2016 RAM 3500 Reliability ReportCommon Problems, Repair Costs & Expert Verdict
Sell your car for what it's worth.
Every receipt, every service, one signed PDF you hand the buyer. OSC is the paperwork trail your resale price depends on.
- OSC Transfer PDF — every receipt
- Snap-a-receipt AI log
- Fuel & mileage tracker
- Shareable buyer view link
Quick Facts · 2016 RAM 3500
- Has 16 NHTSA recalls on record — the most notable involves the steering:linkages:drag:link:connection.
- Scores 10 points below the strongest nearby year — the 2018 RAM 3500 earns a 88.
- The system most likely to surface first: diesel emissions system (major severity).
The 2016 RAM 3500 at a glance
- Is the 2016 RAM 3500 reliable?
- Autojunket rates the 2016 RAM 3500 78/100 (grade C+), categorized as moderate risk. A workhorse that delivers immense capability, but be prepared for the specialized maintenance and potential high costs of its heavy-duty diesel systems.
- Should I buy a used 2016 RAM 3500?
- Autojunket recommends reading the full reliability report before buying a 2016 RAM 3500. The 2016 RAM 3500 is an incredibly capable truck, but its reliability hinges directly on meticulous maintenance, especially for diesel variants. Be prepared for potentially significant and costly repairs related to its complex emissions system. If you need extreme capability and are willing to invest in its upkeep,…
- Which RAM 3500 years are the most reliable?
- Best model years to buy: 2018-2019 (later 4th Gen models with refined emissions and Uconnect), 2020+ (5th Gen with significant improvements).. Years to avoid: Earlier 4th Gen (2010-2012) due to more prevalent TIPM and earlier emissions system issues..
- What are the most common problems with the 2016 RAM 3500?
- The top failure points on the 2016 RAM 3500 are Diesel Emissions System (typically around 60,000-110,000 miles), Front End & Suspension (typically around 50,000-90,000 miles), Electrical System (typically around 70,000-120,000 miles). Autojunket's full report includes repair-cost ranges and inspection checklists for each.
- At what mileage do problems start on the 2016 RAM 3500?
- The first major mileage danger zone for the 2016 RAM 3500 is around 30,000. Low Risk Zone — At this mileage, the truck is still relatively new. Focus on routine maintenance as per the owner's manual, ensuring fluids are fresh and all systems are operating optimally.
Every answer is generated from real repair, recall, and ownership data — full breakdown in the report.
Read the full free reportShould You Buy the 2016 RAM 3500?
The 2016 RAM 3500 is a powerhouse built for serious work, offering exceptional capability if maintained diligently. However, its complex diesel emissions system and heavy-duty components demand specific attention, making it a reliable workhorse for those prepared for specialized care and potential high-cost repairs.
The 2016 RAM 3500 is an incredibly capable truck, but its reliability hinges directly on meticulous maintenance, especially for diesel variants. Be prepared for potentially significant and costly repairs related to its complex emissions system. If you need extreme capability and are willing to invest in its upkeep,…
Best Model Years
2018-2019 (later 4th Gen models with refined emissions and Uconnect), 2020+ (5th Gen with significant improvements).
Years to Avoid
Earlier 4th Gen (2010-2012) due to more prevalent TIPM and earlier emissions system issues.
Biggest Strengths
- Legendary Cummins 6.7L Diesel durability (core engine)
- Robust chassis and frame construction
- Exceptional towing and hauling capacity
Top Risk Areas
The systems that tend to fail first on the 2016 RAM 3500, with the typical mileage window when each becomes a concern. Detailed repair-cost ranges and exact what-to-check inspection notes are in the full report.
DPF clogging, DEF injector failures, and EGR valve/cooler issues are common, leading to derated power or limp mode. These systems are critical for compliance and costly to repair.
Components like ball joints, control arm bushings, and steering linkages wear out under the stress of heavy loads, large tires, or consistent plowing, leading to loose steering and poor handling.
Sensor failures, particularly Exhaust Gas Temperature (EGT) sensors tied to the emissions system, and occasional TIPM-related glitches can cause various operational issues and dashboard warnings.
2016 RAM 3500 Mileage Danger Zones
The mileage windows when the 2016 RAM 3500 most commonly needs attention. Plan ahead, budget accordingly, and inspect before you cross each threshold.
Low Risk Zone
At this mileage, the truck is still relatively new. Focus on routine maintenance as per the owner's manual, ensuring fluids are fresh and all systems are operating optimally.
Maintenance Zone
This mileage is a critical interval for more in-depth inspections and fluid services. Wear items begin to show signs of stress, and emissions systems need attention.
Elevated Risk Zone
Expect increased wear on major suspension and steering components. Emissions systems are often due for significant attention or potential component replacement around this point.
High Risk Zone
Major component failures become more likely, including transmission overhauls, DPF replacement, and injector issues. Budgeting for substantial repairs is essential.
