Dealer visit checklist
2021 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 2021 Ram 1500 problems to check
- 8-speed ZF automatic transmission can exhibit harsh or delayed shifts, particularly noticeable in cold weather — a software update or fluid flush often helps but may recur
- eTorque mild-hybrid battery (on V6 and some V8 trims) has shown early failure in some units, with replacement costs ranging $1,200-$2,500 outside warranty
- Uconnect infotainment system touchscreen can freeze or reboot unexpectedly; a software update resolves most but not all cases
- Tailgate latching mechanism and rear camera integration have generated TSBs for 2021 model year — inspect carefully at purchase
- Panoramic sunroof drains can clog, leading to water intrusion into the cabin; regular cleaning of drain tubes is recommended preventive maintenance
Ask: have these recalls been fixed?
- BACK OVER PREVENTION:DISPLAY FUNCTION: Chrysler (FCA US, LLC) is recalling certain 2021 Ram 1500 vehicles equipped with a trailer reverse steering module (TRSCM).
- BACK OVER PREVENTION:DISPLAY FUNCTION: Chrysler (FCA US, LLC) is recalling certain 2021 Ram 1500 pickup trucks.
- TIRES:TEMPORARY/EMERGENCY SPARE TIRE: Chrysler (FCA US, LLC) is recalling certain 2021 Ram 1500 vehicles.
- AIR BAGS:SIDE/WINDOW:CURTAIN: Chrysler (FCA US, LLC) is recalling certain 2021-2022 Ram 2500, Ram 3500, and 2021 Ram 1500 Classic pickup trucks.
- SERVICE BRAKES, HYDRAULIC:FOUNDATION COMPONENTS:MASTER CYLINDER: Chrysler (FCA US, LLC) is recalling certain 2020-2021 Ram 1500 Classic SLT trucks.
- BACK OVER PREVENTION:DISPLAY FUNCTION: Chrysler (FCA US, LLC) is recalling certain 2020-2021 Jeep Wrangler, RAM 1500 and 2021 Jeep Gladiator vehicles.
- FUEL SYSTEM, GASOLINE:DELIVERY:FUEL PUMP: Chrysler (FCA US, LLC) is recalling certain 2020-2022 Jeep Wrangler, Ram 1500, and 2021-2022 Jeep Gladiator vehicles equipped with 3.0L diesel engines.
- STRUCTURE:BODY:TAILGATE:HINGE AND ATTACHMENTS: Chrysler (FCA US, LLC) is recalling certain 2019-2022 Ram 1500, 2500, and 3500 pickup trucks.
Negotiate the price
- Know the typical price: about $33,000 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