We don't just talk cars ... we teach how to buy them.
"Used Dodge Ram Truck Overview And How To Buy At The Best Price!"
Despite the long and successful history of the Dodge Ram pickup, we recommend primarily "newer" used vehicles. As such, we are mostly involved with the last two Ram generations only.
The most recent generation prior to the redesign for the 2009 model year were the Dodge Ram trucks produced from 2002 through 2008. The model lineup included the basic Ram ST, the overall most popular SLT and the upscale Laramie (replaced the SLT Plus in 2003). Club and Quad Cabs were available and the larger Mega Cab was introduced in 2006.
Two of the three offered engine options were new, including a 3.7 liter V6 that was good for 215 horsepower and was available on the 2WD regular cab only, as well as a 4.7 liter V8 that produced 235 horsepower. There was also an older 5.9 liter 245 horsepower V8 that was replaced by the 345 horsepower 5.7 liter V8 Hemi in 2004. In addition, the 2007 model year saw a boost in power for the 4.7 V8 to 310 horsepower.
Transmissions were also consistently updated during this time. Five-speed manuals were replaced by six-speeds, while four-speed automatics were upped to five-speeds.
Many optional features were available as well, depending on the year and the model. Used Ram pickups can be found with upgraded sound systems, various wheel and tire packages, navigation, Bluetooth, keyless remote start, a rear DVD entertainment system and an off-road package.
Overall, this generation offered agile handling, a smooth ride and plenty of creature comforts. It's no wonder we see so many of these on the road. And the 5.7 liter V8 Hemi was unquestionably a major improvement over the more sluggish and less efficient 5.9 V8.
The newest generation of Dodge Ram was introduced for the 2009 model year. The 2009 Ram is offered in five trims: ST, SLT, TRX, Sport and Laramie, each with progressively more features. There are also three different cabs, three differnet bed lengths and either two-wheel or four-wheel-drive models. And while the "Mega Cab" has been eliminated, the current Crew Cab still has nearly 40 inches of rear legroom.
The three available engines include a 210 horsepower 3.7 liter V6. a 310 horsepower 4.7 liter V8 and the 390 horsepower 5.7 liter V8 Hemi. Particularly significant is the addition of a new coil-spring rear suspension that provides improved ride quality over rough road spots.
Again, the cabin of the new Dodge Ram is spacious and well-equipped. And used 2009 models can be found with options such as rear-seat video, a ten-speaker surround-sound audio system, Bluetooth, lined wells below the rear floor mats, a RamBox, a cargo bed storage compartment, navigation and a rear back-up camera.
Due to its power, versatility, comfort and feature availability, we think a used Dodge Ram makes an excellent choice as a second-hand truck purchase. And we can suggest a number of ways to help you save when buying one.
How To Get The Best Price On A Pre-Owned Dodge Ram:
There are actually several different ways to buy a used Dodge Ram at the lowest price, even at wholesale.
ONE - Car Auctions:
You can go to Public Car Auctions in your own geographic area ... no license required. While this will take some additional time and effort on your part, there are indeed some truly excellent opportunities for those who shop these events.
TWO - Spot Wholesale Opportunities On Dealer Lots:
The technique explained here is incredibly effective and involves learning how to identify high quality but "price-distressed" used Dodge Rams for sale right on dealer lots, ones they are extemely desperate to sell and potentially ready to unload.
THREE - Set Up A Dealer Competition:
Another excellent method involves getting several used car dealers to compete for your business. See the details in this Used Car Buying Guide. It's just amazing what happens to prices when you force dealers to fight among each other for your sale.
Also ...
If you're interested in a "Brand New" Dodge Ram, there are some great deals to be had right now if you know how.
People swear by the interesting method in this article on how to get the absolute lowest price on a new car or truck, especially given the current slow economic environment.