Used 1998 Dodge Ram Pickup 2500 Consumer Reviews
Used Ram Pickup 2500 for sale
See Edmunds pricing data
Has Your Car's Value Changed?
Used car values are constantly changing. Edmunds lets you track your vehicle's value over time so you can decide when to sell or trade in.
We have a limited number of reviews for the 1998 Ram Pickup 2500, so we've included reviews for other years of the Ram Pickup 2500 since its last redesign.
200,000 miles and still going strong love my V10
sandman80109, 03/15/2013
1998 Dodge Ram Pickup 2500 Laramie SLT 2dr Extended Cab 4WD LB (5.9L 8cyl naturally aspired 5M)
10 of 10 people found this review helpful
Have owned this truck for 8 years now and never had any trouble with it. Sure things wear out, that I've had to replace, but only due to age. My only complaint is the gas mileage. The truck is sport edition, extended cab, short bed.
Darn good truck!
wlollar, 05/12/2009
1998 Dodge Ram Pickup 2500 Laramie SLT 4dr Extended Cab SB (5.9L 8cyl naturally aspired 5M)
9 of 9 people found this review helpful
Bought this truck used from a trusted dealer. Only wish I had bought a 4WD version. The Cummins engine has performed extraordinarly well. Only problems I've encountered was with the A/C system and starting to have fuel pump issues, but with 200k miles, it was to be expected. This will be the drawback because the total fuel pump replacement is VERY pricey, between $2000/$3000. If your looking for torque, this is the truck. I pull a 14,000lb 5th wheel camper with ease. The engine/drivetrain still does not leak a drop of anything on my driveway!
1998 Dodge Ram Pickup 2500 for sale near you
Showing 3 of 3 listings
- Laramie SLT Regular CabMSRP: $7,950230 mi away
- ST Regular CabMSRP: $15,995461 mi away
- 1998 Dodge Ram Pickup 2500MSRP: $6,9951,788 mi away
1998 dodge 12v 5 speed
gary174, 01/19/2013
1998 Dodge Ram Pickup 2500 ST 4dr Extended Cab SB (5.9L 8cyl naturally aspired 5M)
9 of 9 people found this review helpful
i own a truck just like this one the only problem I have had was at 212000 miles my lift pump went out and the fuel relay went out and my sending gauge wasn't working had it replaced had to replace starter and idler pully too but that is the only trouble I have had with this truck these are items that will fail after that many miles. my truck is a 1998 quad cab long bed with a 5.9L 12value cummins diesel
Ruthless
Ruthless, 06/22/2007
1998 Dodge Ram Pickup 2500 Laramie SLT 4dr Extended Cab 4WD LB (5.9L 8cyl naturally aspired 5M)
8 of 8 people found this review helpful
'98 V-10 absolutley a great truck. Never found anything it can't do that a truck should do. Named it Ruth for ruthless. Still purrs at 105,000 miles and has never left me stranded. Crossed I 40 pulling 11000 wide load boat never had to go below 50 on the hills. Awesome it's a keeper.
Best Truck!
sawyern, 09/18/2007
1998 Dodge Ram Pickup 2500 Laramie SLT 4dr Extended Cab 4WD SB (5.9L 8cyl naturally aspired 5M)
12 of 13 people found this review helpful
We owned a 1998 Dodge 2500 12 valve diesel and it has proved to be the best truck we've ever had (and we've had many. The truck now has 184k and runs better then ever, we've barely done any work just your general maintenance and its gotten us everwhere we needed to be. We always go camping, hunting, wheeling, this baby hauls my other truck like nothing! The fuel mileage barely dips even when I'm towing 15,000lbs. One time at work a Cement truck came in and turned off its engine in the parking lot, he couldnt get it started so I had to pull start him. Don't get me wrong, it took all that baby had but it says alot that it was able to pull start a full cement truck!
283,000 miles - are you kidding me?!?!
