Hey guys, I have been thinking about upgrading my current 2012 RAM 1500 Big Horn to a RAM 2500 Big Horn with the Cummins. I have been doing a lot of reading and just looking for some advice.

I have been working with a local dealer and he just about has me right where I want to be payment wise, around 500 but it would put me at 84 months. Is this a wise thing to do? Granted I am planning on keeping this truck for a while and I know they hold their resale fairly well.

Would it be better to wait and see if I can get more for my trade in vs what I currently owe on my truck or do you think it will always be abound the same range?

I used to have a 2001 Ram 2500 with the Cummins and loved it. I know owning the cost of a diesel is more, but how much more is it, especially with all the new emission stuff? Is there maintenance that must be done to properly maintain those systems?

It does seem that the 2500's are getting better mpg then my current 1500. I will be using the new ram as an everyday driver and every week it will spend 240+ miles with a mix of highway speeds and some back roads.

Thanks!

 

From personal experience, I would try to sale your truck outright if you aren't upside down on it. I would avoid trading it in especially if you are upside down. Selling your truck may put you in a better position to not have such a lengthy loan.

 

Unless you are keeping the truck for 200,000 + miles the diesel option will never pay off. Fuel mileage is better but diesel is more expensive. Maint is more expensive on the diesel also.

 

Cost more, a little more bouncy and I would not go back. Get it if you want it and expect the higher cost of fuel, fuel filters and larger oil capacity changes. look at the cost of the interest 84 to 72 to 60. You might be surprised how much more a lower payment costs!

 

Agreed. I sold my last truck for 31k. Dealer wanted to give me 17k on trade in.

 

Always sell your trade. Shop the dealers all you wish and then buy from individual / craigslist if you can. Go to your bank and get pre approved for the loan first, then you know your price range to stay in. 84 months.. is insane! No vehicle is worth that commitment. Life changes pretty quick. My 2 cents, if you want a truck and you like a Ram look at some 3rd gen trucks 2004-2007 5.9 Diesel. They are cheaper to run and upgrade, No DEF or crazy exhaust restrictions and can get 20+ MPG and can be financed beyond the norm 100K mile limit unlike most gassers. Living life w no car payment is the best choice and the sooner the better.