The Good
The 2008 Dodge Ram 3500 offers impressive performance, especially in towing and hauling. Its bold, muscular design appeals emotionally to truck enthusiasts. Practically, it provides a robust and capable workhorse with available comfortable interiors in higher trims. While not the most fuel-efficient, it delivers significant value for those needing serious truck capabilities. Reliability can vary depending on maintenance.
The Bad
Potential weaknesses of the 2008 Dodge Ram 3500 include fuel economy, which can be quite poor, especially with the larger engines. Suspension components and ball joints are known to wear prematurely. Rust can be an issue in regions with road salt. Check for transmission issues, especially with the automatic, and ensure proper maintenance records are available.
2008 Dodge Ram 3500: Quick Overview
- Engine Options:
- 5.7L HEMI V8: Approximately 330 hp
- 6.7L Cummins Turbo Diesel I6: Approximately 350 hp (varies slightly by year)
- 5.9L Cummins Turbo Diesel I6 (early 2008 models): Horsepower varies
- Horsepower: Ranges from 330 hp to 350 hp depending on engine choice.
- Fuel Economy:
- 5.7L HEMI V8: Around 13-14 mpg combined.
- 6.7L Cummins Turbo Diesel: Around 12-17 mpg combined (highly dependent on load and driving conditions).
- 0-60 Times: Not a primary focus for this vehicle, but estimates range from 8-10 seconds depending on the engine and load.
- Towing Capacity: Up to 16,000+ lbs depending on configuration and equipment. Diesel models offer the highest towing capacity.
- Trim-Level Features:
- ST: Basic work truck with vinyl seats, basic audio system, and essential features.
- SLT: Cloth seats, upgraded audio, power windows and locks, chrome exterior trim.
- Laramie: Leather seats, premium audio system, dual-zone climate control, woodgrain trim, and more luxurious features.
- Transmissions: Available with both manual and automatic transmissions depending on the engine.
- Cab Configurations: Regular Cab, Quad Cab (extended), and Mega Cab (crew cab with more rear legroom).
- Drivetrain: Available in 2WD and 4WD.
2008 Dodge Ram 3500 Specifications
Vehicle Information
| Year | 2008 |
| Make | Dodge |
| Model | Ram 3500 |
| Trim | - |
| Style | Regular Cab 2WD |
| Type | Pickup Truck |
| Category | Special Purpose Vehicle W |
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 | 6-Speed Manual |
| Transmission Type | Manual |
| Transmission Speeds | 6-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
Specifications
History
Events
History Check
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Listings
Recalls
Check
Analysis
What Problems Does the 2008 Dodge Ram 3500 Have?
Recalls have been issued for various issues, including potential problems with the fuel system and airbags. Check the NHTSA (National Highway Traffic Safety Administration) website for specific recalls related to the VIN of any truck you are considering. Long-term reliability concerns often revolve around maintaining the diesel engine's complex components and addressing wear and tear on heavy-duty suspension parts. The electronic throttle control (ETC) system has also been known to cause occasional issues. Early 2008 models might have the 5.9L Cummins, while later ones have the 6.7L, each with their own set of common issues.
How long will the 2008 Dodge Ram 3500 last?
Positive Owner Reviews
Negative Owner Reviews
What Technology & Safety Features are Included?
Safety features include standard front airbags and available side curtain airbags. Electronic stability control was an optional feature. Crash-test ratings from the NHTSA vary depending on the cab configuration. The Quad Cab version generally received good scores for frontal impact protection. Information from the IIHS (Insurance Institute for Highway Safety) is limited for this specific model year.
Optional features could include power-adjustable pedals, heated seats, and a sunroof. Keep in mind that technology was less emphasized in heavy-duty trucks of this era, so features are fairly rudimentary by today's standards. The focus was primarily on capability and durability rather than advanced tech.
What Colors Options are Available?
Exterior Colors
Interior Colors
2008 Dodge Ram 3500 Prices and Market Value
2008 Dodge Ram 3500 Cost of Ownership
2008 Dodge Ram 3500 Fuel Efficiency
2008 Dodge Ram 3500 Warranty
Basic
Powertrain
Rust
2008 Dodge Ram 3500 Insurance
reasonable repair costs.
