Best Dodge Ramcharger years to buy, and which to avoid
2 generations of the Dodge Ramcharger, and for each one the model years owners and specialists recommend, the ones with documented problems, and the recalls to check. One of them has a clear sweet spot; the rest are best bought on condition.
Sweet spot years owners and specialists recommend · Beware years with documented problems · Recall years with a recall to check by VIN. Each one is sourced on the model's own guide.
Dodge Ramcharger (first generation)
1974–1980- 1978Two steering recalls: a misindexed steering column (77V176) and an intermediate-shaft pot coupling that might not tighten (78V038).Recall
- 1980NHTSA campaign 84V115 adds a fuel-tank skid plate because the rear step bumper failed the FMVSS 301 impact test.Recall
Every Dodge Ramcharger (first generation) year, change by change →
Dodge Ramcharger (1981–1993)
1981–1993It depends on what you want. One long-time RamCharger Central member picks 1981–84 for the conventional, non-CAD Dana 44 front axle and 1992–93 for the Magnum engines. Others recommend 1988–93 for fuel injection, which also runs better at steep angles off-road. For the most power and equipment, owners point to a 1993 Canyon Sport with the 5.9 Magnum. Hagerty also rates the late Magnum trucks highest.
- 1981–1984The only second-generation trucks with a conventional, non-CAD front axle. A long-time RamCharger Central member names them as one of the two best ranges to buySweet spot
- 1982–1985Recalls: 82V055000 front ball-joint clamp bolts (1982), 82V095000 ignition switch (1983), 84V047000 master cylinder seal (1984), 84V117000 twisted front brake hose (1985) and 84V115000 rear step bumper / fuel system (1980–85)Recall
- 1988Throttle-body fuel injection on the 318 (170 hp). NP241 replaces the NP208. Owners recommend 1988–93 trucks for fuel injection, which also copes better with steep off-road anglesSweet spot
- 19925.2 Magnum with multi-port injection (230 hp) becomes the standard engine, with the 360 TBI optional. Canyon Sport package offered. RamCharger Central members name 1992–93 as the years to buy for the Magnum enginesSweet spot
- 19935.9 Magnum (230 hp, 325 lb-ft). Dodge lists only the four-speed overdrive automatic. Trims S, S-Plus, Base, LE and Canyon Sport (about 200 Canyon Sports). Last US model yearSweet spot