Dodge Ram vs Chevy Silverado: Truck Reliability Showdown

Are you in the market for a new truck and can’t decide between the Dodge Ram and Chevy Silverado? Look no further! 

Which is the most reliable truck? Depends. For those looking for a truck with a longer lifespan, poor economy, and not gonna haul heavy weights, the Dodge Ram may be the best option. But for drivers who want a more cost-effective option, can manage occasional high repair bills, and want better towing and howling, the Chevy Silverado may be the way to go.

One of the most important factors (if not the most) to consider choosing a vehicle is its reliability. 

In this blog post, we will be taking a deep dive into the reliability of these two popular trucks. From transmission issues to overall dependability, we will compare and contrast their performance, analyze customer reviews, and look at the latest industry expert data.

By the end of this showdown, you will clearly understand which truck is more reliable and which is the best fit for you. So, buckle up and get ready for a journey into the world of Dodge Ram vs Chevy Silverado reliability.

Dodge Ram Reliability

Regarding reliability, Dodge Ram trucks have had their fair share of ups and downs. On the one hand, Dodge Ram trucks are known for their powerful engines and rugged build quality. 

However, on the other hand, they have a reputation for having several mechanical issues that can be costly to repair.

According to RepairPal, a leading auto reviewer in the industry, the Dodge Ram 1500 ranks above average for a reliable truck, with a score of 3.5 out of 5 (average is 3 out of 5). This ranking is based on how often trucks break down, the severity of the problem, and the cost of repairs.

One of the most significant issues with the Dodge Ram is the transmission. Many owners have reported problems with the transmission slipping or not shifting correctly. This can be a costly problem to fix, as the transmission is one of the most expensive parts of the truck to replace. In fact, we have a dedicated guide on Ram’s transmission problem to help drivers get a way around it.

Some owners have reported spending thousands of dollars to repair or replace the transmission on their Dodge Ram.

Another issue that has been reported is engine problems, including overheating, oil leaks, and the ticking sound of 5.7L Hemi. This, too, can be a costly problem to fix, as the engine is a major component of the truck. You can learn more about the most common Ram truck engine problems here.

The electrical system is also the weak link of many Dodge Ram trucks. And while these issues may not be as costly to fix as the problems with those mentioned earlier, they can still be frustrating and annoying to deal with.

The Dodge Ram 1500 is slightly cheaper than the industry average when it comes to annual repair/maintenance costs. 

In 2023, that number for Ram 1500 is ~ $670, compared to an average of $936. Off-course, this can and will vary depending on the severity of the problem and the specific model year of the truck.

However, it’s worth noting that not all Dodge Ram trucks have had reliability issues, and recent models are overcoming the known issues. If you buying a used truck then you must go over the worst Dodge Ram years to avoid.

Chevy Silverado Reliability

Enter Chevy Silverado. It is a popular full-size pickup truck appreciated for its powerful engine options, spacious interior, and towing capabilities. 

However, concerning reliability, the Silverado may not fare as well as its competitors. The Chevy Silverado has an above-average reliability rating, with 3.5 out of 5 stars, per RepairPal. The ranking is based on how often trucks break down, the severity of the problem, and the cost of repairs.

While the Chevy Silverado does have some reliability issues, it is essential to note that these problems vary depending on the model year and specific engine option. 

Some of the most common problems Silverado owners report are transmission, engine, and electrical issues.

Transmission problems are a common issue for the Chevy Silverado, too, with some owners reporting issues as early as 60,000 miles, primarily when maintained poorly. 

Chevy’s newer 8-speed transmission that was introduced in 2014, however, is known to be a bit more fragile than the 6-speed that was used before. The maker has made revisions to this transmission, but the problem isn’t going anywhere for the time being.

Engine issues are also a common issue for the Chevy Silverado. The most common engine problem include oil consumption, engine knock, and stalling. In some cases, these problems have been linked to the engine control module, which is an electronic component that controls the engine’s operation.

Electrical issues are another part of the bag problems with Chevy trucks. Issues with battery drains, alternator failure, and faulty wiring are common among these trucks.

The average total annual cost for repairs and maintenance is ~ $714 for Silverado 1500 compared to an average of $936.

Reliability Comparison: Ram vs Chevy

When comparing the reliability of Dodge Ram and Chevy Silverado trucks, there are a few key points to consider. 

