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2006 Dodge Ram 2500 Overview, Reviews, Ratings & Specs

Rating: 4.44
Based on 48 Owner Reviews
Simon A | March 31, 2025
The 2006 Dodge Ram 2500 is a heavy-duty pickup truck known for its robust performance and bold styling. Part of the third generation Ram (2003-2009), it came in Regular Cab, Quad Cab, and Mega Cab body styles. Key trims included the ST, SLT, and Laramie. New pricing ranged from approximately $25,000 to $45,000 depending on configuration and options. The Ram 2500 stood out for its powerful Cummins diesel engine option and distinctive "big rig" design.
The Good

The 2006 Dodge Ram 2500 offers strong towing and hauling capabilities thanks to its powerful engine options, appealing to practical buyers. Its bold, aggressive design evokes a sense of power and capability, satisfying emotional desires. While not the most fuel-efficient, it can be a reliable workhorse if well-maintained, offering solid value for its capability.

The Bad

The 2006 Dodge Ram 2500 is known for potential issues with its front-end suspension components, particularly ball joints and track bars. Rust can also be a problem, especially in regions with road salt. Fuel economy, especially with the gas engines, is not a strong point. Some owners have reported electrical issues and premature wear of certain components.

2006 Dodge Ram 2500: Quick Overview

  • Engine Options:
    • 5.7L HEMI V8: Around 345 horsepower
    • 5.9L Cummins Turbo Diesel I6: Around 325 horsepower and 610 lb-ft of torque
    • 8.0L Magnum V10 (Rare): Around 310 horsepower
  • Horsepower: Ranged from 310 to 345 hp depending on the engine.
  • Fuel Economy:
    • 5.7L HEMI V8: 12-14 mpg city / 16-18 mpg highway (estimates)
    • 5.9L Cummins Turbo Diesel I6: 14-17 mpg city / 18-21 mpg highway (estimates)
  • 0-60 Times: Not a primary focus for this truck, but expect approximately 7-9 seconds for the gas engines and slightly longer for the diesel.
  • Towing Capacity: Ranges from 10,000 lbs to over 12,000 lbs depending on engine, cab configuration, and axle ratio. The Cummins diesel offered the highest towing capacity.
  • Trim-Level Features:
    • ST: Base model, typically with vinyl seats, basic audio system, and limited features.
    • SLT: Mid-range trim, offering cloth seats, upgraded audio, power windows and locks, and chrome exterior trim.
    • Laramie: Top-tier trim, featuring leather seats, premium audio system, dual-zone climate control, woodgrain interior accents, and more luxurious features.

2006 Dodge Ram 2500 Specifications

Vehicle Information
Year 2006
Make Dodge
Model Ram 2500
Trim -
Style Quad Cab 4WD
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 5.9-L L-6
Engine Size 5.9L
Engine Cylinders 6
Transmission Automatic
Transmission Type Automatic
Transmission Speeds -
Drivetrain Four-Wheel Drive
Additional Features
Anti-Brake System -
Steering Type -
Pricing
Manufacturer Suggested Retail Price (MSRP) -
Invoice Price -
Delivery Charges -

Vehicle History Report

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Analysis

What Problems Does the 2006 Dodge Ram 2500 Have?

The 2006 Dodge Ram 2500 has several frequently reported problems. Front-end suspension issues are common, particularly premature wear of ball joints, track bars, and steering components, leading to "death wobble" at higher mileages. Rust is another concern, especially in areas with salted roads, affecting the body, frame, and brake lines. The 5.7L HEMI engine can experience issues with valve train components and "hemi tick." The Cummins diesel is generally more reliable, but fuel injectors and lift pumps can fail. Transmission problems, especially with the automatic transmissions, have been reported.

Recalls for the 2006 Ram 2500 included issues related to the fuel system, airbags, and potentially faulty windshield wiper modules. Long-term reliability concerns revolve around the durability of the front suspension, the potential for rust, and the lifespan of the automatic transmissions. Electrical issues, such as malfunctioning sensors and wiring problems, can also arise as the vehicle ages. Regular maintenance, including frequent inspection and replacement of wear items, is crucial for maintaining the reliability of a 2006 Ram 2500.

