The 2012 Ram 1500 is a full size truck with a price range of $10,477 to $24,394. Although there are some engine problems; a lower starting price than other large trucks and more affordable maintenance costs make the Ram 1500 series a truck we recommend.
2012 Ram 1500: Quick Overview
- New features for the 2012 model year include the introduction of the Tradesman model, and there are new paint color choices including Deep Molten Red, Sagebrush and Tequila Sunrise.
- Reliability ratings are great, according to J.D. Power, with fewer complaints from owners than the older 2011 model.
- Three engine choices are available, including an efficient V6, and a powerful HEMI V8.
- Fuel economy is good for the class, ranking 3rd out of 7 full size trucks with a combined rating of up to 16 miles per gallon.
- Safety scores are average for the class, getting 4 out of 5 stars in government crash tests.
- The 2012 Ram 1500 ranks 5th out of 15 full size trucks based on owner reviews. Good long-term reliability, and a lower cost of ownership than other full size trucks help the Ram 1500 stand out as a good option.
Positive Owner Reviews
Negative Owner Reviews
What Problems Does the 2012 Ram 1500 Have?
The 2012 Ram 1500 series has an average number of problems compared to other full size trucks on the market from the same year. There are fewer complaints than the newer 2013 model.
Engine problems, including camshafts and lifters, are the most serious problem. The cams and lifters can fail around 120,000 miles, and replacing the parts costs about $3,600 depending on local labor rates.
Electrical problems with the totally integrated power module are also common, but better than some other Dodge vehicles. The system controls every aspect of the truck, and will prevent the vehicle from starting when there’s a failure. Replacing the TIPM costs about $2,000.
Transmission problems where the truck jerks as it shifts between gears are also mentioned by owners. The rough gear shifts are often just part of normal operation, but in some cases can be a sign of a torque converter issue.
There are 7 recalls, which is average for a truck from 2012. The recalls include the spare tire placard, rear axle pinion nut, air bags, seat covers, transmission rollaway, fire extinguisher, and front fuel tank strap bracket. All are serious and affect the reliability and safety of the truck.
What are the Prices, Models & Specs?
The 2012 Ram 1500 series is more affordable than other full size trucks on the market with a price range of $10,477 to $24,394, depending on the model and mileage. When new, the price was $22,570 to $46,420. The Ram 1500 series doesn’t hold value as well as other full size trucks, with prices dropping about 40% over the first 5 years.
- Tradesman is the fleet-focused model with 17-inch steel wheels, vinyl seating, manual locks, and a simple AM/FM/CD player with 6 speakers.
- ST is the entry-level consumer version with automatic headlights, automatic headlights, a locking tailgate, a 3.5mm AUX input for the stereo, keyless entry, and cruise control.
- SLT is in the middle of the lineup and has 17-inch alloy wheels, cloth seating, a standard V8 engine, chrome trim, a power rear window, RamBox lockable storage bins on the side of the bed, and a touch screen infotainment system with USB and Bluetooth connectivity.
- Sport adds some features including 22-inch chrome wheels, upgraded bucket seating, suspension upgrades, and a body-colored front grille.
- Laramie is the flagship model with 20-inch wheels, leather seating, a two tone paint job, remote ignition, chrome exterior trim, a power driver’s seat, wood interior trim, and a stereo system with a subwoofer.
How Long Will the 2012 Ram 1500 Last?
A properly cared for 2012 Ram 1500 series will last about 250,000 miles, which is slightly lower than average for a full size truck. Repair Pal estimates the regular annual maintenance costs to be $738 per year, which is more affordable than some other large trucks.
Yes, no problems. Regular maintenance repairs, normal wear and tear. Nothing major has happened with it as long as we've had it.
I have owned this truck for nearly two years now. I purchased it with 93k miles on the odometer. It was & continues to remain in excellent mechanical order. I have had no issues with the truck and to date it is at 102k miles. A very dependable and durable vehicle.
The ram 1500 is very reliable. I have not had any problems with mine so far. I would recommend to a friend.
There hasn't been any issues that I have come into contact with just typical oil change, tire rotation, and tire changes.
It is pretty reliable for the most part, but when it needs maintenance or work it tends to be problematic and costly.
My truck does not have any problems it is very good it's fun to drive I perform maintenance on it yearly
The only problem I ever had with it was a dead battery and presently a transmission issue. It’s stuck in fourth gear.
What Technology & Safety Features Are Included?
The entry-level technology in the 2012 Ram 1500 series is basic, but standard for a full size truck. Optional upgrades offer a good infotainment system for the class.
- Base technology includes a 6-speaker stereo system with AM/FM/CD playback capabilities.
- Upgrades include AUX, USB, and Bluetooth connectivity, a 6.5-inch touchscreen, GPS navigation, satellite radio, and 7 or 9 speaker stereo systems.
- Standard safety features include four disc brakes, air bags, stability control, trailer sway prevention, and hill-start assistance. Optional upgrades include a backup camera on the models with navigation.
What Engine Options are Available?
Performance in the 2012 Ram 1500 series is better than other full size trucks, taking only 7.1 seconds to go from 0 to 60 miles per hour. The maximum towing capacity is a bit lower than other half-ton trucks, at 10,450 pounds.
- The base engine is a 3.7L V6 with 215 horsepower and 235 lb.-ft. of torque.
- An optional upgrade is the 4.7L V8, which has 310 horsepower and 330 lb.-ft. of torque.
- The flagship engine is the 5.7L HEMI V8 producing 390 horsepower and 407 lb.-ft. of torque.
What Color Options are Available?
How Big is the Ram 1500?
The 2012 Ram 1500 series is a full size truck, and is similar in size to other half-ton models including the Ford F-150 and Chevy Silverado 1500. Three cabin sizes are available including a 2-door regular cab, 4-door quad cab, and larger 4-door crew cab models. There’s plenty of passenger room in the back seats of the crew cab, but is more cramped in the quad cab. Three beds are also available including 5-foot-7-inch, 6-foot-4-inch, and 8-foot lengths.
How Does the 2012 Ram 1500 Compare to Other Trucks?
Ranking 5th out of 15 full size trucks, based on owner reviews, the 2012 Ram 1500 series is in the upper half of the class.
The highest-rated half-ton truck is the more expensive Toyota Tundra. Where the Tundra stands out is with class-leading reliability ratings, and a standard V8 engine. The Ram has a higher maximum towing capacity, and more luxurious interiors on the higher-end models. Overall, the Tundra is a better long-lasting choice, but the Ram wins if you need to tow more weight.
Another close competitor is the GMC Sierra 1500, which is also more costly. The GMC stands out with a higher maximum towing capacity, and a more powerful flagship V8 engine. The Ram is a more comfortable truck with a better suspension, and more standard technology. The two trucks are very similar to each other and test driving both is the best way to determine which one you prefer.
Final Verdict: Is the 2012 Ram 1500 a Good Truck?
Yes, the 2012 Ram 1500 series is a good truck based on information including 198 verified owner reviews, and 17 government and automotive websites. The positives include a lower cost of ownership than other large trucks, and a more upscale interior than the competition. Downsides are a few mechanical and electrical problems, and no advanced safety technology. Overall, the 2012 Ram 1500 is a good choice for a budget-friendly truck.
