The most frequently reported issues for the 2016 Ram 2500 center on the diesel emissions system and the heavy-duty transmission, with additional wear concerns in steering, brakes, and suspension, along with occasional electrical glitches. Proper maintenance and timely repairs can mitigate many of these problems, but potential buyers should inspect the emissions hardware and transmission history carefully.
Powertrain and diesel-emissions concerns
The following items are commonly discussed by owners and reviewers and relate primarily to the Cummins diesel and related aftertreatment equipment.
Common symptoms to watch for
- Diesel particulate filter (DPF) clogging, regeneration-related power loss, and warning lights; short trips or frequent stop-and-go driving can hinder complete emissions cycles.
- Diesel exhaust fluid (DEF) system problems, including heater or sensor failures, low-DEF warnings, and fault codes that may trigger service reminders or limp mode.
- Fuel-injection and high-pressure fuel system concerns in some engines, leading to rough running or misfires and potentially reduced power output.
- Cooling-system or exhaust-aftertreatment issues (such as EGR cooler or related cooling leaks) that can cause coolant loss or overheating warnings.
Mitigation and maintenance: Follow Ram’s recommended emissions-maintenance schedule, ensure regular highway driving to complete regen cycles, monitor DEF levels and quality, and address any DPF or DEF warnings promptly with a qualified diesel technician.
Transmission and drivetrain reliability
This section captures the transmission and driveline issues most commonly reported in 68RFE-equipped Ram 2500 trucks and related drivetrain components.
Common symptoms to watch for
- 682RFE automatic transmission shudder, harsh or delayed shifts, or occasional slipping, especially as mileage increases or under load when towing.
- Torque converter concerns that can cause shudder or difficulty with smooth engagement between Park/Drive, along with occasional harsh downshifts.
- Drivetrain leaks or seals (transmission pan, transfer case) and wear on driveline components such as U-joints, which can lead to noise or vibration.
Mitigation and maintenance: Adhere to the manufacturer’s transmission-fluid-change intervals, use the correct fluid type, and have a qualified shop inspect for leaks or abnormal shift behavior early to prevent more serious failures.
Chassis wear: steering, suspension, and brakes
Heavy-duty use and frequent towing can accelerate wear on steering, suspension, and braking systems. Some issues become noticeable sooner on trucks used in demanding work settings.
Common symptoms to watch for
- Front-end wear such as ball joints, tie-rod ends, and control-arm bushings causing play, wandering steering, or alignment changes.
- Brake rotor warping and accelerated pad/shoe wear, sometimes seen as reduced braking performance or pulsing brake pedal under heavy load.
- Suspension wear related to payload use, including increased noise, sagging rear suspension, or uneven ride height on older units.
Mitigation and maintenance: Inspect steering and suspension components at regular service intervals, rotate and balance tires to ensure even wear, monitor brake wear closely, and address any alignment issues promptly to preserve handling and safety.
Electrical, controls, and interior electronics
Electrical reliability can vary by unit, with some trucks showing intermittent sensor, gauge, or infotainment-related issues.
Common symptoms to watch for
- Intermittent or false readings from the instrument cluster or gauges, and infotainment screen freezes or reboots in some trims.
- Warning lights (ABS, check engine, airbags) that trigger codes requiring dealer diagnosis.
- Battery or charging-related faults, including slow cranking or dim instrument illumination in older vehicles.
Mitigation and maintenance: Keep battery and charging system in good condition, address warning lights promptly, and verify any software updates or recalls related to electronics with a dealer.
Recalls, maintenance considerations, and buyer tips
Knowing the recall history and maintenance records can influence reliability and ownership costs. The 2016 Ram 2500 has been subject to multiple recalls across various systems, and VIN-specific recall status should be checked before purchase or during ownership.
- Check VIN for open recalls related to the fuel system, emissions equipment, airbags, and other safety-critical components.
- Ensure regular maintenance has been performed, including engine oil changes, filter replacements, transmission service, cooling-system checks, and emissions-related maintenance.
- For buyers, obtain a thorough pre-purchase inspection (PPI) from a diesel or heavy‑duty specialist to assess the diesel system, transmission, and chassis components, and review service history for prior towing loads or harsh use.
Notes for buyers and owners: Always verify current recall status with the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) or Ram customer service, and consult a qualified technician for any issues beyond routine maintenance to minimize repair costs and downtime.
Summary
The 2016 Ram 2500 offers strong capability and durability for demanding work, but it has several commonly reported issues related to the diesel emissions system and the heavy-duty transmission, along with wear-prone steering, suspension, braking, and occasional electrical problems. Prospective buyers should review maintenance history, confirm that emissions and transmission service have been performed, and consider a professional pre-purchase inspection. With attentive maintenance, many owners find the 2016 Ram 2500 to be a capable and reliable work truck.