2016 RAM 3500 Ownership Cost Outlook
What it typically costs to keep the 2016 RAM 3500 on the road. Full 5-year cost-of-ownership projection and major-failure-risk forecast are in the report.
Annual Maintenance
$800-1,500 (diesel), $500-900 (gas)
Moderate Repairs
$1,500-3,000 occasionally
How Long Does the 2016 RAM 3500 Last?
Prioritize diligent maintenance, especially for diesel emissions components, and you can expect a long, capable life from a 2016 RAM 3500, though major repairs are a distinct possibility past 90,000 miles.
What 2016 RAM 3500 Owners Actually Say
What Owners Love
- Immense towing and hauling power
- Comfortable and capable long-distance hauler
- Strong resale value for Cummins models
- Robust build quality (chassis, drivetrain)
Common Frustrations
- High fuel costs (especially diesel)
- Expensive and frequent maintenance for diesel models
- Complex and problematic diesel emissions systems
- Large size makes urban maneuvering difficult
Who Should Buy the 2016 RAM 3500?
Best For
- Owners who regularly tow heavy trailers (RV, horse, commercial)
- Farmers and ranchers needing significant payload/towing
- Tradespeople requiring a mobile workshop or heavy equipment transport
Not Ideal For
- Daily commuters seeking fuel efficiency
- First-time truck owners unfamiliar with heavy-duty maintenance
How the 2016 RAM 3500 Compares to Rivals
Heavy-duty trucks from all major manufacturers offer incredible capability but come with their own set of potential high-cost issues. The RAM 3500, particularly with the Cummins, stands out for its engine's long-term mechanical durability, though not necessarily its emissions…
More Reliable Than
- Ford F-350 (some pre-2017 6.7L Power Stroke reliability aspects)
- GM Silverado/Sierra 3500 (some early Duramax emissions issues)
Comparable To
- Ford F-350 (2017+ 6.7L Power Stroke)
- GM Silverado/Sierra 3500 (later Duramax models)
NHTSA Recalls
16 recalls on record from NHTSA. Check your VIN atnhtsa.gov to see if the repair was performed.
STEERING:LINKAGES:DRAG:LINK:CONNECTION
Chrysler (FCA US LLC) is recalling certain 2013-2018 Ram 3500 and 2014-2018 Ram 3500 Chassis Cab and Ram 2500 vehicles. The outboard steering linkage jam nut may loosen, allowing one end of the drag link to separate.
STEERING:LINKAGES
Streetcar ORV LLC (Streetcar) is recalling certain American Expedition Vehicles (AEV) 3" Dualsport aftermarket suspension kits, part numbers N0436000 and N0436001, sold for installation on 2013-2018 RAM 2500 and 3500HD trucks. Improper installation and machining of the original equipment steering knuckle may weaken the joint between the steering drag link and knuckle.
What breaks on the 2016 RAM 3500?
Full reliability breakdown — engine, transmission, rust, electrical. With repair costs and mileage danger zones.
Autojunket OSC · OSC Transfer
Sell your 2016 RAM 3500 for what it's actually worth.
Log every service. Sell with a signed PDF. Every receipt, mileage-verified, in the buyer's hands.
RAM 3500 by Year
Compare AutoScores across nearby years of the RAM 3500. Click any year for its full report.
If You're Considering This, Also Look At
Similar class, similar year range — ranked by AutoScore.
Relevant Products for Your 2016 RAM 3500
Parts and accessories matched to your 2016 RAM 3500
As an Amazon Associate I earn from qualifying purchases.
Where the 2016 RAM 3500 report beats Carfax + CR
Carfax tells you if it crashed. Consumer Reports rates the whole nameplate. Autojunket tells you what will actually break on this specific year — and how to negotiate it.
Year-specific reliability score
Common problems + repair costs
Mileage danger zone map
AI negotiation script + walk-away price
Single report price
Frequently Asked Questions
Related Comparisons
Sell your 2016 RAM 3500 for what it's actually worth.
Log every service on your RAM 3500. When it's time to sell, hand the buyer a signed PDF — every receipt, mileage-verified, close the deal at your price.
- OSC Transfer PDF — every receipt
- Snap-a-receipt AI log
- Fuel & mileage tracker
- Shareable buyer view link
Recommended Reading for the RAM 3500
Most Expensive Cars to Maintain (2026 Rankings)
Most Reliable Used SUVs Under $15,000 in 2026
Find the most reliable used SUVs under $15,000 in 2026. Expert insights on Toyota RAV4, Honda CR-V, Mazda CX-5, Subaru Forester, Hyundai Tucson.
Worst Used Cars to Buy (Avoid These Years)
Avoid costly mistakes! Discover the worst used cars and years to skip for reliability, saving you thousands in unexpected repairs. Get Autojunket's expe…