Are Ram TRX Reliable? Mechanical Review Report

The Ram TRX, a supercharged behemoth of a pickup truck, has captured the hearts of off-road enthusiasts and performance junkies alike. But behind the roaring exhaust and aggressive styling, a crucial question lingers: Is the Ram TRX reliable? This mechanical review report digs deep into the TRX's components, common issues, and overall dependability to help you determine if this powerful truck is the right choice for you.

The Heart of the Beast: The Supercharged HEMI and its Reliability

Let's start with the star of the show: the 6.2-liter supercharged HEMI V8, affectionately known as the Hellcat engine. This powerplant, churning out a monstrous 702 horsepower and 650 lb-ft of torque, is undoubtedly a marvel of engineering. But is it reliable in the TRX application?

• Proven Pedigree: The Hellcat engine has been around for several years, powering Dodge Challengers, Chargers, and Jeep Grand Cherokee Trackhawks. This means Chrysler (now Stellantis) has had time to refine and improve the engine's design and manufacturing processes.
• Beefed-Up Components: While the core engine architecture is shared, the TRX version features specific modifications to handle the rigors of off-road driving and the truck's heavier weight. These include a stronger crankshaft, forged pistons, and a heavy-duty cooling system.
• Potential Issues: Despite these upgrades, the Hellcat engine is inherently complex and operates under extreme stress. Potential issues to be aware of include:
  • Supercharger Problems: The supercharger itself is a complex piece of machinery. While generally reliable, potential issues include bearing failure, belt slippage, and intercooler malfunctions.
  • Oil Consumption: Some Hellcat engines have been known to consume oil, particularly under demanding conditions. Regular monitoring of oil levels is crucial.
  • Cooling System Strain: The high-performance engine generates a lot of heat. The cooling system is robust, but potential issues include radiator leaks, coolant hose failures, and water pump problems.
• Overall Assessment: The supercharged HEMI V8 in the TRX is generally considered reliable, especially with the implemented upgrades. However, its complexity and high-performance nature mean it requires meticulous maintenance and careful driving habits. Ignoring preventative maintenance can significantly shorten its lifespan.

Transmission and Drivetrain: Handling the Horsepower

The Ram TRX uses a heavy-duty TorqueFlite 8HP95 eight-speed automatic transmission to manage the engine's immense power. This transmission is known for its smooth shifting and durability, but its reliability in the TRX application is still a key consideration.

• Robust Design: The 8HP95 is designed to handle high torque loads, making it a suitable match for the Hellcat engine. It features reinforced internal components and a sophisticated electronic control system.
• Potential Issues: While generally reliable, potential issues with the transmission include:
  • Valve Body Problems: The valve body controls the flow of hydraulic fluid within the transmission. Malfunctions can lead to harsh shifting, slipping, or complete transmission failure.
  • Torque Converter Issues: The torque converter is responsible for transferring power from the engine to the transmission. Failure can result in a loss of power and poor fuel economy.
  • Overheating: Extreme driving conditions, especially off-road, can cause the transmission to overheat. The TRX is equipped with a transmission cooler, but it's essential to monitor transmission temperature and avoid prolonged periods of high-speed, low-range driving.
• Drivetrain Components: The TRX features a full-time four-wheel-drive system with a BorgWarner 48-13 transfer case. This system is designed to provide excellent traction and off-road capability.
• Potential Issues: Drivetrain issues can include:
  • Transfer Case Problems: The transfer case can experience problems with its internal gears, bearings, or electronic controls.
  • Differential Issues: The front and rear differentials can suffer from wear and tear, especially under heavy use.
  • Axle Problems: The axles are subjected to significant stress, particularly during off-road driving. Potential issues include bent or broken axles, as well as worn axle bearings.
• Overall Assessment: The transmission and drivetrain in the TRX are generally robust and well-suited to the truck's performance capabilities. However, regular maintenance, including fluid changes and inspections, is crucial to ensure long-term reliability. Furthermore, avoiding abusive driving habits, such as excessive wheel spin or hard launches, can help prolong the life of these components.

Suspension and Off-Road Systems: Built for the Bumps

The Ram TRX boasts a sophisticated suspension system designed to provide both on-road comfort and off-road capability. This system includes Bilstein Black Hawk e2 adaptive dampers, long-travel suspension arms, and a five-link coil spring rear suspension.

• Adaptive Dampers: The Bilstein Black Hawk e2 dampers use electronically controlled valves to adjust damping force in real-time, based on road conditions and driver input.
• Potential Issues: While these dampers offer excellent performance, they are also complex and potentially prone to failure. Potential issues include:
  • Damper Leaks: The dampers can leak oil, reducing their effectiveness and eventually requiring replacement.
  • Electronic Control Problems: The electronic control system can malfunction, leading to inconsistent damping performance or complete failure.
  • Sensor Failures: The system relies on various sensors to monitor suspension movement and adjust damping accordingly. Sensor failures can disrupt the system's operation.
• Long-Travel Suspension: The TRX's long-travel suspension provides increased wheel travel, allowing the truck to navigate rough terrain more easily.
• Potential Issues: The increased wheel travel puts additional stress on the suspension components, potentially leading to:
  • Ball Joint Wear: The ball joints, which connect the suspension arms to the wheel hubs, can wear out prematurely due to the increased range of motion.
  • Bushing Wear: The suspension bushings, which cushion the suspension components and reduce noise and vibration, can also wear out more quickly.
  • Frame Stress: Extreme off-road driving can put stress on the truck's frame, potentially leading to cracks or bends.
• Overall Assessment: The TRX's suspension system is highly capable, but its complexity and the stresses of off-road driving mean that regular maintenance and inspection are essential. Pay close attention to the condition of the dampers, ball joints, bushings, and frame.

