The 2004 Dodge Ram 2500 is a heavy-duty pickup truck, part of the Ram's second generation. Available in Regular Cab, Quad Cab, and Mega Cab body styles, it offered impressive towing and hauling capabilities. Key trims included the ST, SLT, and Laramie. Pricing ranged from around $25,000 to $40,000 when new. Its bold styling and powerful Cummins diesel engine option made it a popular choice for those needing a robust work truck.
The Good
The 2004 Dodge Ram 2500 offers strong performance, especially with the Cummins diesel. While reliability can vary, it provides a comfortable ride for a heavy-duty truck, particularly in higher trims. Its aggressive styling appeals to the "tough truck" image, while its towing capacity and payload make it a practical workhorse. It delivers a solid value proposition for buyers needing a capable truck.
The Bad
Common weaknesses of the 2004 Dodge Ram 2500 include potential front-end suspension issues (the "death wobble"), transmission problems (especially with the automatic), and rust, particularly in northern climates. Fuel economy, especially with the gasoline engines, is poor. Watch out for electrical issues and worn ball joints/tie rod ends during inspection.
2004 Dodge Ram 2500: Quick Overview
- Engine Options:
- 5.7L Hemi V8: Approximately 345 horsepower
- 5.9L Cummins Turbo Diesel Inline-6: Approximately 325 horsepower, 600 lb-ft of torque
- 8.0L Magnum V10: Approximately 310 horsepower
- Horsepower: Ranges from 310 hp to 345 hp depending on the engine. The Cummins diesel focused on torque rather than peak horsepower.
- Fuel Economy:
- Gasoline Engines: 10-14 mpg (city), 14-18 mpg (highway) - significantly lower for the V10.
- Diesel Engine: 14-17 mpg (city), 18-22 mpg (highway) - Offers the best fuel economy of the engine options.
- 0-60 Times: Varies widely. Gasoline engines can achieve 0-60 mph in roughly 8-9 seconds. The diesel, while powerful, is more focused on towing, resulting in slightly slower acceleration.
- Towing Capacity: Up to 12,000+ lbs depending on configuration (engine, axle ratio, cab style). The Cummins diesel provides the highest towing capacity.
- Trim-Level Features:
- ST (Base): Vinyl seats, basic audio system, manual windows/locks.
- SLT (Mid-Range): Cloth seats, power windows/locks, upgraded audio.
- Laramie (Top-Tier): Leather seats, premium audio, dual-zone climate control, chrome exterior trim.
2004 Dodge Ram 2500 Specifications
Vehicle Information
| Year | 2004 |
| Make | Dodge |
| Model | Ram 2500 |
| Trim | - |
| Style | Regular Cab 2WD 5-Speed Automatic |
| Type | Pickup Truck |
| Category | Medium Truck |
Manufacturing Details
| Made In | Mexico |
| Manufacturing City | SALTILLO |
Dimensions
| Doors | 2-Door |
| Curb Weight | - |
| Gross Vehicle Weight Rating | - |
| Overall Height | - |
| Overall Length | - |
| Overall Width | - |
| Wheelbase Length | - |
| Standard Seating | - |
Engine & Performance
| Engine | 5.7-L V-8 OHV 16V |
| Engine Size | 5.7L |
| 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) | - |
| Invoice Price | - |
| Delivery Charges | - |
Vehicle History Report
Vehicle
Specifications
Specifications
Ownership
History
History
All History
Events
Events
NMVTIS Title
History Check
History Check
Salvage/Rebuilt
Check
Check
Accident
Check
Check
Theft
Check
Check
Open Lien
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Check
Past Sale
Listings
Listings
Safety
Recalls
Recalls
Odometer
Check
Check
Market Price
Analysis
Analysis
What Problems Does the 2004 Dodge Ram 2500 Have?
Frequently reported problems with the 2004 Dodge Ram 2500 include the infamous "death wobble," a violent shaking of the front end, typically attributed to worn or damaged steering components (tie rod ends, ball joints, steering stabilizer). Transmission issues, especially with the automatic transmissions, are common, ranging from slipping to complete failure. Rust can be a significant problem, particularly in areas with road salt.