How long will the 2006 Dodge Ram 2500 last?

A well-maintained 2006 Dodge Ram 2500 can easily reach 200,000 to 300,000 miles or more. With proper care, including regular oil changes, fluid flushes, and addressing issues promptly, these trucks can provide many years of service. The Cummins diesel engine, in particular, is known for its longevity. However, long-term durability hinges heavily on maintenance habits. Neglecting front-end suspension issues, ignoring rust, or delaying repairs can significantly shorten the vehicle's lifespan. Weaknesses over time include increased susceptibility to electrical problems, rust perforation, and the eventual need for major component replacements, such as the transmission or engine overhaul.

What Technology & Safety Features are Included?

The 2006 Dodge Ram 2500's built-in tech and entertainment features were relatively basic by modern standards. Standard features typically included a basic AM/FM radio with a CD player. Higher trims offered upgraded audio systems with features like satellite radio and multi-disc CD changers. Navigation was available as an option on higher trims, but it was a rudimentary system compared to modern GPS units. Driver-assistance features were minimal, with options like cruise control and rear parking sensors (on some trims).

Safety features included standard front airbags and anti-lock brakes (ABS). Side airbags were optional. Electronic stability control (ESC) was not widely available on this model year.

Crash test ratings from the NHTSA (National Highway Traffic Safety Administration) and IIHS (Insurance Institute for Highway Safety) should be consulted for specific crash performance data. Keep in mind that safety standards and testing procedures have evolved significantly since 2006. While the Ram 2500 provided a degree of occupant protection due to its size and weight, its safety technology was limited compared to newer vehicles. Optional features included adjustable pedals, which improved driver comfort and positioning.

What Colors Options are Available?

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

2006 Dodge Ram 2500 Prices and Market Value

The 2006 Dodge Ram 2500 had a new price ranging from approximately $25,000 to $45,000, depending on the trim, engine, and options. As of today, used market prices typically range from $8,000 to $20,000 or more, depending on condition, mileage, and configuration. Depreciation has been significant over the years. Factors affecting resale value include the engine (Cummins diesels command a premium), overall condition (rust-free trucks are highly valued), mileage, trim level (Laramie trims fetch higher prices), and location (demand varies regionally). Trucks with documented maintenance history also hold their value better. Low mileage examples, particularly those with the diesel engine, remain relatively valuable due to their desirable capabilities and increasing scarcity.

2006 Dodge Ram 2500 Cost of Ownership

The 2006 Dodge Ram 2500 is generally considered costly to own. Insurance costs can be higher due to its size and potential repair costs. Fuel economy is poor, especially with the gas engines. Maintenance and repair expenses can be significant, particularly concerning front-end suspension work and potential rust repairs. The Cummins diesel engine typically requires more expensive maintenance, such as fuel injector replacements. While the initial purchase price of a used model may be attractive, long-term ownership can strain the budget due to higher operating and maintenance costs.

2006 Dodge Ram 2500 Fuel Efficiency

Fuel Type Diesel
Fuel Capacity -
City Mileage 0 mpg
Highway Mileage 0 miles/gallon

