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RAM · Known Issues

2024 RAM 1500 Classic Problems: 5 Known Issues

2024 model year · 240+ owner reports · Updated September 2026

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Issue summary

According to Au7o's analysis of 240+ owner reports, the 2024 RAM 1500 Classic has 5 documented known issues, with 2 rated critical. The most serious are 5.7L HEMI MDS Lifter Failure ($2,000-$5,000 repair) and MDS Lifter Failure and Hemi Tick (5.7L) ($2,000-$4,500 repair). The most commonly reported issue is 5.7L Hemi Exhaust Manifold Bolt Breakage with 240 owner reports. Across all issues with published estimates, repair costs range from $200 to $5,000. DIY maintenance guides at au7o.io.

In This Article

  • 1500 Classic Engine4
  • 1500 Classic Exhaust1
  • FAQ
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In This Article

  • Engine4
  • Exhaust1
  • FAQ

All 5 Known Issues

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On the 2019-2024 RAM 1500 Classic 5.7 HEMI, the 5.7L HEMI with Multi-Displacement System (MDS) in the 1500 Classic develops lifter failure, particularly on cylinders that deactivate. The roller lifters can collapse or seize, causing ticking noise and misfires. This is the same issue as the standard 1500.

This issue also affects: Chrysler 300, Chrysler Aspen, Chrysler Cirrus

Common Symptoms

  • Ticking or tapping noise from engine
  • Misfire codes
  • Check engine light
  • Rough idle
  • Loss of power on affected cylinder

How to Fix

Typical repair cost:$2,000 - $5,000

Research This Issue

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Community Reported
Medium Confidence

On the 2019-2025 RAM 1500 Classic 5.7 HEMI, the 5.7L Hemi V8 uses Multi-Displacement System (MDS) hydraulic lifters to deactivate four cylinders during light-load cruising. The MDS lifters are known to fail, causing a persistent ticking noise (the infamous "Hemi tick") and misfires on the deactivated cylinders. When an MDS lifter collapses or sticks, it cannot properly deactivate and reactivate the valve, leading to a dead cylinder. In severe cases, a failed lifter can damage the camshaft lobe, requiring a complete top-end rebuild.

This issue also affects: Chrysler 300, Chrysler Aspen, Chrysler Cirrus

Common Symptoms

  • Persistent ticking noise from engine that does not change with temperature
  • Misfire on one or more cylinders (P0300 series codes)
  • Check engine light
  • Rough idle
  • Loss of power under acceleration
  • Ticking intensifies during MDS cylinder deactivation mode

How to Fix

Replace all 16 lifters (8 MDS and 8 standard) with either OEM or upgraded non-MDS lifters. Many owners delete the MDS system entirely using a non-MDS camshaft, standard lifters, and an MDS delete tuner/programmer — this eliminates the failure mode at the cost of 1-2 mpg. If the camshaft has been damaged, it must be replaced during the lifter job. This is a significant repair requiring intake manifold removal and valley pan access.

Typical repair cost:$2,000 - $4,500

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Community Reported
High Confidence
Community reported
240 owners

On the 2019-2024 RAM 1500 Classic 5.7 HEMI, the 5.7L Hemi in the RAM 1500 Classic breaks exhaust manifold bolts due to repeated heat cycling. The driver side (left) manifold is most commonly affected. Broken bolts cause an exhaust leak that sounds like a ticking noise on cold start and a persistent exhaust smell.

This issue also affects: Chrysler Aspen, Dodge Ram 1500

Common Symptoms

  • Ticking noise on cold start that fades when warm
  • Exhaust smell in cabin
  • Ticking from driver side of engine
  • Reduced fuel economy
  • Failed emissions inspection
  • Louder exhaust note

How to Fix

Extract the broken bolts and install new Grade 10.9 or stainless steel bolts. If the bolt broke off flush, drilling and extracting is required. Replace the exhaust manifold gasket. Some owners upgrade to aftermarket headers to eliminate the issue permanently.

Owner tips & cautions

  • TipApply anti-seize to the new bolts — this prevents seizing and makes future removal possible without breaking
Typical repair cost:$200 - $800

Research This Issue

Based on 240 owner reports

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Community Reported
High Confidence240 owner reportsLast reported by owners Mar 2026Reviewed Mar 2026

On the 2019-2024 RAM 1500 Classic 5.7 HEMI, the exhaust manifold bolts on the 5.7L HEMI break due to thermal cycling, causing an exhaust leak with a ticking sound that is louder on cold starts and quiets as the engine warms up.

This issue also affects: Chrysler 200, Dodge Dart, Dodge Durango

Common Symptoms

  • Ticking noise on cold start
  • Exhaust smell
  • Ticking decreases when warm
  • Visible exhaust leak at manifold

How to Fix

Confirm the leak by listening for a cold-start tick at the cylinder head/manifold area, checking for black soot trails, and inspecting for missing or broken manifold bolts/studs; a smoke test can help pinpoint smaller leaks. The proper repair is to remove the manifold, extract any broken bolts from the cylinder head, check the manifold for warping, and replace the failed hardware with updated bolts/studs and new manifold gaskets; if the manifold is warped or cracked, replace it rather than reusing it. Many shops replace both side bolts on the affected bank as preventive maintenance because thermal cycling commonly causes repeat failures. Typical repair cost is about $400-$900 for one side if extraction is straightforward, but can exceed $1,200-$1,800 if multiple bolts are seized/broken or manifold replacement is required.

