The 2016 Ram 5500 is a heavy-duty chassis cab designed for commercial and vocational use. Part of the Ram truck lineage known for toughness, the 5500 is offered in various cab configurations. While specific trims varied, it typically included Tradesman, SLT, and Laramie. Pricing new ranged significantly depending on configuration and options, but generally started around $35,000 and went up. Its immense towing and payload capacity, coupled with available diesel power, make it a popular choice for demanding jobs.
The Good
The 2016 Ram 5500 offers impressive performance thanks to its powerful engine options and robust chassis. Its reputation for reliability appeals to practical buyers needing a dependable work truck. While comfort isn't a primary focus, higher trims offer acceptable amenities. Its rugged design conveys durability. The value proposition lies in its high work capacity and potential for long-term service, inspiring confidence in tackling tough jobs.
The Bad
Potential weaknesses of the 2016 Ram 5500 include lower fuel economy, especially with the diesel engine. Some owners have reported issues with the emissions system on diesel models. The ride can be harsh when unladen. Reliability can vary depending on usage and maintenance history, so a thorough inspection is crucial before purchasing. Watch out for signs of excessive wear and tear related to heavy use.
2016 Ram 5500: Quick Overview
- Engine Options:
* 6.4L HEMI V8 gasoline: Produces around 370 horsepower and 429 lb-ft of torque.
* 6.7L Cummins Turbo Diesel I6: Produces around 325 horsepower and 750 lb-ft of torque. - Horsepower:
* Gasoline: ~370 hp
* Diesel: ~325 hp - Fuel Economy: (Note: Fuel economy is highly variable based on usage and configuration)
* Gasoline: Expect low teens MPG.
* Diesel: Expect mid-teens MPG. This is highly dependent on load and driving conditions. - 0-60 Times: Not a primary specification for this vehicle. Expect relatively slow acceleration compared to passenger vehicles. Acceleration times are not readily available due to the diverse configurations and GVWR.
- Towing Capacity:
* Varies GREATLY depending on configuration (axle ratio, cab style, etc.). Can range from around 18,000 lbs to well over 30,000 lbs with proper equipment. Consult the vehicle's specific towing guide. - Trim-Level Features:
* Tradesman: Basic work truck; vinyl seats, steel wheels, basic audio system.
* SLT: Cloth seats, upgraded audio system, chrome exterior trim.
* Laramie: Leather seats, premium audio system, dual-zone climate control, heated seats/steering wheel, and more advanced technology features.
Note that specific features can vary based on optional packages.
2016 Ram 5500 Specifications
Vehicle Information
| Year | 2016 |
| Make | Ram |
| Model | 5500 |
| Trim | - |
| Style | Regular Cab 2WD |
| Type | Pickup Truck |
| Category | Heavy 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 | 6.7-L L-6 OHV 24V Turbo Diesel |
| Engine Size | 6.7L |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 |
| Transmission | 6-Speed Automatic |
| Transmission Type | Automatic |
| 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
Vehicle
Specifications
Specifications
Ownership
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History
All History
Events
Events
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Listings
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Market Price
Analysis
Analysis
What Problems Does the 2016 Ram 5500 Have?
Frequently reported problems for the 2016 Ram 5500 can include issues related to the diesel engine's emissions system, specifically the diesel particulate filter (DPF) and related sensors. Some owners have experienced problems with the electronic stability control (ESC) system. Transmission issues, particularly with the automatic transmission, have also been reported, although less frequently. Recalls may have been issued for various issues; it is crucial to check the NHTSA website for any open recalls specific to the VIN of the vehicle you are considering. Long-term reliability concerns often revolve around the increased strain placed on components due to the vehicle's heavy-duty nature. This can lead to premature wear of brakes, suspension components, and driveline parts. The 2016 model year doesn't have significantly different issues compared to other similar model years, but a history of diligent maintenance is vital for long-term reliability. Rust can also be a concern in regions with harsh winters, so inspecting the frame and body for corrosion is recommended. The diesel exhaust fluid (DEF) system is also a potential source of problems, requiring careful monitoring and maintenance to avoid issues.
How long will the 2016 Ram 5500 last?
With proper maintenance, a 2016 Ram 5500 can provide well over 200,000 miles or 10+ years of service. These vehicles are built for heavy use, and their lifespan is heavily influenced by how they are used and maintained. Regular oil changes, filter replacements, and attention to cooling and transmission systems are critical. Long-term durability is generally good, but weaknesses can emerge in areas like the suspension, brakes, and exhaust systems due to the constant strain of heavy loads. Rust and corrosion can also become significant issues over time, especially in areas with road salt. Diesel models need particular attention to fuel system and emission control components.
