So I am really thinking about getting one, but got a couple questions.

Is the HVAC system better than the 3rd gens?

How well does the 6-speed auto hold up?

Do they make them without all the chrome, but still with like a SLT package or something? I hate all that plastic chrome.

What is the fuel economy you guys have been seeing out of them?

Any difference between a 2010 and a 2011?

Thanks,
Tobin

 

I bought a 2010 3500 DRW Laramie and in the comfort/convenience column it far exceeds my previous 2006 2500 Laramie. Fuel economy (14mpg) is nearly 6 mpg less than the 5.9 but that should be corrected once the smarty is released. The 6 speed is much better than the 48re I had in the 06. The chrome is a package and I dislike it as well, but my truck is white so it's not too bad. The HVAC blows colder and gets warm much faster than my 06 did. No more 15 minutes of driving before heat kicks in.

 

They do come with chrome. The laramie like mine are loaded with chrome. my last two Dodges were the sport package. But that wasn't an option. This truck have very cold ac and the heat comes out with a few minutes. Unlike my 04.5. The mileage is close to what my 5.9L was. So not too disappointed there. Over all a very refine ride/appearence/interior compared to previous models. The only difference between the 10/11 seems to be some cosmetic stuff like emblems. Mechanically they are the same. The six speed seems to handle very well and very durable. Some might complain that they don't hold up well when adding a lot of extra power, but then they weren't designed for that. I'm very happy with my truck. It is a pleasure to drive.

 

Don't know if anyone has encountered this, but since my 2010 has been in the shop multiple times since I got it my dealer discovered that there is a recall for a portion of the HVAC system. They ordered the part and put it in. I was experiencing no issues; however, others have, which prompted the decision by the dealer to just order the parts and put them in and be done with it.
On a side note, here is my general feelings about the 2010. I am a little disappointed honestly. I paid 50K for this truck and truly expected a better product than what I currently have. Now, I will admit that my problems have all been minor stuff (no drivetrain/engine issues yet...hopefully not anytime soon). But my point is that I expect quality for the price paid. I am happy with the engine, it does what it advertises. Yes the MPG is horrendous, but we can thank the EPA for that one. My real issues are with the truck built around the engine. While I know many of you have not had any problems and love your truck (which I really want to love mine as well) this is my first Dodge product, my first Diesel, and as they say first impressions last a lifetime, and so far my first impression is not the greatest. Hopefully after they get all this stuff fixed on it, I will go back to loving it again...but right now, I am just a little ticked that my 50K is spending more time in the shop than on the road.

chris

 

I never got a letter in reference to the recall. But while in communication with Dodge over the towing mirror issue they informed me of the recall. Took about 30 minutes at the dealer to change out a part.

 

I did notice a lot of wind noise when I took one for a test drive. Is that normal?

Tobin

 

Note to self on test drives: Roll the windows up....

 

No wind noise is not normal unless you have very high winds. This is the quietest truck I've ever owned or driven. When you close the windows you can feel the vacuum. My wife even commented on this.

 

I'll second that - I've never had a quieter (or more comfortable) truck!

Bob

 

I agree!!!

I have to say I am very happy with the power and fuel mileage on my 2010 towing it is better then what my 06 did. If the auto holds up it is a winner

 

Very happy with my 2010....just hate the integrated trailer brake, and the keyfob batteries keep dying....2 sets since May 1st...just a minor annoyance.

Did I mention I hate the brake controller?
Chris

 

I wish their was an option for the push button start like on my Challenger. It was nice to leave the fob in the pocket.

 

Ya the keyfob are aweful at times, not in design, just sometimes the door just doesn't open. You have to press the button a dozen times.

Still the nicest stock diesel I've ever driven, I have to remind myself that this is a stock truck. Decent power once the deletes are done. Fuel mileage, wow better than my 02.

I'm pretty happy with my truck, just its one darn expensive truck...

 

[QUOTE=Mike Holmen;2855062]Ya the keyfob are aweful at times, not in design, just sometimes the door just doesn't open. You have to press the button a dozen times.
QUOTE]

I'm glad to hear I'm not the only who has that trouble. But had it with my '06 too...

 

My 2007 5.9 warms up in 5 minutes idling with the PacBrake on at about 10F temperature. I do not know if the 6.7s can do the same with the exhaust brake on.