Ram EcoDiesel was introduced on RAM 1500 models in 2014 to polarizing reviews. RAM EcoDiesel years are numerous, so there is no need to avoid certain years of RAM EcoDiesel. Let’s go over which years (and why) have the best engines so you can choose the right one.
The Ram EcoDiesel is definitely a good choice if you’re looking for a powerful, fuel-efficient engine. EcoDiesel engines were introduced by Ram in 2014 for some of its trucks and SUVs. In the pickup truck industry, Dodge Ram trucks are well known, and their EcoDiesel engines are growing in popularity.
The EcoDiesel engine has a high towing capacity and uses less fuel than other powertrains. Using advanced modern technology, the engine produces more power with less fuel consumption.
There are, however, differences between the Ram EcoDiesel model years. Mechanical problems and low reliability are common in some model years. Avoid EcoDiesel’s bad years if you want to avoid potential problems and hassles.
The following 03 Ram EcoDiesel years should be avoided:
- Ram EcoDiesel 2014
- Ram EcoDiesel 2015
- Ram EcoDiesel 2016
This model year has many problems, and it is not very reliable. Therefore, you should avoid the above model years at all costs.
What is EcoDiesel?
The EcoDiesel engine combines diesel and gas technology and offers great fuel efficiency and performance. Due to its strength and low carbon dioxide emissions (CO2), the EcoDiesel engine is named EcoDiesel.
The most popular EcoDiesel engine in this industry is the RAM 1500. Their power output is great without compromising fuel efficiency.
Among the features of modern Ram EcoDiesel technology are:
- Twin-cam heads made of aluminum
- Shutters for Active Air Grilles
- Blocks of graphite iron compacted
- Clean diesel technology at the cutting edge
- Compatibility with B20 biodiesel
RAM EcoDiesel Specs
The Ram EcoDiesel engine is an excellent choice if you’d like to experience modern diesel engine performance. The impressive specs and great power-to-mpg ratio will have you blown away.
RAM’s EcoDiesel engine specs are as follows:
- Engine: a 3.0-liter diesel V6
- Transmission: Automatic 8-speed
- Fuel Economy: This vehicle achieves an average of 21 mpg in the city and 32 mpg on the highway.
- Torque: 480 pounds-feet
- Horsepower: 260 hp
- Payload Capacity: 2,090 pounds
- Towing Capacity: 12,550 pounds with proper equipment
- Safety Features: Power-fold tow mirrors, trailer reverse steering, blind sport monitoring
- General Features: Twin aluminum cams, Active Air grille shutters
How Many Generations of RAM EcoDiesel Are There?
In 2014, RAM EcoDiesel V6’s first generation was introduced. A RAM 1500 model was the first to use the engine. In its nearly decade-long history, RAM EcoDiesel engines have gone through three (or two, depending on who you talk to). There were improvements in horsepower, torque, and towing capacity with the third generation of the EcoDiesel. Introducing the RAM EcoDiesel V6 was a huge success for the company. It was the end of an amazing chapter in the history of RAM when its 3.0-liter V-6 EcoDiesel engine ended production in 2023.
RAM EcoDiesel Years to Avoid
RAM’s EcoDiesel engine didn’t start off well. There were a number of issues with the initial models. Oil-burning torque monster was no exception to the long list of problems associated with the first generation of anything.
2014 EcoDiesel Model
When the RAM EcoDiesel was released, it had transmission issues. Several complaints were raised by drivers regarding the transmission. Noisey cold starts and downshifting failures are examples of this. With the 2014 model, drivers reported leaks from the Exhaust Gas Recirculation (EGR) cooler.
2015 EcoDiesel Model
EGR problems followed the 2016 models, with the EGR valve malfunctioning. As a result, the engine idled rough and emitted more emissions. Furthermore, drivers observed that the engine would completely fail to accelerate while running.
The 2015 model also had electrical and fuel system issues. Several drivers reported that faulty fuel systems were responsible for the production of soot and black smoke.
2016 EcoDiesel Model
Fuel pump failures in the 2016 RAM EcoDiesel may have been caused by faulty components or designs. This model year was also plagued by oil leaks. These models were prone to rpm fluctuations and idling problems.
2017 EcoDiesel Model
Aside from fuel pump problems, transmission shifting problems plagued the 2017 RAM EcoDiesel models. People also reported coolant leaks caused by cracked EGRs and DPF/SCRs. As compared to previous model years, the 2017 models performed well.
2018 EcoDiesel Model
As in 2017, there were issues with the 2018 RAM EcoDiesel. People have been forced to replace the whole fuel system due to fuel pump failures due to low oil pressure and engine locking up. The 2018 model did better than the initial years.