What Technology & Safety Features are Included?
The 2016 Ram 5500's tech and entertainment features were fairly basic, focusing more on functionality than luxury. Standard features on lower trims (Tradesman) typically included a basic AM/FM radio and possibly a small LCD screen. Higher trims (SLT, Laramie) offered upgrades like a larger touchscreen display (usually 5-inch or 8.4-inch), Uconnect infotainment system, Bluetooth connectivity, and satellite radio. Driver-assistance features were limited compared to modern vehicles. Available options included a rearview camera and parking sensors. Safety features included standard airbags, anti-lock brakes, and electronic stability control (ESC). Crash-test ratings from agencies like NHTSA and IIHS are generally not available for chassis cab trucks like the 5500, as they are typically not subjected to the same testing as passenger vehicles. The focus is on commercial use and meeting specific industry standards. Optional features varied by trim and could include things like integrated trailer brake controller, upfitter switches for auxiliary equipment, and remote start. The Uconnect system, when equipped, offered navigation and smartphone integration, but it was not as advanced as newer infotainment systems.
What Colors Options are Available?
Exterior Colors
Bright White Clearcoat
Black Clearcoat
True Blue Pearlcoat
Flame Red Clearcoat
Granite Crystal Metallic Clearcoat
Maximum Steel Metallic Clearcoat
Delmonico Red Pearlcoat
Agricultural Red
Case Construction Yellow
Timberline Green Pearlcoat
School Bus Yellow
Interior Colors
Dark Brown
Black
Light Graystone
2016 Ram 5500 Prices and Market Value
When new, the 2016 Ram 5500 typically ranged from around $35,000 to over $60,000 depending on the cab configuration, engine, trim, and options. Currently, used market prices vary significantly based on condition, mileage, and equipment, but generally fall in the range of $20,000 to $45,000. Depreciation is influenced by factors like mileage, condition, maintenance history, and demand for work trucks. Diesel models tend to hold their value better than gasoline models. Lower mileage and well-maintained examples command higher prices. The presence of desirable options like a PTO (Power Take-Off) or specific upfits can also positively affect resale value.
2016 Ram 5500 Cost of Ownership
The 2016 Ram 5500 is generally costly to own. Insurance premiums are higher than passenger vehicles due to their commercial use. Fuel costs are substantial, especially with the diesel engine, and can vary widely depending on load and driving conditions. Maintenance costs are higher due to the heavy-duty components. Repairs can be expensive, particularly for diesel engines and transmissions. Long-term ownership costs can be mitigated with meticulous maintenance, but overall, this is not an economical vehicle to operate.
2016 Ram 5500 Fuel Efficiency
Fuel Type
Gasoline
Fuel Capacity
-
City Mileage
-
Highway Mileage
-
2016 Ram 5500 Recalls & Defects
Engine and Engine Cooling:engine
Recall date
2015-09-23
Recall no.
15v592000
Source
NHTSA
Summary
Chrysler (Fca US Llc) IS Recalling Certain Model Year 2016 RAM 2500, 3500, 3500 Cab Chassis and 4500/5500 Cab Chassis Trucks Manufactured July 31, 2015, TO August 13, 2015 and Equipped With A 6.7l Cummins Diesel Engine. IN THE Affected Vehicles, THE Engine Control Module (Ecm) MAY Short Circuit, Causing THE Engine TO Stall Without Warning.
Consequence
AN Engine That Stalls Without Warning Increases THE Risk OF A Crash.
Remedy
Chrysler Will Notify Owners, and Dealers Will Replace THE Ecm, Free OF Charge. THE Recall Began ON December 21, 2015. Owners MAY Contact Chrysler Customer Service AT 1-800-853-1403. Chrysler's Number FOR This Recall IS R52.
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:module
Recall date
2015-09-23
Recall no.
15v592000
Source
NHTSA
Summary
Chrysler (Fca US Llc) IS Recalling Certain Model Year 2016 RAM 2500, 3500, 3500 Cab Chassis and 4500/5500 Cab Chassis Trucks Manufactured July 31, 2015, TO August 13, 2015 and Equipped With A 6.7l Cummins Diesel Engine. IN THE Affected Vehicles, THE Engine Control Module (Ecm) MAY Short Circuit, Causing THE Engine TO Stall Without Warning.
Consequence
AN Engine That Stalls Without Warning Increases THE Risk OF A Crash.
