Ram Truck Warranty Explained

Ram trucks are built for work, towing, and long hours on the road. That kind of use can put real stress on the drivetrain and electronics, which is why many owners pay close attention to warranty coverage. Here is how Ram's factory warranty is structured and what to consider when it runs out.

Ram's factory warranty

Terms can vary by model year and model, so check your warranty booklet for exact details. In general, Ram trucks come with:

• Basic limited warranty: 3 years or 36,000 miles
• Powertrain limited warranty: 5 years or 60,000 miles

The basic warranty covers most components, with exceptions for wear items such as brake pads, wiper blades, and tires (which are covered by the tire maker). The powertrain warranty focuses on the engine, transmission, and drive system.

Some engines and commercial models may have different coverage, so confirm the terms for your specific truck.

What the basic warranty covers

During the first 3 years or 36,000 miles, the basic warranty typically covers defects in:

• Electrical systems and modules
• Infotainment and display screens
• Air conditioning and heating
• Power windows, locks, and seats
• Suspension and steering parts
• Most other factory-installed components

Once the basic term ends, all of these become your responsibility unless you have other coverage.

What the powertrain warranty covers

From the end of the basic warranty to 5 years or 60,000 miles, the powertrain warranty generally covers:

• Engine internal parts
• Transmission and its internal parts
• Transfer case on four-wheel-drive models
• Axles and drive components

That leaves many costly systems, like air conditioning and electronics, outside coverage during this stretch.

What trucks often need as they age

Trucks that tow, haul, or rack up highway miles may see wear on:

• Transmissions under heavy towing loads
• Transfer cases on 4x4 models
• Front-end and suspension parts such as ball joints and tie rods
• Air suspension on trucks equipped with it
• Electronics, including large touchscreens and driver-assist sensors
• Cooling systems that work hard when towing

None of these failures is guaranteed, but they're the areas many truck owners like to protect. Our pages on transmission and transfer case coverage go into more detail.

Choosing an extended warranty for a Ram

When comparing plans for a Ram, consider:

1. Commercial use. If you use your truck for business, check whether the plan allows it. Many contracts exclude commercial use unless you buy a specific option.
2. Towing and plows. Some plans have conditions or exclusions related to snowplows, heavy towing, or modifications.
3. Modifications. Lift kits, larger tires, and performance tunes can affect coverage of related parts. Disclose them when you shop.
4. Diesel components. If your truck has a diesel engine, ask whether the plan covers turbochargers, injectors, and emissions parts. Diesel parts can be costly, and some plans list them separately or limit coverage.
5. Term and mileage. Trucks that cover a lot of ground can reach a plan's mileage cap quickly. Pick a term that matches how much you drive, not just how long you plan to keep the truck.
6. Coverage level. A powertrain-only plan may be enough for some owners. Others want broader coverage for electronics and AC.

Maintenance records matter

Trucks that tow often fall under the "severe service" maintenance schedule in the owner's manual, which may call for more frequent fluid changes. Following that schedule, and keeping receipts, helps if you ever file a claim. Note any towing or hauling use so you know which schedule applies to you.

Good records to keep include:

• Oil and filter changes, with date and mileage
• Transmission, transfer case, and axle fluid services
• Coolant service and any cooling system repairs
• Receipts for parts and fluids if you do your own work
• Records of any aftermarket equipment you've installed

If you buy a used Ram, ask the seller for past service records and check whether any factory coverage remains. Coverage typically stays with the truck when it changes owners, but confirm the terms for your model year.

How Warranty Wizards can help

We help Ram owners compare plans from independent third-party providers and understand how each one handles towing, commercial use, and modifications. We'll explain what a plan covers before you buy. Learn more on our Ram warranty page or request a free quote at /get-a-quote/.