The 2011 Ram 3500 is a heavy-duty pickup truck known for its rugged capability and towing prowess. Part of the fourth generation Ram trucks, it offers a robust solution for demanding work. Available as a regular, crew, or mega cab with various bed lengths. Key trims include ST, SLT, Laramie, and the work-focused Tradesman. New pricing ranged approximately from $30,000 to $50,000+, while used prices vary widely based on condition and mileage. Its strong Cummins diesel engine option and high tow ratings made it a popular choice.
The Good
The 2011 Ram 3500 offers powerful performance, especially with the available Cummins diesel. While not the most fuel-efficient, it boasts impressive towing and hauling capabilities appealing to practical buyers. The comfortable interior (especially in higher trims) and bold styling provide emotional satisfaction. Reliability can be good with proper maintenance, contributing to its overall value as a workhorse.
The Bad
The 2011 Ram 3500 can suffer from electrical issues, particularly with sensors and wiring. Suspension components, especially ball joints and u-joints, may require attention due to the truck's heavy-duty nature. Fuel economy, especially with the diesel engine, is not a strong point. Rust can also be a concern in certain climates, so inspect the frame carefully.
2011 Ram 3500: Quick Overview
Here's a summary of key specs for the 2011 Ram 3500:
- Engine Options:
- 5.7L HEMI V8: Gasoline
- 6.7L Cummins Turbo Diesel I6
- Horsepower:
- 5.7L HEMI V8: Approximately 383 hp
- 6.7L Cummins Turbo Diesel I6: Approximately 350 hp (depending on configuration)
- Fuel Economy:
- Gasoline: 13-18 mpg combined (estimated)
- Diesel: 12-17 mpg combined (estimated) - Fuel economy varies significantly based on load and driving style.
- 0-60 Times:
- Not a primary metric for this truck, but expect 8-10 seconds depending on engine and configuration.
- Towing Capacity:
- Up to 17,600 lbs (depending on configuration, axle ratio, and engine)
- Trim-Level Features:
- ST: Basic work truck, vinyl seats, manual windows, standard safety features.
- Tradesman: Similar to ST, but often with more available options and work-focused features.
- SLT: Cloth seats, power windows and locks, chrome exterior trim, upgraded audio system.
- Laramie: Leather seats, premium audio system, dual-zone climate control, heated seats, woodgrain trim.
2011 Ram 3500 Specifications
Vehicle Information
| Year | 2011 |
| Make | Ram |
| Model | 3500 |
| Trim | - |
| Style | Crew Cab Rear-Wheel Drive |
| Type | Pickup Truck |
| Category | Standard Pickup Truck |
Manufacturing Details
| Made In | Mexico |
| Manufacturing City | SALTILLO |
Dimensions
| Doors | 2-Door |
| Curb Weight | 7069 pounds |
| Gross Vehicle Weight Rating | 12200 pounds |
| Overall Height | 77.90 inches |
| Overall Length | 231.00 inches |
| Overall Width | 78.90 inches |
| Wheelbase Length | 140.00 inches |
| Standard Seating | 3 |
Engine & Performance
| Engine | 6.7-L L-6 OHV 24V Turbo Diesel |
| Engine Size | 6.7L |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 |
| Transmission | 6-Speed Manual |
| Transmission Type | Manual |
| Transmission Speeds | 6-Speed |
| Drivetrain | Four-Wheel Drive |
Additional Features
| Anti-Brake System | 4-Wheel ABS |
| Steering Type | Recirculating |
Pricing
| Manufacturer Suggested Retail Price (MSRP) | $38,520 |
| Invoice Price | $35,340 |
| Delivery Charges | $975 |
Vehicle History Report
Vehicle
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Specifications
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Past Sale
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Listings
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Market Price
Analysis
Analysis
What Problems Does the 2011 Ram 3500 Have?