Electrical issues, such as malfunctioning sensors and wiring problems, are also frequently reported. The 5.7L Hemi engine can experience valve seat issues in some instances. Recalls for the 2004 model year often related to airbag systems and potential fuel leaks. Long-term reliability concerns center around the longevity of the transmission and front-end components. The Cummins diesel is generally considered more reliable than the gasoline engines, but regular maintenance is crucial for all powertrains. Owners often report needing to replace ball joints and tie rod ends more frequently than on some competing trucks. Properly maintaining the cooling system is vital to prevent overheating, especially when towing. The 2004 model year doesn't stand out particularly in terms of unique issues compared to surrounding years in the second generation, but the age of the vehicle means that wear and tear are significant factors regardless of the specific year.
Electrical issues, such as malfunctioning sensors and wiring problems, are also frequently reported. The 5.7L Hemi engine can experience valve seat issues in some instances. Recalls for the 2004 model year often related to airbag systems and potential fuel leaks. Long-term reliability concerns center around the longevity of the transmission and front-end components. The Cummins diesel is generally considered more reliable than the gasoline engines, but regular maintenance is crucial for all powertrains. Owners often report needing to replace ball joints and tie rod ends more frequently than on some competing trucks. Properly maintaining the cooling system is vital to prevent overheating, especially when towing. The 2004 model year doesn't stand out particularly in terms of unique issues compared to surrounding years in the second generation, but the age of the vehicle means that wear and tear are significant factors regardless of the specific year.
How long will the 2004 Dodge Ram 2500 last?
Given its age, a well-maintained 2004 Dodge Ram 2500 can easily exceed 250,000 miles or more. Many owners report reaching 300,000+ miles with the Cummins diesel engine, provided regular maintenance is performed. However, poor maintenance can significantly shorten its lifespan.
Long-term durability often depends on addressing common weaknesses. Rust prevention is crucial, especially in colder climates. Front-end components (ball joints, tie rod ends) will likely need replacement multiple times. Transmission service is essential to avoid costly repairs. Neglecting these areas will dramatically reduce the vehicle's longevity.
Long-term durability often depends on addressing common weaknesses. Rust prevention is crucial, especially in colder climates. Front-end components (ball joints, tie rod ends) will likely need replacement multiple times. Transmission service is essential to avoid costly repairs. Neglecting these areas will dramatically reduce the vehicle's longevity.
Positive Owner Reviews
Mole
04, 5.7 litre gas engine with regular maintenance 332000 miles and still going strong.......kinda speaks for itself. I use the truck for a work truck as well as for commuting . Like it so well I just purchased another with same specs and the same year only in rwd instead of fwd for hauling a fifth wheel.
Debow3113
Amazing on and off road, great power, easy and cheap to maintain, long lasting, reliable, comfortable, looks good, rides smooth, can haul anything, better then fords
Mike K
This truck is awesome. Plenty of power. Great for snowplowing huge amounts of snow. Well taken care of. No issues. It pains me to sell it.
Negative Owner Reviews
Jerry
very unsatisfied with this truck, invested as much in replacement parts as was the original purchase price. replaced entire front of engine, and entire front suspension including steering, contacted crysler, no help because i replaced parts myself.
MO farmer
I purchased this truck because of the diesel engine, which is efficient and powerful as purported, but the other components of the vehicle don't measure up. Repairs are more expensive and frequent than the comparable vehicles I have owned.
What Technology & Safety Features are Included?
The 2004 Dodge Ram 2500's built-in tech is relatively basic by today's standards. Entertainment features generally included an AM/FM radio, CD player (optional upgrades included a multi-disc CD changer), and available premium speakers. Driver-assistance features were limited; ABS was standard, but electronic stability control was not widely available.
Safety features included standard front airbags. Optional features included fog lights and a security system. Crash test ratings from the NHTSA varied; cab style significantly influenced ratings, with the Quad Cab generally performing better than the Regular Cab in frontal impact tests. Side impact tests were not standard at the time. More modern trucks offer substantially improved safety and driver-assistance technology. Higher trim levels offered features such as power-adjustable seats, upgraded sound systems, and leather upholstery, but technologically, it was a simpler vehicle than contemporary offerings. The availability of options often depended on the trim level selected by the original buyer. The Mega Cab offered increased rear passenger space but came later in the model year. The infotainment options were very rudimentary, lacking features like navigation or smartphone integration that are now commonplace.
