Ram through your obstacles. You can do so on foot, but it's easier when you're in a used Dodge Ram. In 2019, more than 700,000 Dodge Rams were sold.
If you want a truck that is durable and stylish, you should get yourself a Ram. But don't sign off on a lease just yet.
What should you look for in your vehicle? What is the value and price of the truck like? What model year should you value?
Answer these questions and you can find your perfect used truck. Here are nine factors to keep in mind.
1. Depreciation
Depreciation is the decline in the value of a vehicle over time. As you might imagine, used vehicles depreciate quickly.
But used Dodge Ram trucks are especially prone to depreciation. A Ram 1500 depreciates in value by 42.7 percent over five years.
The good news is that it makes a used Dodge Ram 1500 easy to purchase. But if you are planning on selling it, you need to be careful. Make sure you maintain your vehicle and drive carefully.
2. Price
The initial cost of your Ram can be cheap due to depreciation. But you must take into account ownership costs.
The older your model year, the more you will have to pay for insurance and maintenance. Ask your insurer and get a quote for the Ram. Take the truck to a repair center and see what fixes you will need to make.
Have a good conversation with your dealer and ask them several questions. Get an initial quote for how much the vehicle costs. Then talk about different ways you can cover the cost of your truck.
3. Safety
Ram trucks have been subject to safety recalls. The 2019 Dodge Ram has been recalled for its cruise control. Drivers have reported difficulty deactivating the control and modulating their speed.
There are also been some problems with the Ram's battery. It can overheat and spark a fire, even after the ignition goes off.
Other Ram models have similar problems. Drivers have reported issues with the fuel system and cargo latches. Drivers of the 2017 and 2018 Rams have reported fewer problems.
You can get a used 2019 Dodge Ram. But test it out to make sure it is safe. Lift up the hood and inspect the battery after you shut the ignition off.
4. Generation
The first generation of Ram 1500 trucks ran from 1971 to 1993. They are not ideal for extensive road use, but you can restore one and show it off in a collection.
The second generation of trucks ran from 1994 to 2002. Second-gen trucks have larger bodies, making them safer. But they often have transmission and braking problems.
The third generation ran from 2002 to 2009. If you want a cheap truck, you should look for a third-gen one. In addition to having low prices, they have a good suspension setup and a sturdy frame.
The fourth generation is ongoing. These trucks are a little more expensive than third-gen models. But you will encounter fewer problems on the road.
5. Model Year
You may wonder why the 2019 Ram has problems that the 2017 and 2018 ones don't have. The 2019 Ram is a completely new model. It incorporates hybrid technology, a steel framework, and a longer cab body.
The truck is designed to be more aerodynamic. If you want a vehicle that is easier to turn in, you should consider the 2019 model.
But take a look at several different model years, including 2020 and 2021. The 2020 model has blind-spot monitoring, making it easier to avoid accidents.
6. Competing Vehicles
The Ford F-150 is the Ram's biggest competitor. The 2021 model contains powertrain technology and it has a high towing capacity.
But the F-150 can be inconsistent. The 2004 model contains a very weak engine, making it hard to operate.
The Chevrolet Silverado 1500 is another major competitor. You find that it is cheaper than the Ram, and most models contain more cargo space. But Rams accelerate better and are easier to handle.
7. Aesthetics
You can find many colors for your Ram 1500. The most common ones are diamond black, blue, and steel gray. You may be able to find a red or dark green truck.
The interior of your vehicle may be in a difficult color than the exterior. This can draw attention to your interior, but it can prove too clashing. Take a look at a few models before deciding on the right colors.
8. Service History
You should not buy any vehicle that you do not have the service history for. This is especially important for a Ram, given the line's history of recalls.
Get the history and read it over carefully. If the vehicle was involved in an accident, figure out the details of it.
9. Comfort
Most truck drivers find Rams to be comfortable vehicles. The interior of the 2019 model contains a 12-inch touchscreen. You can control heaters in the seats and adjust the vehicle's suspension with it.
It is essential that you give a used Dodge Ram for sale a test drive. See how you can incorporate the technology into your drive. Drive with your family and see how comfortable they are.
The Nine Essential Factors of a Used Dodge Ram
Study up on the used Dodge Ram. Its value will depreciate, though it is quite cheap.
Many model years have been subject to recalls. But even first-gen trucks have qualities you can value, namely for collectors. The 2019 Ram has some problems, but it offers innovations that other models lack.
Keep in mind competing vehicles and look at different colors of Rams. Get the service history and go on a test drive before you make a purchase.
Turn to a dealer who knows the ins and outs of trucks. McKinney Dodge serves the Easley area. Browse our Rams today.
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