Buyer Research

2008 Ram 2500 (6.7L Cummins) — Should You Buy One?

Typical asking price: $16,000–$30,000. There are 3 high-severity known issues you need to know before handing over a check.

Kestrel Take

The first years of the 6.7 Cummins traded the bulletproof simplicity of the 5.9 for more power and an emissions system that clogs. The engine is strong; the DPF, EGR, and the weak 68RFE automatic are the recurring bills. Buy the manual or a well-maintained emissions system.

Known Issues for the 2008 Ram 2500 (6.7L Cummins)

Ranked by wallet impact. These are documented, recurring problems — not freak accidents.

DPF and EGR clogging (early 6.7 emissions)High — wallet impact

The early 6.7 emissions system clogs with soot, especially on short trips, causing derates and expensive replacements.

Repair cost range: $2,000-$5,000

68RFE automatic transmission wearHigh — wallet impact

The automatic is the weak link behind the Cummins, particularly when towing heavy.

Repair cost range: $3,500-$6,500

Front-end wear and death wobbleHigh — wallet impact

Solid front axle oscillation from worn steering components.

Repair cost range: $600-$2,500

Turbo actuator and VGT stickingMedium

Soot binds the variable geometry vanes, causing underboost.

Repair cost range: $1,200-$2,800

Walk-Away Red Flags

✗DPF/EGR warnings, especially on a city-driven truck
✗Slipping automatic
✗Death wobble
✗Deleted emissions with no documentation

Good Signs

✓G56 manual transmission
✓Emissions components serviced or highway-use history
✓Front end rebuilt
✓Complete maintenance records

Found a specific Ram 2500 (6.7L Cummins)?

This page covers what goes wrong on the 2008 Ram 2500 (6.7L Cummins) in general. The Kestrel report covers this specific car— the asking price vs. market, the photos, the seller's description, and a BUY / NEGOTIATE / WALK AWAY verdict with a negotiation script.

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Known issues on this page are based on documented owner reports, NHTSA complaints, class-action records, and manufacturer technical service bulletins. Individual vehicles vary. A pre-purchase inspection by a trusted mechanic is always worth doing.

Other Ram 2500 (6.7L Cummins) years

2013 Ram 2500 (6.7L Cummins)

$24,000–$38,000