2006 Dodge Ram 2500 Recalls & Defects

Service Brakes, Hydraulic:antilock/Traction Control/Electronic Limited Slip:control Unit/module
Recall date 2006-02-09
Recall no. 06v038000
Source NHTSA
Summary ON Certain Pickup Trucks Equipped With Four-Wheel Antilock Brake Systems (Abs), THE ABS Electronic Control Unit (Ecu) MAY Cause A Loss OF Front TO Rear Brake Balance, and THE Rear Brakes Could Lock UP Prematurely During Certain Braking Conditions.
Consequence This Could Result IN A Loss OF Vehicle Control and Cause A Crash Without Warning.
Remedy Dealers Will Replace THE ABS Ecu. THE Recall IS Expected TO Begin During THE Week OF July 17, 2006. Owners MAY Contact Daimlerchrysler AT 1-800-853-1403.
Notes Daimlerchrysler Recall NO. F05.(Mitsubishi Recall NO. Sr-06-003).customers 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 Http://Www.safercar.gov.
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.
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.
Electrical System:ignition:switch
Recall date 2014-12-16
Recall no. 14v795000
Source NHTSA
Summary Chrysler Group LLC (Chrysler) IS Recalling Certain Model Year 2006-2007 Dodge RAM 1500, 2500, 3500, Dakota, and 2006 Mitsubishi Raider Vehicles Manufactured July 1, 2005, TO July 31, 2006 With Manual Transmissions. THE Return Springs IN THE Clutch Ignition Interlock Switch MAY Break.
Consequence Broken Springs CAN Result IN A No-Start Condition, or Cause Unintended Movement When THE Ignition IS Cranked, Increasing THE Risk OF A Vehicle Crash.
Remedy Chrysler Will Notify Owners, and Dealers Will Replace THE Clutch Ignition Interlock Switch, Free OF Charge. THE Recall Began ON March 27, 2015. Owners MAY Contact Chrysler Customer Service AT 1-800-853-1403. Chrysler's Number FOR This Recall IS P80.
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.

2006 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

2006 Dodge Ram 2500 Insurance

Insurance for a 2006 Dodge Ram 2500 is moderately priced, reflecting its status as a Pickup Truck with strong safety ratings and
reasonable repair costs.

How Does the 2006 Dodge Ram 2500 Compare to Other Pickup Truck?

The 2006 Dodge Ram 2500 competed primarily with the Ford F-250 and Chevrolet Silverado 2500HD. In terms of performance, the Ram's Cummins diesel offered competitive torque and towing capacity. The Ford F-250's Power Stroke diesel was a strong contender, while the Silverado 2500HD's Duramax diesel also provided excellent performance. Feature-wise, the Ram offered a unique "big rig" styling, but its interior and technology were generally less refined than the Ford and Chevrolet offerings. Reliability is a mixed bag; the Ram's front-end suspension is a known weak point, while the Ford Power Stroke diesels of this era had their own reliability issues. The Silverado 2500HD with the Duramax is generally considered to be more reliable overall.

In terms of price, the Ram was often positioned competitively. For someone prioritizing diesel performance and unique styling on a budget, the 2006 Ram 2500 is an option. However, for greater reliability and potentially better features, a comparable Chevrolet Silverado 2500HD with the Duramax diesel might be a better alternative. The Ford F-250 offers a similar experience but requires careful inspection due to the potential issues with the Power Stroke diesel engines of that era. Ultimately, the best choice depends on individual needs and priorities, along with a thorough inspection of any potential purchase.

Final Verdict: Is the 2006 Dodge Ram 2500 a Good Pickup Truck?

The 2006 Dodge Ram 2500 is ideal for someone needing a capable heavy-duty truck for towing and hauling, who appreciates its bold styling, and is comfortable with potentially higher maintenance costs. It's worth buying *used* if you find one in excellent condition, preferably with the Cummins diesel engine. Prioritize trucks that have been well-maintained and show minimal rust. A pre-purchase inspection by a qualified mechanic is essential, focusing on the front-end suspension, brakes, and potential rust issues. The Laramie trim offers more comfort and features, but the ST and SLT trims can be good value if the price is right. Be prepared for potentially higher running costs and factor those into your purchase decision. It's not ideal for someone seeking fuel efficiency or cutting-edge technology.

2006 Dodge Ram 2500 Owner Reviews

4.44
Consumer Rating, Based on 48 Consumer Reviews
Overall rating
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Big Poppa C on April 28, 2024

375,084 just warming up!!!!