The 2011 Ram 3500 has some frequently reported problems. Electrical issues, including sensor failures (especially related to the diesel exhaust fluid system in diesel models) and wiring harness problems, are common. Suspension components, like ball joints, tie rod ends, and u-joints, are susceptible to wear due to the heavy-duty application. Some owners have reported issues with the automatic transmission, particularly with the 68RFE transmission paired with the diesel engine, experiencing harsh shifting or outright failure.
Recalls for the 2011 Ram 3500 have addressed issues such as potential brake failure due to a faulty brake booster, and possible problems with the fuel system causing fuel leaks and fires. Owners should check the NHTSA (National Highway Traffic Safety Administration) website for a comprehensive list of recalls and ensure all applicable recalls have been addressed.
Long-term reliability concerns often revolve around the diesel engine's emissions system components, which can be expensive to repair. Rust, especially in areas with harsh winters and road salt, can be a significant issue, affecting the frame and body. Regular maintenance, including fluid changes and inspections, is crucial to mitigating these issues and extending the truck's lifespan. Specifically for the 2011 model, some owners have noted premature wear on the front-end components.
Recalls for the 2011 Ram 3500 have addressed issues such as potential brake failure due to a faulty brake booster, and possible problems with the fuel system causing fuel leaks and fires. Owners should check the NHTSA (National Highway Traffic Safety Administration) website for a comprehensive list of recalls and ensure all applicable recalls have been addressed.
Long-term reliability concerns often revolve around the diesel engine's emissions system components, which can be expensive to repair. Rust, especially in areas with harsh winters and road salt, can be a significant issue, affecting the frame and body. Regular maintenance, including fluid changes and inspections, is crucial to mitigating these issues and extending the truck's lifespan. Specifically for the 2011 model, some owners have noted premature wear on the front-end components.
How long will the 2011 Ram 3500 last?
A well-maintained 2011 Ram 3500 can easily reach 200,000 miles or more. With diligent maintenance, including regular oil changes, fluid flushes, and addressing repairs promptly, exceeding 300,000 miles is achievable. Proper care of the Cummins diesel engine, specifically, can lead to impressive longevity. However, neglecting maintenance will significantly shorten its lifespan.
Long-term durability hinges on rust prevention and addressing wear-and-tear items like suspension and drivetrain components. Weaknesses often surface in the electrical system and emissions control components over time.
Long-term durability hinges on rust prevention and addressing wear-and-tear items like suspension and drivetrain components. Weaknesses often surface in the electrical system and emissions control components over time.
What Technology & Safety Features are Included?
The 2011 Ram 3500's tech features vary significantly by trim level. The base ST trim offers minimal tech, typically including a basic AM/FM radio. Higher trims like the SLT and Laramie include more advanced features.
Entertainment: Higher trims could be equipped with a CD player, satellite radio, and a premium audio system. The Laramie often featured a touchscreen display, which was relatively basic compared to modern systems. Navigation was an optional feature.
Driver-Assistance: Driver-assistance features were limited. Rear parking sensors were available as an option. Electronic Stability Control (ESC) and traction control were standard safety features.
Safety Features: Standard safety equipment included antilock brakes (ABS), front airbags, and side curtain airbags.
Crash-Test Ratings: The 2011 Ram 3500's crash-test ratings from the IIHS (Insurance Institute for Highway Safety) and NHTSA should be consulted for specific scores. Generally, heavy-duty trucks don't undergo the same level of crash testing as passenger cars, but information on rollover ratings and frontal impact performance might be available.
Optional features included things like a trailer brake controller, integrated trailer sway control, and various towing packages. Overall, the 2011 Ram 3500's tech and safety features are relatively basic compared to newer trucks.
Entertainment: Higher trims could be equipped with a CD player, satellite radio, and a premium audio system. The Laramie often featured a touchscreen display, which was relatively basic compared to modern systems. Navigation was an optional feature.
Driver-Assistance: Driver-assistance features were limited. Rear parking sensors were available as an option. Electronic Stability Control (ESC) and traction control were standard safety features.
Safety Features: Standard safety equipment included antilock brakes (ABS), front airbags, and side curtain airbags.