Remedy
Chrysler Will Notify Owners, and Dealers Will Replace THE Ecm, Free OF Charge. THE Recall Began ON December 21, 2015. Owners MAY Contact Chrysler Customer Service AT 1-800-853-1403. Chrysler's Number FOR This Recall IS R52.
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:transfer Case (4-Wheel Drive)
Recall date
2016-07-01
Recall no.
16v495000
Source
NHTSA
Summary
Chrysler (Fca US Llc) IS Recalling Certain Model Year 2016 RAM 3500 Trucks Manufactured July 24, 2015, Through January 7, 2016, and 2016 RAM 4500/5500 Trucks Manufactured July 24, 2015, Through October 8, 2015. THE Transfer Case MAY Have Been Manufactured With A Misshapen Main Output Shaft, Creating Voids That MAY Cause A Shaft Fracture.
Consequence
IF THE Main Output Shaft Fractures, THE Vehicle MAY Lose Motive Power, Increasing THE Risk OF A Crash. Additionally, THE Driver MAY BE Unable TO Place THE Vehicle IN Park, Increasing THE Risk OF A Vehicle Rollaway.
Remedy
Chrysler Will Notify Owners, and Dealers Will Replace THE Transfer Case, Free OF Charge. THE Recall Began ON August 11, 2016. Owners MAY Contact Chrysler Customer Service AT 1-800-853-1403. Chrysler's Number FOR This Recall IS S48.
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.
Engine and Engine Cooling:engine:diesel
Recall date
2017-09-12
Recall no.
17v562000
Source
NHTSA
Summary
Chrysler (Fca US Llc) IS Recalling Certain 2013-2017 RAM 2500, 3500, 3500 Cab Chassis, 4500 Cab Chassis, and 5500 Cab Chassis Vehicles, Equipped With Cummins 6.7l Turbo Diesel Engines That Have Concentric-Brand Water Pumps Without A Vent Hole. These Water Pumps MAY Leak Coolant.
Consequence
THE Leaking Water Pump CAN Increase THE Risk OF AN Engine Compartment Fire.
Remedy
Chrysler Will Notify Owners, and Dealers Will Replace THE Water Pumps, 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 T51.
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:wiring
Recall date
2018-05-17
Recall no.
18v332000
Source
NHTSA
Summary
Chrysler (Fca US Llc) IS Recalling Certain 2014-2018 Dodge Journey, Charger and Durango, RAM 2500, 3500, 3500 Cab Chassis (More Than 10,000lb), 4500 Cab Chassis and 5500 Cab Chassis, Jeep Cherokee and Grand Cherokee and Chrysler 300, 2014-2019 RAM 1500, 2015-2018 Dodge Challenger, 2015-2017 Chrysler 200, 2016-2018 RAM 3500 Cab Chassis (less Than 10,000 Lb), 2017-2018 Chrysler Pacifica and 2018 Jeep Wrangler Vehicles. These Vehicles ARE Being Recalled TO Address A Defect That Could Prevent THE Cruise Control System From Disengaging. IF, When Using Cruise Control, There IS A Short Circuit Within THE Vehicle's Wiring, THE Driver MAY NOT BE Able TO Shut OFF THE Cruise Control Either BY Depressing THE Brake Pedal or Manually Turning THE System OFF Once IT HAS Been Engaged, Resulting IN Either THE Vehicle Maintaining ITS Current Speed or Possibly Accelerating.
Consequence
IF THE Vehicle Maintains ITS Speed or Accelerates Despite Attempts TO Deactivate THE Cruise Control, There Would BE AN Increased Risk OF A Crash.
Remedy
Chrysler Will Notify Owners, and Dealers Will Inspect THE Software, and Perform A Software Flash ON THE Engine or Powertrain Control Module, Free OF Charge. THE Recall Began June 4, 2018. Owners MAY Contact Chrysler Customer Service AT 1-800-853-1403. Note: Owners ARE Advised TO Stop Using Cruise Control Until THE Software Update HAS Been Performed. IN THE Event That Cruise Control Cannot BE Disengaged While Driving, Owners Should Firmly and Steadily Apply THE Brakes and Shift THE Transmission TO Neutral, Placing THE Vehicle IN Park Once IT HAS Stopped.
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.
Vehicle Speed Control:cruise Control
Recall date
2018-05-17
Recall no.
