The 2005 Dodge Ram 1500 is a full-size pickup truck, part of the third-generation Ram (2002-2008). Available in regular, Quad Cab, and Mega Cab body styles, it offered a rugged design. Key trims included ST, SLT, Laramie, and Sport. New pricing ranged from approximately $20,000 to $35,000. The Ram stood out for its bold "big rig" styling, powerful engine options, and comfortable ride, contributing to its popularity as a workhorse and daily driver.
The Good
The 2005 Dodge Ram 1500 offered strong performance with its V8 engine options, appealing to those needing power for work or play. Its bold design and comfortable interior provided an enjoyable driving experience. While not the most fuel-efficient, it represented good value for its capability, with decent reliability for its age. The robust design appealed to the emotional desire for a tough truck.
The Bad
The 2005 Dodge Ram 1500 is prone to certain issues. Potential problems include transmission issues (particularly with the 545RFE transmission), ball joint wear, electrical glitches, and rust, especially in areas with road salt. Fuel economy is not its strong suit. Careful inspection and maintenance records are crucial when considering a used model.
2005 Dodge Ram 1500: Quick Overview
- Engine Options:
- 3.7L V6: 215 hp
- 4.7L V8: 235 hp
- 5.7L HEMI V8: 345 hp
- Horsepower: Varies by engine; up to 345 hp with the 5.7L HEMI.
- Fuel Economy:
- 3.7L V6: Around 16 mpg city / 21 mpg highway
- 4.7L V8: Around 14 mpg city / 19 mpg highway
- 5.7L HEMI V8: Around 14 mpg city / 18 mpg highway
- 0-60 Times:
- 5.7L HEMI V8: Approximately 7 seconds
- Towing Capacity:
- Varies by engine and configuration; up to approximately 9,000 lbs with the 5.7L HEMI and proper towing package.
- Trim-Level Features:
- ST: Base model; vinyl seats, basic audio system, steel wheels.
- SLT: Cloth seats, upgraded audio system, alloy wheels (optional), power windows and locks.
- Laramie: Leather seats, premium audio system, dual-zone climate control, chrome exterior trim.
- Sport: Body-color trim, sport suspension, unique interior accents.
2005 Dodge Ram 1500 Specifications
Vehicle Information
| Year | 2005 |
| Make | Dodge |
| Model | Ram 1500 |
| Trim | - |
| Style | - |
| Type | Truck |
| Category | Standard Pickup Truck |
Manufacturing Details
| Made In | United States |
| Manufacturing City | WARREN |
Dimensions
| Doors | 2-Door |
| Curb Weight | 4516 pounds |
| Gross Vehicle Weight Rating | 6350 pounds |
| Overall Height | - |
| Overall Length | - |
| Overall Width | - |
| Wheelbase Length | - |
| Standard Seating | - |
Engine & Performance
| Engine | 4.7-L V-8 |
| Engine Size | 4.7L |
| Engine Cylinders | 8 |
| Transmission | 5-Speed Automatic |
| Transmission Type | Automatic |
| Transmission Speeds | 5-Speed |
| Drivetrain | Rear-Wheel Drive |
Additional Features
| Anti-Brake System | - |
| Steering Type | - |
Pricing
| Manufacturer Suggested Retail Price (MSRP) | $20,555 |
| Invoice Price | $18,257 |
| Delivery Charges | $900 |
Vehicle History Report
Vehicle
Specifications
Specifications
Ownership
History
History
All History
Events
Events
NMVTIS Title
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Accident
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Theft
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Open Lien
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Past Sale
Listings
Listings
Safety
Recalls
Recalls
Odometer
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Market Price
Analysis
Analysis
What Problems Does the 2005 Dodge Ram 1500 Have?
The 2005 Dodge Ram 1500, like many vehicles of its age, has some frequently reported problems. Transmission issues, particularly with the 545RFE automatic transmission, are common, including slipping and harsh shifting. Ball joint wear can lead to front-end instability and noise, necessitating replacement. Electrical glitches, affecting systems like the power windows, door locks, and instrument cluster, are also noted. Rust, especially in areas exposed to road salt, is a significant concern, potentially affecting the frame and body panels.