Crash-Test Ratings: The 2011 Ram 3500's crash-test ratings from the IIHS (Insurance Institute for Highway Safety) and NHTSA should be consulted for specific scores. Generally, heavy-duty trucks don't undergo the same level of crash testing as passenger cars, but information on rollover ratings and frontal impact performance might be available.
Optional features included things like a trailer brake controller, integrated trailer sway control, and various towing packages. Overall, the 2011 Ram 3500's tech and safety features are relatively basic compared to newer trucks.
What Colors Options are Available?
Exterior Colors
Bright White Clearcoat
Black Clearcoat
Mineral Gray Metallic Clearcoat
Deep Cherry Red Crystal Pearlcoat
Bright Silver Metallic Clearcoat
Hunter Green Pearlcoat
Maximum Steel Metallic Clearcoat
Flame Red Clearcoat
Dark Brown Pearlcoat
Rugged Brown Pearlcoat
Interior Colors
Dark Charcoal Gray
Medium Pebble Beige
2011 Ram 3500 Prices and Market Value
The 2011 Ram 3500 had a starting MSRP around $30,000 for the base ST trim, while higher trims like the Laramie could exceed $50,000 when new. Currently, used market prices range widely, typically from $15,000 to $35,000 or more, depending on condition, mileage, engine (diesel models command a premium), and trim level. Depreciation is influenced by factors such as overall condition, maintenance records, and location (demand for trucks varies regionally). Diesel models hold their value better than gasoline versions. High mileage and neglected maintenance significantly reduce resale value. Low mileage, well-maintained examples, especially diesels, retain the best value.
2011 Ram 3500 Cost of Ownership
The 2011 Ram 3500 is generally not an economical vehicle to own. Insurance costs are moderate to high, depending on coverage and driving record. Fuel costs, especially with the diesel engine under load, can be significant. Maintenance and repair costs can be substantial, especially for diesel models, due to more complex components. Parts can be more expensive than for lighter-duty trucks. Long-term ownership costs are higher than average due to fuel consumption, potential repairs, and the heavy-duty nature of the vehicle.
2011 Ram 3500 Fuel Efficiency
Fuel Type
Diesel
Fuel Capacity
35.00 gallons
City Mileage
-
Highway Mileage
-
2011 Ram 3500 Safety Rating
NHTSA
IIHS
2011 Ram 3500 Recalls & Defects
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.
13v529000
Source
NHTSA
Summary
Chrysler Group LLC (Chrysler) IS Recalling Certain Model Year 2008-2012 RAM 2500 4X4 and 3500 4X4 Trucks, 2008-2012 Dodge RAM 3500 4X2 Cab Chassis, and Model Year 2008 Dodge RAM 1500 Mega Cab 4x4. 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 ON January 16, 2014 That Dealers Would Inspect Vehicles and Replace THE Steering Linkage Assembly, IF Necessary. ON or About February 27, 2014, Chrysler Ceased ITS Recall Remedy Program DUE TO Parts Quality Concerns, and Then Re-Initiated IT ON or About April 14, 2014. IN July 2015, and Under A Consent Order With Nhtsa, THE Company Agreed TO Offer Owners Three Options FOR Remedying Their Vehicles: Perform THE Original Remedy, Offer TO Repurchase THE Vehicle AT THE Fair Market Value Plus 10%, or Offer AN Additional Incentive Offer Towards THE Purchase OF A NEW Dodge, Jeep, Chrysler, or Fiat Vehicle. Chrysler Will Notify Owners OF THE NEW Recall Options IN A Letter Expected TO BE Mailed ON August 31, 2015. Owners MAY Contact Chrysler AT 1-800-247-9753. Chrysler's Recall Campaign Number IS N49.
Notes
This Recall Supersedes 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.
Engine and Engine Cooling:engine:diesel
Recall date
2014-10-08
Recall no.
