by VIN, Year, Make, Model by License Plate

2005 Dodge Ram 2500 Overview, Reviews, Ratings & Specs

Rating: 4.56
Based on 25 Owner Reviews
Cathleen V | March 31, 2025
The 2005 Dodge Ram 2500 is a heavy-duty pickup truck, part of the third-generation Ram (2003-2009). Available in regular, Quad Cab, and Mega Cab body styles, it offered robust performance. Key trims included ST, SLT, and Laramie. When new, prices ranged from approximately $25,000 to $40,000 depending on configuration. Its Cummins diesel engine option and aggressive styling contributed to its popularity, offering considerable towing and hauling capabilities.
The Good

The 2005 Dodge Ram 2500 boasts powerful performance, especially with the Cummins diesel. Its bold design appeals emotionally, while its towing capacity and payload offer practical benefits. It provides a comfortable ride for a heavy-duty truck and represents good value for those needing a workhorse. Reliability can be good, particularly with proper maintenance.

The Bad

Potential weaknesses of the 2005 Dodge Ram 2500 include front-end suspension issues (ball joints, steering components), potential rust problems, and transmission issues, especially in earlier models. Fuel economy is generally poor, particularly with the gasoline engines. Electrical problems can also occur. It's crucial to inspect for these issues before purchasing.

2005 Dodge Ram 2500: Quick Overview

  • Engine Options:
    - 5.7L HEMI V8: This gasoline engine was a popular choice for its blend of power and reasonable (for a heavy-duty truck) fuel economy.
    - 5.9L Cummins Turbo Diesel Inline-6: Known for its durability and immense torque, the Cummins diesel was the preferred engine for heavy towing.
  • Horsepower:
    - 5.7L HEMI V8: Around 345 horsepower.
    - 5.9L Cummins Turbo Diesel: Around 325 horsepower.
  • Fuel Economy:
    - 5.7L HEMI V8: 12-15 mpg combined (estimated).
    - 5.9L Cummins Turbo Diesel: 14-18 mpg combined (estimated). Fuel economy is highly variable based on load and driving conditions.
  • 0-60 Times:
    - Not a primary focus for heavy-duty trucks. Expect 0-60 times in the 8-10 second range for the Hemi and slightly slower for the diesel under normal conditions.
  • Towing Capacity:
    - Varies greatly depending on configuration (cab style, drivetrain, axle ratio). Can range from 9,000 to over 12,000 lbs for properly equipped models, especially with the Cummins diesel.
  • Trim Level Features:
    - ST: Base model, typically with vinyl seats, basic features, and manual windows/locks.
    - SLT: Mid-range trim, offering cloth seats, power windows/locks, and upgraded audio.
    - Laramie: Top-tier trim, featuring leather seats, premium audio, dual-zone climate control, and other luxury features. Each trim level offers various options packages to further customize the vehicle.

2005 Dodge Ram 2500 Specifications

Vehicle Information
Year 2005
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 4-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
Ownership
History
All History
Events
NMVTIS Title
History Check
Salvage/Rebuilt
Check
Accident
Check
Theft
Check
Open Lien
Check
Past Sale
Listings
Safety
Recalls
Odometer
Check
Market Price
Analysis

What Problems Does the 2005 Dodge Ram 2500 Have?

The 2005 Dodge Ram 2500, like other heavy-duty trucks of its era, has several commonly reported problems. Front-end suspension issues, including premature wear of ball joints and steering components, are frequent concerns, leading to "death wobble" in some cases. Rust, especially in areas with road salt, is another common issue, affecting body panels and the undercarriage. Transmission problems, particularly with the automatic transmissions, have been reported, especially in earlier years of the third generation (2003-2004). The 2005 model benefits from some improvements compared to the initial years.

