Despite its flaws, the Ram 1500 offers a particular flavor that its rivals can’t. The Ram 1500 earns praise for its powerful engines and serene car cabin. It’s one of the most upscale pickups you can buy, but the high price tag may deter some buyers. Because of this, many enthusiasts opt to buy the Ram 1500 used. However, there are a few things you should consider before purchasing a Ram used.

Depreciation is on your side for a used Ram 1500

Depreciation rates impact all vehicles, but the Ram 1500 has a higher-than-average rate compared to other popular pickups. According to iSeeCars.com, the average three-year depreciation rate for a pickup truck is 34.3 percent. The Ram, on the other hand, has a depreciation rate of 37.4%, which some consider it as a terrible truck to buy new. 

The average price for a three-year-old Ram 1500 is $27,565. This means that you can save over 16K if you choose to buy a 2017 Ram instead of the 2020 version. Like the 2020 version, the 2017 Ram offers refined powertrains options and luxury-focused interior. The Rams comfortable cabin and excellent power make it both a competent and family-friendly choice. 

RELATED: The Ram 1500 Isn’t Your Grandpa’s Truck Anymore

The Ram 1500 has a spotty reliability history, though

While you can score a used Ram for a mega-deal, all that glitters isn’t gold. The Ram 1500 isn’t known for having consistent reliability scores. This is mostly due to the many NHTSA safety recalls on the pickup over the years. For instance, the 2014 Ram 1500 has 14 recalls, and so does the 2015 version. 

Based on large amounts of recalls, the Ram doesn’t earn high-reliability scores based on Consumer Reports evaluations. Common trouble spots on the Ram relate to potential issues related to the Ram’s powertrain, fuel system, and cargo latches. In terms of reliability CR says that the most reliable option is the 2011 Ram.

The 2017-2018 model years are among the better options to buy used according to CR. For instance, CR gave the 2017 model year an average reliability score. Still, you should know that the 2017 Ram has eight recalls on it. The 2018 model has nine.

If your heart is set on buying a used Ram 1500, you can still buy one. But it would be best if you addressed the potential trouble spots on the model with your auto dealer. Also, make sure that the specific recall issues are resolved too.

RELATED: What to Consider When Buying a Car That Might Need Recall Work

It can also be expensive to own

According to the experts at U.S. News, the Ram 1500 can be pretty expensive to own compared to other pickups. Although projected ownership costs vary by model year, so this is another aspect you should consider before buying a used Ram. For instance, the 2017 model year has higher projected five-year costs, including gas, insurance, and maintenance, compared to the 2018 version. 

The 2017 Ram has projected annual costs of $6,100, which is above-average. On the contrary, the 2018 Ram’s projected yearly expenses are $5,700 per year; this projection aligns with other pickups in the full-sized truck class. Before you buy used Ram, do your homework to ensure that you avoid buyer’s remorse.