Typical repair cost:$500 - $1,500

Research This Issue

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Community Reported
Medium Confidence

On the 2019-2025 RAM 1500 Classic 5.7 HEMI, the 5.7L Hemi V8 in the 1500 Classic is prone to exhaust manifold bolt breakage, particularly on the rear bolts of the driver-side (left) manifold. The bolts are subjected to extreme heat cycling and eventually fatigue and snap. When bolts break, the manifold develops an exhaust leak that sounds like a ticking or tapping noise, especially on cold start. The noise typically diminishes as the engine warms and the manifold expands to temporarily seal the gap. This issue has affected Hemi engines across multiple generations.

This issue also affects: Chrysler 300, Chrysler Aspen, Dodge Challenger

Common Symptoms

  • Ticking or tapping noise from engine on cold start that fades when warm
  • Exhaust smell in cabin when stopped or at idle
  • Slight loss of power
  • Exhaust leak noise audible from driver side of engine
  • Check engine light with exhaust-related codes in severe cases

How to Fix

Replace broken exhaust manifold bolts with updated high-strength bolts from Stellantis. Extracting broken bolt studs often requires drilling and using an EZ-out or bolt extractor — apply penetrating oil (PB Blaster) generously before attempting removal. Some shops weld a nut onto the broken stud for easier extraction. Replace the exhaust manifold gaskets at the same time. Consider upgrading to ARP exhaust manifold studs for a permanent fix.

Typical repair cost:$400 - $1,200

Research This Issue

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Community Reported
High Confidence
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Frequently Asked Questions

What are the most common RAM 1500 Classic problems?

According to Au7o's analysis of 240+ owner reports, the 2024 RAM 1500 Classic has 5 documented issues. The most frequently reported are: 5.7L HEMI MDS Lifter Failure, MDS Lifter Failure and Hemi Tick (5.7L), 5.7L Hemi Exhaust Manifold Bolt Breakage. Of these, 2 are rated critical and should be addressed promptly.

Is the RAM 1500 Classic reliable?

The 2024 RAM 1500 Classic has 5 known issues documented across 240+ owner reports. 2 issues are rated critical: 5.7L HEMI MDS Lifter Failure and MDS Lifter Failure and Hemi Tick (5.7L). Prospective buyers should inspect for these issues and factor potential repair costs into their purchase decision. Regular maintenance following the manufacturer's schedule helps prevent many common problems.

How much does it cost to fix common RAM 1500 Classic problems?

Repair costs for known RAM 1500 Classic issues range from $200 to $5,000, depending on the specific problem and whether you choose DIY or professional repair. The most critical issue, 5.7L HEMI MDS Lifter Failure, typically costs $2,000-$5,000 to repair. Au7o provides step-by-step DIY maintenance guides that can help reduce repair costs.

What is the 2019-2024 RAM 1500 Classic 5.7L HEMI MDS Lifter Failure?

The 5.7L HEMI with Multi-Displacement System (MDS) in the 1500 Classic develops lifter failure, particularly on cylinders that deactivate. The roller lifters can collapse or seize, causing ticking noise and misfires. This is the same issue as the standard 1500. Repairs typically run $2,000-$5,000. Severity: high.

What is the 2019-2025 RAM 1500 Classic MDS Lifter Failure and Hemi Tick (5.7L)?

The 5.7L Hemi V8 uses Multi-Displacement System (MDS) hydraulic lifters to deactivate four cylinders during light-load cruising. The MDS lifters are known to fail, causing a persistent ticking noise (the infamous "Hemi tick") and misfires on the deactivated cylinders. When an MDS… Repairs typically run $2,000-$4,500. Severity: high.

Content on this page was compiled with AI assistance using NHTSA complaints, TSBs, owner reports, and public automotive data. While we strive for accuracy, this information may contain errors. Always verify repair procedures and specifications with your vehicle's service manual or a qualified mechanic.

Data sourced from 240+ owner reports, NHTSA recalls, TSBs, and automotive forums.

What is the 2019-2024 RAM 1500 Classic 5.7L Hemi Exhaust Manifold Bolt Breakage?

The 5.7L Hemi in the RAM 1500 Classic breaks exhaust manifold bolts due to repeated heat cycling. The driver side (left) manifold is most commonly affected. Broken bolts cause an exhaust leak that sounds like a ticking noise on cold start and a persistent exhaust smell. Repairs typically run $200-$800. Severity: medium.

What is the 2019-2025 RAM 1500 Classic Exhaust Manifold Bolt Breakage (5.7L Hemi)?

The 5.7L Hemi V8 in the 1500 Classic is prone to exhaust manifold bolt breakage, particularly on the rear bolts of the driver-side (left) manifold. The bolts are subjected to extreme heat cycling and eventually fatigue and snap. When bolts break, the manifold develops an exhaust… Repairs typically run $400-$1,200. Severity: medium.

What is the 2019-2024 RAM 1500 Classic 5.7L HEMI Exhaust Manifold Bolt Breakage?

The exhaust manifold bolts on the 5.7L HEMI break due to thermal cycling, causing an exhaust leak with a ticking sound that is louder on cold starts and quiets as the engine warms up. Repairs typically run $500-$1,500. Severity: medium.