Fuel efficiency and power are two of the most important areas for truck manufacturers in the modern era. The introduction of the Ram EcoDiesel years to avoid by VM Motori in 2014 marked a significant advancement in both areas, as it was notable for its considerable power and exceptional efficiency. Featuring 240 horsepower and 420 pound-feet of torque, it achieved a fuel efficiency of 20 mpg city and 27 mpg highway. With EcoDiesel engines at the forefront of the automotive industry, the engines caught on quickly.
EcoDiesel engines have been offered by two major brands since their introduction in 2014. As well as being a staple of RAM’s truck lineup for years, it powers one of Jeep’s most efficient diesel SUVs ever. In 2014, RAM 1500 light-duty pickup trucks were introduced with EcoDiesel engines. A discontinued EcoDiesel model was introduced in 2023. There are some RAM trucks that have been made worse by the V6’s inclusion, but the V6 leaves behind a legacy of enhancing numerous RAM trucks through the years. EcoDiesel-powered RAM trucks are strongly advised to be avoided if at all possible.
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How to avoid RAM EcoDiesel Years?
For improved fuel efficiency and towing capacity, RAM brand vehicles utilize the EcoDiesel range of turbocharged diesel engines.
This fuel-efficient engine has diesel-like characteristics, but is a compact diesel engine from Fiat Chrysler Automobile. For those looking for a powerful engine with low fuel consumption, despite the poor fuel economy, this would be the perfect choice. A new EcoDiesel engine was introduced to RAM 1500 trucks in 2014.
Some changes have been made over the past year, and not all of these changes were favorable. Potential buyers benefit from knowing about the years to avoid since they can avoid definite inconveniences and costly repairs.
Also Read: Chevy Trax Years to Avoid
Developing RAM EcoDiesel Models
A fuel-efficient high-power diesel truck was introduced by RAM in 2014 to meet customer demand. It was the best full-size truck ever made when it comes to fuel efficiency because it provided an amazing level of torque, capability, and towing power. 480 lbs/ft of torque were provided as part of the latest Ram model. Yet it was supposed to deliver 22-27 miles per gallon combined, making it the best full-size truck ever designed.
As ecoDiesel engines evolved, power and dependability issues were refined. As well as improving the durability of emission systems and engine reliability, both generations also improved some important aspects of the previous models.
Although customers complained and recalled previous models, especially between 2014-2017. Nevertheless, due to changes in engine design, emissions control systems, and software in recent models, more recent RAM EcoDiesel models have been observed to be more reliable.
EcoDiesel Models Reported as Having Common Issues
However, savvy truck buyers should be aware of some specific issues with RAM EcoDiesel trucks:
- Overconsumption of oil: There have been a number of complaints regarding EcoDiesel models, including that they use more oil than their counterparts. Certain model years of trucks have been causing customers to complain about their engines wearing out faster than usual.
- Problems with emission systems: In addition to some of the newest technologies used to meet strict U.S. emissions regulations, hundreds of earlier EcoDiesel models were recalled due to emission system problems. In vehicle exhaust systems, catalytic converters, diesel particulate filters, and diesel particulate filters must be repaired on a regular basis.
- Failures of engines: EcoDiesel models can develop engine problems, though they are not very common. Mechanics are responsible for engine failures, so repairing or replacing them can be very costly.
- Troubleshooting turbochargers: A turbocharger, which increases the intake air recycling rate, was significant to some model years. The turbocharger may lose power as a result, and more importantly, huge repair bills will apply.
- Electric problems: Electronic systems, including infotainment systems, gauges, sensors, and gauge clusters, malfunctioned in some cars, according to owners. The cost of dealing with these problems can be high and can be irritating.
The 2014 1500 EcoDiesel is recommended to be avoided
During 2014, the RAM 1500 EcoDiesel model was introduced for the first time. Some who have experienced them recommend against them despite the fact that they are advertised as high performers with comparatively good gas mileage.
This particular model year has significant engine problems, ranging from persistent check engine lights to complete engine failures. An anonymous Car Complaints user wrote, “While driving 100kph on highway, all of a sudden, the engine halted completely,” immediately after the check engine light went off. The problem has been experienced by others at different times. There are reports of EcoDiesel engines failing at around 20,000 miles for some, and some of them have failed at close to 150,000 miles for others. Unpredictability is the best way to describe these specific engines.
Due to the inconsistent engine performance and lifespan, the 2014 RAM 1500 EcoDiesel may also require costly repairs. A user on the EcoDieselRam.com forum reported that the engine seized and the torque converter failed shortly after 57,000 miles. This resulted in a price of $14,550.00, including parts and labor, for a torque converter and engine. It is absurd that a mechanic would charge so much for such a low mileage repair. Although mechanics overcharge for various reasons, this amount of repair is unavoidable.
No improvements were made to the 2015 1500 EcoDiesel
It would be nice if the following year’s RAM 1500 EcoDiesel would fix all the problems caused by the 2014 model. As owners reported problems with the truck, this wasn’t so much the case.
