I've got a 96 now that I love. I've done a lot of work to it to keep it running, but I think it's time to upgrade. I've got a buyer. Just got a new job, so I can afford something new and hopefully won't have to worry about too many repairs. I found an 07 Laramie 4x4 with the 5.7L and 136k miles. It's got leather interior, nav, etc. They're asking $15k for it, and I could probably talk them down a bit. I just want to know what I can expect to have to fix on it. I know the 2nd gen Rams had a weak transmission, and I rebuilt mine. Are the 3rd gens the same way, or are they a little better? Anything major that I need to know about or check if and when I go check out the truck? Just want to check before I get to far into the process. Thanks!

 

Typical issues that seem common:
Front end in general seems to be the weakest link (ball joint, tie rod etc), front brake rotor warp, seat foam breaking down (along door edge where you get in/out). Rear door and lessor degree front door lock/speaker wires breaking between door post and door (its in a rubber boot).

 

He pretty much hit all of it. Make sure you get a service history with that many miles. Check spark plugs, tranny fluid, oil, the whole nine yards. The 3rd Gen trannys are WAY better than the 2nd Gen ones from what I hear so don't worry about it. Also if its a manual 4x4 lever make sure to check the linkage because they're known for falling out.

 

Also, if it's got a factory LSD, you'll want to inspect the differential. The clutch-pack retainer clips (C-clips) have a tendency to shake loose and rattle around. They redesigned the clips in late '05 which reduced the occurrence, but better safe than sorry. Lots of guys switch to aftermarket LSDs before it becomes an issue.

As far as the transmissions go, they're one of the few positives resulting from the Daimler experiment. The 45/545RFE transmissions are Daimler-designed, and quite solid. A well-maintained one should have no issues reaching 200,000+ miles.

 

Thanks guys. I'll check all of these things out. It's a dealership selling it, and they gave me an Autocheck and Carfax report. There haven't been any accidents. There's only been one owner, and the only things on the report are regular maintenance and emission reports. It's also 5k below the KBB value. If everything you guys gave me to check is ok, looks like it may be a good buy.

 

What part of the country are you in?
W/ fuel prices climbing they should be willing to come down a bit.
$15k w/ all those miles seems a little high.
Considering it's from a dealer you will pay more(taxes) but hopefully get a warranty of some sort. The factory one is long gone.
Make sure the Nav systems software is current and thoroughly test all the electronics...TIPMs are expensive. Get a good deal that you won't regret these trucks are awesome.

 

$15k is DEFINITELY to high for a truck with those miles!!! I bought my 06 Ram SLT BHE w/just over 28k miles from a dealer back in 08 and was able to talk them down to $12,300 with NO TRADE so I would definitely work them a bit harder on that price. Mind you, I picked mine up right after the bottom fell out of the automotive industry so I doubt you'll be able to talk them that low but DO NOT pay $15K for that truck!!!

 

If you are into swapping out stereos for aftermarket and the truck has the 7 speaker infinity system,it can get pricey to do it right, but other than that, these trucks are awesome.