Recalls have been issued for various issues, including potential problems with the brake system and airbags. Check the NHTSA (National Highway Traffic Safety Administration) website for specific recalls related to the VIN. Long-term reliability can be affected by the aforementioned issues, along with general wear and tear on components like the suspension and steering. While the engines themselves are generally durable, proper maintenance is critical to avoid problems. The 2005 model year doesn't have drastically different issues compared to the surrounding years in the third generation.
Recalls have been issued for various issues, including potential problems with the brake system and airbags. Check the NHTSA (National Highway Traffic Safety Administration) website for specific recalls related to the VIN. Long-term reliability can be affected by the aforementioned issues, along with general wear and tear on components like the suspension and steering. While the engines themselves are generally durable, proper maintenance is critical to avoid problems. The 2005 model year doesn't have drastically different issues compared to the surrounding years in the third generation.
How long will the 2005 Dodge Ram 1500 last?
A well-maintained 2005 Dodge Ram 1500 can easily reach 200,000 miles or more, providing 15-20 years of service. However, this depends heavily on diligent maintenance. Neglecting fluid changes, addressing minor repairs promptly, and preventing rust are crucial. Long-term durability is generally good with the engines and transmissions *if* maintained. Weaknesses over time include rust, suspension component wear (ball joints, bushings), and electrical gremlins as insulation ages. Trucks used for heavy towing or off-roading will likely experience accelerated wear and tear.
Positive Owner Reviews
Michael
Bought the 2005 with a 5.8 Hemi and and I love the growl when you hit the gas. Good on gas for such a massive engine. 130,000 miles for $6k and could not be more proud. A few small things need attention ( windshield washer pump & seat belt tensioner) but those are easy enough. Def worth it to me!
Greg the vet
The vehicle I purchased was a 2005 Dodge Ram 1500 5.7 liter v8 hemi with approximately 150 k miles . The truck was in very good condition from the interior to the exterior. There was no body rust . I will be utilizing this truck for work and transporting my kids from time to time . This truck will meet my needs . I have friends that drive ram trucks with the hemi with 280k and 320k thousand miles on It so I hope to get the same with proper care .
Johndt121
Most reliable truck I've owned, never gave me any major problems besides minor wear and tear like ball joints and brakes etc. I would recommend this truck to anyone.
Negative Owner Reviews
Ripped off
Haven't been able to use it long relating to major repairs. Had 5500 dollars worth of work so far... Even though we paid for warranty
Ozzy2035
Terrible pick truck many mechanical damage never under warranty problems differential noise and poor repair and dealer ridiculous charger for repair car under warranty you bring you car and no repair still charge
Ram 1500
The truck meets my needs. Manufacture MPG 15 to 19 will never happen on this truck. When you buy a "used" vehicle, it comes with a "history". Some of that is visible. Sadly some isn't and a "dear" price is paid. I have invest over $4,000 in the vehicle since I purchased it on January 1st of this year.
What Technology & Safety Features are Included?
The 2005 Dodge Ram 1500 offered a relatively basic level of technology and safety features compared to modern vehicles. Built-in tech included a standard AM/FM radio with a CD player. Higher trims offered optional features like a premium sound system, satellite radio (Sirius), and a trip computer. There were no advanced driver-assistance systems available.
Safety features included standard front airbags and anti-lock brakes (ABS). Side airbags were an optional feature on some trims. Driver-assistance technology was limited to basic cruise control and, potentially, optional fog lamps. Entertainment features were centered around the audio system, with upgrades like a multi-disc CD changer and steering wheel-mounted audio controls being available on higher trims.
Crash-test ratings from the IIHS (Insurance Institute for Highway Safety) and NHTSA provide some insight into the Ram's safety performance. While specific ratings vary by cab configuration, the Ram generally received good scores for frontal crash protection, but side impact protection was typically lower. The NHTSA ratings included both frontal and side-impact assessments, offering a comprehensive view of safety performance at the time. Be sure to review specific ratings for the cab configuration you are interested in.
