Looking to buy my first Ram

[allicedout]

Hey guys just joined up, going to look at a few 2012 Dodge Ram 1500 Big Horn hemi. I'm trading in a 2011 Ford Mustang GT. As much I love the car I can't stand to park it during winter knowing it will never appreciate in value. I'm also just tired of not having a car I want to be driving most of the time as the mustang just sits parked most of the time. Anyhow thought I'd ask for some advice on things to look for when test driving a used pick up truck? I know to get all the service history, check for accidents etc. Anything more specific I should look out for? Thanks in advance.

 

[ignitionorange]

Don't do it! Don't buy a ram! Your gonna regret it for the main reason of- your gonna be addicted and never want to buy anything else! These trucks are amazing! The only think I would really look out for is just make sure your getting a fair deal look at lots of dealers and private sales and see what similar trucks are selling for in your area, as far as issues there's not much major that I know of for a truck like that but I'm no expert!

 

[RJP]

Have both!! That way you can spend tons of money on mods for two cars! I know it been a blessing for me...


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[RJP]

BYW I love my Ram 2013 Sport!


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[avantiguy]

Nothing beats your butt in the seat. If the seller will let you take it out alone, put a fair bit of miles on it. Take it on the expressway, set the cruise for 75 or so and see how it preforms. After it's heated up, drive in a few city and country road situations. Is the ride good, does it accelerate well, etc.

Do you get engine lights? Test every button and switch in the durn thing. Particularity 4-wheel drive in all modes if equipt.

Don't beat the hell out of it but use it the way you will drive it.

Also look under it before you take it out and after it sets a while for leaks. Also look over the undercarriage. Dents, hanging wires, missing parts or rust?

If they won't let you drive it for a while alone, walk away, fast.

 

[nukegm]

before you buy anything take the truck to a reputable shop and do a pre purchase inspection.

if seller wont let you do that, walk from the deal.

i love my ram. makes my last powerjoke look like a kids toy.

good luck.

 

[jboy2015]

I had an 08 Silverado LT. One day it got stolen so I needed to buy another truck, I didn't want to get another chevy because those get stolen often here in socal. I test drove the RAM and I was BLOWN away! The chevy felt cheap in comparison in all ways. Rams ride smoother, are built tougher, and are just plain bad ass.

 

[KiloHotel]

Get an 8 speed. You'll thank me...

 

[Drummin4jc]

My dad bought a brand new 2012 Sierra and I drove it a few times before it was time for me to get my own truck. I bought a certified used 2012 Ram 1500 Quad Cad HEMI 5.7. I absolutely LOVE this truck! I've loved it since I brought it home and have been adding to it since the day I got it. These two trucks are NIGHT and DAY difference. Too many to type out.

Like others have said, take it on a good test drive. If you can take it to a shop to do a quick inspection, do it. If not, check the alignment going down the road, cruise, radio, 4 wheel drive (high and low), lights, everything.

Remember, there are two deals to be made when buying a vehicle. The price, and the APR. Make them work for you!! And never NEVER NEVER take the first deal no matter how good it is. Hope this helps!

Adam

 

[allicedout]

Thanks guys for the good information. The one I went to see sold before I got there so I'm still on the hunt. I've been thinking about purchasing from a Dodge dealer and getting some extended warranty to go with it..... any thoughts?

 

[huntergreen]

make sure it is a chrysler warranty, not some private company.

 

[laffs]

And another member of GTAMC joins the ranks.

I'd think long and hard on this, didnt you try and escape the Mustang scene once to get gripped right back?

That said if you are dead set on moving to a truck the Ram is the way to go. As stated make sure any warranty is from Chrysler directly and not a third party. I have a gold plan one from FCA on my new truck, was decently priced actually, cover all my electronics/modules and stuff for the same terms as powertrain.

I know you said you were looking at a 12, they had a nice redesign update in 13 both inside and out. I encourage you to take a look at some 13s to see the difference.

Happy hunting!

 

[allicedout]

And another member of GTAMC joins the ranks.

I'd think long and hard on this, didnt you try and escape the Mustang scene once to get gripped right back?

That said if you are dead set on moving to a truck the Ram is the way to go. As stated make sure any warranty is from Chrysler directly and not a third party. I have a gold plan one from FCA on my new truck, was decently priced actually, cover all my electronics/modules and stuff for the same terms as powertrain.

I know you said you were looking at a 12, they had a nice redesign update in 13 both inside and out. I encourage you to take a look at some 13s to see the difference.

Happy hunting!

Good to see Mustang owners all over the place!! I keep thinking over and over on it. I don't have any real attachment to the Mustang and I find I just don't drive it anywhere anymore...... I've narrowed it down to either a truck or a two seater. I see the 2013's also have the 8 speed transmission but at this point if Ram is the way I go I'd like it to be as close in value as the Mustang as possible. Thanks for all the advice i'll definitely keep you all posted on what transpires.

 

[laffs]

8 Speed was option for 13 and standard on Sport, SLT, Laramie, Longhorn in 14+ I believe. Absolutely love my 8spd truck.

 

[UPNO4]

The 8spd is worth more than its weight in gold just sayin'
It's like drugs once you have tasted one you'll never be satisfied with anything else