2017 RAM 1500 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 · 2017 RAM 1500
- Has 13 NHTSA recalls on record — the most notable involves the engine and engine cooling:engine:diesel.
- Scores 6 points below the strongest nearby year — the 2019 RAM 1500 earns a 78.
- The system most likely to surface first: 5.7l hemi engine internals (major severity).
The 2017 RAM 1500 at a glance
- Is the 2017 RAM 1500 reliable?
- Autojunket rates the 2017 RAM 1500 72/100 (grade C+), categorized as moderate risk. A capable truck with notable comfort, but the Hemi engine and optional air suspension introduce significant potential repair costs.
- Should I buy a used 2017 RAM 1500?
- Autojunket recommends reading the full reliability report before buying a 2017 RAM 1500. While the 2017 Ram 1500 presents an attractive package of comfort and capability, the well-documented risks associated with the 5.7L Hemi engine and the optional air suspension demand a cautious approach. A thorough pre-purchase inspection and a robust maintenance budget are absolutely essential for a pleasant owner…
- Which RAM 1500 years are the most reliable?
- Best model years to buy: 2013-2015 (pre-major Hemi issue increase, fewer Uconnect glitches). Years to avoid: 2016-2018 (peak years for Hemi lifter issues, still active air suspension concerns).
- What are the most common problems with the 2017 RAM 1500?
- The top failure points on the 2017 RAM 1500 are 5.7L Hemi Engine Internals (typically around 60,000-120,000 miles), Active-Level Four-Corner Air Suspension (typically around 50,000-90,000 miles), Uconnect Infotainment & Electrical (typically around 20,000-70,000 miles). Autojunket's full report includes repair-cost ranges and inspection checklists for each.
- At what mileage do problems start on the 2017 RAM 1500?
- The first major mileage danger zone for the 2017 RAM 1500 is around 30,000. Low Risk Zone — At this mileage, the truck should still be relatively trouble-free, often still under original powertrain warranty. Focus on checking for any early electrical glitches or unusual noises.
Every answer is generated from real repair, recall, and ownership data — full breakdown in the report.
Read the full free reportShould You Buy the 2017 RAM 1500?
The 2017 Ram 1500 is a compelling choice for many, offering strong capabilities and comfort, but it requires careful pre-purchase inspection and diligent maintenance. While the ZF 8-speed transmission is robust and the overall structure is solid, specific engine and suspension options present significant long-term reliability risks that buyers must be prepared to address.
While the 2017 Ram 1500 presents an attractive package of comfort and capability, the well-documented risks associated with the 5.7L Hemi engine and the optional air suspension demand a cautious approach. A thorough pre-purchase inspection and a robust maintenance budget are absolutely essential for a pleasant owner…
Best Model Years
2013-2015 (pre-major Hemi issue increase, fewer Uconnect glitches)
Years to Avoid
2016-2018 (peak years for Hemi lifter issues, still active air suspension concerns)
Biggest Strengths
- Robust ZF 8-speed transmission
- Strong frame and chassis durability
- Comfortable ride quality (especially with coil springs)
Top Risk Areas
The systems that tend to fail first on the 2017 RAM 1500, 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.
The 5.7L Hemi engine is prone to premature wear of the lifters and camshaft lobes, often manifesting as a distinct 'ticking' noise. If neglected, this can lead to catastrophic engine damage requiring extensive, costly repairs.
The optional air suspension system is notorious for compressor failures, leaking air bags, and sensor malfunctions, leading to the truck squatting, failing to level, or being stuck at a single ride height. Repairs are often expensive.
Owners frequently report freezing Uconnect screens, Bluetooth connectivity issues, ghost touches, and occasional battery drain issues caused by faulty modules or software glitches. While often not immobilizing, these are persistent frust…
2017 RAM 1500 Mileage Danger Zones
The mileage windows when the 2017 RAM 1500 most commonly needs attention. Plan ahead, budget accordingly, and inspect before you cross each threshold.
Low Risk Zone
At this mileage, the truck should still be relatively trouble-free, often still under original powertrain warranty. Focus on checking for any early electrical glitches or unusual noises.
Maintenance Zone
Major service items like spark plugs for Hemi and differential fluid changes become due. This is also when early signs of Hemi lifter issues or air suspension problems may begin to appear.