Safety features included standard front airbags and anti-lock brakes (ABS). Side airbags were an optional feature on some trims. Driver-assistance technology was limited to basic cruise control and, potentially, optional fog lamps. Entertainment features were centered around the audio system, with upgrades like a multi-disc CD changer and steering wheel-mounted audio controls being available on higher trims.
Crash-test ratings from the IIHS (Insurance Institute for Highway Safety) and NHTSA provide some insight into the Ram's safety performance. While specific ratings vary by cab configuration, the Ram generally received good scores for frontal crash protection, but side impact protection was typically lower. The NHTSA ratings included both frontal and side-impact assessments, offering a comprehensive view of safety performance at the time. Be sure to review specific ratings for the cab configuration you are interested in.
What Colors Options are Available?
Exterior Colors
Bright White
Black Clearcoat
Flame Red Clearcoat
Atlantic Blue Pearlcoat
Mineral Gray Metallic Clearcoat
Patriot Blue Pearlcoat
Silver Metallic Clearcoat
Dark Garnet Red Pearlcoat
Khaki Metallic Clearcoat
Light Khaki Metallic Clearcoat
Bright Silver Metallic Clearcoat
Forest Green Pearlcoat
Steel Blue Pearlcoat
Interior Colors
Dark Slate Gray
Taupe
2005 Dodge Ram 1500 Prices and Market Value
When new, the 2005 Dodge Ram 1500 ranged from around $20,000 for a base ST model to $35,000+ for a fully-equipped Laramie or Sport. Currently, used market prices typically range from $5,000 to $15,000, depending on condition, mileage, and trim level. The Ram has depreciated significantly over time, as expected for a vehicle of this age. Factors affecting resale value include overall condition, mileage, trim level (Laramie and Sport hold value better), engine (HEMI is more desirable), and location (trucks are worth more in areas where they are commonly used for work). Rust is a major detractor from resale value.
2005 Dodge Ram 1500 Cost of Ownership
The 2005 Dodge Ram 1500 is generally considered moderately costly to own long-term. Insurance costs are average for a full-size truck. Fuel costs are higher than modern vehicles due to lower fuel economy. Maintenance and repair costs can be significant, especially given the age of the vehicle, with potential issues like transmission problems, ball joint wear, and rust repair. While parts are relatively affordable, labor costs can add up. Budgeting for potential repairs is essential for economical ownership.
2005 Dodge Ram 1500 Fuel Efficiency
Fuel Type
Gasoline
Fuel Capacity
26 gallons
City Mileage
14 miles/gallon
Highway Mileage
20 miles/gallon
2005 Dodge Ram 1500 Safety Rating
NHTSA
IIHS
2005 Dodge Ram 1500 Recalls & Defects
Steering:gear Box:shaft Pitman
Recall date
2010-05-03
Recall no.
10e013000
Source
NHTSA
Summary
Fabtech IS Recalling Certain Aftermarket Replacement Pitman Arms, P/Nos. Fts93001 and Ft44039, Installed FOR USE ON Certain 2003 Through 2008 Dodge 2500 4wd, 3500 4wd, and 1500 4WD Mega Cab Vehicles. THE Pitman ARM CAN Fracture and Break Away From THE Steering BOX Causing Total Loss OF Steering Control.
Consequence
Steering Loss Could Result IN A Vehicle Crash Possibly Resulting IN Property Damage, Injury or Death.
Remedy
Fabtech Will Notify Owners and Authorized Installers Will Inspect FOR Defective Pitman ARM and Replace IF Necessary Free OF Charge. THE Safety Recall Began ON MAY 24, 2010. Owners MAY Contact Fabtech AT 1-877-432-2832.
Notes
This Recall Only Pertains TO Aftermarket Fabtech Replacement Pitman Arms and HAS NO Relation TO ANY Original Equipment Installed ON Dodge 2500, 3500, and 1500 Vehicles Manufactured BY Chrysler Group, Llc.owners MAY Also Contact THE National Highway Traffic Safety Administration's Vehicle Safety Hotline AT 1-888-327-4236 (Tty 1-800-424-9153), or GO TO <A Href=http://Www.safercar.gov>http://www.safercar.gov</a> .
Visibility:glass, Side/Rear
Recall date
2007-12-11
Recall no.