Best RAM EcoDiesel Years
We agree that there were some issues in the earlier years. A few years cannot discredit a decade of engineering expertise.
Towing capacity and torque ratings for the EcoDiesel V-6 engine were the highest for half-ton diesel engines. A new EcoDiesel engine was introduced by RAM in 2020 with impressive fuel economy figures. The redesigned 2020 engines made all the noise despite some visible progress in the last years of the first generation. Furthermore, the engine was able to produce 260 horsepower and 480 pound-feet of torque. Additionally, the RAM 1500s are capable of towing up to 12,560 pounds with a redesigned engine.
Among the best years of RAM EcoDiesel are:
- Ram EcoDiesel 2019
- RAM EcoDiesel 2020
- RAM EcoDiesel 2021
- RAM EcoDiesel 2022
Ram EcoDiesel Common Problems
EcoDiesel engines by Ram have been popular since their first model, but there have been significant issues with some model years. There are five major problems and a few minor ones with the Ram EcoDiesel.
There are several major problems, including:
- Problems with fuel injection systems
- Cooler for EGR cracked
- Failure of the turbocharger
- Issues with glow plugs
- An oil cooler system malfunctioned
There are some minor problems with EcoDiesel engines, such as TIPM, timing chains, and exhausts. The solutions to these problems should be discussed in detail.
Fuel Injection System Issues
It is common for EcoDiesel engines to experience fuel injection issues after 100,000 miles. Regular maintenance is required for diesel engines because they release a lot of particulate matter. It is mainly due to poor maintenance that EcoDiesel fuel injection problems occur.
There are no fuel-related problems with the new Ram engines, according to the engine manufacturer. In practice, however, it does not work properly. EcoDiesel engines have fuel-related problems after 100,000 miles, according to many complaints.
There is a problem with Ram EcoDiesel models from the worst model years. The Ram EcoDiesel cannot avoid fuel-related problems without routine maintenance, a good gas line, and a fuel filter that is replaced on time.
Cracked EGR Cooler
There have been many reports of cracked exhaust gas recirculation cooling systems and diesel particulate filters (DPFs) failing in recent years. There is an internal cooling system on the EcoDiesel engines. The most common issues with EcoDiesel engines include coolant leaks, cracked EGR valves, and antifreeze leaks.
Ram 1500 models from 2014 and 2015 were severely affected by these problems. According to most reports, old EcoDiesel engines are most affected by failed EGR systems. Despite this, customers have expressed dissatisfaction with the new EcoDiesel hoses and poor cooling quality.
Software updates and cleaning can resolve the EGR cooling issue in some cases. Most of the time, however, replacing the EGR valve and other components will fix the cooling issue.
Turbo Failure
EcoDiesel engines are prone to turbo failure due to a number of defective parts. The oil seals on some engines leak, compressors wear out, bearings wear out, turbine wheels malfunction, and VGTs stick.
The turbocharger eventually fails because of these problems. It costs between $400 and $4,000 to repair turbocharger problems. In view of this, the turbocharger problem in the Ram EcoDiesel engine is subject to a high level of attention.
Blown Glow Plugs
A Ram EcoDiesel engine has been reported to have starting problems by the NHTSA. They report hearing a brief clicking sound when they turn the ignition key, but the truck doesn’t start. It is commonly caused by blown or damaged glow plugs in the Ram truck when it has problems starting.
A blown glow plug is characterized by white smoke coming from the exhaust pipe. It is recommended to replace Ram glow plugs after 100,000 miles, since they last approximately 90,000 to 120,000 miles.
Glow plugs can fail prematurely because of a variety of problems, including:
- Power supply instability
- Wires that are damaged
- Voltages that are uncontrolled
- Overheating of the engine
Oil Cooler System Malfunction
A common problem with EcoDiesel engines is overheating. It is mainly due to ineffective coolers that the problem occurs. Due to poor or inappropriate design, EcoDiesel’s oil cooler failed quickly. After 20,000 to 30,000 miles, the oil cooler will fail if the engine is not maintained properly.
In the event of a cracked cooler, the entire cooling system will overheat and oil pollution will result. This leads to a rapid rise in oil temperature. Due to oil contamination and overheating, the EcoDiesel engine’s lifespan will be reduced.
Corrosion causes the oil cooler to crack over time. A properly maintained oil cooler prevents the accumulation of corrosive elements. A leak can be fixed by re-coring. EcoDiesel engines must, however, be maintained and cared for properly.
