Why Shop for a Used Ram 1500?

One of the nice things about shopping used is that you have more than one model year to choose from.

Maybe you specifically want a HEMI V8. Maybe you care more about finding a Crew Cab with 4x4. You might want a simple Tradesman for work, or you may be hoping to find a Laramie or Limited with more comfort features.

That flexibility is part of the appeal.

A used Ram 1500 can work just as well for trips between Columbiana and Salem as it can for hauling materials, towing a camper, working around a property, or getting through an Ohio winter. The trick is finding the truck that matches what you actually plan to do with it.

What to Compare When Shopping Used

Engine choice matters, but with a used Ram 1500, the model year matters just as much.

Depending on the year you’re shopping, you may come across the 3.6L Pentastar V6, the 5.7L HEMI V8, the 3.0L EcoDiesel, or newer Ram 1500 models with the 3.0L Hurricane engine. Some engines were only offered during certain years, so we wouldn’t recommend assuming every used Ram has the same towing or payload capability.

If you plan to tow, tell us what you’re pulling. We can look at the individual truck’s engine, drivetrain, axle ratio, cab, equipment, and ratings instead of relying on a maximum number that may not apply to that particular vehicle.

Four-wheel drive is another popular item around here, especially if the truck will see winter weather, jobsites, rural roads, or regular towing.

Then there are the everyday details. Cab size. Bed length. Mileage. Tires. Interior condition. Service history. Those things can matter just as much as the badge on the fender.

Ram 1500 Features Worth Looking For

The Ram 1500 has offered a lot of useful equipment over the years, but you won’t find every feature on every truck.

The available Multifunction Tailgate is one example. It can open like a traditional tailgate or use its 60/40 split doors for easier access to the bed.

Many Ram 1500 models also use a coil-spring rear suspension, which is one of the reasons the truck has developed a reputation for a comfortable ride compared with some traditional pickup setups.

Depending on the year and trim, you may also find:

• Available four-corner air suspension
• Uconnect touchscreen systems
• Apple CarPlay and Android Auto
• Heated and ventilated seats
• RamBox cargo storage
• Trailer-related technology
• Blind-spot monitoring
• Surround-view cameras
• Remote start
• Heated steering wheel

If one or two of those features are must-haves, let us know. It’s much easier to narrow used inventory by the equipment you actually want than to shop solely by trim name.

Which Used Ram 1500 Trim Is Right for You?

Tradesman models tend to keep things straightforward. They’re worth a look if the truck is mainly going to work and you don’t need a long list of interior upgrades.

Big Horn is a common middle ground, with more comfort and convenience while still feeling like a practical truck.

Laramie adds more of the interior features people appreciate when they spend a lot of time behind the wheel. Rebel models lean toward off-road use and styling, while Limited and Longhorn models move further into the premium end of the lineup.

You may also run across trims and special editions that are no longer offered new. That’s one of the fun parts of used-truck shopping: sometimes the right truck isn’t part of the current model lineup at all.

Used or Certified Pre-Owned Ram 1500?

If you find a Ram 1500 in our Certified Pre-Owned inventory, it’s worth understanding what the certification adds.

Qualifying Ram Certified Pre-Owned vehicles go through a 125-point inspection and include manufacturer-backed limited warranty coverage, a vehicle-history report, and roadside-assistance benefits under the applicable CPO program.

That doesn’t automatically make a CPO truck the right choice for everyone. A standard used Ram may be a better fit based on price, mileage, age, or equipment.

Compare the actual trucks in front of you and see which one makes more sense.

Financing a Used Ram 1500

Once you find a truck you like, our finance department can help you work through available financing.

Used-truck loan terms can vary based on the vehicle, mileage, purchase price, application, and lender. If you want to get started before coming in, you can also apply for financing online.

Have a vehicle you’re replacing? Bring that into the conversation too. A trade may reduce the amount you need to finance, depending on its value and any remaining payoff.

Ram Service Right Here in Columbiana

A used truck still needs somewhere to go when it’s time for maintenance.

Our service department is here at the same Columbiana dealership and can help with oil changes, tires, brakes, batteries, maintenance, diagnostics, and repairs for Ram trucks.

You don’t have to drive to another market just because the truck needs attention. When it's time, you can schedule service online.