Dealer visit checklist
2024 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 2024 Ram 1500 problems to check
- eTorque mild-hybrid system (on 3.6L V6 and 5.7L HEMI) can experience belt-starter-generator failures, with repair costs ranging $800-$1,500
- Air suspension (available on higher trims) is a known long-term cost risk — compressor and air bag replacements run $600-$2,000 out of warranty
- 8-speed ZF transmission can exhibit rough or delayed shifts, especially when cold; software updates help but some units require valve body replacement
- Infotainment system (Uconnect) occasionally freezes or loses connectivity, requiring software reflashes — annoying but typically covered under warranty
- Coil-spring rear suspension, while ride-quality positive, provides less towing stability than leaf-spring competitors and can sag with frequent heavy loads
Ask: have these recalls been fixed?
- AIR BAGS:FRONTAL:DRIVER CLOCKSPRING/SPIRAL CASSETTE: Chrysler (FCA US, LLC) (Stellantis) is recalling certain 2023-2024 Ram 1500, Jeep Wrangler, Jeep Wagoneer, Jeep Grand Wagoneer, Chrysler Pacifica, Ram 3500, Ram 3500 cab chassis, Ram 2500, Ram 4500 cab chassis, Ram 5500 cab chassis, 2023 Jeep Gladiator, Jeep Grand Cherokee, Jeep Grand Cherokee L, Ram 3500 Cab Chassis with a GVWR less than 10,000 lbs., and Chrysler Voyager vehicles.
- SERVICE BRAKES, HYDRAULIC:ANTILOCK/TRACTION CONTROL/ELECTRONIC LIMITED SLIP:CONTROL UNIT/MODULE: Chrysler (FCA US, LLC) is recalling certain 2019, 2021-2024 Ram 1500 vehicles.
- STEERING:STEERING CONTROL MODULE: Chrysler (FCA US, LLC) is recalling certain 2023-2024 Ram 1500 vehicles.
- AIR BAGS: Chrysler (FCA US, LLC) is recalling certain 2019-2024 Ram 1500 vehicles.
- BACK OVER PREVENTION: SENSING SYSTEM: CAMERA: Chrysler (FCA US, LLC) is recalling certain 2019 and 2023 Chrysler Pacifica, 2024 Ram 1500, Ram 2500, and 2024-2025 Jeep Wrangler vehicles.
- SEAT BELTS:REAR/OTHER:ANCHORAGE: Chrysler (FCA US, LLC) is recalling certain 2019-2026 Ram 1500 vehicles.
Negotiate the price
- Know the typical price: about $40,000 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