TIPM Issues
There is no widespread problem with RAM’s Totally Integrated Power Module (TIPM), but it cannot be ignored. This problem occurs in some Ram EcoDiesels. In addition to AC systems not working, power windows malfunction, and coolant fans not functioning, a faulty TIPM can result in a number of problems.
You should take your Ram truck to a professional technician if the TIPM is malfunctioning. Replacing the faulty parts can be done by a technician to fix the TIPM correctly.
Timing Chain Slipping Issues
Timing chain failure has been reported in some Ram EcoDiesels. A piston and valve timing interval replacement was Ram’s attempt to fix the problem in the 2022 model year.
The timing chain still slips for some users, however. There are unusual sounds coming from the engine that indicate this problem. Despite the relatively rare timing chain issue in EcoDiesel engines, the issue needs to be discussed because repairing the timing chain is very costly.
If you notice unusual noise, engine starting issues, or vibration while accelerating, check the timing chain and take the vehicle to a mechanic immediately.
Why Did They Discontinue the RAM EcoDiesel Engine?
A RAM diesel engine that had been in production for 10 years was shut down before even completing its ten-year production cycle. As RAM decided the EcoDiesel had no place in its electrified future, production of the RAM 1500 EcoDiesel ended in 2023. Moreover, RAM will release its first electric pickup truck in 2025: the RAM 1500 EV.
Furthermore, the decision to go electric coincided with FCA’s $300M fine for diesel emissions cheating a month earlier, similar to Volkswagen’s 2015 scandal.
When it comes to reliability, RAM EcoDiesel is said to outperform its gasoline-powered competitors. Furthermore, if you maintain your 1500 EcoDiesel on a regular basis, you can expect it to last for many years to come. Diesel engines’ future remains uncertain as of now.
When asked, “Which year of RAM EcoDiesel should I buy? ” The redesigned engines from 2020-2023 would be best, as would anything after 2018.
Ram EcoDiesel Maintenance Schedule
Since EcoDiesel engines require regular maintenance, I have included the Ram EcoDiesel engine maintenance schedule here.
For Ram EcoDiesel, here are some maintenance tips:
- Engine Oil: Always use the type of engine oil recommended by the manufacturer. Every 10,000 miles or 12 months, change the engine oil.
- Fuel Filter: Replace the fuel filter when you change the engine oil. You can use the fuel filter for at least 30,000 miles if it does not show any signs of damage or failure. It must be replaced after 30k miles or 30 to 36 months.
- Differentials: After 20,000 miles, change the differentials.
- Transfer Case Fluid: Make sure the transfer case fluid is changed every 30,000 to 65,000 miles.
Avoid any EcoDiesel problems by strictly following the maintenance schedule.
Why is Ram Discontinuing the EcoDiesel?
The Ram 1500 EcoDiesel engine was discontinued by Ram in January 2023. Like other automakers, Ram is concentrating on electric vehicles, which is why it is discontinuing the EcoDiesel.
A battery-electric Ram 1500 RamCharger is expected to launch in 2025, according to former Ram brand CEO Mike Koval Jr. (2021-2023). Ram EcoDiesels have therefore become increasingly in demand on the market.
EcoDiesel is the best choice for diesel engine enthusiasts. Consider which EcoDiesel engines are the best and worst if you’re considering buying one. Some Ram EcoDiesel model years have numerous problems and recalls, so you should avoid them.
It is recommended to avoid 2014-2016 Ram EcoDiesels due to their extremely problematic nature. A 2017-2019 Ram EcoDiesel engine would be a good choice if you are on a limited budget. Model years from these years are reliable and have fewer problems.
The Ram EcoDiesel 2020-2022 engine is the engine you should buy if you have a large budget and you want better technology and features.
It is recommended, however, that you hire a skilled mechanic before purchasing a used EcoDiesel engine. You can save a lot of money by investing a small amount in a skilled mechanic.
RAM EcoDiesel Reliability
Ram’s new EcoDiesel engines are highly reliable and popular. With a starting price of $41,940, the Ram Crew Cab 4X2 truck is a fuel-efficient truck.
It provides up to 480 lb-ft of torque and can tow 12,560 pounds. When properly maintained, a RAM EcoDiesel can last over 200,000 miles.
The latest EcoDiesel V6 from RAM is described as an “incredibly capable, remarkably quiet, and efficient workhorse.” Due to its advanced technology, 3rd-generation EcoDiesels are very reliable.
New turbochargers, high- and low-pressure EGR systems, 8% more power, and up to 14% more torque are featured in this generation of EcoDiesel engines. Reliability is also high with the third-generation RAM EcoDiesel 2021.