07e104000
Source
NHTSA
Summary
Certain Curved Tempered Replacement Glass Manufactured BY Hangzhou Safety Glass LTD and Supplied TO Safelite BY Auto Temp Inc., Identified AS Dot-430, and Sold FOR USE ON Certain Domestic and Foreign Vehicles MAY NOT Break Into Small Pieces AS Expected OF Tempered Glass and Fails TO Conform TO Federal Motor Vehicle Safety Standard NO. 205, "glazing Materials."
Consequence
IN THE Event OF A Vehicle Crash, THE Occupant(S) MAY BE Seriously Injured BY Shattered Glass.
Remedy
Safelite Will Notify ITS Retail Customers and Replace THE Glass Free OF Charge. Retail Customers CAN Contact Safelite Toll Free AT 1-888-843-2906. Safelite Will Notify ITS Wholesale Customers and Reimburse Wholesale Customers FOR Current Inventory and AT A Specified Rate FOR Replacing Their Customer's Glass. Wholesale Customers CAN Contact Safelite's Wholesale Division, Service Autoglass Toll Free AT 1-888-246-6298. THE Recall Began ON January 15, 2008.
Notes
This Recall Only Pertains TO Certain Curved Tempered Replacement Glass Manufactured BY Hangzhou Safety Glass, Ltd. (Dot-430) and Supplied TO Safelite BY Auto Temp Inc., and HAS NO Relation TO ANY Original Equipment Installed ON THE Vehicles Listed Above. Customers MAY Contact THE National Highway Traffic Safety Administration's Vehicle Safety Hotline AT 1-888-327-4236 (Tty: 1-800-424-9153); or GO TO Http://Www.safercar.gov.
Wheels:hub
Recall date
2010-08-23
Recall no.
10e040000
Source
NHTSA
Summary
Federal-Mogul IS Recalling Certain Carquest, National, and Percision Brand Wheel HUB Assemblies, P/Nos 515073 and 515073, Sold FOR USE AS Replacement Equipment ON Model Year 2002 Through 2008 Dodge RAM 1500 Pickup Trucks. THE Inboard Roll Form Used TO Maintain THE HUB Assembly CAN Fatigue Resulting IN Noise And/Or Wheel Separation ON THE Two Wheel Drive (2wd) Applications. THE Risk OF These Issues DO NOT Occur ON THE Four Wheel Drive (4wd) Applications, and Installation ON THE 4WD Applications ARE NOT Part OF This Recall.
Consequence
A Vehicle Crash CAN Occur IF THE Wheel Separates From THE Vehicle.
Remedy
Federal-Mogul Will Notify Owners OF Record and Technicians Will Replace THE Affected HUB Assemblies Free OF Charge. THE Safety Recall Began ON September 15, 2010. Owners MAY Contact Federal-Mogul AT 1-877-489-6659.
Notes
This Recall Only Pertains TO Replacement Carquest and National Wheel HUB Assemblies and HAS NO Relation TO ANY Original Equipment Installed ON Dodge RAM 1500 Vehicles Manufactured BY Chrysler Llc.owners MAY Also Contact THE National Highway Traffic Safety Administration's Vehicle Safety Hotline AT 1-888-327-4236 (Tty 1-800-424-9153), or GO TO <A Href=http://Www.safercar.gov>http://www.safercar.gov</a> .
AIR Bags:frontal:passenger Side:inflator Module
Recall date
2016-05-24
Recall no.
