The Good
The 2009 Dodge Ram 3500 offers robust performance with its powerful engine options, providing immense towing and hauling capabilities.
It aims for reliability. The spacious interior and comfortable seating cater to both work needs and family use. Its aggressive design is a draw for truck enthusiasts. While not the most fuel-efficient, its overall value as a durable work truck makes it appealing to practical buyers. Emotionally, owning a Ram 3500 delivers a sense of capability and power.
The Bad
The 2009 Dodge Ram 3500 has known weaknesses. Fuel economy, particularly with the larger engines, is a significant drawback. Some owners have reported issues with the automatic transmission and front-end components.
Rust can be a concern, especially in areas with harsh winters. Suspension issues, including ball joint wear, should also be inspected. The interior materials, while improved, may show wear and tear over time. Overall reliability depends on maintenance and use.
2009 Dodge Ram 3500: Quick Overview
- Engine Options:
- 5.7L Hemi V8: Around 345 horsepower and 375 lb-ft of torque.
- 6.7L Cummins Turbo Diesel I6: Around 350 horsepower and 650 lb-ft of torque.
- Horsepower: Ranging from 345 hp to 350 hp depending on engine choice.
- Fuel Economy:
- 5.7L Hemi V8: Around 13-14 MPG combined (estimated).
- 6.7L Cummins Turbo Diesel I6: Around 14-17 MPG combined (estimated). Significantly impacted by towing.
- 0-60 Times: Not a primary focus for this vehicle. Expect roughly 8-9 seconds with the Hemi, potentially slower with the Cummins due to its heavier weight and focus on torque.
- Towing Capacity: Up to 17,000 lbs+ depending on configuration (cab, bed, engine, axle ratio). The Cummins diesel provides significantly higher towing capacity.
- Trim-Level Features:
- ST: Basic work truck, vinyl seats, basic audio system, manual windows/locks.
- SLT: Cloth seats, power windows/locks, upgraded audio system, chrome exterior trim.
- Laramie: Leather seats, heated seats, dual-zone climate control, premium audio system, woodgrain interior accents.
- Power Wagon: Off-road focused, lifted suspension, locking differentials, winch, aggressive tires, unique styling. Available only in 4x4.
2009 Dodge Ram 3500 Specifications
Vehicle Information
| Year | 2009 |
| 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
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Analysis
What Problems Does the 2009 Dodge Ram 3500 Have?
Transmission problems, particularly with the automatic transmissions, have been reported. Some owners have experienced slipping or rough shifting. Rust can be a significant concern, especially in areas that use road salt. Check the undercarriage, rocker panels, and cab corners for corrosion. Electrical issues, including problems with the TIPM (Totally Integrated Power Module), have also been reported.
Recalls can be checked on the NHTSA website using the VIN. Long-term reliability hinges on consistent maintenance, especially oil changes, filter replacements, and regular inspections of critical components. Neglecting maintenance can lead to accelerated wear and more frequent repairs. Issues reported often are more prevalent on trucks heavily used for towing or hauling.
How long will the 2009 Dodge Ram 3500 last?
Weaknesses over time often include rust (especially in northern climates), wear of front-end components, and potential issues with the emissions system on diesel models. Transmission health is also vital; regular servicing is recommended.
What Technology & Safety Features are Included?
Driver-assistance features were limited compared to modern standards. Rear parking sensors were an available option. Safety features included standard antilock brakes (ABS) and electronic stability control (ESC) on some models. Airbags included front airbags and side curtain airbags on some cab configurations.
Crash-test ratings from the IIHS (Insurance Institute for Highway Safety) and NHTSA (National Highway Traffic Safety Administration) should be consulted for specific cab configurations. Note that heavy-duty trucks often have limited crash-test data available compared to passenger cars. The focus was primarily on providing a robust and capable work truck rather than a technologically advanced vehicle. Features varied significantly depending on the trim level chosen. It's essential to verify the specific features on any used model being considered.
What Colors Options are Available?
Exterior Colors
Interior Colors
2009 Dodge Ram 3500 Prices and Market Value
Current used market prices vary widely based on condition, mileage, and location, but typically range from $15,000 to $35,000.