RAM EcoDiesel models receive high reliability ratings from J.D. Power, which include:
- 2021 RAM EcoDiesel reliability rating: 86 out of 100
- 2018 RAM EcoDiesel reliability rating: 82 out of 100
- 2016 RAM 1500 EcoDiesel reliability rating: 78 out of 100
- 2015 RAM 1500 EcoDiesel reliability rating: 79 out of 100
Dodge EcoDiesel Reviews
In general, Dodge EcoDiesel models come with RAM 1500s. Towing capacity, fuel efficiency, and torque are all perfectly matched with this engine.
Performance
It has 260 horsepower and 480 lb-ft of torque from its 3.0L V6 turbo diesel engine. A powerful 12,550-pound towing capacity and 2,100-pound payload are among its features.
Fuel Efficiency
Fuel economy is the most attractive feature of the Dodge EcoDiesel engine. Even though the engine produces a lot of power, it still provides 22 mpg in the city and 32 mpg on the highway.
Technology and Features
EcoDiesel Dodge vehicles incorporate modern technology such as turbochargers with variable geometry, exhaust gas recirculation, and diesel exhaust fluid. Although the engine meets emissions standards, it is more difficult to maintain.
Reliability and Maintenance
Dodge EcoDiesel engines have reliability concerns for some model years. This is why those model years should be avoided. Due to its complex emission system, the engine’s maintenance costs are also high. Regular maintenance of the engine includes oil changes and filter replacements.
Dodge EcoDiesel Advantages
- Towing and hauling with strong torque
- It has a long lifespan in its class, but it must be maintained regularly.
- A full-size truck with excellent fuel efficiency.
- Fuel economy and power are perfectly balanced.
Dodge EcoDiesel Disadvantages
- Costs of maintenance are higher
- Engine acceleration is slower than that of gasoline engines
- Models of its first generation were prone to reliability issues
Jeep EcoDiesel Years to Avoid
With its fuel efficiency, power, and towing capabilities, Jeep EcoDiesel is popular. Since the 2014 model year, Jeep vehicles have been powered by EcoDiesel engines.
Jeep EcoDiesel model years are not all the same. There is a strong market for the latest models, but there is a problem with the older models.
The following Jeep EcoDiesel models should be avoided:
- 2014
- 2015
- 2016
There are a lot of problems and costs associated with the engines of this year. Avoid them at all costs.
RAM 1500 EcoDiesel MPG
Fuel efficiency is one of the best features of the RAM 1500 EcoDiesel. Diesel engines are available in RAM 1500 trucks with a 3.0L V6 turbocharger. When driving in city conditions, the engine provides around 22 mpg. There is no problem with the engine for daily use.
The engine, however, provides 32 mpg on highways. Among full-size trucks, this has one of the highest highway fuel efficiencies.
It achieves a combined fuel economy of 26 mpg with the RAM 1500 EcoDiesel engine. The fuel economy of this engine is better than that of some gasoline-powered engines.
RAM EcoDiesel Engine Failure Lawsuit
Over the past year, there have been several lawsuits related to RAM EcoDiesel engine failures and emissions system malfunctions. Among the notable lawsuits involving RAM EcoDiesel engines are:
Engine Gas Recirculation (EGR) Cooler
A lawsuit was filed against Flat Chrysler in 2020 by the owners of Ram 1500 and 1500 classic trucks. An engine fire may have been caused by a defective EGR cooler on the 3.0L EcoDiesel.
High-Pressure Fuel Pump
In some Jeep Wrangler, RAM 1500, and Jeep Gladiator models with 3.0L EcoDiesel engines, Chrysler Automobiles (FCA) recalled high-pressure fuel pumps.
Class Action Settlement
With regards to Ram 1500 and Jeep Grand Cherokee trucks equipped with 3.0L EcoDiesel engines, FCA has settled with federal, consumer, and state regulators.
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FAQs
Why did Ram stop EcoDiesel?
Ultimately, RAM decided that the EcoDiesel engine had no place in RAM’s electrified future, and the production of the 1500 EcoDiesel ended in 2023.
Why buy Ram EcoDiesel?
EcoDiesel V-6 engines have the highest torque rating and towing capacity for half-tons. A new EcoDiesel engine was introduced by RAM in 2020 with impressive performance figures and improved fuel economy.
What is replacing Ram EcoDiesel?
RAM will release its first pickup truck powered exclusively by electricity in 2025, the RAM 1500 EV.
Which is better Ram diesel or gas?
According to RAM, the EcoDiesel engine is more reliable and produces a higher torque at a lower speed than gasoline engines.
