The RAM 2500 Mega Cab from 2013 to 2016 is a popular choice for truck enthusiasts and professionals who need serious towing and hauling capabilities. With its spacious interior, powerful engine options, and versatile design, the RAM 2500 Mega Cab stands out as one of the most capable heavy-duty trucks on the market. Available with various powertrains, including the renowned 6.7L Cummins turbo diesel, it’s built to handle tough jobs while offering comfort and convenience for long journeys.
However, even trucks as tough as the RAM 2500 aren’t immune to issues. This article will explore the common problems experienced by owners of the 2013-2016 RAM 2500 Mega Cab, including mechanical, electrical, and reliability concerns. Additionally, we’ll cover what to look for when buying one of these trucks and the typical costs associated with ownership.
Introduction: The Heavy-Duty Performance of the RAM 2500 Mega Cab
The RAM 2500 Mega Cab is renowned for its massive interior space, powerful engine choices, and serious towing and payload capabilities. Whether you opt for the gas-powered 5.7L HEMI or the 6.7L Cummins turbo diesel, the RAM 2500 delivers exceptional performance for both work and play. The Mega Cab offers additional cabin space, making it perfect for families or long trips, while the rugged build ensures durability in demanding conditions.
While the RAM 2500 Mega Cab has many advantages, it’s important for potential buyers to be aware of the common issues that can arise with these trucks. From suspension wear to engine concerns, we’ll dive into the most frequently reported problems below.
Common Problems with the RAM 2500 Mega Cab (2013-2016)
1. Suspension and Steering Issues
One of the most reported problems with the 2013-2016 RAM 2500 Mega Cab is related to the suspension and steering components. Given the truck’s heavy-duty design and its frequent use for towing or off-roading, the suspension system is under constant stress. Common suspension-related issues include:
- Ball joint wear: The ball joints, particularly in the front suspension, are known to wear out prematurely, especially when the truck is used for heavy-duty purposes.
- Death wobble: Some owners have experienced the notorious “death wobble,” where the front end shakes violently after hitting a bump at highway speeds. This is often caused by worn steering components, including the tie rods, track bar, or steering stabilizer.
- Coil spring and shock absorber wear: Over time, the coil springs and shock absorbers can wear out, leading to a rougher ride and less effective handling.
If you notice a clunking noise when driving over bumps, excessive vibration in the steering wheel, or poor handling, these could be signs of suspension or steering component wear. While replacing these parts isn’t uncommon in trucks that see heavy use, it's important to address them quickly to maintain safe handling.
2. Transmission Problems
Some owners of the 2013-2016 RAM 2500 have reported issues with the 6-speed automatic transmission (particularly in models equipped with the Cummins engine). Common transmission-related complaints include:
- Hard shifting: The transmission may shift harshly between gears, especially when towing heavy loads.
- Delayed gear engagement: There can be a noticeable delay when shifting from park into drive or reverse.
- Transmission overheating: When towing at or near the truck’s maximum capacity, the transmission may overheat, causing performance issues or even limp mode activation.
Routine transmission maintenance, such as fluid changes and cooling system checks, can help prevent these issues. However, for trucks with high mileage or heavy-duty use, transmission repairs or rebuilds can be expensive.
3. Diesel Engine Concerns (6.7L Cummins)
The 6.7L Cummins turbo diesel is one of the most desirable engine options for the RAM 2500 due to its impressive towing power and durability. However, there are some common issues associated with this engine, particularly around the exhaust gas recirculation (EGR) system and turbocharger.
- EGR cooler failure: The EGR cooler can crack or become clogged over time, leading to coolant leaks or decreased engine performance. This can eventually result in engine overheating if not addressed.
- Turbocharger failure: Some owners have reported turbocharger issues, particularly with the variable geometry turbo (VGT), which can become clogged with soot or suffer actuator failure. Symptoms include loss of power, black smoke from the exhaust, and boost pressure loss.
Regular maintenance of the diesel system, such as keeping the EGR system clean and addressing DPF (Diesel Particulate Filter) issues, can help prevent these more expensive repairs.