Electronics and Technology: Modern Complexity

The Ram TRX is packed with advanced electronics and technology, including a 12-inch touchscreen infotainment system, a digital instrument cluster, and a suite of driver-assistance features.

• Infotainment System: The Uconnect infotainment system is generally well-regarded for its user-friendliness and features.
• Potential Issues: However, potential issues include:
  • Software Glitches: The system can experience software glitches, leading to freezing, crashing, or other malfunctions.
  • Screen Failures: The touchscreen can fail or develop dead spots.
  • Connectivity Problems: The system can experience problems connecting to Bluetooth devices or cellular networks.
• Driver-Assistance Features: The TRX offers a range of driver-assistance features, such as adaptive cruise control, lane departure warning, and blind-spot monitoring.
• Potential Issues: These systems rely on sensors and cameras, which can be affected by weather conditions or other factors. Potential issues include:
  • Sensor Malfunctions: The sensors can malfunction, leading to inaccurate readings or system failures.
  • Camera Problems: The cameras can become dirty or damaged, reducing their visibility.
  • False Alarms: The systems can generate false alarms, which can be annoying or distracting.
• Overall Assessment: The TRX's electronics and technology are generally reliable, but their complexity means that issues can occur. Regular software updates and careful maintenance are essential.

Common Problems and Owner Experiences

While the Ram TRX is a relatively new vehicle, some common problems have emerged based on owner reports and online forums:

• Early Production Issues: Some early production TRX models experienced issues with the supercharger, transmission, and suspension. These issues appear to have been largely resolved in later model years.
• Electrical Gremlins: Some owners have reported experiencing electrical gremlins, such as intermittent sensor failures or infotainment system malfunctions.
• Paint and Trim Quality: Some owners have complained about the quality of the paint and trim, noting issues such as scratches, blemishes, and loose trim pieces.
• Fuel Economy: Unsurprisingly, the TRX's fuel economy is poor, averaging around 10-12 mpg in mixed driving. This is a trade-off for the truck's immense power and performance.

It's important to note that these are just some of the common problems reported by TRX owners. The actual reliability of a particular vehicle can vary depending on its individual history, maintenance, and driving conditions.

Maintaining Your TRX for Longevity

To maximize the reliability and longevity of your Ram TRX, it's essential to follow a strict maintenance schedule and address any issues promptly. Here are some key maintenance items:

• Regular Oil Changes: Change the engine oil and filter according to the manufacturer's recommendations.
• Transmission Fluid Changes: Change the transmission fluid and filter at the recommended intervals.
• Coolant Flushes: Flush and replace the coolant at the recommended intervals.
• Differential Fluid Changes: Change the differential fluid at the recommended intervals.
• Brake Fluid Flushes: Flush and replace the brake fluid at the recommended intervals.
• Inspect Suspension Components: Regularly inspect the suspension components, including the dampers, ball joints, and bushings.
• Check Tire Pressure and Condition: Maintain proper tire pressure and inspect the tires for wear and damage.
• Keep the Truck Clean: Regularly wash and wax the truck to protect the paint and prevent corrosion.
• Address Issues Promptly: Don't ignore any warning lights or unusual noises. Have any issues diagnosed and repaired as soon as possible.

Frequently Asked Questions

• Is the Ram TRX expensive to maintain? Yes, the Ram TRX is an expensive vehicle to maintain due to its high-performance components and specialized maintenance requirements. Expect higher costs for parts, labor, and fuel.
• What is the average lifespan of a Ram TRX engine? With proper maintenance, the supercharged HEMI V8 in the TRX can last well over 150,000 miles or more. Regular oil changes and avoiding extreme driving conditions are crucial.
• Are there any common recalls for the Ram TRX? Check the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) website for any recalls related to your specific model year. Recalls are issued to address safety-related defects.
• Is the Ram TRX a good investment? The Ram TRX holds its value relatively well, but it's not a traditional investment vehicle. Its high initial cost and running expenses should be considered.
• Can I modify my Ram TRX for even more power? While modifications are possible, they can void the warranty and potentially reduce the truck's reliability. Proceed with caution and consult with experienced tuners.

The Verdict: Is the Ram TRX Reliable?

The Ram TRX, while undeniably powerful and capable, presents a mixed bag when it comes to reliability. Its supercharged HEMI engine, robust transmission, and sophisticated suspension are generally well-engineered, but their complexity and the stresses of off-road driving mean that regular maintenance and careful driving habits are essential. By staying proactive with maintenance and addressing any issues promptly, you can significantly improve the odds of enjoying a long and trouble-free ownership experience with your Ram TRX.