Cagman10, 08/21/2009
1997 Dodge Ram Pickup 2500 Laramie SLT 2dr Extended Cab 4WD LB (5.9L 8cyl naturally aspired 5M)
10 of 11 people found this review helpful
When I bought this truck new, I never thought I would have it for so long. Hey, life happens and I still have the truck after 283,000 miles, a load of In 'N Out Burger droppings, and a hell of a lot of work. Tranny is a bit rough on cold winter mornings but I have no real complaints ... except, who would ever design a radio that is right under the cup holder? Hello?!?!? Ever hear of spilled coffee -- radio shorted out after four years. I will cry like when I was a kid watching Old Yeller when I have to put her down.
It's been the best!
cfarley, 10/04/2002
1997 Dodge Ram Pickup 2500 Laramie SLT 2dr Regular Cab 4WD LB (5.9L 8cyl naturally aspired 5M)
4 of 4 people found this review helpful
This has been the best truck I've ever owned. Reliable, powerful towing machine. I love it! -Charles
Reliable!
Karen, 11/21/2005
1997 Dodge Ram Pickup 2500 ST 2dr Extended Cab 4WD LB (5.9L 8cyl naturally aspired 5M)
4 of 4 people found this review helpful
Our truck has towed heavy trailers, carried 3000+ lbs., has 200k miles on it. Just replace tie rod; no other major repairs. Great diesel engine, good handling, had lots of offers but we don't want to sell!
Torque Monster
Torque Monster, 03/17/2008
1997 Dodge Ram Pickup 2500 ST 2dr Extended Cab 4WD LB (5.9L 8cyl naturally aspired 5M)
4 of 4 people found this review helpful
I bought the truck new for the Cummins and it hasn't let me down. It is a pullin' haulin' machine. Get the 5-speed that's the best tranny. This truck could probably pull a building down.
300k plus and still going for the v8 magnum
Eric N., 12/28/2016
1997 Dodge Ram Pickup 2500 ST 2dr Regular Cab 4WD LB (5.9L 8cyl naturally aspired 5M)
4 of 4 people found this review helpful
My dad brought this truck brand new back in 97 and its still running. We put it to the test hauling heavy loads that weighed close to 11,000 every summer and fall it never seem to disappoint. Now the truck is almost 20 years old and still running good with regular maintenance every year who knows how far our farm truck will go. Our truck has the 360 magnum with a 5 speed manual transmission with overdrive which is a good truck on and off road.
- Safety
- Technology
- Performance
- Interior
- Comfort
- Reliability
- Value
sweet ride
florida boy, 10/09/2008
1998 Dodge Ram Pickup 2500 ST 4dr Extended Cab 4WD SB (5.9L 8cyl naturally aspired 5M)
4 of 4 people found this review helpful
I own a dodge ram 2500 with the cummins turbo diesel 24 valve. with 140,000k miles. It pulls all that i have. Nice truck. Rough ride due to the straight axle up front. The seat wear out and tranny slips in o/d going about 50 mph. I love this ride and i'm considering getting a 05 with the cummins. I get 16.5 mpg all the time and 15.5 pulling a full size truck in GA. get the diesel better on gas and sounds like a semi.gas is poor when pulling and downs the gas.
King leaker
pmartin, 07/03/2002
1997 Dodge Ram Pickup 2500 Laramie SLT 2dr Extended Cab 4WD LB (5.9L 8cyl naturally aspired 5M)
2 of 2 people found this review helpful
Definate problem with power steering leaks. Expensive to fix. I have had this truck 1 month and have spent a $1000 fixing it. It has been in the shop more that I have driven it. I hoping the repairs are done for awhile, only time will tell. It's a great looking truck and should preform outstandingly, I still have high hopes for improvement!
Optional O/D when works
Ralph Garcia, 02/28/2004
1998 Dodge Ram Pickup 2500 Laramie SLT 2dr Extended Cab 4WD LB (5.9L 8cyl naturally aspired 5M)
2 of 2 people found this review helpful
Tough truck overall but 5 speed manual transmission has serious design defect on models with diesel engine. Fifth gear retaining nut tends to loosen rendering overdrive inoperable. When everything works will pull my 9000 pounds travel trailer with ease. Engine noise is rather loud in comparison with other makes.