16v352000
Source
NHTSA
Summary
Chrysler (Fca US Llc) Expanded THE Affected Population TO Include 73,712 2005-2009 RAM 2500 Trucks Produced AT THE ST. Louis North Assembly Plant. With This Change, Chrysler IS Recalling Certain Model Year 2004-2008 RAM 1500, 2005-2009 RAM 2500, 2006-2009 RAM 3500, 2007-2010 RAM 3500 Cab Chassis, 2008-2010 RAM 4500 and 5500 Cab Chassis, 2004-2009 Dodge Durango, 2007-2009 Chrysler Aspen, 2007-2012 Jeep Wrangler, 2008-2012 Dodge Challenger, 2005-2008 Dodge Magnum, 2005-2012 Chrysler 300, 2006-2012 Dodge Charger, 2005-2011 Dodge Dakota, and 2006-2009 Mitsubishi Raider Vehicles Originally Sold, or Ever Registered, IN AL, CA, FL, GA, HI, LA, MS, SC, TX, Puerto Rico, American Samoa, Guam, THE Northern Mariana Islands (Saipan), and THE U.s. Virgin Islands, or "zone A." Additionally, Unless Included IN "zone A" Above, Chrysler IS Also Recalling 2004-2008 RAM 1500, 2005-2009 RAM 2500, 2006-2009 RAM 3500, 2007-2009 RAM 3500 Cab Chassis, 2008-2009 RAM 4500 and 5500 Cab Chassis, 2004-2009 Dodge Durango, 2007-2009 Chrysler Aspen, 2007-2009 Jeep Wrangler, 2008-2009 Dodge Challenger, 2005-2008 Dodge Magnum, 2005-2009 Chrysler 300, 2006-2009 Dodge Charger, 2005-2009 Dodge Dakota and 2006-2009 Mitsubishi Raider Vehicles Originally Sold, or Ever Registered, IN AZ, AR, DE, Washington D.c., IL, IN, KS, KY, MD, MO, NE, NV, NJ, NM, NC, OH, OK, PA, TN, VA, and WV, or "zone B." Lastly, Unless Included IN "zone A" or "zone B" Above, Chrysler IS Recalling Certain 2005-2008 RAM 2500, 2006-2008 RAM 3500, 2007-2008 RAM 3500 Cab Chassis, 2008 RAM 4500 and 5500 Cab Chassis, 2004-2008 Dodge Durango, 2007-2008 Chrysler Aspen, 2007-2008 Jeep Wrangler, 2008 Dodge Challenger, 2005-2008 Dodge Magnum, 2005-2008 Chrysler 300, 2006-2008 Dodge Charger, 2005-2008 Dodge Dakota, and 2006-2008 Mitsubishi Raider Vehicles Originally Sold, or Registered, IN AK, CO, CT, ID, IA, ME, MA, MI, MN, MT, NH, NY, ND, OR, RI, SD, UT, VT, WA, WI, and WY.
Consequence
These Vehicles ARE Equipped With Certain AIR BAG Inflators Assembled AS Part OF THE Passenger Frontal AIR BAG Modules, and Used AS Original Equipment or Replacement Equipment. These Inflators MAY Rupture DUE TO Propellant Degradation Occurring After Long-Term Exposure TO Absolute Humidity and Temperature Cycling. AN Inflator Rupture MAY Result IN Metal Fragments Striking THE Vehicle Occupants Resulting IN Serious Injury or Death.
Remedy
Chrysler Will Notify THE Chrysler, Dodge, Jeep and RAM Owners. Mitsubishi Owners Will BE Notified BY Their Company. Dealers Will Replace THE Passenger Frontal AIR BAG Inflator, Free OF Charge. THE Recall Began ON March 27, 2017. Owners MAY Contact Chrysler Customer Service AT 1-800-853-1403. Chrysler's Number FOR This Recall IS S43. Note: This Recall Supersedes Recall 14v-7700.
Notes
Owners MAY Also Contact THE National Highway Traffic Safety Administration Vehicle Safety Hotline AT 1-888-327-4236 (Tty 1-800-424-9153), or GO TO Www.safercar.gov.
Power Train:driveline:differential Unit
Recall date
2014-12-16
Recall no.
14v796000
Source
NHTSA
Summary
Chrysler Group LLC (Chrysler) IS Recalling Certain Model Year 2005 Dodge RAM 1500 Trucks Manufactured January 28, 2004, TO August 3, 2005. IN THE Affected Vehicles, THE Rear Axle Pinion NUT MAY Loosen DUE TO AN Undersized Spline ON THE Pinion Gear.
Consequence
IF THE Pinion NUT Loosens, THE Rear Axle MAY Seize, And/Or THE Driveshaft MAY Detach Resulting IN A Loss OF Vehicle Control, Increasing THE Risk OF A Crash.