14v635000
Source
NHTSA
Summary
Chrysler Group LLC (Chrysler) IS Recalling Certain Model Year 2010-2014 RAM 2500, 3500, 4500, and 5500 Trucks Manufactured March 27, 2009, TO September 5, 2013. IN THE Affected Vehicles, THE Electrical Connectors OF THE Diesel Fuel Heater MAY Overheat.
Consequence
IF THE Connectors Overheat, THE Fuel Heater MAY Leak Fuel, Increasing THE Risk OF A Fire.
Remedy
Chrysler Will Notify Owners, and Dealers Will Replace THE Harness Side Connector With A Silver Plated Beryllium Copper Terminal Service Kit, and Inspect THE Fuel Heater FOR Leaks, Replacing IT AS Necessary, Free OF Charge. Chrysler Issued Interim Notification TO Owners ON December 8, 2014. THE Recall Began ON April 27, 2015. Owners MAY Contact Chrysler Customer Service AT 1-800-853-1403. Chrysler's Number FOR This Recall IS P65.
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.
Fuel System, Diesel
Recall date
2014-10-08
Recall no.
14v635000
Source
NHTSA
Summary
Chrysler Group LLC (Chrysler) IS Recalling Certain Model Year 2010-2014 RAM 2500, 3500, 4500, and 5500 Trucks Manufactured March 27, 2009, TO September 5, 2013. IN THE Affected Vehicles, THE Electrical Connectors OF THE Diesel Fuel Heater MAY Overheat.
Consequence
IF THE Connectors Overheat, THE Fuel Heater MAY Leak Fuel, Increasing THE Risk OF A Fire.
Remedy
Chrysler Will Notify Owners, and Dealers Will Replace THE Harness Side Connector With A Silver Plated Beryllium Copper Terminal Service Kit, and Inspect THE Fuel Heater FOR Leaks, Replacing IT AS Necessary, Free OF Charge. Chrysler Issued Interim Notification TO Owners ON December 8, 2014. THE Recall Began ON April 27, 2015. Owners MAY Contact Chrysler Customer Service AT 1-800-853-1403. Chrysler's Number FOR This Recall IS P65.
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:alternator/Generator/Regulator
Recall date
2016-10-13
Recall no.
16v739000
Source
NHTSA
Summary
Chrysler (Fca US Llc) IS Recalling Certain Model Year 2011-2014 Dodge Charger Police Vehicles, 2007-2013 RAM 3500 Cab Chassis, 2008-2013 RAM 4500 and 5500 Cab Chassis, and 2013 RAM 2500 and 3500 Vehicles. THE Affected Vehicles Have A 220 AMP Alternator That MAY Suddenly Fail.
Consequence
IF THE Alternator Fails, THE Vehicle MAY Stall Without Warning, Increasing THE Risk OF A Crash. There IS Also THE Possibility That THE Alternator MAY Short Circuit, Increasing THE Risk OF A Fire.
Remedy
Chrysler Will Notify Owners, and Dealers Will Replace THE Alternator With A Revised Alternator, Free OF Charge. THE Recall Began ON December 23, 2016. Owners MAY Contact Chrysler Customer Service AT 1-800-853-1403. Chrysler's Number FOR This Recall IS S68.
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.
Power Train:automatic Transmission:lever and Linkage:column Shift
Recall date
2017-12-20
Recall no.
17v821000
Source
NHTSA
Summary
Chrysler (Fca US Llc) IS Recalling Certain 2016-2017 RAM 3500 Cab Chassis With A Gross Vehicle Weight Rating (Gvwr) OF Less Than 10,000 Lbs, 2011-2017 RAM 3500, 4500 and 5500 Cab Chassis Vehicles, 2009-2017 RAM 1500 and 2010-2017 RAM 2500 and 3500 Pickup Trucks, All Equipped With A Column Shifter. Pushing THE Brake Pedal FOR Prolonged Periods When THE Vehicle IS Running and IN Park MAY Cause THE Brake Transmission Shift Interlock (btsi) PIN TO Stick IN THE Open Position. With THE PIN IN THE Open Position, THE Transmission CAN BE Shifted OUT OF Park Into ANY Gear Without Pushing THE Brake Pedal or Having THE KEY IN THE Ignition.