18v332000
Source
NHTSA
Summary
Chrysler (Fca US Llc) IS Recalling Certain 2014-2018 Dodge Journey, Charger and Durango, RAM 2500, 3500, 3500 Cab Chassis (More Than 10,000lb), 4500 Cab Chassis and 5500 Cab Chassis, Jeep Cherokee and Grand Cherokee and Chrysler 300, 2014-2019 RAM 1500, 2015-2018 Dodge Challenger, 2015-2017 Chrysler 200, 2016-2018 RAM 3500 Cab Chassis (less Than 10,000 Lb), 2017-2018 Chrysler Pacifica and 2018 Jeep Wrangler Vehicles. These Vehicles ARE Being Recalled TO Address A Defect That Could Prevent THE Cruise Control System From Disengaging. IF, When Using Cruise Control, There IS A Short Circuit Within THE Vehicle's Wiring, THE Driver MAY NOT BE Able TO Shut OFF THE Cruise Control Either BY Depressing THE Brake Pedal or Manually Turning THE System OFF Once IT HAS Been Engaged, Resulting IN Either THE Vehicle Maintaining ITS Current Speed or Possibly Accelerating.
Consequence
IF THE Vehicle Maintains ITS Speed or Accelerates Despite Attempts TO Deactivate THE Cruise Control, There Would BE AN Increased Risk OF A Crash.
Remedy
Chrysler Will Notify Owners, and Dealers Will Inspect THE Software, and Perform A Software Flash ON THE Engine or Powertrain Control Module, Free OF Charge. THE Recall Began June 4, 2018. Owners MAY Contact Chrysler Customer Service AT 1-800-853-1403. Note: Owners ARE Advised TO Stop Using Cruise Control Until THE Software Update HAS Been Performed. IN THE Event That Cruise Control Cannot BE Disengaged While Driving, Owners Should Firmly and Steadily Apply THE Brakes and Shift THE Transmission TO Neutral, Placing THE Vehicle IN Park Once IT HAS Stopped.
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:software
Recall date
2018-05-17
Recall no.
18v332000
Source
NHTSA
Summary
Chrysler (Fca US Llc) IS Recalling Certain 2014-2018 Dodge Journey, Charger and Durango, RAM 2500, 3500, 3500 Cab Chassis (More Than 10,000lb), 4500 Cab Chassis and 5500 Cab Chassis, Jeep Cherokee and Grand Cherokee and Chrysler 300, 2014-2019 RAM 1500, 2015-2018 Dodge Challenger, 2015-2017 Chrysler 200, 2016-2018 RAM 3500 Cab Chassis (less Than 10,000 Lb), 2017-2018 Chrysler Pacifica and 2018 Jeep Wrangler Vehicles. These Vehicles ARE Being Recalled TO Address A Defect That Could Prevent THE Cruise Control System From Disengaging. IF, When Using Cruise Control, There IS A Short Circuit Within THE Vehicle's Wiring, THE Driver MAY NOT BE Able TO Shut OFF THE Cruise Control Either BY Depressing THE Brake Pedal or Manually Turning THE System OFF Once IT HAS Been Engaged, Resulting IN Either THE Vehicle Maintaining ITS Current Speed or Possibly Accelerating.
Consequence
IF THE Vehicle Maintains ITS Speed or Accelerates Despite Attempts TO Deactivate THE Cruise Control, There Would BE AN Increased Risk OF A Crash.
Remedy
Chrysler Will Notify Owners, and Dealers Will Inspect THE Software, and Perform A Software Flash ON THE Engine or Powertrain Control Module, Free OF Charge. THE Recall Began June 4, 2018. Owners MAY Contact Chrysler Customer Service AT 1-800-853-1403. Note: Owners ARE Advised TO Stop Using Cruise Control Until THE Software Update HAS Been Performed. IN THE Event That Cruise Control Cannot BE Disengaged While Driving, Owners Should Firmly and Steadily Apply THE Brakes and Shift THE Transmission TO Neutral, Placing THE Vehicle IN Park Once IT HAS Stopped.
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.
Equipment
Recall date
2017-12-21
Recall no.