Remedy
Chrysler Will Notify Owners, and Dealers Will Install A Retention Feature TO THE Pinion Nut, Free OF Charge. THE Recall Began ON June 26, 2015, 2015. Owners MAY Contact Chrysler Customer Service AT 1-800-853-1403. Chrysler's Number FOR This Recall IS P77.
Notes
Owners MAY Also Contact THE National Highway Traffic Safety Administration Vehicle Safety Hotline AT 1-888-327-4236 (Tty 1-800-424-9153), or GO TO Www.safercar.gov.
AIR Bags
Recall date
2014-12-03
Recall no.
14v770000
Source
NHTSA
Summary
Chrysler Group LLC (Chrysler) IS Recalling Certain Model Year 2004-2005 Dodge RAM 1500, 2500, and 3500, 2004-2005 Dodge Durango, 2005 Dodge Dakota, 2005 Dodge Magnum and 2005 Chrysler 300, 300c and 300 Srt8 Vehicles Originally Sold, or Ever Registered, IN Geographic Locations Associated With High Absolute Humidity. Specifically, Vehicles Sold, or Ever Registered, IN Alabama, Florida, Georgia, Hawaii, Louisiana, Mississippi, Texas, Puerto Rico, U.s. Virgin Islands, Saipan, Guam, and American Samoa ARE Addressed BY This Recall. Upon Deployment OF THE Passenger Side Frontal AIR Bag, Excessive Internal Pressure MAY Cause THE Inflator TO Rupture.
Consequence
IN THE Event OF A Crash Necessitating Deployment OF THE Passenger?s Frontal AIR Bag, THE Inflator Could Rupture With Metal Fragments Striking THE Vehicle Occupants Potentially Resulting IN Serious Injury or Death.
Remedy
Chrysler Will Notify Owners, and Dealers Will Replace THE Front Passenger AIR BAG Inflator, Free OF Charge. FOR Vehicles That Were Sold, or ARE Currently Registered, IN Florida, Puerto Rico, Hawaii, and THE U.s. Virgin Islands, Owners Were Notified and THE Recall Began ON December 5, 2014. FOR All Other Vehicles, Chrysler Notified Owners and THE Recall Began ON February 3, 2015. Owners MAY Contact Chrysler Customer Service AT 1-800-853-1403. Chrysler's Number FOR This Recall IS P40 Expanded. Note: This Recall HAS Been Superseded BY Recall 16v-352. This Recall Superseded THE Passenger AIR BAG Portion OF Recall 14v-354.
Notes
Owners MAY Also Contact THE National Highway Traffic Safety Administration Vehicle Safety Hotline AT 1-888-327-4236 (Tty 1-800-424-9153), or GO TO Www.safercar.gov.
AIR Bags:frontal:driver Side:inflator Module
Recall date
2015-05-27
Recall no.
15v313000
Source
NHTSA
Summary
Chrysler (Fca US Llc) IS Recalling Certain Model Year 2005-2009 Dodge RAM 2500, 2004-2008 Dodge RAM 1500 and Durango, 2006-2009 Dodge RAM 3500, 2008-2010 Dodge RAM 4500 and 5500, 2007-2008 Chrysler Aspen, 2005-2010 Chrysler 300, 300c, 300s, and Srt8, 2006-2010 Dodge Charger, 2005-2008 Magnum, 2005-2011 Dodge Dakota, and 2006-2009 Mitsubishi Raider Vehicles. THE Affected Vehicles ARE Equipped With A Dual-stage Driver Frontal AIR BAG That MAY BE Susceptible TO Moisture Intrusion Which, Over Time, Could Cause THE Inflator TO Rupture.
Consequence
IN THE Event OF A Crash Necessitating Deployment OF THE Driver's Frontal AIR Bag, THE Inflator Could Rupture With Metal Fragments Striking THE Driver or Other Occupants Resulting IN Serious Injury or Death.