Generally a Great Truck
dodgetruckdriver, 03/27/2003
1998 Dodge Ram Pickup 2500 ST 4dr Extended Cab 4WD SB (5.9L 8cyl naturally aspired 5M)
2 of 2 people found this review helpful
Overall, I have been very happy with this truck. I've used it to both haul horses across the country and to run around town. Always draws looks with its attractiveness, although the VERY loud diesel engine makes the compliments hard to hear! Only problems have been with electical/computer elements (sending units specifically) and I've had a hard time pinning Dodge down on repairing them under my extended warranty.
Bye Bye Toyota
BigDog1998, 09/22/2003
1998 Dodge Ram Pickup 2500 ST 2dr Regular Cab LB (5.9L 8cyl naturally aspired 5M)
2 of 3 people found this review helpful
This truck has been more reliable than my last three cars put together. As far I'm concerned Toyota should stay out of the car AND truck business.
Poor Me
Steve Butler, 11/21/2010
1997 Dodge Ram Pickup 2500 Laramie SLT 2dr Extended Cab 4WD LB (5.9L 8cyl naturally aspired 5M)
4 of 9 people found this review helpful
I made the big mistake of buying one of these lemons. I believe the rated towing is about 14,000 but don't think Dodge thought anyone would tow that much weight. Transmission went out at 25,000, replaced under warranty after 2 week wait which ruined my 2 week vacation. Dodge dealer never could get the brakes & alignment correct. It would never stop straight. Engine blew at 65,000. Out of warranty. Independent shop rebuilt it. Engine blew again at 75,000 & shop out-of-business. Now it sits in my garage with the engine setting in the back of the bed.
Dodge 2500 diesel Laramie LB
Billpor930, 11/28/2003
1997 Dodge Ram Pickup 2500 Laramie SLT 2dr Extended Cab 4WD LB (5.9L 8cyl naturally aspired 5M)
1 of 1 people found this review helpful
I bought this vehicle to pull a car trailer and it has been excellent for that. Gets excellent fuel mileage with the Cummins diesel. Truck has been 100% reliable over the 30000 miles that I have owned it. The only problem it has had is a leaking front axle seal which cost me a 100 dollar deductible charge to fix.
Luv my truck
Braxt828, 04/14/2003
1997 Dodge Ram Pickup 2500 Laramie SLT 2dr Extended Cab 4WD LB (5.9L 8cyl naturally aspired 5M)
1 of 1 people found this review helpful
This is the first vehicle I ever bought new. I like others to break them in first. Never had a problem. I use it as a work truck every day. I haul heavy loads all week, clean it up and take my family on weekend road trips. I don't know if there is a perfect vehicle out there, but this is as close as I've seen!
one good truck
curt, 02/06/2003
1998 Dodge Ram Pickup 2500 Laramie SLT 4dr Extended Cab 4WD LB (5.9L 8cyl naturally aspired 5M)
1 of 1 people found this review helpful
98 v10 pulls a 10,000lbs camper and 2 four wheelers up the big hill west of denver with no problem. fairly good fuel milage, for a poor mans diesel. 11.5 empty,8 towing
One tough truck
Mike, 03/30/2008
1998 Dodge Ram Pickup 2500 Laramie SLT 2dr Regular Cab 4WD LB (5.9L 8cyl naturally aspired 5M)
1 of 1 people found this review helpful
Driven many work trucks in my time. Never had one than ran as good or as strong as the 8.0 2500. Just one hell of a truck. Not the best gas mileage but there wont be anything you cant do.