Safety features included standard front airbags. Optional features included fog lights and a security system. Crash test ratings from the NHTSA varied; cab style significantly influenced ratings, with the Quad Cab generally performing better than the Regular Cab in frontal impact tests. Side impact tests were not standard at the time. More modern trucks offer substantially improved safety and driver-assistance technology. Higher trim levels offered features such as power-adjustable seats, upgraded sound systems, and leather upholstery, but technologically, it was a simpler vehicle than contemporary offerings. The availability of options often depended on the trim level selected by the original buyer. The Mega Cab offered increased rear passenger space but came later in the model year. The infotainment options were very rudimentary, lacking features like navigation or smartphone integration that are now commonplace.
What Colors Options are Available?
Exterior Colors
Bright White
Black Clearcoat
Flame Red Clearcoat
Bright Silver Metallic Clearcoat
Patriot Blue Pearlcoat
Forest Green Pearlcoat
Mineral Gray Metallic Clearcoat
Atlantic Blue Pearlcoat
Khaki
Stone White
Interior Colors
Light Almond
Dark Slate Gray
2004 Dodge Ram 2500 Prices and Market Value
When new, the 2004 Dodge Ram 2500 ranged from approximately $25,000 to $40,000, depending on the trim level, engine, and options. Current used market prices typically range from $8,000 to $20,000, depending heavily on condition, mileage, and engine (diesel models command a premium).
Depreciation has been significant due to the vehicle's age. Factors affecting resale value include the engine (Cummins diesel holds its value better), overall condition (rust-free examples are highly sought after), mileage, and documented maintenance history. Low mileage diesel models in excellent condition command the highest prices.
Depreciation has been significant due to the vehicle's age. Factors affecting resale value include the engine (Cummins diesel holds its value better), overall condition (rust-free examples are highly sought after), mileage, and documented maintenance history. Low mileage diesel models in excellent condition command the highest prices.
2004 Dodge Ram 2500 Cost of Ownership
The 2004 Dodge Ram 2500 is generally considered costly to own. Insurance costs are moderate, but fuel economy is poor, especially with gasoline engines. Maintenance and repair costs can be significant due to the age of the vehicle and potential for breakdowns. Cummins diesel models may have higher initial repair costs, but can be more durable long-term if properly maintained. Expect to spend a significant amount on repairs as the truck ages. Rust repair can also be a major expense.
2004 Dodge Ram 2500 Fuel Efficiency
Fuel Type
Diesel
Fuel Capacity
-
City Mileage
-
Highway Mileage
-
2004 Dodge Ram 2500 Recalls & Defects
Suspension
Recall date
2007-02-01
Recall no.
07e009000
Source
NHTSA
Summary
Certain LKI Enterprises, Inc., Brand Name Superlift Suspension, Pitman Arms Sold AS Replacement Equipment FOR 2003-2007 Dodge RAM 2500 and 3500 4X4 Light Trucks. DUE TO Inadequate Heat Treatment During Production, THE Affected Pitman Arms MAY Develop Cracks IN THE Upper Splined Attachment Attachment TO THE Steering Output Shaft. Movement Between THE Pitman ARM and THE Output Shaft MAY Deform Splines, Resulting IN Premature Wear and Fatigue Failure OF THE Affected Pitman Arm.
Consequence
Pitman ARM Wear or Failure MAY Lead TO Loss OF Vehicle Control, Possibly Resulting IN A Vehicle Crash.
Remedy
LKI Will Notify Owners and Replace THE Pitman Arm, IF Necessary. THE Recall Began ON March 12, 2007. Owners MAY Contact LKI AT 1-800-551-4955.
Notes
LKI Recall NO. 07-01pit.this Recall Only Pertains TO Replacement Lki, Superlift Suspension Kits,and HAS NO Relation TO ANY Original Equipment Installed ON Dodge RAM 4X4 Light Trucks Manufactured BY Daimlerchrysler.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.
Power Train:automatic Transmission
Recall date
2003-12-04
Recall no.
03v503000
Source
NHTSA
Summary
ON Certain Pickup Trucks, THE Transfer Case TO Transmission Attaching Fasteners MAY NOT BE Tightened Correctly. This Could Cause THE Transmission Adapter or Transfer Case Housing TO Crack and Leak Fluid.
Consequence
Continued Operation CAN Result IN Propeller Shaft Separation and Damage TO Fuel System Components, Which Could Lead TO A Fuel Leak. Fluid And/Or Fuel Leakage IN THE Presence OF AN Ignition Source CAN Cause AN Underbody Fire.
Remedy
Dealers Will Retighten THE Transfer Case TO Transmission Fasteners. Owner Notification Began ON December 22, 2003. Owners Should Contact Daimlerchrysler AT 1-800-992-1997.
