Dealer visit checklist
2020 Ram 1500 checklist
Print it or keep it on your phone. Tick each item as you go so nothing gets missed.
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 2020 Ram 1500 problems to check
- eTorque mild-hybrid battery system can require costly replacement ($1,200–$2,500) outside warranty
- Uconnect infotainment touchscreen may freeze or require software updates — a known but manageable quirk
- Air suspension (optional RamAir) has reported compressor failures around 60,000–80,000 miles, costing $800–$1,500 to repair
- 8-speed ZF transmission can exhibit hard shifting or shuddering, often resolved via fluid flush or software update
- Tailgate latching mechanism has had sporadic failures on early 2020 builds — check TSB recalls at purchase
Ask: have these recalls been fixed?
- VISIBILITY:REARVIEW MIRRORS/DEVICES:EXTERIOR: Chrysler (FCA US LLC) is recalling certain 2020 Ram 2500 and 1500 vehicles.
- SEAT BELTS: Chrysler (FCA US LLC) is recalling certain 2019 Jeep Wrangler and Ram 2500, 2019-2020 Ram 1500 and 2020 Jeep Gladiator vehicles.
- BACK OVER PREVENTION: SENSING SYSTEM: CAMERA: Chrysler (FCA US LLC) is recalling certain 2020 Jeep Gladiator and Jeep Cherokee, 2019-2020 Ram 1500 Pickup, Ram 2500 Pickup, Ram 3500 Pickup, Chrysler Pacifica, Dodge Durango, Jeep Grand Cherokee, Jeep Wrangler, and Jeep Renegade and 2019 Dodge Challenger vehicles equipped with 8.4" or 12" radio displays.
- AIR BAGS: Chrysler (FCA US LLC) is recalling certain 2019-2020 Ram 1500 vehicles.
- VISIBILITY:WINDSHIELD WIPER/WASHER:LINKAGES: Chrysler (FCA US LLC) is recalling certain 2019-2020 Ram 1500, 1500 Classic and Jeep Compass vehicles.
- AIR BAGS:SIDE/WINDOW:CURTAIN:INFLATOR: Chrysler (FCA US, LLC) is recalling certain 2015-2020 Ram 1500 Classic, 2015-2016 Ram 3500, and Ram 2500 vehicles, and 2016 Ram 3500 Cab Chassis with a gross vehicle weight rating less than 10,000 lbs.
- AIR BAGS: Chrysler (FCA US LLC) is recalling certain 2020 Ram Promaster vans and 1500 pickups.
- VEHICLE SPEED CONTROL:ACCELERATOR PEDAL: Chrysler (FCA US LLC) is recalling certain 2019-2020 Ram 1500 vehicles equipped with adjustable pedals.
Negotiate the price
- Know the typical price: about $31,000 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