Going to look at a 2005 1500 SLT quad cab, most power accessories, this week. Has the 5.7, auto, 4X4, 20 inch tires, 3.92, tow package and low miles at 70,000. I tend to want a nice truck and in the past I end up buying a good deal, but several years down the road get surprised at the wear and tear that's added up.

From your experience do these trucks seem to last nicely past 15 years, maybe up to 20 years. I know engines can go several hundred thousand miles, if well cared for.

Thanks for your tips

Mike

 

All depends on if the maintenance has been kept up.

 

^^

That, but considering the oldest 3rd gen is only, what, 15 year old? Hard to tell you that sort of longevity. Look how many you see on the roads still, though. Hell, look how many SECOND gen trucks you still see on the roads.

Take care of your vehicle, and it will take care of you. Find one that has been well-taken care of. Low miles is nice, but that doesn't mean it's been maintained the way it should have been for the last 12 years.

 

Spend money now, to save money later. Check all the fluids and see if they look good, or nasty. If they haven't been changed already, change them. Get a compression check done on the engine, too.
I'll be changing the diff. fluids at 50k miles, probably later this year. Trans. fluid was changed by the dealer at 36k when it was for sale as a used truck.
I've replaced the shocks also, the ride is better now.

 

just bought a 05, 5.7 4x4, laramie. never owned a ram before but have had the ford and Chevy drive train equivalents. I love the hemi. I believe I got lucky with mine, 1 owner, 104k, all maintenance followed by factory, and its a great truck. really dont have anything bad to say about it. As stated, just check the fluids, give a solid test drive and put the trans and engine through a thorough test. But going on about 2 weeks with mine, I have swapped the plugs (all 16 of them!) and wires, and its been great.

 

Bought my 2009 with 32K miles. I now have 132K miles. Still runs great. Only replaced ball joints. Differential is making a whining noise, might need new bearings. I mainly tow a 21 ft. bass boat. No plans to trade up anytime soon. I love the HEMI power. Very happy with my RAM!

 

Bought my 03 in Nov 05 with 28,000 miles. Now has 150,000+

 

bought my 2006 1500 with a 5.7 4x4 back in 2007, had 25,000km when i got it. now it has 317,000km. original trans, only minor / regular maint done to it.. knock on wood

 

I have 196000 miles on mine with basic routine maintenance. I will be pulling the motor this summer for teardown and rebuild though. I figure I should before something happens.

 

If you don't live in he rust/salt belt, 20 years is very do-able.