Notes
Daimlerchrysler Recall NO. C39.customers CAN Also Contact THE National Highway Traffic Safety Administration's Auto Safety Hotline AT 1-888-Dash-2-dot (1-888-327-4236).
Equipment:other:labels
Recall date
2004-05-06
Recall no.
04v221000
Source
NHTSA
Summary
THE Vehicle Certification Label ON Some Pickup Trucks Lists Incorrect Tire, Wheel, and Recommended Inflation Pressure Information Which Does NOT Conform TO THE Requirements OF Federal Motor Vehicle Safety Standard NO. 120, 'tire Selection and Rims FOR Vehicles Other Than Passenger Cars.'
Consequence
Installing THE Incorrect Tire/Rim Sizes and Loading THE Vehicle TO THE Weights Shown ON THE Label CAN Cause Tire Failure and Result IN A Crash Without Warning.
Remedy
Owners Will BE Provided With Vehicle Certification Label Overlays Containing THE Corrected Information Relative TO Vehicle Tire and RIM Size, and Recommended Inflation Pressure. This Recall Began ON MAY 5, 2004. Owners Should Contact Daimlerchrysler AT 1-800-853-1403.
Notes
Daimlerchrysler Recall NO. D24.customers CAN Also Contact THE National Highway Traffic Safety Administration's Auto Safety Hotline AT 1-888-Dash-2-dot (1-888-327-4236).
Power Train:automatic Transmission:lever and Linkage:column Shift
Recall date
2005-10-06
Recall no.
05v462000
Source
NHTSA
Summary
ON Certain Pickup Trucks Equipped With Diesel Engines and Automatic Transmissions, IN AN Attempt TO Exit THE Vehicle Quickly Without Shutting OFF THE Engine and Removing THE Key, THE Driver MAY Inadvertently Leave THE Automatic Transmission Shift Control IN Indicated Reverse.
Consequence
This Error IS AN Unintended Action That MAY Result IN A Lack OF Transmission Park Pawl Engagement and Possibly Delayed Rearward Movement OF THE Vehicle.
Remedy
Dealers Will Perform A Software Modification TO Equip These Vehicles With AN Out-Of-Park Alarm. Owners MAY Contact Daimlerchrysler AT 1-800-853-1403.
Notes
Daimlerchrysler Campaign NO. E17.this Action IS Deemed A Safety Improvement Campaign and IS NOT Being Conducted Under THE Safety Act.the Company HAS Informed Nhtsa That IT Will Provide THE Modifications Described Above Free OF Charge.
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.
Steering:linkages:tie ROD Assembly
Recall date
2011-07-06
Recall no.
11v350000
Source
NHTSA
Summary
Chrysler IS Recalling Certain Model Year 2008-2011 Dodge RAM 2500/3500 4x4, Manufactured From February 14, 2008, Through March 28, 2011; Model Year 2008-2011 Dodge RAM 3500 Cab Chassis 4x2, Manufactured From February 14, 2008, Through March 28, 2011; and Model Year 2008 Dodge RAM 1500 Mega Cab 4x4, Manufactured From February 14, 2008, Through August 15, 2008, Because THE Left TIE ROD Ball Stud MAY Fracture. This Condition Tends TO Occur During Low Speed Parking LOT Type Maneuvers When THE Customer IS Making A Tight Turn. Additionally, Model Year 2003-2008 Dodge RAM 2500/3500 Vehicles MAY Have Received THE Affected TIE ROD Assembly AS A Replacement Part During Normal Service.
Consequence
This Condition Could Result IN THE Potential Loss OF Directional Stability IN THE Left Hand Front Wheel, Increasing THE Risk OF A Crash.
Remedy
Dealers Will Inspect THE TIE ROD Ends FOR Relative Orientation and Replace THE Left Outer TIE ROD AS Required and Perform A Front END TOE Alignment AS Needed. This Service Will BE Performed Free OF Charge. THE Safety Recall Began ON October 3, 2011. Owners MAY Contact Chrysler AT 1-800-853-1403.
Notes
Chrysler Safety Recall NO. L16.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> .
Steering:linkages:tie ROD Assembly
Recall date
2013-11-06
Recall no.
13v528000
Source
NHTSA
Summary
Chrysler Group LLC (Chrysler) IS Recalling Certain Model Year 2003-2008 Dodge RAM 2500 4X4 and 3500 4x4, Model Year 2007-2008 Dodge RAM 3500 4X2 Cab Chassis and Model Year 2006-2008 Dodge RAM 1500 Mega Cab 4X4 Trucks Manufactured February 12, 2002, Through February 13, 2008. THE Left TIE ROD Assembly MAY Break.