Electrical glitches, such as issues with the instrument cluster and wiring harnesses, can also occur. The Cummins diesel engine is generally considered reliable, but fuel injector problems and lift pump failures can happen, particularly with neglected maintenance. Regular oil changes and fuel filter replacements are crucial. Recalls have addressed issues such as potential fuel leakage and airbag malfunctions. It's important to check the vehicle's VIN for any outstanding recalls before purchasing. Long-term reliability hinges on regular maintenance and addressing issues promptly to prevent them from escalating.

How long will the 2005 Dodge Ram 2500 last?

With proper maintenance, a 2005 Dodge Ram 2500 can easily exceed 200,000 miles or more, providing 15+ years of service. The Cummins diesel engine is known for its longevity, often reaching 300,000 miles or beyond with meticulous care. However, neglected maintenance, especially concerning the front-end suspension, transmission, and cooling system, can significantly shorten its lifespan. Rust can also be a major factor in reducing durability, particularly in regions with harsh winters. Therefore, consistent maintenance is key to maximizing the vehicle's lifespan and overall reliability over time.

What Technology & Safety Features are Included?

The 2005 Dodge Ram 2500 offered relatively basic tech and safety features for its time. Standard features included a basic AM/FM radio and a manually adjustable driver's seat on lower trims. Higher trims, like the Laramie, offered features such as a CD player, upgraded audio systems (Infinity), and power-adjustable seats. Navigation was not commonly available.

Driver-assistance features were limited compared to modern vehicles. ABS was standard, and some trims offered cruise control. Electronic Stability Control (ESC) was not widely available in 2005 heavy-duty trucks. Safety features included front airbags. Side airbags were an optional feature on some trims.

Crash-test ratings from the NHTSA (National Highway Traffic Safety Administration) varied. While the Ram 2500 generally performed adequately in frontal crash tests, side-impact protection was less impressive. The IIHS (Insurance Institute for Highway Safety) ratings were not as comprehensive for heavy-duty trucks of that era. The technology reflected the standards of the time, emphasizing basic functionality over advanced driver aids or infotainment options. The available features catered to comfort and convenience, rather than cutting-edge technology.

What Colors Options are Available?

Exterior Colors
Bright White
Black Clearcoat
Bright Silver Metallic Clearcoat
Flame Red Clearcoat
Patriot Blue Pearlcoat
Stone White Clearcoat
Mineral Gray Metallic Clearcoat
Inferno Red Crystal Pearlcoat
Forest Green Pearlcoat
Khaki Metallic Clearcoat
Light Khaki Metallic Clearcoat
Interior Colors
Dark Slate Gray
Khaki

2005 Dodge Ram 2500 Prices and Market Value

When new, the 2005 Dodge Ram 2500 ranged from approximately $25,000 to $40,000, depending on the trim, engine, and options. As of today, used market prices typically range from $8,000 to $20,000, depending on condition, mileage, and configuration. Depreciation has been significant, but the Cummins diesel models hold their value relatively well due to their reputation for durability and strong demand. Factors affecting resale value include engine type (diesel commands a premium), trim level (Laramie models are worth more), overall condition, maintenance history, and geographical location (trucks are often more valuable in areas where they're commonly used for work).

2005 Dodge Ram 2500 Cost of Ownership

The 2005 Dodge Ram 2500 is generally considered costly to own. Insurance costs can be moderate to high, depending on driving record and location. Fuel economy is poor, especially with the gasoline engines. Maintenance and repair costs can be substantial, particularly if major components like the transmission or suspension require attention. While the Cummins diesel can be more durable, repairs to the diesel fuel system can be expensive. Long-term ownership requires a commitment to regular maintenance to mitigate potential issues. Overall, it's not an economical vehicle to operate.

2005 Dodge Ram 2500 Fuel Efficiency

Fuel Type Gasoline
Fuel Capacity -
City Mileage -
Highway Mileage -

2005 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: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: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.
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 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

2005 Dodge Ram 2500 Insurance

Insurance for a 2005 Dodge Ram 2500 is moderately priced, reflecting its status as a Pickup Truck with strong safety ratings and
reasonable repair costs.

How Does the 2005 Dodge Ram 2500 Compare to Other Pickup Truck?