Engine failures have become a reality for many drivers, and they have had to replace their engines. In a Car Complaints article, a user writes, “After purchasing a full-featured 2014 Ram 1500 EcoDiesel for around $57000.00, it has blown up three times.”. The engine of another vehicle blow at only 19,595 miles, leaving the owner stranded. A few people have experienced engine failures with hundreds of miles under their belts. As at this point, they have hardly had a chance to affect the engine, it’s hard to put it down to bad habits causing this.
As well as major problems, there have also been minor ones that are frustrating. HVAC1957 on the ProMaster Forum detailed his experience with two glow plug failures that caused him to replace the head at 26K miles and 77K miles, which required drilling and extraction of three right axles, a new transmission seal, front struts, a new radio, a new BCM, and a new fuel pump. In six years, he had over 50K in warranty repairs with six months. Other reports indicate the truck couldn’t start due to a faulty fuel pump.
A bad reputation belongs to the 2016 1500 EcoDiesel
There are also problems with the 2016 Ram 1500 EcoDiesel EcoDiesel, another RAM EcoDiesel offering that few endorse. The 2016 1500 EcoDiesel engine has a common problem of suddenly shutting down while barely seeing the road. An owner of a RAM 1500 Big Horn EcoDiesel commented on Car Complaints that her second engine failed at 60,000 miles, whereas her first engine failed at 47,600 miles. Getting a tow truck on Christmas Eve was a nightmare because the engine quit on that day of all days. A few thousand miles later, they gave out again, so they had their engines replaced three more times.
Some people, despite their luck, did experience engine stalls. While reversing his 2016 Ram 1500 Eco Diesel, a Car Complaints user reported that it stalled out. Following about 10 minutes of driving through grass, a driver’s truck stalled. A light appeared on the engine when the truck worked. In spite of the slightly improved mileage on their truck, some have decided the repairs and stress associated with 2016 were worthless.
Ram EcoDiesel model years may vary in mileage, just as any other vehicle. They have certainly served a large number of drivers well. Negative assessments must also be taken into consideration.
The Year of Recalls for RAM EcoDiesel in 2017
In 2017, there were a number of recalls for RAM EcoDiesel vehicles. In both cases, emissions control was a concern, as well as the truck’s ability to comply with emissions regulations. The following problems were reported by many RAM EcoDiesel owners:
- Violations of Emissions: Several emissions scandals have been associated with the 2017 models. Additionally, the said trucks failed to meet U.S. emission standards, according to the survey. After the recall repairs were completed, some RAM owners complained that their vehicles did not perform as well as they did before.
- Failures of EGR coolers: The 2017 EcoDiesel was recalled due to problems with its EGR cooler resulting in overheating and decreased performance.
- Electrical Issues: bad sensors, and dead batteries are just a few of the electrical issues that some owners experienced with their vehicles.
A quick comparison of RAM EcoDiesel years
It’s best to opt for models produced after 2018 if you want a RAM with a diesel engine. The emission system was enhanced to comply with the new environmental standards for the 2018 EcoDiesel model. The majority of problems related to the engine and gearbox have now been solved.
By 2020, some refinements have improved the RAM EcoDiesel’s reliability. Performance, fuel economy, and reduced emission systems have all been praised in regard to the 2021 and 2022 models. Though there remain some problems, the RAM EcoDiesel 2022 has fewer than before.
Guidelines for Purchasing RAM EcoDiesel
You can ensure you get a reliable truck if you buy a used RAM EcoDiesel:
- Review the Service History: Requesting a full service history from the provider is always a good idea. Oil changes and emission system services are among the changes and common service areas.
- Don’t buy high-mileage models: Engine and emission components can wear out faster with high mileage. Consider alternatives with fewer miles if you can.
- Check for recalls: The best way to find out if there are any recalls is to look up a specific model year. Make sure that any recalls on a used vehicle have been fixed before buying it. This will save you money.
- Take a look at a warranty: Try and find out if there is a warranty attached to the item if you intend to purchase from a dealer. Having a reserve for unplanned damage can be useful.
- Check it out before you buy: Have an attorney inspect the engine, transmission, and emission systems of this car before you purchase it if you are planning on purchasing it.
Maintaining Your EcoDiesel
Keep your RAM EcoDiesel well taken care of to ensure it lasts as long as possible. You can ensure longevity by following these tips:
- Changing the oil regularly: In order to maintain good performance and minimize wear and tear on diesel engines, they require more frequent oil changes than gasoline engines. The manufacturer’s recommendations for how often to change your oil should be followed.
- Service for emission systems: There is a need for periodic maintenance of both the DPF and EGR systems. It prevents automobiles from having to make high repairs due to dirty or malfunctioning components.
- Checking the transmission fluid: To avoid problems with overheating and transmission damage, check the fluid levels frequently.
- Maintain a coolant level by monitoring: The higher the engine temperature, the more coolant is needed for diesel engines.
Conclusion for Ram EcoDiesel Years to Avoid
Several RAM EcoDiesel models exhibit poor fuel efficiency and towing capability. Engines, transmissions, and emission systems have been problematic in models from 2014 to 2017, making them undriveable.
Purchasing a used EcoDiesel after 2017 might cause problems, so steer clear of anything below the 2018 model. Maintaining your RAM EcoDiesel and researching it before purchasing it can help it perform well.
