Used Ram 1500 Buying Checklist (2019 and Newer)

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By Cory Gunderson, Internet Sales & Finance Manager, Swant Graber Motors · Updated Nov 1, 2026

Which used Ram 1500 years should you look at?

Ram 1500s split into a few eras, and knowing which one you're looking at tells you what equipment and engines to expect:

Engine availability by year is general; the VIN decode and window sticker reprint (we can pull one) confirm the exact engine and options.

Is the HEMI tick a dealbreaker?

Not automatically, but it's the most-searched worry on used 5.7L trucks. "HEMI tick" is a ticking noise some owners report, often associated with lifter or valvetrain wear; other things like exhaust manifold leaks can sound similar. We don't diagnose a noise from a forum post or a listing, and you shouldn't either. Listen at a true cold start, ask for oil-change records and have a technician inspect the truck. A documented, regularly serviced truck is a different risk than one with no history.

The used Ram 1500 inspection checklist

Paperwork first

• Run the VIN for open recalls at NHTSA (nhtsa.gov/recalls) and ask that any open recall be completed.
• Get a vehicle history report: title brands, accidents, ownership count, where it lived (salt states matter).
• Ask for service records, especially oil changes on the 5.7L HEMI and Hurricane.
• Confirm remaining factory warranty by VIN; coverage terms differ by year and original owner.

Cold start and drive

• Start it cold. Listen for ticking, knocking or rattles that fade or don't.
• Check that the 8-speed shifts smoothly up and down, including light-throttle shifts around town.
• Shift into 4WD High and 4WD Low (where equipped) and drive a slow circle; listen for binding or clunks.
• On eTorque trucks, auto stop-start should restart smoothly.
• Air-suspension trucks: cycle the ride heights and make sure it levels and holds.

Underneath (this is Wisconsin)

• Frame, brake lines, fuel lines and rocker panels for rust scaling, not just surface rust.
• Rear coil-spring suspension, shocks and bushings; leaks at the axles and transfer case.
• Hitch and wiring: heavy hitch wear means it towed; that's fine, but ask what and how much.

Cab and tech

• Uconnect screen responds, no delamination; CarPlay/Android Auto connects; cameras clear.
• Heated seats and wheel, remote start, power-sliding rear window if equipped.
• RamBox lids lock and drain; multifunction tailgate latches both ways (see our RamBox & tailgate guide).

Should you buy Stellantis Certified Pre-Owned?

If you want more coverage on a used Ram, look at a Stellantis Certified Pre-Owned truck. Certified trucks go through a factory-defined inspection and carry Stellantis CPO coverage on top of what's left of the factory warranty; eligibility limits on age and mileage apply. Our Stellantis Certified Pre-Owned page lays out the program, and the year-by-year used Ram 1500 guide goes deeper on each year.

Pricing, financing and protection

Used trucks are priced to the market, and every number is on the table: tax, title, registration and the $127.50 doc fee. Financing is subject to credit approval, and on a used truck with a loan, look at GAP coverage, because trucks can owe more than they're worth early in a loan. Trading in? Start with our trade appraisal.

See used Ram 1500s in Barron

Our used inventory sits on the lot at 1690 E Division Ave in Barron, close to Rice Lake, Cumberland, Chetek and Turtle Lake. Bring this checklist; we'll put the truck on a lift if you want to see underneath.

Keep reading

• Ram 1500 Buyer's Guide (hub)
• 2027 Ram 1500 trims, explained
• Level 1 & Level 2 groups decoded
• Hurricane vs HEMI vs eTorque
• Trailer Tow Group II: worth it?
• Winter & 4x4 in NW Wisconsin
• RamBox & multifunction tailgate
• Maintenance schedule

Sources: Stellantis Media Ram 1500 press materials (2019–2027); NHTSA recall lookup; Stellantis CPO program terms (Swant Graber CPO page). Year and engine availability confirmed by VIN.

Questions

What is the best used Ram 1500 year to buy?

For most shoppers, 2019 and newer fifth-generation trucks, for the current platform and interior. Condition, service history and recall status matter more than the year alone.

Was there a 5.7L HEMI in the 2025 Ram 1500?

No. Ram dropped the 5.7L HEMI for 2025 and brought it back for 2026. The 2025 trucks use the 3.6L eTorque or the 3.0L Hurricane.

What is the HEMI tick?

A ticking noise some owners report on 5.7L HEMIs, often associated with lifter or valvetrain wear; other issues can sound similar. Have the truck inspected at cold start; we don't diagnose from a description.

What is a Ram 1500 Classic?

The previous-generation design Ram kept selling alongside the fifth-generation truck. Check the model name and VIN so you know which one you're buying.

What should I check on a used Ram 1500?

Open recalls by VIN, history report, service records, a cold start, 4WD engagement, transmission shifts, frame and brake-line rust, and all the tech.

Is Stellantis Certified Pre-Owned worth it on a Ram?

It adds a factory-defined inspection and Stellantis CPO coverage; age and mileage limits apply. See our Stellantis Certified Pre-Owned page for terms.

Where can I shop used Ram 1500s near Rice Lake?

Swant Graber Motors, 1690 E Division Ave, Barron, WI 54812, about 19 minutes from Rice Lake. Call 715-537-5657.