The 2005 Dodge Ram 2500 competes with the Ford F-250 and Chevrolet Silverado 2500HD. In terms of performance, the Ram 2500 with the Cummins diesel offers comparable or superior torque for towing compared to the Ford Power Stroke and Chevy Duramax diesels. Features are generally similar across the brands, with comparable trim levels offering similar amenities. Reliability is a mixed bag; while the Cummins engine is lauded, the Ram's front-end suspension and transmission have known weaknesses compared to the Ford and Chevy.

Price-wise, the Ram 2500 is typically similar to its rivals in the used market. However, potential buyers should be aware of the Ram's potential reliability concerns. If reliability is a top priority, a well-maintained Ford F-250 or Chevrolet Silverado 2500HD might be a slightly better choice, particularly models with meticulously documented maintenance records. Each truck has its loyal following, so personal preference and specific needs often dictate the final decision. Considering all factors, none is definitively "better," but focusing on maintenance history is crucial.

Final Verdict: Is the 2005 Dodge Ram 2500 a Good Pickup Truck?

The 2005 Dodge Ram 2500 is ideal for buyers who need a capable heavy-duty truck for towing and hauling, particularly those who appreciate the Cummins diesel engine. It's worth buying *used* if you find a well-maintained example with a solid service history and a pre-purchase inspection reveals no major issues. Prioritize models with the Cummins diesel and higher trim levels like the Laramie for better value and features. Be prepared for potentially higher maintenance costs and thoroughly inspect the front-end suspension and transmission before committing to a purchase. If budget allows and heavy-duty capability is essential, it can be a worthwhile option.

2005 Dodge Ram 2500 Owner Reviews

4.56
Consumer Rating, Based on 25 Consumer Reviews
Overall rating
Cancel
Thank You for Your Review!

We truly appreciate the time and effort you took to share your experience with us.

Uh oh!

Something went wrong, please try again later.

TJ on December 3, 2023

Tons of miles little repair

I have 411,988 miles in my 2005 dodge ram Laramie 4x4 6 speed Cummins diesel.. For an 05 it's unusually loaded… power leather heated seats factory moonroof factory blue tooth navigation … I don't know of any option not ordered. This truck runs and drives absolutely amazingly. Only second clutch second set of injectors.Original fuel delivery offers no issues … I service myself with only the best OEM or better parts .Custom dual exhaust sounds awesome…Id drive it anywhere anytime.Have 411k in this and 352k on my 2004 Hemi ram…. I call them my Semi and my Hemi…750,000 miles between the 2 and both original drivetrains…. Love it when people say Japanese cars are the best… I say look at my 2 Dodge odometers!!!

Was this review helpful?
1
0

NH CUMMINS on December 17, 2019

Cummins - Battle Tested

Best Truck I ever owned. My 2005 Dodge 2500 5.9L Cummins has been truly tested. I bought this RAM brand new and its first task, after a 1000 mile break in, was to tow my 10,000 lb boat (270 Sea Ray + triple axle trailer) from Portland Oregon to Boston, MA. It was a perfect break in for the new 5.9L Cummins engine. But I don't just tow my boat. I use this truck as a daily driver (60 daily commute) + weekend warrior. On the weekends, we (wife and I) explore New England. I have been 4 wheeling in NH and ME while carrying two kayaks. It's runs great in the snow, mud, rocks and even on snowmobile roads. (That was unintentional - we found ourselves on a snowmobile trail by accident. But the 35 inch wheels got us out with no problem). BTW - I put 35 inch wheels on by only adding a 2.5 in leveler to the front end. No lift needed. Had to replace the transmission at about 125K, but had a local guy put in a bomber transmission. He custom builds transmissions for Truck Pulls. I did learn that Diesel fuel does gel in cold temps. We went skiing in NH and stayed in a hotel. I did not plug in the truck that night, but even if I did, it would not have mattered. It got down to -23F that night and then next morning the fuel in the truck was totally frozen. After working with AAA for an half hour we concluded that the cold temps fully gelled my fuel and while the product (Diesel 911) can de-gel the fuel in the tank, the fuel filer was still fully frozen. Had the truck towed (100 mi) back home. Put it in a garage for 2 days and it started without a problem. Now I treat the fuel whenever the temps drop below 32F. Best truck I have ever owned. They do salt the roads in the winter in New England, so I undercoat the truck with Fluid Film every year to prevent corrosion. I trust this truck will get me anywhere, anytime and in any temps. I plan to keep this truck for the rest of my life. That 5.9L Cummins will likely outlive me.

