Dealer visit checklist
2019 Ram 1500 checklist
Print it or keep it on your phone. Tick each item as you go so nothing gets missed.
This is a year to avoid
- • 2.2x more owner complaints than nearby model years
- • 6.8x more owner complaints than other 2019 trucks
Inspect the car
- Check every panel gap and look for mismatched paint (signs of past accident repair)
- Look at the tires: even wear, matching brands, at least 4/32" tread
- Check under the car and engine bay for oil, coolant or other leaks
- Start the engine cold; listen for knocks, ticks or squeals and watch for smoke
- Test every window, lock, seat, light, the A/C, heat and infotainment
- Test drive on city streets and highway: straight braking, smooth shifts, no pulling
- Ask for the service records and a vehicle history report
- Have an independent mechanic do a pre-purchase inspection (about $100–$200)
Known 2019 Ram 1500 problems to check
- eTorque mild-hybrid system (on equipped models) can experience battery module failures and 48V system faults requiring dealer diagnosis
- 8-speed ZF automatic transmission may exhibit harsh or delayed shifts, especially when cold — a known TSB issue addressed via software recalibration
- Uconnect infotainment touchscreen can freeze or reboot unexpectedly; a software update typically resolves it but may recur
- Air suspension (available trim) is costly to repair when compressor or air bags fail, with parts and labor often running $800–$1,500
- Interior soft-touch surfaces and seams on lower trims show premature wear and cracking, particularly on steering wheels and door panels
Ask: have these recalls been fixed?
- VISIBILITY:DEFROSTER/DEFOGGER/HVAC SYSTEM: Chrysler (FCA US LLC) is recalling certain 2019 RAM 1500 vehicles equipped with a 12" touchscreen display and a base-level heating, ventilation and air conditioning ("HVAC") system.
- ELECTRICAL SYSTEM:12V/24V/48V BATTERY: Chrysler (FCA US LLC) is recalling certain 2019 Ram 1500 vehicles equipped with a 48v auxiliary battery system located behind the rear seat (sales code: XBZ).
- SERVICE BRAKES, HYDRAULIC:PEDALS AND LINKAGES: Chrysler (FCA US LLC) is recalling certain 2019 Ram 1500 vehicles equipped with adjustable pedals.
- STRUCTURE: Chrysler (FCA US LLC) is recalling certain Mopar Rear Step Kits, part number 82215289AB, designed for model year 2019 Ram 1500 trucks.
- STEERING:ELECTRIC POWER ASSIST SYSTEM: Chrysler (FCA US LLC) is recalling certain 2019 Ram 1500 vehicles.
- STEERING:ELECTRIC POWER ASSIST SYSTEM: Chrysler (FCA US LLC) is recalling certain 2019 Ram 1500 trucks.
- ELECTRICAL SYSTEM: INSTRUMENT CLUSTER/PANEL: Chrysler (FCA US LLC) is recalling certain 2019 Ram 1500 vehicles.
- STEERING: Chrysler (FCA US LLC) is recalling certain 2019 Jeep Wrangler and 2019 Ram 1500 vehicles.
Negotiate the price
- Know the typical price: about $29,000 for this model year
- Negotiate the out-the-door price, not the monthly payment
- Get the full price with every fee listed in writing before you sign
- Bring your own loan pre-approval so the dealer has a rate to beat
- Say no to add-ons you didn't ask for (paint protection, VIN etching, nitrogen tires)
- Negotiate your trade-in separately, after the car's price is agreed
- Be ready to walk away; another listing is usually a click away