Consequence
A Failure OF THE TIE ROD Assembly MAY Result IN A Loss OF Steering Control, Increasing THE Risk OF A Crash.
Remedy
Chrysler Notified Owners and Launched ITS Recall Campaign IN January 2014. Owners MAY Contact Chrysler AT 1-800-247-9753. Chrysler's Recall Campaign Number IS N62.
Notes
This Recall Supersedes Chrysler TIE ROD Recall 11v350. Vehicles That Were Previously Remedied Under Recall 11v350 ARE Also Affected BY This Campaign. 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.
2004 Dodge Ram 2500 Warranty
Basic
Original warranty
0 months / No data
Estimated remaining
Expired
Powertrain
Original warranty
0 months / No data
Estimated remaining
Expired
Rust
Original warranty
0 months / No data
Estimated remaining
Expired
2004 Dodge Ram 2500 Insurance
Insurance for a 2004 Dodge Ram 2500 is moderately priced, reflecting its status as a Pickup Truck with strong safety ratings and
reasonable repair costs.
reasonable repair costs.
How Does the 2004 Dodge Ram 2500 Compare to Other Pickup Truck?
Compared to its rivals like the Ford Super Duty (F-250/F-350) and Chevrolet Silverado/GMC Sierra 2500HD, the 2004 Dodge Ram 2500 offered competitive performance, especially with the Cummins diesel, which was known for its torque. In terms of features, it was generally on par with its competitors, although some may have offered slightly more advanced tech options.
Reliability is a mixed bag; some owners report excellent longevity, while others experience frequent issues. The Ford Super Duty is generally considered slightly more reliable, while the GM trucks offer a smoother ride. Price-wise, the Ram 2500 is often more affordable on the used market.
Alternatives to the 2004 Dodge Ram 2500 include the 2004-2007 Ford F-250/F-350 with the 6.0L or 7.3L Powerstroke diesel (the 6.0L can be problematic, so research is key) and the 2004-2006 Chevrolet Silverado/GMC Sierra 2500HD with the Duramax diesel. Each has its strengths and weaknesses, so the best choice depends on individual needs and priorities. If reliability is paramount, the Ford or GM trucks might be a slightly better choice, but if you're looking for a powerful and affordable truck, the Ram 2500 is worth considering.
Reliability is a mixed bag; some owners report excellent longevity, while others experience frequent issues. The Ford Super Duty is generally considered slightly more reliable, while the GM trucks offer a smoother ride. Price-wise, the Ram 2500 is often more affordable on the used market.
Alternatives to the 2004 Dodge Ram 2500 include the 2004-2007 Ford F-250/F-350 with the 6.0L or 7.3L Powerstroke diesel (the 6.0L can be problematic, so research is key) and the 2004-2006 Chevrolet Silverado/GMC Sierra 2500HD with the Duramax diesel. Each has its strengths and weaknesses, so the best choice depends on individual needs and priorities. If reliability is paramount, the Ford or GM trucks might be a slightly better choice, but if you're looking for a powerful and affordable truck, the Ram 2500 is worth considering.
Ranks #515 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★) |
| 515 | 2004 Dodge Ram 2500 | (5.0★) |
Final Verdict: Is the 2004 Dodge Ram 2500 a Good Pickup Truck?
The 2004 Dodge Ram 2500 is a solid option for those needing a capable and relatively affordable heavy-duty truck on the used market. It's ideal for buyers who prioritize towing capacity and don't mind a more rugged driving experience. It's worth buying, but only after a thorough inspection and with a realistic budget for potential repairs.
The Cummins diesel models are generally more desirable due to their power and longevity, but be prepared for higher maintenance costs. Look for rust-free examples with documented maintenance history. Avoid trucks with excessive modifications or signs of neglect. It's not recommended for buyers seeking the latest technology or prioritizing fuel economy.
The Cummins diesel models are generally more desirable due to their power and longevity, but be prepared for higher maintenance costs. Look for rust-free examples with documented maintenance history. Avoid trucks with excessive modifications or signs of neglect. It's not recommended for buyers seeking the latest technology or prioritizing fuel economy.
