Overall Electrical System 2013 Ram 1500 Express

[Kbinde]

In my search for a vehicle, I recently looked at '13 Ram 1500 Express (Reg cab/Shortbed) a favorite body-style for me.
This vehicle was originally sold in a SC Costal area, and spent 5 years there before moving to Delaware.
Several wide-ranging Electrical issues were noted on vehicle history information.
Would it's time in a Salt/Coastal Environment have been an underlying cause for system issues,?
PCM, Wheel Sensors, Electrical Charging..etc.?
Would this be a vehicle to avoid or research more history.?

 

[RamDiver]

In my search for a vehicle, I recently looked at '13 Ram 1500 Express (Reg cab/Shortbed) a favorite body-style for me.
This vehicle was originally sold in a SC Costal area, and spent 5 years there before moving to Delaware.
Several wide-ranging Electrical issues were noted on vehicle history information.
Would it's time in a Salt/Coastal Environment have been an underlying cause for system issues,?
PCM, Wheel Sensors, Electrical Charging..etc.?
Would this be a vehicle to avoid or research more history.?

I would say it all depends on the price, and if you're looking for a reliable daily driver versus a project truck.

Our trucks are rolling microcomputers and as such can be a serious PITA to resolve with intermittent electrical faults.

Sometimes you will get lucky, but the owner has likely given up trying to fix it for a reason.

I worked in electronics/Telecommunications for my entire working life. Now that I'm retired, I haven't the time or interest for a project truck with unknown electrical faults.

Maybe you have the time and drive to chase mystery gremlins and the price is right for you.

Otherwise, turn and run the other way.

.

 

[Kbinde]

Thank you Sir for your input, I certainly will give it serious thought. At 78 I'm really not looking for a "project", and I'm sure there are more suitable candidates out there... just have to be patient.

 

[RamDiver]

Thank you Sir for your input, I certainly will give it serious thought. At 78 I'm really not looking for a "project", and I'm sure there are more suitable candidates out there... just have to be patient.

You're most welcome.

I agree about being patient. I would entertain traveling a bit for the right deal but always beware of buying a new or pre-enjoyed vehicle from anyone.

I would look for a competent person to verify the integrity before signing anything.

There aren't too many dealerships I would trust either.

There are a couple of dealerships that advertise here at Ram Forum. Those, I would trust but they are the exception.

.

 

[EdGs]

@RamDiver hit the nail on the head.

You also have to consider if the vehicle might have been in a high water environment, you may not be able to tell just by the title either, have heard of dealers doing sneaky stuff in that regard.

Fresh water is one thing, saltwater is a whole nother story when it comes to electronics. I would pass and keep looking. It is very hard to wait when you know what vehicle you want, I get it.

Also ask if you can have an independent mechanic check it out, especially if there is someone you trust. Otherwise, make sure the maintenance history is good, check the carfax, etc.

Don't settle for something, either. You will never be happy. Try to find what you want. Best of luck in your search.

 

[BossHogg]

One other thing to think about. It seems that the majority of electrical issues observed are due to common ground points. Watching Eric at Southmain Auto, the king of road salt corrosion, just about every electrical issue comes down to a faulty ground. The fix could be that simple; are you a gambler?

 

[Kbinde]

Thanks Guys.. there is also a '19 Ram 1500 Classic (4wd) with the six cyl, not far from me.
Reg cab and shortbed which I might look at this week.. just trying to be patient and not jump down a
rabbit hole,!

 

[CaptOchs]

There are more issues with salt on northern vehicles. I'm in WNY. We deal with lots of rust related issues. I had to get my frame welded last year. I have a wash plan. I do my best to keep salt off the truck. It's just inevitable. If I had to buy another 2013, I'd much rather grab one from Coastal SC than Western NY!

The issue with the truck is the year. It's over 13 years old at this point and it's bound to have a ton of repairs. I wouldn't get anything over 10 years old, especially if you're financing.

 

[04fxdwgi]

A vehicle in a "coastal area" isn't automatically disqualified.

Where I am, I'm almost an hour from the coast (could make it to the bay in 35-40 minutes in the boat running 50/60 mph), but still considered "coastal NC". A vehicle from the inner or outer banks area would be a no bueno for me.

Here is more like dust area with all the ag equipment all the time.