Remedy
Chrysler Will Notify THE Affected Chrysler and Dodge Owners and Mitsubishi Will Notify THE Affected Raider Owners. Dealers Will Replace THE Driver's Frontal AIR BAG Inflator, Free OF Charge. THE Recall Began FOR Chrylser ON June 8, 2015. THE Recall FOR Mitsubishi Started ON June 24, 2015. Chrysler and Dodge Owners MAY Contact Chrysler Customer Service AT 1-800-853-1403. Mitsubishi Owners MAY Call 1-888-648-7820. Chrysler's Number FOR This Recall IS R25. Note: This Recall Supersedes Recall 14v817 IN ITS Entirety. Vehicles That Have HAD Their Driver Side Frontal AIR BAG Replaced Previously Need TO Have Their AIR BAG Replaced Under This Recall AS Well.
Notes
Owners MAY Also Contact THE National Highway Traffic Safety Administration Vehicle Safety Hotline AT 1-888-327-4236 (Tty 1-800-424-9153), or GO TO Www.safercar.gov.
2005 Dodge Ram 1500 Insurance
Insurance for a 2005 Dodge Ram 1500 is moderately priced, reflecting its status as a Truck with strong safety ratings and
reasonable repair costs.
reasonable repair costs.
How Does the 2005 Dodge Ram 1500 Compare to Other Truck?
The 2005 Dodge Ram 1500 competed with the Ford F-150, Chevrolet Silverado 1500, and Toyota Tundra. In terms of performance, the Ram's HEMI engine was a strong selling point. Features were comparable across the class, with slight variations depending on trim. Reliability is where the Ram often lagged behind the Toyota Tundra, which had a better reputation for long-term dependability. The Ford F-150 offered a good balance of features and reliability, while the Silverado was known for its strong work capabilities.
In terms of price, the Ram was generally competitive. Considering a used 2005 Ram 1500, if reliability is a top priority, the Toyota Tundra might be a better, albeit potentially more expensive, alternative. The Ford F-150 represents a balanced choice, while the Silverado is suitable for those prioritizing heavy-duty work. Evaluate condition and maintenance history carefully, regardless of the brand. If a comfortable ride and bold styling are priorities, and you're willing to address potential maintenance issues, the Ram remains a viable option.
In terms of price, the Ram was generally competitive. Considering a used 2005 Ram 1500, if reliability is a top priority, the Toyota Tundra might be a better, albeit potentially more expensive, alternative. The Ford F-150 represents a balanced choice, while the Silverado is suitable for those prioritizing heavy-duty work. Evaluate condition and maintenance history carefully, regardless of the brand. If a comfortable ride and bold styling are priorities, and you're willing to address potential maintenance issues, the Ram remains a viable option.
Ranks #510 Truck
| 1 | 2023 Toyota Tundra | (5.0★) |
| 2 | 2022 Honda Ridgeline | (5.0★) |
| 3 | 2023 Ford E-Transit Chassis | (0.0★) |
| 4 | 2020 Mercedes-Benz Sprinter Cab Chassis | (0.0★) |
| 5 | 2024 Chevrolet Silverado 3500HD | (0.0★) |
| 6 | 2023 Hyundai Santa Cruz | (5.0★) |
| 7 | 2023 Nissan Frontier | (5.0★) |
| 8 | 2024 GMC Sierra 2500HD | (0.0★) |
| 9 | 2023 Ram 4500 | (0.0★) |
| 10 | 2022 Jeep Gladiator | (5.0★) |
| 11 | 2012 Suzuki Equator | (0.0★) |
| 12 | 2009 Mitsubishi Raider | (5.0★) |
| 510 | 2005 Dodge Ram 1500 | (5.0★) |
Final Verdict: Is the 2005 Dodge Ram 1500 a Good Truck?
The 2005 Dodge Ram 1500 is ideal for someone seeking a capable and stylish full-size truck on a budget. It's worth buying *used* if a thorough inspection reveals good condition and maintenance history. Look for higher trims like the Laramie or Sport for better features. It is *not* recommended as a "new" purchase, obviously. It is well-suited for occasional towing, hauling, or daily driving, provided the buyer is prepared for potential maintenance and repair costs. It's a good choice for those who appreciate the Ram's bold styling and powerful engine options and don't mind addressing potential reliability concerns that come with an older truck. Prioritize a pre-purchase inspection by a trusted mechanic.
