SteeringHigh
Front-axle 'death wobble' at speed after a bump.
- Typically appears
- Any
- What to inspect
- Test at highway speed over rough roads; check steering damper and linkage.
2014–2018 Ram 2500 · common problems & known faults
The 4th-gen Ram 2500 is a heavy-duty workhorse; on Cummins diesels, emissions hardware and 'death wobble' are the checks.
Compiled & reviewed by the VehicleFaults Research Team · last reviewed July 2026
Quick answer
The most commonly reported faults on the 2014–2018 Ram 2500 are Front-axle 'death wobble' at speed after a bump, 6.7 Cummins EGR / DPF clogging and DEF system faults and Harsh shifting, slipping in higher gears, or delayed engagement on the 68RFE automatic gearbox. 3 of the documented issues are rated high severity · inspect these first. Full inspection points, onset mileage and what to check are listed below.
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Build the inspection planReliability snapshot
Based on the documented faults on this page for the Ram 2500.
4.3/ 10
- Critical
- 0
- High
- 3
- Medium
- 4
- Low
- 1
Guidance only · reflects reported patterns, not a specific car's condition.
Known faults to check
EmissionsHigh
6.7 Cummins EGR / DPF clogging and DEF system faults.
- Typically appears
- 80,000+ miles
- What to inspect
- Scan for emissions codes and check regen / DEF history.
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Build the inspection planCoolingMedium
Water pump and thermostat wear.
- Typically appears
- 100,000+ miles
- What to inspect
- Check for coolant leaks and overheating history.
SuspensionMedium
Track bar and ball-joint wear.
- Typically appears
- 90,000+ miles
- What to inspect
- Check for front-end play and clunks.
TransmissionHigh
Harsh shifting, slipping in higher gears, or delayed engagement on the 68RFE automatic gearbox.
- Typically appears
- 70,000-100,000 miles
- What to inspect
- Start the engine, shift from Park to Drive and Reverse, noting any harsh clunks or delayed engagement. Pull the gearbox dipstick to check for burnt-smelling or dark fluid.
Interior ElectronicsMedium
Infotainment screen delamination causing ghost touches or an unresponsive display.
- Typically appears
- 4-6 years
- What to inspect
- Inspect the 8.4-inch Uconnect display for a sticky residue or air bubbles around the top edges. Test touch responsiveness across all corners of the screen.
Exhaust SystemMedium
Ticking noise on cold start that fades as the engine warms up, common on the 6.4-litre Hemi V8.
- Typically appears
- 50,000-80,000 miles
- What to inspect
- Open the bonnet and start the engine from cold. Listen closely near the rear cylinder banks for a sharp ticking sound indicating sheared exhaust manifold studs.
BodyworkLow
Water ingress into the cabin from a degraded high-level brake light seal.
- Typically appears
- 3-5 years
- What to inspect
- Check the exterior high-level brake light for condensation. Inside, feel the rear headlining and the carpets behind the rear seats for dampness or a musty odour.
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Build my inspection planFrequently asked questions
Is the Ram 2500 reliable?
The Cummins is durable, but emissions hardware and death wobble need checking.
What is death wobble on the Ram?
A violent steering shake from front-suspension resonance; inspect the steering damper and track bar.
Are diesel emissions repairs costly?
EGR/DPF/DEF repairs can be expensive; verify maintenance and any delete-free history.
Which automatic gearbox is fitted to the 6.7-litre Cummins models?
The 2014-2018 Ram 2500 Cummins was offered with two automatic gearboxes: the standard Chrysler 68RFE and the heavy-duty Aisin AS69RC. The Aisin is highly desirable for heavy towing due to its robust internals, whereas the 68RFE is prone to overdrive clutch wear. You can identify the Aisin by its sump pan drain plug.
Can the Ram 2500 be driven on a standard UK car licence?
It depends on the specific vehicle's Gross Vehicle Weight. Many Ram 2500s exceed the 3,500kg limit of a standard UK Category B licence, classifying them as Light Goods Vehicles. Buyers passing their test after 1997 will likely require a C1 licence to drive one legally. Always verify the V5C logbook weight before sale.
Should I stock the 6.4-litre Hemi V8 or the 6.7-litre Cummins diesel?
The Cummins diesel is vastly more popular in the UK market due to its superior torque for towing and better fuel economy. However, the Hemi V8 avoids complex diesel emissions systems, making it a reliable alternative for buyers doing shorter journeys. Petrol models command lower forecourt prices but may sit in stock longer.
Sources & further reading
Faults are compiled from documented recalls, technical bulletins, owner reports and mechanic sources, then reviewed for accuracy. This is guidance only · not a substitute for a professional inspection.
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