
The Good
The 2024 Ram 5500 offers unparalleled performance with its potent engine options, ensuring it can handle the most demanding tasks. Its heavy-duty construction promises exceptional reliability and long-term durability, a practical advantage for businesses. Despite its rugged nature, the cab provides surprising comfort and a modern design, appealing to drivers who spend long hours behind the wheel. While efficiency is secondary in this class, its robust capabilities deliver immense value through reduced downtime and maximum productivity, satisfying both the pragmatic owner and the driver's need for a capable machine.
The Bad
As a new model year, widespread weaknesses for the 2024 Ram 5500 are not yet extensively documented. However, potential owners should anticipate the high operating costs associated with heavy-duty vehicles, including fuel, maintenance, and specialized repairs. Its sheer size can be cumbersome in tight urban environments, and the unladen ride might be firm. Custom upfit quality can also vary, impacting overall usability and longevity.
2024 Ram 5500: Quick Overview
The 2024 Ram 5500 Chassis Cab is engineered for extreme capability, offering a range of robust specifications tailored for commercial use:
- Engine Options:
- Standard: 6.4L HEMI V8 gasoline engine.
- Optional: 6.7L Cummins Turbo Diesel I6 engine.
- Horsepower:
- 6.4L HEMI V8: Approximately 410 hp and 429 lb-ft of torque (though sometimes de-rated for chassis cab applications to prioritize longevity and low-end torque for work).
- 6.7L Cummins Turbo Diesel I6: Approximately 360 hp and a massive 800 lb-ft of torque.
- Fuel Economy:
- Official EPA fuel economy ratings are not typically provided for chassis cab trucks due to their specialized nature and varying upfits. Efficiency largely depends on the engine, load, and driving conditions, but owners should expect single-digit to low-double-digit MPG figures.
- 0-60 Times:
- 0-60 mph times are not a relevant performance metric for the Ram 5500 and are not officially published. These vehicles are designed for hauling and towing heavy loads, not acceleration.
- Towing Capacity (Max):
- Impressive maximum conventional towing capacity can exceed 29,000 pounds when properly equipped.
- Max Gooseneck/5th-Wheel towing capacity can reach over 35,000 pounds, making it one of the most capable trucks in its class.
- Payload Capacity (Max):
- Maximum payload capacity typically ranges up to around 12,550 pounds, depending on configuration and body style.
- Gross Vehicle Weight Rating (GVWR):
- Common GVWR options range from 18,000 lbs to 19,500 lbs, classifying it as a Class 5 truck.
- Trim-Level Features:
- Tradesman: The workhorse trim, featuring vinyl or cloth seats, Uconnect 3 with a 5-inch display, basic instrumentation, and heavy-duty components designed for rugged daily use. Focuses on functionality and durability.
- SLT: Adds more comfort and convenience with cloth seating, available Uconnect 5 with an 8.4-inch touchscreen, power windows and locks, chrome exterior accents, and more refined interior touches.
- Laramie: The most luxurious trim, offering leather-trimmed seating, advanced Uconnect 5 with a 12-inch touchscreen, premium audio, dual-zone automatic climate control, heated and ventilated front seats, LED lighting, and more sophisticated driver-assistance features for enhanced comfort during long hauls.
- All trims offer various cab configurations (Regular Cab, Crew Cab) and wheelbases to accommodate diverse upfit requirements.
2024 Ram 5500 Specifications
Vehicle Information
Year | 2024 |
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 | 8845.04 kg |
Overall Height | - |
Overall Length | - |
Overall Width | - |
Wheelbase Length | - |
Standard Seating | - |
Engine & Performance
Engine | 6.4-L V-8 OHV 16V |
Engine Size | 6.4L |
Engine Cylinders | 8 |
Transmission | - |
Transmission Type | - |
Transmission Speeds | - |
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
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Listings
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Analysis
What Problems Does the 2024 Ram 5500 Have?