Elevated Risk Zone
Many factory warranties will have expired, increasing owner liability for common issues. Air suspension and Hemi engine problems are more likely to be present or developing significantly.
High Risk Zone
At this point, expect age and mileage-related wear on numerous components. The likelihood of major powertrain or suspension repairs increases significantly, requiring a substantial maintenance budget.
2017 RAM 1500 Ownership Cost Outlook
What it typically costs to keep the 2017 RAM 1500 on the road. Full 5-year cost-of-ownership projection and major-failure-risk forecast are in the report.
Annual Maintenance
$600-900
Moderate Repairs
$500-1,500 annually (e.g., brakes, minor electrical, suspension components)
How Long Does the 2017 RAM 1500 Last?
For best long-term value, target models with full service records under 70,000 miles. If considering a higher mileage example, factor in potential major repair costs for the Hemi or air suspension as a near certainty.
What 2017 RAM 1500 Owners Actually Say
What Owners Love
- Class-leading interior comfort and quietness for its segment
- Powerful Hemi V8 provides strong acceleration and towing capacity
- Smooth ride quality, especially with the optional air suspension (when working)
- Excellent Uconnect infotainment system (when not glitching)
Common Frustrations
- Dreaded Hemi 'ticking' leading to expensive repairs
- Frequent and costly failures of the air suspension system
- Frustrating Uconnect software glitches and electrical gremlins
- Below-average fuel economy, especially with the Hemi V8
Who Should Buy the 2017 RAM 1500?
Best For
- Truck buyers prioritizing ride comfort and interior features
- Individuals needing strong towing/hauling capabilities (with Hemi)
- Owners who are diligent with maintenance and have a repair fund
Not Ideal For
- Budget-conscious buyers seeking absolute lowest long-term ownership costs
- Owners who defer maintenance or are easily frustrated by electrical issues
How the 2017 RAM 1500 Compares to Rivals
The Ram 1500 offers a more refined ride and arguably better interior than many competitors from its era, but often falls short of the Tundra's legendary longevity and can match the F-150 and Silverado for costly, specific weak points.
More Reliable Than
- Nissan Titan (earlier generations, due to powertrain issues)
- GM's 6L80/90 transmission (the Ram's 8-speed is superior)
Comparable To
- Ford F-150 (V8 models, in terms of complexity and some specific engine risks)
- Chevrolet Silverado 1500 (in terms of general reliability, though with different weak points)
NHTSA Recalls
13 recalls on record from NHTSA. Check your VIN atnhtsa.gov to see if the repair was performed.
ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING:ENGINE:DIESEL
Chrysler (FCA US LLC) is recalling certain 2014-2018 Ram 1500 and 2014-2016 Jeep Grand Cherokee vehicles equipped with 3.0L diesel engines. The crankshaft position sensor tone wheel may delaminate causing the engine to lose its ability to synchronize the fuel injector pulses and cam shaft timing, possibly resulting in an engine stall.
LATCHES/LOCKS/LINKAGES:TAILGATE:LATCH
Chrysler (FCA US LLC) is recalling certain 2015-2017 Ram 1500, 2500 and 3500 pickup trucks equipped with an 8 foot bed and a power locking tailgate. Chrysler is also recalling all 2013-2014 and 2018 Ram 1500, 2500 and 3500 pickup trucks built before April 1, 2018 with a 6 or 8 foot bed and a power locking tailgate. On August 29, 2019 Chrysler expanded the recall to include an additional 693,128 model year 2013-2014 Ram 1500, 2500 and 3500 pickup trucks. The tailgate actuator limiter tab may fracture and cause the tailgate to unlatch and open while driving.
What breaks on the 2017 RAM 1500?
Full reliability breakdown — engine, transmission, rust, electrical. With repair costs and mileage danger zones.
Autojunket OSC · OSC Transfer
Sell your 2017 RAM 1500 for what it's actually worth.
Log every service. Sell with a signed PDF. Every receipt, mileage-verified, in the buyer's hands.
RAM 1500 by Year
Compare AutoScores across nearby years of the RAM 1500. 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 2017 RAM 1500
Parts and accessories matched to your 2017 RAM 1500
As an Amazon Associate I earn from qualifying purchases.
Where the 2017 RAM 1500 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 2017 RAM 1500 for what it's actually worth.
Log every service on your RAM 1500. 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 1500
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…