Eric the Viking on February 20, 2021
best bang for buckthis truck dose the job, its a ok work truck, 5.7L Hemi is not got the power I was used to with my Ford 460bb. and gas milage is worse than my F250 with the 460 I got 11mpg with Dodge 2500 5.7L I get 9mpg if im lucky
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Hockeywall on February 14, 2021
Bought 2004.5 model new diesel, drove over 300,000A great work horse, bullet proof Cummins. Only fault rusted rear passenger side fender. Used for business, heavy deliveries. I still wish I had this truck.
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Am63 on August 15, 2020
I've owned it since new. My frame and body is rustI bought my car brand new in 2005, within a few years my rear fender started rusting out and I replace them, then within a few more years they've rusted again to the point where they have to be fully replaced but the worst part is my frame when put up on a lift I was told is rusted to the point, where the body shop told me, It's not worth putting any money into. Mind you this truck only has 80,000 original miles! Also in 2010 only five years after buying it my transmission pan rusted through having to replace it! Also within five years of owning the truck the fuel rail that supplies the lifeline to your engine rusted out which was also dangerous because the fuel was leaking onto the motor! Both my exhaust manifolds have rusted out to the point where they leaked that was a $3000 repair! Eight years into owning the car
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Davidjr37 on December 8, 2019
Previous owners ruined it.I bought my 04 Cummins 2500 in 2017. Mind you i'm the 3erd owner. the truck smoked more then I liked- previous owner put too large of a turbo in ($1000). A hole in the intercooler( $400). Fuel tank strap rusted out losing my Fuel tank ($700) then the Transmission at about 190,000 miles ($6000) parts and labor for a new OD housing, Torque converter, Billet input shaft, and upgraded shift module. Then the rust on the frame totaling the truck. I will end with this there are many known issues with these but if you can find one that someone else didn't abuse or try and "xxxxxxx it up" these are reliable trucks with small upgrades to the fuel and steering system.
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Mole on April 18, 2019
Best truck I ever owned!04, 5.7 litre gas engine with regular maintenance 332000 miles and still going strong.......kinda speaks for itself. I use the truck for a work truck as well as for commuting . Like it so well I just purchased another with same specs and the same year only in rwd instead of fwd for hauling a fifth wheel.
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Jerry on January 11, 2019
poor interior dash design,poor paint and clear .very unsatisfied with this truck, invested as much in replacement parts as was the original purchase price. replaced entire front of engine, and entire front suspension including steering, contacted crysler, no help because i replaced parts myself.
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Debow3113 on December 12, 2018
Best truck I?ve ever ownedAmazing on and off road, great power, easy and cheap to maintain, long lasting, reliable, comfortable, looks good, rides smooth, can haul anything, better then fords
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Cumminsmeneley on July 27, 2018
04 crew cab dodge 2500 CumminsI traded in my 08 f150 for this more reliable 2004 dodge Cummins truck. The Cummins engine performs great at 130,000 miles. The ride is bumpier than my 08 f150. The comfort was better in my 08 f150 but what I like about this truck is no outside noise coming in. My 08 f150 had a terrible wind noise coming in. The A/C performs better in 04 dodge than my 08 ford. The fuel mpg is 21mpg hwy and in my f150 was 16mpg hwy. Once I upgraded the transmission and have it leveled this truck will ride better. This is the best truck I have ever own.
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Buckeye Man on March 25, 2018
Best pickup truck ever!Bought this Ram new in October of 2003 and have logged 183000 miles on the 5.7 l Hemi V-8. Originally bought to tow a 32' Prowler travel trailer and it's loaded with goodies like the trailer tow & snow plow packages. I never pushed snow with it but there is extra cooling and steering features with that package that sure don't hurt. I've replaced a couple of u-joints and would recommend putting new joints with zirk fittings in them if you should need to. Even with this mileage the Hemi engine @ 345 HP is still as tight and smooth as day one. We test drove Ford & Chevy trucks before buying and they weren't even close. My brother bought a Toyoto about the same time and claimed it was the best but now he's driving a 2017 Ram 2500 with a Cummins diesel and says the Toyoto was a joke compared to Ram.
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Mike K on February 12, 2018
Best truck I've ownedThis truck is awesome. Plenty of power. Great for snowplowing huge amounts of snow. Well taken care of. No issues. It pains me to sell it.
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Simon A
Simon is a contributor to VinCheck, where he provides articles and reviews on various automotive topics. His work focuses on delivering accurate and up-to-date information about used cars, helping readers make informed decisions.