Was this review helpful?
1
0

CMiller on November 15, 2019

$ 1400.00 to fix failed ecm. 37 day wait

51,000 miles ecm failure. Its not bad but it was left by my deceased husband. This truck is lifted 8 inches and is it really fun to drive until death wobble sets in, Chrysler has known about this for many years, yet they choose to ignore.

Was this review helpful?
0
1

jefcollado on May 5, 2019

Towing beast!

This Truck has all the tools one could want and more. Was amazed how easy it towed 3,000 pounds of rocks, like it wasn't there!

Was this review helpful?
1
0

Roger on April 25, 2019

This truck has never let me down

Best truck out there hands down. Tons of power and looks great. I only get great complements on this truck. Nothing beats a Dodge Ram with a Cummins.

Was this review helpful?
1
0

Camper Man on March 26, 2019

I bought the exact vehicle I need for the job.

My 2005 Dodge 2500 5.9 Cummins is perfect for the job of towing my 31 ft travel trailer. I love the vehicle so far. The interior is perfect. Everything works fine. It even has a fifth wheel in the bed for out next trailer.

Was this review helpful?
1
0

LKOT509 on March 24, 2019

Bulletproof Engine! Other Parts? Not So Much!

2005 2500 5.9 4x4 Lariat Sport w/ 130,000 miles. I bought it 10 years ago with 40,000 miles. PLUSES - With proper maintenance the engine will last a lifetime. Capable of pulling your house off it's foundation! MINUSES - 4-Speed transmission said adios at about 100,000. Every kind of joint - ball joints, ujoints, tie rod ends were exceedingly cheap non-greasable from the factory. I just changed all of them (seriously ALL OF THEM) at 120,000 and now changing the steering gear with a “redhead” upgraded design. Transmission rebuild was about $4K and just the parts for “joints” all over the truck were about $2.5K - I did the work myself. I LOVE THIS TRUCK! Unfortunately the maintenance of a 3/4 ton is much higher than a 1/2 ton. If I needed another diesel for, say, pulling a 5th wheel, I would buy the new RAM 2500 diesel. Otherwise, I would buy a F-150 with the V6 turbo and the max tow package for my 7300 pound trailer.

Was this review helpful?
1
0

Dodge cummins on January 31, 2019

So far so good I love the truck

The truck is great and so far I havnt had anything I have regretted about my purchase. Truck was super clean and seems very well taken care of.

Was this review helpful?
1
0

TIPM Headache on December 5, 2018

TIPM (Totally Integrated Power Modules) are bad

Strong engine, but electrical system (TIPM) is prone to fail. When this fuse box integrated circuit fails the truck is dead. These TIPM cost $1,000 dollars to replace. Not good.

Was this review helpful?
1
0

Ken on November 28, 2018

Ya the dest truck I ever owned that?s why I went.

It was the best truck I ever had that?s why I bought a new one same truck an I love this truck meets all my needs

Was this review helpful?
1
0
Author Image
Cathleen V

Cathleen is an exceptional freelance writer covering hot topics in the automotive world from a gearhead's perspective. Her articles delve into various aspects of automotive technology and history, offering readers detailed insights into engine performance, reliability, and maintenance. Through her engaging and informative writing, Cathleen provides valuable information to automotive enthusiasts and consumers alike, helping them make informed decisions about vehicle maintenance and purchases.