Vehicle Guide

2014 RAM 1500 Problems, Reliability & Owner's Guide

Common problems with the 2014 RAM 1500, reliability ratings, maintenance tips, and owner reviews. Get your complete owner's guide.

Overview

The 2014 RAM 1500 is a full-size half-ton pickup designed for drivers who need a comfortable daily truck that can still tow and haul with confidence. Part of the fourth-generation RAM 1500 lineup (introduced for 2009 and steadily updated), this model year is known for its refined ride, quiet cabin, and strong engine choices. It’s a great fit for commuters, families who want a roomy crew cab, and weekend towers looking for a more car-like driving experience than many rivals. In the used-truck market, the 2014 RAM 1500 often stands out for comfort and features, while shoppers frequently search details on 2014 RAM 1500 reliability and common issues before buying.

Key Features

1) Engine options for different needs: a 3.6L Pentastar V6 (with available eTorque not offered this year; note: eTorque came later), a 4.7L V8 on some trims, and the popular 5.7L HEMI V8 for stronger towing and performance. Many trucks were paired with the smooth 8-speed automatic (especially with the V6), while some V8 configurations used different transmissions depending on build. 2) Coil-spring rear suspension: unlike many leaf-spring competitors, the RAM 1500’s coil-spring setup helps deliver a notably smoother ride, especially when unloaded. 3) Available air suspension (on certain trims): improves ride comfort, can lower for easier entry/exit, and may help with highway stability. 4) Strong towing and utility potential: when properly equipped, the 2014 RAM 1500 can be configured for serious towing and payload, making it versatile for boats, campers, and work trailers. 5) Comfortable, feature-rich interior: higher trims can offer premium materials, large infotainment screens, and a quiet cabin that still feels modern for a 2014 truck.

Common Issues & Reliability

Shoppers researching 2014 RAM 1500 problems usually find a mix of solid long-term experiences and a few repeat trouble spots. Here are common issues reported by owners, along with what to watch for: 1) HEMI lifter/cam wear and “tick” (5.7L V8): Some owners report a ticking noise, rough running, or misfires that can be linked to lifter roller wear and camshaft damage. It’s not universal, but it’s one of the most discussed 2014 RAM 1500 common issues, sometimes appearing around 80,000–130,000 miles depending on maintenance and use. 2) Air suspension faults (if equipped): The air system can develop leaks, compressor issues, or sensor problems, sometimes showing up as sagging overnight, “service air suspension” warnings, or uneven ride height. Problems may appear from 60,000 miles onward, especially in harsh climates. 3) Exhaust manifold bolt breakage (V8 models): A common truck complaint across multiple brands, the HEMI can develop a cold-start tick due to broken manifold bolts and minor manifold leaks. Many owners first notice it between 70,000–120,000 miles. 4) Electrical/infotainment glitches: Some trucks experience intermittent Uconnect screen freezes, Bluetooth pairing issues, backup camera hiccups, or sensor warnings. These are often nuisance problems rather than drivability failures, but they’re worth checking during a test drive.

Frequently Asked Questions

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