As discussed above, the RepairPal rating for the Dodge Ram 1500 is 3.5 out of 5 stars, considered above the category average of 3. 

Not so surprisingly, Silverado 1500 grabs the same 3.5/5 ratings. This ranking is based on factors such as how often the truck breaks down, the severity of the problem, and the cost of repairs.

The Dodge Ram 1500 has an average annual repair cost of $670, which is slightly less than the Chevy Silverado 1500’s average annual repair cost of $714. However, it’s worth noting that these costs can vary depending on the specific model and year of the truck.

Regarding common problems reported by owners, the Dodge Ram 1500 has had issues with the transmission and engine. Some owners have also reported problems with the powertrain and electrical system. 

On the other hand, the Chevy Silverado 1500 has had issues with the transmission and engine and the suspension and brakes.

Reliability	Dodge Ram	Chevy Silverado
Repair Costs	$700 – $1,000	$800 – $1,200
Frequency of Issues	Every 30,000 miles	Every 25,000 miles
Common Problems	Transmission issues, engine problems, electrical issues	Transmission issues, engine problems, suspension problems
Warranty	3-year/36,000-mile basic, 5-year/60,000-mile powertrain	3-year/36,000-mile basic, 5-year/60,000-mile powertrain
Consumer Reports Rating	7/10	8/10
JD Power Rating	8.1/10	8.5/10

It is clear from the table that the Dodge Ram has a slight edge over Chevy Silverado Ram in terms of reliability. The Ram has fewer issues with the frequency of issues and repair costs.

It would be best if you kept in mind that these are general statistics and may not apply to all individual trucks.

Consumer reviews & ratings

Dodge Ram & Chevy Silverado both trucks have their fair share of praise and complaints in the market. 

Many Dodge Ram owners take pride in the truck’s powerful engine, smooth ride, and spacious interior. But like the thorn of a rose, some have also reported troubled transmission and electrical systems. 

On the other hand, durability and fuel efficiency are at the top of the list of things loved by Chevy Silverado owners, and the transmission and brake system is the most hated.

One common complaint among Chevy Silverado owners is the high repair costs, with some reporting having to spend thousands of dollars on repairs. Dodge Ram owners also report high repair costs, but some have complained about the truck’s poor fuel economy.

Factors affecting reliability

Now that we are done comparing the Ram, and Silverado pickups’ reliability, let’s better grasp the factors that affect a vehicle’s reliability. 

Roughly, it includes factors such as maintenance and cost, driving conditions, and usage.

Maintenance is one of the most critical factors that can affect the reliability of a truck. Regularly scheduled maintenance, such as oil changes, tire rotations, and brake inspections, can help prolong the life of a truck and reduce the chances of issues. 

It is also crucial to keep an eye out for any warning signs, such as strange noises or unusual smells, and address them immediately.

Besides, driving conditions can also have a significant impact on the reliability of a truck. 

Trucks driving on rough terrain or in extreme temperatures are more likely to experience issues than those driving on smooth roads and in mild temperatures. 

Usage is another vital parameter that can affect the reliability of a truck. Trucks used for heavy-duty tasks, such as hauling heavy loads or towing, are more likely to experience issues than those used for light-duty tasks. [Must read: Here is how you can improve the towing capacity of Ram trucks]

Choose a truck suitable for the intended usage, and do not overload the truck beyond its capacity.

One can prolong the life of a truck and reduce the chances of issues by keeping up with regular maintenance, driving carefully in challenging conditions, and choosing a truck suitable for its intended usage. 

Additionally, paying attention to any warning signs and addressing any issues immediately.

Over to you!

The reliability showdown between Dodge Ram and Chevy Silverado trucks is a close one. Both brands have their strengths and weaknesses when it comes to reliability. 

As for our recommendations, it ultimately comes down to your personal preference and specific needs. 

If you are looking for a truck with a longer lifespan, poor economy, and not gonna haul heavy weights, the Dodge Ram may be the best option.

But for drivers who want a more cost-effective option, can manage occasional high repair bills, and want better towing and howling, the Chevy Silverado may be the way to go.

I hope we could answer your question in this “Ram vs Chevy reliability” comparison. It’s essential to do thorough research and consider your needs before making a final decision.

And after everything, these issues are not exclusive to just one brand, and both Dodge Ram and Chevy Silverado trucks have their own strengths and weaknesses.