Depreciation is affected by factors such as mileage, condition, maintenance history, and whether it's a diesel model. Diesel models generally hold their value better due to their durability and towing capabilities. Lower mileage trucks in excellent condition command higher prices. The Power Wagon trim also tends to retain its value well due to its off-road capabilities and desirability.
2009 Dodge Ram 3500 Cost of Ownership
2009 Dodge Ram 3500 Fuel Efficiency
2009 Dodge Ram 3500 Warranty
Basic
Powertrain
Rust
2009 Dodge Ram 3500 Insurance
reasonable repair costs.
How Does the 2009 Dodge Ram 3500 Compare to Other Pickup Truck?
Feature-wise, the Ram was generally competitive but might have lagged slightly behind Ford in some tech offerings, depending on trim. Reliability is a mixed bag; all three brands have their share of potential issues. The Ram's front-end components have been a noted weakness. Price-wise, the Ram was often positioned competitively.
Alternatives depend on specific needs. If off-road capability is paramount, the Ram Power Wagon is a strong contender. If advanced technology and luxurious features are desired, a higher-trim Ford F-350 might be a better choice. The Chevrolet/GMC 3500 twins offer a good balance of features and capability and are generally considered reliable. Before buying, research the problems reported for each brand and model year.
Ranks #490 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★) |
| 490 | 2009 Dodge Ram 3500 | (4.0★) |
Final Verdict: Is the 2009 Dodge Ram 3500 a Good Pickup Truck?
Look for models with a documented service history and avoid trucks with excessive rust or signs of heavy abuse. The Cummins diesel engine is desirable for its power and longevity, but be prepared for potentially higher maintenance costs. The SLT or Laramie trims offer a good balance of features and value. If off-roading is a priority, the Power Wagon is the standout choice. Carefully weigh the pros and cons, factoring in potential repair costs and fuel consumption, before making a decision. Inspect the truck thoroughly!
pamela on July 26, 2019
Glad that we have this truckWe bought this truck to pull a trailer and it is great. Right after we bought it we went up to the mountains to pick up our quad. My husband said the steering was so good it almost drove itself.
Mowrey Acres on March 24, 2018
Everything we need and moreWe just purchased this Dodge pickup with cummins 6.7. REALLY like it so far. Looks great, very comfortable, way quieter than previous models, drives great!
CumminsMan on March 5, 2018
It's a very nice truckIt was very nice and comfy it has alot of power and torque it's very bullet proof I'd really recommend this truck if only my credit could have gotten me into this truck
gva on December 13, 2017
first dieselgreat work truck.................................................................................................
Toys on August 7, 2017
One of the nicest truck I onThis truck has alot of power to pull all of my trailers an it's real comfortable to. An also my whole family can ride in it with the crew cab an it's a one of a kind truck
Shovelheadsporty on May 7, 2013
Best truck and engine on the marketI am going to buy another one, the dependability and appearance can't be beat. You can't beat the cummins engine!
Stuart047 on December 3, 2012
Poor customer careMy 2009 Dodge Ram 3500 is my third Dodge. With only 30,000 miles on the truck I discovered that my ball joints were badly worn and that the right front wheel bearing had to be replaced. The warranty had expired three weeks before I discovered this. Dodge refused to pay for the repairs on this taking the stand that the warranty had expired. This truck is only used to haul my 5th wheel trailer on interstate highways, no off road! They advertise there trucks as being "heavy duty" and "ram tough". However, their substandard parts are failing very early in the vehicles life.
pamela on July 26, 2019
Glad that we have this truckWe bought this truck to pull a trailer and it is great. Right after we bought it we went up to the mountains to pick up our quad. My husband said the steering was so good it almost drove itself.
Mowrey Acres on March 24, 2018
Everything we need and moreWe just purchased this Dodge pickup with cummins 6.7. REALLY like it so far. Looks great, very comfortable, way quieter than previous models, drives great!
CumminsMan on March 5, 2018
It's a very nice truckIt was very nice and comfy it has alot of power and torque it's very bullet proof I'd really recommend this truck if only my credit could have gotten me into this truck
Jovan
Jovan specializes in interpreting vehicle records and making sense of VIN data. With over 10 years of experience in the automotive data industry, his work ensures that every report is clear, accurate, and useful for car buyers.