My Dodge Ram 2500 w/V10 Engine 4x4
oldtrucks4fun, 05/28/2013
1997 Dodge Ram Pickup 2500 Laramie SLT 2dr Extended Cab 4WD LB (5.9L 8cyl naturally aspired 5M)
2 of 6 people found this review helpful
I have owned a 1997 dodge ram 2500 4x4 club cab with V10 since 2000. I had the engine replaced in in 1998 with 65,000 miles on it. Presently the the truck 103000 and the engine has about 40000. I have replaced or had rebuilt the following: 1. Engine 2. Rear end 3. Gas tank 4. Fuel pump 5. Front end rebuilt 6. New front clibers/bearings/and etc 7. Transmission rebuit 8. Water pump 9. New head liner 10. Numerous sensors 11. Several changes of tires - have 35" height tires. Changed motor mount twice 12. Next project alternator 13. Next project exterior paint job 14. It costs about $100.00 plus to fill the gas tank up in today market. Get 6-8 MPG. My son has a 1995 3500 standard cab with V10
Ram 2500 is good!
Five Star Films , 08/19/2003
1998 Dodge Ram Pickup 2500 Laramie SLT 4dr Extended Cab 4WD SB (5.9L 8cyl naturally aspired 5M)
1 of 2 people found this review helpful
Overall a good truck. Haven't had much wrong with it, just tie rod and wheel bearing, and throttle positioning sensor. However, I had an extended warranty which saved me.
Poor Milage
DODGE MAN, 05/06/2004
1998 Dodge Ram Pickup 2500 Laramie SLT 4dr Extended Cab 4WD LB (5.9L 8cyl naturally aspired 5M)
1 of 2 people found this review helpful
Great truck with really bad milage
Garbage
jbates, 02/07/2003
1998 Dodge Ram Pickup 2500 ST 4dr Extended Cab 4WD LB (5.9L 8cyl naturally aspired 5M)
2 of 7 people found this review helpful
I have a 98 Diesel Ram 2500 4wd. Worst truck I have ever owned (I am a bldg. contractor and have owned dozens). Since new, it has been in the shop a total of 68 days. Problems: Transmission (2 times) Injectors (3 times) Throttle sensor unit (4 times) Frozen brake caliper No heater or AC Many other misc. problems. I just bought a Ford F350 to replace this piece of crap.
Mopar does not get it
M.Grounds, 08/14/2002
1997 Dodge Ram Pickup 2500 Laramie SLT 2dr Extended Cab 4WD SB (5.9L 8cyl naturally aspired 5M)
0 of 0 people found this review helpful
Numerous problems from A/C to transmission, steering box, front end bounces uncontrolably when you hit a bump over 25 mph, and won't stop until vehicle comes to a complete stop. Had the stabilizer strut replaced as a possible cause but it continues to happen. When new rear window was a constant water leak problem.
Shop Queen
RamSufferer, 08/14/2002
1997 Dodge Ram Pickup 2500 ST 2dr Extended Cab SB (5.9L 8cyl naturally aspired 5M)
0 of 0 people found this review helpful
I purchased the vehicle three years ago and purchased an extended warranty. The warranty was the best purchase of my life. The truck has been in the shop six times for the following issues - Power windows not working, ignition swith replaced, power steering, cooling system, replaced brake sensor (4 times). Good looking truck (when it is on the road).
fun to drive
ltcjim, 12/17/2002
1997 Dodge Ram Pickup 2500 LT 2dr Regular Cab 4WD LB (5.9L 8cyl naturally aspired 5M)
0 of 0 people found this review helpful
I have now owned my V10 4x4 for a little over 5 months and still love it. Had to replace the radaitor last month, but all in all this is a great truck. It is quick, has good truck road manners on the highway and performs well off road. I am very pleased and would purchse another.
Satisfied customer
Ed , 02/27/2005
1997 Dodge Ram Pickup 2500 Laramie SLT 2dr Extended Cab 4WD SB (5.9L 8cyl naturally aspired 5M)
0 of 0 people found this review helpful
Truck performed as promised. Plenty of power for pulling a loaded 4 X 8 trailer with a fully loaded full sized box. Very little mechanical problems. Will buy another soon.