How Does the 2008 Dodge Ram 3500 Compare to Other Pickup Truck?
Price-wise, the Ram is often competitively priced in the used market. A potential better alternative, depending on your needs and budget, might be a newer Ford F-350 or Chevy Silverado/GMC Sierra 3500 if reliability and updated features are priorities. If towing capacity and diesel performance are paramount and you find a well-maintained Ram at a good price, it can be a solid choice. The GM trucks often offer a slightly smoother ride and a more refined interior, while the Ford often provides comparable towing capabilities with varying reliability histories.
Ranks #496 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★) |
| 496 | 2008 Dodge Ram 3500 | (3.0★) |
Final Verdict: Is the 2008 Dodge Ram 3500 a Good Pickup Truck?
Ettalew on July 15, 2020
Great used truckWe did our research and love everything from the mechanics to the abilities of this truck. It is great for our camping off road. It's not the most comfortable ride but the Laramie edition is
Cvspartan92 on July 18, 2018
This truck is a BEASTThe crew cab is smaller than today's crew cabs, but the power is there to get the job done. The interior and exterior styling is ok. Everything is under the hood. The 6.7L Cummins is a beast and tows like a dream.
Doug S. on June 22, 2018
Many happy miles of travelling.I have owned this vehicle since day 1. It's primary purpose was to haul our
DarrinMT on April 27, 2018
Good looking work horse!Keeping in mind this is a 1 ton rated truck wich means it will be a little rougher ride due to heavy duty suspension. This truck has all the power I need sporting the 6cyl 6.7 Cummins, also the cab is very spacious as a crew cab.
Marauder0507 on March 16, 2018
Strongest overall stock pickup I have owned!Smooth ride and exceptional power. This truck has done everything I have asked of it. The 6 cylinder diesel matched with the G56 transmission is perfect for our pulling needs.
lurdialez on October 1, 2017
Truck of my dreamsI always wanted a big truck , we live on a ranch and it comes in handy. It helps us move cattle and furniture and also anything that needs transporting between families.
RoadWarrior on September 13, 2017
DISAPPOINTING OVER LONG TERMWe've been using Dodge Cummins pick ups for service vehicles for the past 25 years. Of the 12 we've had dating back to 1993, this has been one of the most expensive to operate primarily due to the cost or repairs related to the emissions equipment; EGR and DPF. Any other problems with this vehicle we can attribute to employees not paying attention to warnings. At 425k miles, with a new transmission, it is still road worthy and as long as the maintenance is performed, I'm sure it will go another 400K.
BeauOR on July 3, 2017
Best pick up I have ownedTruck exceeded my expectations as it will tow anything. Very reliable truck that I have owned for 4 years. Comfortable, everything works inside and out. Would recommend this vehicle to anyone that needs a vehicle to tow with or just wants a reliable truck.
Raftersbar on May 1, 2017
Great truckWe own two Dodge mega cabs. Good fuel mileage. Great interior room! We travel with and without towing. Comfortable ride.
truck luver on May 19, 2016
Great truckThe specific truck we went to see was sold the day before. Our salesman found exactly what we were looking for: Dodge 3500 4x4 diesel dually with fewer than 75,000 miles. We have had our fifth wheel hitch installed and will be pulling our 38' fifth wheel camper. The truck has tremendous power, doesn't labor at all going up a steep hill and rides like a dream. We couldn't be happier with it. Thanks Cars.com!!
Drew B
Drew is a seasoned automotive expert and contributor to VinCheck.info. With nearly 15 years of experience as a former Porsche technician, he brings a wealth of hands-on knowledge to his writing. Born in North Carolina, a region renowned for its deep-rooted NASCAR culture, Drew developed a passion for cars early in life, often building and working on vehicles from a young age. At VINCheck, Drew leverages his extensive technical background to provide in-depth analyses of various vehicles. His articles often focus on engine performance, reliability, and maintenance insights, offering readers practical information grounded in real-world experience. Some of his notable contributions include reviews on the Mazda CX-5's longevity and detailed examinations of engine options for models like the 2011 Toyota Camry and Tacoma