A RAM pickup truck is popular for its robust power, durability, and customizable features, and truck enthusiasts can find various options in the lineup. However, for first-time buyers, certain mistakes while buying a RAM truck can end up causing disappointments in performance, reliability, and overall financial spending. This article sheds light on a few things to consider and mistakes to avoid when buying a RAM pickup truck.

1. Not choosing the correct size
RAM offers pickup trucks in many sizes, serving different purposes. There are compact, midsize, full-size pickup trucks, light-duty, heavy-duty, or luxury pickup trucks, and many more. These trucks are differentiated by their power source, like electric or fuel, their payload capacity, and other factors. One should closely evaluate one’s needs and then choose the right size. Any oversight here can end up impacting performance and usability. For example, compact pickup trucks are usually enough for light hauling or city driving, while midsize pickup trucks are ideal for construction professionals.

2. Not going for a test drive
Test driving helps buyers know a truck’s feel and handling before committing to a purchase. Sometimes, the specifications may look great on paper. Still, one may be surprised to find the interior space smaller than expected or encounter unexpected blind spots or uncomfortable seating positions. It’s essential to test drive each shortlisted pickup truck—possibly multiple times if needed—to avoid these issues.

3. Not making a list of one’s needs
The purpose of buying a pickup truck can be varied. Some may want it for recreational activities like camping or off-roading, while others may need it for hauling heavy loads or towing trailers. It’s important to write down the requirements that one cannot compromise on, such as payload capacity or towing capabilities, and to consider factors like fuel efficiency and interior space to ensure the truck meets its needs effectively.

4. Not factoring maintenance costs
While budgeting for a RAM pickup truck, one should also factor in its ongoing maintenance and ownership costs, such as fuel, insurance, taxes, and repairs. The best way to do this is to research the truck’s fuel efficiency ratings and estimated maintenance expenses. One can also seek this information from the dealership. One can spend some time accounting for these costs upfront to avoid surprises.

5. Not considering the truck resale price
In many cases, buyers may have to sell their pickup truck for whatever reason, whether to upgrade to a better model or because the daily needs have grown with time and the current model no longer meets all of them. So, one should also consider the truck’s resale value. While this may seem insignificant, one needs to remember that vehicles with higher resale values can also help one save thousands of dollars in the long term.