Hello all- I'm currently in the market for a 4X4 Diesel. I don't have a ton to spend, so I have to go used. What would be the best year to shoot for, and why. I'd like to stay right around $30K. Which gets me around a 2006/2005. What about earlier models, '03 or '04? Are they worth looking in to? Thanks!

 

the best years. . .this might surprize you. . .94-98.4 and 03-present. the 94-98.4's are fully mechanical and will live a VERY long life if taken care of. the 03-present all run the high Pressure Common rail engine, in 04.5 there is only one engine offered since DC put acat behind the engine.

98.5-02's have a few issues with the injector pump, an improperly cast block, and some other electrical gremlins that tend to pop up.

hope that helps.

 

Try to find an early 1998 Quad Cab with the 12 Valve engine. The early 1998 was the first of the Quad Cab trucks to have the rear doors. If you find one in good condition, then the only thing you may need to do is to upgrade the transmission and torque converter. I spent 6 months researching before purchasing my truck. I got it at a good price because of transmission issues, then upgraded the Torque Converter and Transmission. (Over Kill because of how the truck is equipped, I plan on keeping the truck a LOOOOOOOOONNNNNNGGGG time.
Ralph

 

Dodge has an excess of 06's sitting at dealers right now. You can pick up a new one for 30K if you find a dealer that is hungry enough.