Consequence
Being Able TO Shift THE Transmission Without Pushing THE Brake Pedal And/Or Without A KEY IN THE Ignition CAN Increase THE Risk OF AN Unintended Vehicle Rollaway That MAY Result IN Personal Injury or A Crash.
Remedy
Chrysler Will Notify Owners, and Dealers Will Update THE Vehicle Software, Inspect THE Btsi, And, AS Necessary, Replace IT, Free OF Charge. THE Recall Began February 26, 2018. Owners MAY Contact Chrysler Customer Service AT 1-800-853-1403. Chrysler's Number FOR This Recall IS T79.
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.
2011 Ram 3500 Warranty
Basic
Original warranty
36 months / 36,000 miles
Estimated remaining
Expired
Powertrain
Original warranty
60 months / 100,000 miles
Estimated remaining
Expired
Rust
Original warranty
60 months / 100,000 miles
Estimated remaining
Expired
2011 Ram 3500 Insurance
Insurance for a 2011 Ram 3500 is moderately priced, reflecting its status as a Pickup Truck with strong safety ratings and
reasonable repair costs.
reasonable repair costs.
How Does the 2011 Ram 3500 Compare to Other Pickup Truck?
The 2011 Ram 3500 competes directly with the Ford F-350 and the Chevrolet Silverado 3500/GMC Sierra 3500. In terms of performance, the Ram 3500 with the Cummins diesel is known for its strong torque and towing capacity, often considered slightly superior to Ford and GM's diesel offerings at the time. However, the Ford Powerstroke and GM Duramax engines are also very capable.
In terms of features, the Ram offered a comfortable interior, particularly in the Laramie trim, which was often praised for its design and materials. The Ford and GM trucks had comparable features depending on the trim level selected. In regards to reliability, all three manufacturers have their share of reported issues. The Ram 3500 had some electrical and front-end component concerns, as noted previously.
In terms of price, the Ram 3500 was generally competitively priced with the Ford and GM trucks. Choosing a "better" alternative depends on individual priorities. The Ford F-350 might be preferred for its strong work capabilities and reputation, while the Silverado/Sierra 3500 offers a more conservative and traditional approach. If interior comfort and a strong diesel engine are paramount, the Ram 3500 is a solid choice. All are similar and it often boils down to brand preference and specific model condition.
In terms of features, the Ram offered a comfortable interior, particularly in the Laramie trim, which was often praised for its design and materials. The Ford and GM trucks had comparable features depending on the trim level selected. In regards to reliability, all three manufacturers have their share of reported issues. The Ram 3500 had some electrical and front-end component concerns, as noted previously.
In terms of price, the Ram 3500 was generally competitively priced with the Ford and GM trucks. Choosing a "better" alternative depends on individual priorities. The Ford F-350 might be preferred for its strong work capabilities and reputation, while the Silverado/Sierra 3500 offers a more conservative and traditional approach. If interior comfort and a strong diesel engine are paramount, the Ram 3500 is a solid choice. All are similar and it often boils down to brand preference and specific model condition.
Ranks #397 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★) |
| 397 | 2011 Ram 3500 | (0.0★) |
Final Verdict: Is the 2011 Ram 3500 a Good Pickup Truck?
The 2011 Ram 3500 is ideal for individuals or businesses needing a heavy-duty truck for serious towing and hauling. It's worth buying *used* if you find a well-maintained example with a clean service history and no major outstanding issues. Look for higher trims (SLT or Laramie) if comfort is a priority, but be aware that they can be more expensive to repair. Diesel models offer superior towing power and hold their value well, but require more costly maintenance. Thoroughly inspect any used Ram 3500 for rust, electrical problems, and suspension wear before purchasing. If you need a capable work truck and are prepared for the higher running costs, a 2011 Ram 3500 can be a good option.
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