Im the second owner of a 2006 Ram 3500 5.9 CUMMINS CREW CAB SLT Bighorn SRW. It is a 4x4 with the 8ft. bed. I am currently at 375,083 miles. I can recommend this truck being one of the most solid and dependable trucks I've ever had the privilege of owning. My grandfather purchased this brand new in 2005 and I inherited it in 2017. I put at least 60 miles on it daily. This is on the original block, and has not been overhauled. The transmission however was overhauled at 250,000 miles. The fuel injectors were warrantied at that same service. I have had to obviously do typical wear and tear on the vehicle such as ball joints wheel bearings shocks Etc. However overall I would say the reliability has been outstanding. I would not have a single problem getting in the vehicle and driving across the country right at this moment without a single concern for reliability .

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VanillaGorilla73 on April 14, 2024

Awesome Truck!

I have owned my 06 Megacab since October of 05. I purchased it with 3 miles on it and it now has 522k! There has been some repairs but still well worth the investment.

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Angela Werner on March 27, 2024

Old Reliable

Have owned my 2006, 3500 Dodge Cummins since new. After 18 years it is still a pleasure to drive and has never disappointed. So happy I bought this truck. Powerful, reliable and strong. Great truck! I love it!

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Jacques on March 11, 2024

The truck that could.

I've owned it since 2006, 18 years and 5.9 is still bomb proof at 210K. I rebuilt and strengthen the transmission at 160K besides that I've had no issues besides wear and tear that was expected. New ball joints at 120k, new shocks every 80k. This truck won't let you down.

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Danny / Captain Awesome on September 2, 2023

The Reason I bought a 2007 5.9 Cummins

So my review will be a little different than some of the other ones. I just bought this truck a month ago, 2007 RAM 5.9 Cummins, quad cab. I specifically was looking for a 2006 or 2007 RAM because it has the new body style and the 5.9 more reliable engine. The second half of 2007 is when the 6.7 liter diesel with the first emission controls started with the EGR's. The reason that I got one of these amazing trucks is because they don't have the problematic and expensive to replace emission controls, many have deleted them but its a federal crime and I am not willing to take that risk of a 25,000 fine if I ran across the wrong person, even though I live in the free state of Texas. My Truck has been lifted 6" and has 37" tires, a SunCoast billet transmission. The owner that had it before me put in the transmission which is a known week spot in these trucks, he replaced the injectors with stock injectors and put a tune on it that gives it 450 horse power and some where in the 750 ft pounds of torque. Its fast! It does roll coal because of the tune, I am not a fan and will fix that. It is possible to get that kind of power while not fogging everyone out. I got this truck to tow a 5th wheel RV while waiting for a 2024 Ford F350 Platnium, Tremor, HO. I sold a 2020 Raptor when I purchased this truck so when I say its fast, its fast. I honestly have kinda fallen in love with this truck, its fun to drive but kind of a rough ride. My wife is NOT a fan at all. There is actually a chance that I keep it for the long run and avoid the $1,400.00 that I will have on the truck I ordered.

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John on July 25, 2023

Best truck ever! (Owned 14 years)

I have been driving this truck for 14 years. Great off-road, on road, pulling my gooseneck trailer. 150k miles and drives like new. Had to replace the bed with one from Texas after it rusted out but well worth the money. Still gets amazing milage with 20-22 combined city and highway with a manual transmission. If you find one in good shape BUY IT. You will love it.

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Sam on July 12, 2023

Great truck

Love our 2006 dodge maga cab it's a great truck.. This truck has been a so nice no problems. Love this Truck happy people here.

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Sina__kor on July 16, 2020

Reliable and clean

Perfect for hauling, driving, daily driver, building, gas mileage is great, no amount of miles stop to motor, looks great, and all together is a reliable truck

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Brent on July 10, 2020

LOVE the Cummins Diesel

I will own this and drive it until it will not go anymore and that is said to be 1,000,000 miles on this engine. This truck can tow anything and does amazing offroad as well as onroad. With the large cabin we can fit a full sized memory foam mattress inside and camp anywhere.

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Jason on February 21, 2020

The best truck i ever bought

This truck meets all my needs and more. Lots of leg room and rides excellent. Runs and drives wonderfully. The one i always wanted for years

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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.