Ram Tough
SubVet, 04/04/2005
1997 Dodge Ram Pickup 2500 Laramie SLT 2dr Extended Cab SB (5.9L 8cyl naturally aspired 5M)
0 of 0 people found this review helpful
Bought this truck new. Have 103K on it now. Other than brakes and tires never have had a problem. {On third set of breaks and second set of tires.} Key was not having anti-locks. Bought HD package with overloads and tow. Ride a little stiff, but was built for heavy work it has had to do in its life. Will be a fan for life. Fuel isn't ideal, but that wasn't why I needed this much truck.
The best
big baller2000, 06/04/2002
1998 Dodge Ram Pickup 2500 Laramie SLT 4dr Extended Cab 4WD LB (5.9L 8cyl naturally aspired 5M)
0 of 0 people found this review helpful
The truck handle half ton of towing capbitilly and it stood out number one and ford or chevy,gmc, and others. Couldn't handle the job it self at any point. let alone the comfort and style.
Dodge Truck
Bruce3124324, 07/19/2002
1998 Dodge Ram Pickup 2500 Laramie SLT 4dr Extended Cab 4WD SB (5.9L 8cyl naturally aspired 5M)
0 of 0 people found this review helpful
These are great trucks
Dodge Did it Right
WagonFixin, 01/29/2003
1998 Dodge Ram Pickup 2500 Laramie SLT 4dr Extended Cab LB (5.9L 8cyl naturally aspired 5M)
0 of 0 people found this review helpful
Bought this as a medium duty truck, hauled across the US a buncha times. Only changed the oil, cleaned the air-filter, and added diesel - it never slowed down !!! Looked good, worked good - it hit the mark for value/performance.
ram
coach, 04/14/2004
1998 Dodge Ram Pickup 2500 Laramie SLT 2dr Extended Cab 4WD LB (5.9L 8cyl naturally aspired 5M)
0 of 0 people found this review helpful
An excellent truck for work of pleasure. could get better fuel mileage, but is accepatalbe for a truck of this type. Dealership was very helpful and service has been outstanding.
Lots of pull
Loudness, 06/16/2003
1998 Dodge Ram Pickup 2500 Laramie SLT 4dr Extended Cab 4WD SB (5.9L 8cyl naturally aspired 5M)
0 of 0 people found this review helpful
I've pulled campers, boats, hauled wood, and pulled out stumps. Very impressed when I loaded the back, with camper top, completely w/ books and put on the camper, also loaded, and the back end only dipped a couple of inches and had no problem pulling from Orlando to Dallas.
ram tuff
Mike Baker, 04/02/2008
1998 Dodge Ram Pickup 2500 Laramie SLT 2dr Extended Cab 4WD LB (5.9L 8cyl naturally aspired 5M)
0 of 0 people found this review helpful
This '98 turbo diesel 2500 4x4 automatic is my second Dodge. I owned a '97 4x4 with a 5.2l (318) 1/2 ton 5 speed stick that I absolutely loved, but it couldn't handle a Lance camper and a boat. The '98 really handles the camper and boat very well; I blew by my father in law's Ford v-10 while he was pulling his a 26' light travel trailer; of course we were coming over Carson spur from the Nevada side. It's steep.
5.9L Cummins 24 valve
t, 02/21/2009
1998 Dodge Ram Pickup 2500 Laramie SLT 4dr Extended Cab 4WD SB (5.9L 8cyl naturally aspired 5M)
0 of 3 people found this review helpful
I own a 1998 with the 24 valve Cummins diesel. I love the truck fun to drive and all. I have had the truck for about a year plus and I have a $1500 from the Dodge shop for my tranny problems. Won't shift into overdrive. The Cummins is a strong truck and has decent mpg, about 16.5 unchipped. The truck is slow without a load. I have just had problems with this truck since I had it so I'm going with a Ford 250 or 350 for room, speed, and looks. Also better gas mileage. The trannys in Dodge trucks need to be made better for the Cummins or any Dodge that's made.