4. Fuel System Issues
The RAM 2500’s fuel system, particularly in diesel models, can develop issues over time. Problems such as fuel injector failure and fuel pump issues are not uncommon. Signs of fuel system issues include:
- Rough idling or hard starting.
- Loss of power, especially under load.
- Check engine light related to fuel pressure problems.
Fuel injector replacement can be a costly repair, but it’s necessary to ensure proper engine performance, especially in the Cummins diesel variants, which are sensitive to fuel system health.
5. Exhaust and Emissions System Problems
Diesel-equipped RAM 2500 trucks often face issues with their emissions systems, primarily due to the complexity of modern diesel emissions controls. Common problems include:
- Diesel Particulate Filter (DPF) clogging: The DPF can become clogged, especially in trucks that are primarily used for short trips. This can lead to regeneration issues where the truck needs to perform a DPF cleaning cycle but is unable to do so.
- SCR (Selective Catalytic Reduction) system failures: The SCR system, which uses DEF (Diesel Exhaust Fluid) to reduce NOx emissions, can develop faults, leading to check engine lights or reduced power.
These issues can often lead to expensive repairs, especially if the DPF or SCR systems need to be replaced or extensively serviced.
6. Interior and Build Quality Issues
Though the RAM 2500 Mega Cab is generally praised for its comfortable and spacious interior, some owners have reported issues with interior build quality. These issues include:
- Dashboard cracking: The plastic dashboard in some models can crack over time, particularly in trucks exposed to extreme heat or direct sunlight.
- Electrical problems: Owners have noted issues with the infotainment system, power windows, or central locking system, where these systems become unresponsive or fail intermittently.
These interior issues can be frustrating but are usually not as costly to repair as mechanical problems. Replacing or repairing cracked dashboards or addressing electrical glitches can improve the overall ownership experience.
What to Look for When Buying a RAM 2500 Mega Cab (2013-2016)
If you’re in the market for a used RAM 2500 Mega Cab, it’s important to thoroughly inspect the truck and consider its history and condition. Here are some key things to look for:
- Maintenance Records: Ensure the previous owner has kept up with regular maintenance, particularly oil changes, transmission servicing, and diesel system cleanings (for Cummins models).
- Suspension and Steering Components: Check for any signs of wear in the suspension, such as clunking noises or uneven tire wear. Inspect the ball joints, tie rods, and shocks for damage or excessive wear.
- Transmission Health: Pay attention to how smoothly the transmission shifts during a test drive. Look for any signs of hard shifting, delays in gear engagement, or overheating.
- Diesel Engine Condition: For Cummins-powered models, inspect the EGR and turbocharger for signs of wear. Look for any excessive smoke or engine performance issues.
How Expensive is it to Own a RAM 2500 Mega Cab (2013-2016)?
Owning a RAM 2500 Mega Cab can come with significant costs, especially when it comes to maintenance and repairs. Here’s a breakdown of the primary costs associated with ownership:
- Fuel Costs: The RAM 2500 is a heavy-duty truck, and fuel economy can be low, especially when towing. Diesel models, while more efficient under load, still consume a lot of fuel.
- Insurance: Insurance premiums for the RAM 2500 can be higher than for standard trucks, due to its size, towing capacity, and the high cost of potential repairs.
- Maintenance: Routine maintenance, such as oil changes, brake pad replacements, and suspension work, is generally affordable, but major repairs, like transmission rebuilds or diesel system overhauls, can be costly.
- Depreciation: The RAM 2500 Mega Cab holds its value well in the used market, especially diesel variants, which are highly sought after. However, like all vehicles, it will depreciate over time.
Conclusion
The RAM 2500 Mega Cab from 2013-2016 is a powerhouse of a truck, offering exceptional towing capability, a spacious cabin, and rugged performance. However, like any heavy-duty vehicle, it has its share of common problems, including suspension wear, transmission issues, and diesel system concerns. Potential buyers should be aware of these issues and conduct thorough inspections before purchasing a used model.
With proper maintenance and care, the RAM 2500 Mega Cab can continue to be a reliable workhorse for years to come. Just be prepared for the occasional repair and keep an eye on the truck’s key systems, especially if you plan to use it for towing or heavy-duty applications.