Historically, Ram's heavy-duty trucks, particularly those with the Cummins diesel engine, are known for their robust powertrains. Potential concerns, drawing from past models, might include:
- Diesel Particulate Filter (DPF) & EGR System Issues: Emission control systems on diesel engines can sometimes be prone to clogging or sensor failures, especially under specific duty cycles or if maintenance is neglected. This is a common challenge across all modern diesel heavy-duty trucks.
- Electrical Gremlins: While improving, occasional electrical issues with infotainment systems, sensors, or various accessories have been reported in the broader Ram lineup.
- Suspension Component Wear: Given the extreme loads the 5500 is designed to carry, suspension components like ball joints, tie rods, and bushings can experience accelerated wear, particularly if consistently operated at or near maximum GVWR or on rough terrain.
- Brake System Longevity: Heavy usage and consistent towing/hauling can lead to faster wear on brake components, necessitating regular inspection and replacement.
How long will the 2024 Ram 5500 last?
What Technology & Safety Features are Included?
Built-in Tech & Entertainment:
- Uconnect Infotainment: Standard on Tradesman is Uconnect 3 with a 5-inch display. Higher trims like SLT and Laramie offer Uconnect 5 with an 8.4-inch or a substantial 12-inch touchscreen display, providing faster processing, improved graphics, and over-the-air updates.
- Connectivity: Features include Apple CarPlay and Android Auto integration, multiple USB ports (including USB-C), and an available 4G LTE Wi-Fi hotspot, keeping drivers connected on the job.
- Digital Instrument Cluster: Available 7-inch or 12-inch digital instrument clusters provide customizable information displays for critical vehicle data.
- Premium Audio: Laramie trims can be optioned with a premium sound system for enhanced audio quality.
Driver-Assistance & Safety Features:
While not as heavily equipped as passenger vehicles, the 5500 offers valuable driver-assistance features crucial for its heavy-duty applications:
- ParkSense Front and Rear Park Assist: Helps navigate tight spaces, especially important with large upfits.
- Blind-Spot Monitoring with Rear Cross-Path Detection: A critical feature for improving visibility around a large truck, especially when changing lanes or backing up.
- Adaptive Cruise Control with Stop and Go: Reduces driver fatigue on long hauls by automatically adjusting speed to maintain a set distance from the vehicle ahead.
- Forward Collision Warning with Active Braking: Helps prevent or mitigate frontal collisions.
- LaneSense Lane Departure Warning with Lane Keep Assist: Aids in preventing unintentional lane drifts.
- Trailer Surround View Camera System: Provides a comprehensive view around the truck and trailer, making hitching and maneuvering significantly easier.
- Digital Rearview Mirror: Offers an unobstructed view behind the truck, regardless of cargo or upfit, often including a tow mode for improved visibility with a trailer.
- Safety: Standard safety features include multiple airbags, anti-lock brakes (ABS), electronic stability control (ESC), and traction control. The robust frame and heavy-duty construction also contribute significantly to occupant protection.
Crash-Test Ratings:
It is important to note that vehicles in the Class 5 commercial chassis cab segment, like the Ram 5500, are not typically subjected to crash testing by agencies such as the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) or the Insurance Institute for Highway Safety (IIHS). Their specialized commercial nature and varying upfits make standardized testing impractical. However, Ram designs these trucks to meet rigorous internal safety standards for heavy-duty applications.
What Colors Options are Available?
2024 Ram 5500 Prices and Market Value
Current used market prices for a 2024 model are essentially non-existent, as it's a brand-new vehicle. Any "used" 2024 models would likely be dealer demos or very early trade-ins, selling close to new prices.
Depreciation for heavy-duty commercial chassis cabs can be less severe than passenger vehicles, especially for well-maintained trucks with the desirable Cummins diesel engine. Factors affecting resale value include: engine type (diesel often holds value better), mileage, overall condition, maintenance history, specific upfit (if it's a universally desirable one), and regional demand for commercial vehicles. A clean, well-serviced chassis cab remains a valuable asset for years due to its utility.
