350, and heater cores which cost about $1,000.

What Technology & Safety Features Are Included?

The technology in the 2006 Dodge Ram 1500 is very similar to other trucks from the same year.

• Base technology includes a 4-speaker AM/FM/CD stereo system.
• Optional upgrades include a 6-CD changer, premium 7-speaker Infinity stereo system, and a 6.2-inch navigation screen.
• Standard safety features include anti-lock brakes, and airbags.

What Engine Options are Available?

Performance in the 2006 Dodge Ram 1500 series is good with the larger upgraded engines. The biggest engine takes the truck from 0 to 60 miles per hour in 8.6 seconds, and tows up to 8,600 pounds.

• The base engine is a relatively weak 3.7L V6 with 215 horsepower and 235 lb.-ft. of torque.
• A step up is the 4.7L V8, which has 235 horsepower and 300 lb.-ft. of torque.
• The flagship engine is the 5.7L HEMI V8 with 345 horsepower and 375 lb.-ft. of torque.

What Color Options are Available?

How Big is the Ram 1500?

The 2006 Dodge Ram 1500 series is a half-ton truck similar in size to the Nissan Titan and Ford F-150, and may have trouble fitting in standard depth residential garages.

Three cabin configurations are available including a 2-door regular cab, 4-door quad cab, and larger 4-door mega cab. Passenger room is cramped in the quad cab, but offers more room than rivals in the backseats of the mega cab.

There are also three bed lengths available including a 5-foot-6-inch short bed, 6-foot-6-inch regular bed, and a full 8-foot long bed.

How Does the 2006 Dodge Ram 1500 Compare to Other Trucks?

The highest rated half-ton truck of 2006 is the Chevrolet Silverado 1500. Where the Silverado stands out is with fewer mechanical problems. On the other hand, the Ram is a more comfortable truck to drive. The Silverado is a better choice for the 2006 model year.

Another rival is the more affordable Toyota Tundra. The Tundra offers the longest lifespan out of any truck, easily traveling over 300,000 miles, but the Dodge is more luxurious. If you want a long-lasting used truck, the Tundra is a better option.

Final Verdict: Is the 2006 Dodge Ram 1500 a Good Truck?

No, the 2006 Dodge Ram 1500 is not a good truck. Our decision includes information from 103 verified owner reviews giving the Ram a rating of 4.3 out of 5 with users reporting engine problems.

Downsides include more mechanical issues than other years, and a shorter-than-average lifespan. Where the Ram comes out ahead is with a more luxurious interior, and smooth suspension.

Overall, 2006 is not a good year for the Dodge Ram 1500 series. We recommend shoppers take a look at the 2007 model with fewer complaints for only $1,500 more.