2013 Ram 3500 (6.7L Cummins) — Should You Buy One?
Typical asking price: $26,000–$42,000. There are 3 high-severity known issues you need to know before handing over a check.
Kestrel Take
The one-ton Cummins, and the year the Aisin automatic became available on high-output trucks — the strongest factory drivetrain in the class. Buy the Aisin over the 68RFE, budget for the emissions system, and watch the front end. The engine will outlast everything.
Known Issues for the 2013 Ram 3500 (6.7L Cummins)
Ranked by wallet impact. These are documented, recurring problems — not freak accidents.
Soot accumulation clogs the DPF and EGR, causing derates and expensive replacements, especially with short-trip use.
Repair cost range: $2,000-$5,000
The standard automatic is the weak link when towing heavy or tuned. The Aisin AS69RC is dramatically stronger.
Repair cost range: $3,500-$6,500
Solid front axle oscillation from worn steering components.
Repair cost range: $600-$2,500
Soot binds the variable vanes, causing underboost.
Repair cost range: $1,200-$2,800
Walk-Away Red Flags
- ✗Death wobble
- ✗Slipping 68RFE under load
- ✗Emissions deleted with no documentation
- ✗City-only history on a DPF diesel
Good Signs
- ✓Aisin automatic transmission
- ✓Emissions serviced or highway-use history
- ✓Front end rebuilt
- ✓Complete records
Found a specific Ram 3500 (6.7L Cummins)?
This page covers what goes wrong on the 2013 Ram 3500 (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.
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