17v824000
Source
NHTSA
Summary
Chrysler (Fca US Llc) IS Recalling Various Dodge, Chrysler, and RAM Vehicles Equipped With Kidde Plastic-Handle or Push Button 'pindicator' Fire Extinguishers. A List OF THE Affected Trailer Models IS Available AT: Https://Static.nhtsa.gov/odi/rcl/2017/rmisc-17v824-0103.pdf. These Extinguishers MAY Become Clogged, Preventing THE Extinguisher From Discharging AS Expected or Requiring Excessive Force TO Activate THE Extinguisher. Additionally, IN Certain Models, THE Nozzle MAY Detach From THE Valve Assembly With Enough Force That IT Could Cause Injury and Also Render THE Product Inoperable. FOR A Full List OF THE Affected Fire Extinguisher Models Visit: Https://static.nhtsa.gov/odi/rcl/2017/rmisc-17e062-5427.pdf
Consequence
IF THE Fire Extinguisher Does NOT Function Properly, IT CAN Increase THE Risk OF Injury IN THE Event OF A Fire.
Remedy
Chrysler Will Notify Owners Instructing Them TO Contact Kidde FOR A Replacement Fire Extinguisher, Free OF Charge. THE Recall Began February 14, 2018. Owners MAY Contact Chrysler Customer Service AT 1-800-853-1403 or Kidde Customer Service Service Toll-free AT 1-855-262-3540, or Online AT Www.kidde.com and Click ON "product Safety Recall" FOR More Information. Chrysler's Number FOR This Recall IS T82.
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.
Wheels:lugs/Nuts/Bolts/studs
Recall date
2021-05-27
Recall no.
21v398000
Source
NHTSA
Summary
Chrysler (Fca US, Llc) IS Recalling Certain 2012-2021 RAM 3500, 3500 Cab Chassis, 4500 Cab Chassis, and 5500 Cab Chassis Vehicles. Incorrect Information IN THE Service and Owner's Manuals MAY Cause THE Flanged LUG Nuts TO BE Over-Tightened, Which Could Result IN A Broken Wheel Stud and Possible Wheel Separation.
Consequence
Wheel Separation CAN Cause A Vehicle Crash.
Remedy
Dealers Will Update THE Torque Specification IN THE Owner's Manual and Other Published Service Documents. Dealers Will Also Inspect THE Vehicle's Wheel Studs, Replacing Them IF Necessary, Free OF Charge. Owner Notification Letters Were Mailed ON November 30, 2021. Campaign Y36 Owner Notification Letters Were Mailed ON November 30, 2021. Campaign Y26 Owner Notification Letters Were Mailed ON December 1, 2021. Owners MAY Contact FCA US Customer Service AT 1-800-853-1403. FCA Us's Numbers FOR This Recall ARE Y26 and Y36.
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.nhtsa.gov.
2016 Ram 5500 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
2016 Ram 5500 Insurance
Insurance for a 2016 Ram 5500 is moderately priced, reflecting its status as a Pickup Truck with strong safety ratings and
reasonable repair costs.
reasonable repair costs.
How Does the 2016 Ram 5500 Compare to Other Pickup Truck?
The 2016 Ram 5500 competes with the Ford F-550 and Chevrolet/GMC 5500HD in the heavy-duty chassis cab segment. In terms of performance, the Ram offers a strong Cummins diesel engine that is generally well-regarded, although the Ford Power Stroke is also a capable competitor. Feature-wise, the Ram, Ford, and GM trucks are relatively similar, with comparable available options and trim levels. Reliability is a key consideration in this class, and each manufacturer has its strengths and weaknesses. The Ram has faced some reported issues with emissions systems, while Ford has had its share of Power Stroke diesel problems in some years. The GM Duramax diesel is often considered reliable. Price-wise, the vehicles are typically closely matched, with slight variations depending on incentives and dealer pricing. Alternatives depend on specific needs. If diesel reliability is paramount, a carefully maintained GMC/Chevy 5500HD might be considered. If you prioritize a specific feature or upfit availability, the Ford F-550 could be a better choice. Ultimately, a thorough comparison of each truck's specifications and service history is essential before making a decision. Considering the application and desired features are key to making an informed decision, and a direct replacement can be found in any of the brands.
Ranks #358 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★) |
| 358 | 2016 Ram 5500 | (0.0★) |
Final Verdict: Is the 2016 Ram 5500 a Good Pickup Truck?
The 2016 Ram 5500 is ideal for businesses and individuals needing a robust and capable chassis cab for demanding commercial applications like towing heavy equipment, construction, or utility work. Whether it's worth buying depends on the specific needs and budget. A used 2016 Ram 5500 can be a good value if it's well-maintained and has a clean service history. Prioritize diesel models for heavy towing, but be mindful of potential emissions system issues. Thoroughly inspect any used vehicle for signs of wear and tear. Consider a higher trim level (SLT or Laramie) for added comfort and convenience if the budget allows. A new truck would provide the latest technology and a full warranty, but at a significantly higher cost.
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.