Ram Trucks became a separate brand in 2009, but this manual specifically covers the Dodge Ram generation of trucks up to this point for continuity.
👋 Introduction
Market Position
Segment:
Full-size pickup truck, established leader in the domestic market, known for capability and versatility.
Competitive Analysis
Competitors:
Ford F-Series (F-150, Super Duty), Chevrolet Silverado/GMC Sierra, Toyota Tundra, Nissan Titan.
Key Features Vehicle
Strengths:
Robust powertrains (including HEMI and EcoDiesel), comfortable ride (especially Ram 1500), advanced coil spring suspension on 1500, excellent towing and hauling capabilities across all models.
Key Features Manual
Value Proposition:
Provides factory-level repair information, enabling DIY mechanics and professional technicians to perform all maintenance and repairs accurately and efficiently.
📋 Manual Details
Coverage Areas
Regions Covered:
North America (USA, Canada, Mexico)
Page Count
Estimated Pages:
Over 3,000 pages (typical for a complete workshop manual of this scope)
4x2 and 4x4 systems, transfer case, drive shafts, axles (Dana M200/M220 for 1500, Dana M270/M300 for 2500/3500), differentials
Suspension:
Independent Front Suspension (IFS) on 1500 (coil or air springs), solid front axle on 2500/3500, rear suspension (leaf spring or multi-link coil spring/air suspension on 1500, leaf spring on 2500/3500)
Brakes:
Front and rear disc brakes, ABS, electronic brake force distribution (EBD), brake assist
Steering:
Power steering (hydraulic on most, electric assist on select 1500 trims), steering gear, linkage
Electrical System:
Battery, charging system, starting system, lighting, body control module (BCM), fuse box diagrams
HVAC:
Heating, ventilation, and air conditioning (HVAC) system, climate control
Body:
Exterior panels, interior trim, doors, glass, bumpers, bed liners, tailgate
Safety Systems:
Airbag systems, seat belts, advanced driver assistance systems (ADAS) overview
Ram Trucks has a long lineage dating back to the Dodge Power Wagon of the 1940s. The Ram name was first introduced for Dodge trucks in 1981.
Model Evolution
Generation 2009 2018:
The fourth-generation Ram (2009-2018) saw significant design changes, including the introduction of the Ram 1500 with coil-spring rear suspension and the expansion of the EcoDiesel engine option.
Ram 1500 has historically received numerous awards, including multiple 'Truck of the Year' awards from various automotive publications. (Specific awards for 2016 model vary).
Motor Trend Awards:
Ram 1500 was named MotorTrend's Truck of the Year multiple times in previous generations, setting a high standard for the segment.
Ratings
Towing Hauling Performance:
Consistently ranked among the best in its class for towing and payload capacities, especially in 2500 and 3500 configurations.