Retired collision tech on July 25, 2023
Love my HemiI have always been a Chevy guy. Till my Chevy caught on fire 2000 miles from home. Needed to replace it in Texas and found this 2005 Dodge Ram quad cab Hemi. Im sure I paid too much for it but I was stuck and needed to tow my trailer cross country. The 5.7 Hemi with over 200 K pulled that trailer like it wasnt even there. What a BEAR this thing is for towing. Interior very nice and roomy. I slept in the back seat comfortably. Steering rack had been replaced at 150K so thats excellent. With 240K on it now, I have only had to do maintenance like brakes and ball joints. Only complaint Ive had is the drivers seat material is very week and falling apart. I highly recommend this Hemi Ram thats for sure.
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Michael on May 8, 2023
Amazing Truck!Bought the 2005 with a 5.8 Hemi and and I love the growl when you hit the gas. Good on gas for such a massive engine. 130,000 miles for $6k and could not be more proud. A few small things need attention ( windshield washer pump & seat belt tensioner) but those are easy enough. Def worth it to me!
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William Cole on February 19, 2023
The truck we own has been undeniably the best veh.Our dodge 1500 has been a dream vehicle. Good gas mileage etc. until the driver seat mechanism broke. Now it is unsafe to drive. We have been told by dealers that no warranty is available for replacement parts or seat. This is unacceptable!!!! The same seat is in most of the same models in newer models. If I die in this truck, expect my family to sue you for negligence!!!
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Greg the vet on March 4, 2021
Greg the vetThe vehicle I purchased was a 2005 Dodge Ram 1500 5.7 liter v8 hemi with approximately 150 k miles . The truck was in very good condition from the interior to the exterior. There was no body rust . I will be utilizing this truck for work and transporting my kids from time to time . This truck will meet my needs . I have friends that drive ram trucks with the hemi with 280k and 320k thousand miles on It so I hope to get the same with proper care .
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Dodge fan on February 6, 2021
Best truck I have ever usedThis is the best truck I have ever used, has comfort, responsive engine runs strong and looks sporty cannot be compared others, to be precise, Dodge truck Leads, others Follow.
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Johndt121 on July 29, 2020
Most reliable truck I've ownedMost reliable truck I've owned, never gave me any major problems besides minor wear and tear like ball joints and brakes etc. I would recommend this truck to anyone.
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The owner on July 28, 2020
Great Truck for the OutdoorsThis 15 year old has been a great truck. Our family has enjoyed this truck. It still has its power and then some to tow boats,trailers, and weekend toys. This truck was our family Glamis truck for 7 seasons. We want it to go to good home and owner who will enjoy it as much as we have.
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Crossdog29 on May 27, 2020
This truck is a worker and family vehicle.This truck's DVD player, comfortable cab and truck bed met all the needs of my family on long road trips and is a reliable work truck.
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Riding my Ram 1500 on April 25, 2020
I inherited this vehicle and man it is a beast.The 5.7 Hemi is nothing to play with it has all the power you need and when you push on the gas pedal the response is immediate. The vehicle gives you an amassing view of the road due to its height and the style is simply beautiful. My brother in law bought this truck new and took very good care of it and I feel blessed to have it now.
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Dem774 on February 10, 2020
Very reliable truck with lots of power.This truck was reliable had lots of interior space and a large truck bed for cargo. The 5.7l hemi was also both fun to drive and useful when hauling things.
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Drew B
Drew is a seasoned automotive expert and contributor to VinCheck.info. With nearly 15 years of experience as a former Porsche technician, he brings a wealth of hands-on knowledge to his writing. Born in North Carolina, a region renowned for its deep-rooted NASCAR culture, Drew developed a passion for cars early in life, often building and working on vehicles from a young age. At VINCheck, Drew leverages his extensive technical background to provide in-depth analyses of various vehicles. His articles often focus on engine performance, reliability, and maintenance insights, offering readers practical information grounded in real-world experience. Some of his notable contributions include reviews on the Mazda CX-5's longevity and detailed examinations of engine options for models like the 2011 Toyota Camry and Tacoma