2024 Ram 5500 Cost of Ownership
2024 Ram 5500 Fuel Efficiency
2024 Ram 5500 Recalls & Defects
Exterior Lighting
Steering:steering Control Module
Steering:column
AIR Bags:frontal:driver Clockspring/Spiral Cassette
2024 Ram 5500 Warranty
Basic
Powertrain
Rust
2024 Ram 5500 Insurance
reasonable repair costs.
How Does the 2024 Ram 5500 Compare to Other Pickup Truck?
- Performance:
- Ram 5500: Excels with its class-leading 6.7L Cummins Turbo Diesel, offering immense torque (800 lb-ft) for superior towing and hauling. The 6.4L HEMI V8 is a robust gasoline option. Its transmission (Aisin automatic) is highly regarded for heavy-duty applications.
- Ford F-550: Offers the powerful 6.7L Power Stroke V8 Diesel and a 7.3L "Godzilla" gasoline V8. The Power Stroke typically matches or slightly exceeds the Cummins in horsepower, while the "Godzilla" offers impressive gas power. Ford's 10-speed automatic transmission is a significant advantage.
- Chevrolet Silverado 5500HD/International CV Series: Features a 6.6L Duramax V8 Diesel with 350 hp and 700 lb-ft of torque, paired with an Allison transmission. It lags slightly behind Ram and Ford in peak torque and towing capacity.
- Features & Interior:
- Ram 5500: Leads in interior sophistication, especially in Laramie trim, with its large Uconnect 5 touchscreen (up to 12 inches) and premium materials. Offers a strong suite of driver-assistance features.
- Ford F-550: Provides a modern, practical interior with an available large touchscreen (up to 12 inches) and extensive connectivity options. Features like Pro Power Onboard are unique.
- Chevrolet Silverado 5500HD/International CV Series: Offers a more utilitarian interior, especially in lower trims, with functional but less luxurious tech and material choices compared to Ram or Ford.
- Reliability:
- All three are built for durability. Ram's Cummins engine has a legendary reputation for longevity. Ford's Power Stroke and "Godzilla" engines are also highly reliable. The Duramax/Allison combination in the GM/International offering is proven. Long-term reliability heavily depends on maintenance and specific duty cycles.
- Price:
- Pricing is highly competitive across the board, with all three starting in the mid-$50,000s for base models and rising significantly with options and upfits. Ram and Ford tend to be at the higher end for comparably equipped models, reflecting their advanced features and capabilities.
Recommendation:
The Ram 5500 is an excellent choice for businesses prioritizing maximum towing/hauling, a comfortable and technologically advanced cabin, and the renowned Cummins diesel power.
Similar Alternatives:
- Ford F-550 Super Duty Chassis Cab: A very strong alternative, often considered a direct rival in every aspect. Ford's extensive dealer network, innovative tech (like Pro Power Onboard), and robust powertrain make it equally compelling.
- Chevrolet Silverado 5500HD/International CV Series: A solid option for those who prefer the Duramax/Allison combination, often seen as a no-nonsense work truck, though perhaps less refined than its Ram and Ford counterparts in certain areas.
Final Verdict: Is the 2024 Ram 5500 a Good Pickup Truck?
Is it worth buying? Absolutely, if your business demands its robust performance, especially the immense torque of the Cummins diesel, and benefits from a refined, comfortable cabin for long workdays.
It is almost exclusively purchased new, given its commercial application and the necessity for specific warranty coverage and custom upfits. A used 2024 model would be an anomaly. For most work applications, the Tradesman or SLT trims offer the best value, balancing essential features with durability. The Laramie is suitable for owner-operators or businesses prioritizing driver comfort and advanced tech. Its high acquisition and operating costs are justified only by its unparalleled utility and revenue-generating potential.