🏷️ Basic Information

Make:

Dodge

Model:

Ram 2500

Year:

2009

Chassis Code:

DS (Fourth Generation Ram Truck)

👋 Introduction

Market Position:

The 2009 Dodge Ram 2500 is positioned as a heavy-duty pickup truck designed for robust work applications, towing, and hauling. It competes in a segment with significant players like the Ford Super Duty and Chevrolet Silverado HD.

Competitive Analysis:

At its release, the Ram 2500 was known for its strong powertrain options, particularly its legendary Cummins turbodiesel engine, offering class-leading torque and durability. Its ride quality and interior comfort were also noted improvements over previous generations, aiming to balance work capability with daily drivability.

Key Features:

The 2009 model year Ram 2500 is part of the fourth generation (DS) of the Ram truck, known for its bold styling, improved aerodynamics, and enhanced towing and payload capacities. Key features would include the availability of the HEMI V8 or the Cummins turbodiesel engine, a redesigned interior with available premium features, and advanced towing aids.

Model Variant Coverage:

Covers all 2009 Dodge Ram 2500 configurations, including Regular Cab, Quad Cab, and Mega Cab; various bed lengths (6.3 ft and 8.0 ft); and 2WD/4WD drivetrains, irrespective of the specific engine or trim level within the 2500 series for that year.

📋 Manual Details

Manual Type:

Owner's Manual

Language:

English

Format:

Digital Download (PDF)

Manual Coverage Scope:

This manual provides information essential for the safe and proper operation and maintenance of the 2009 Dodge Ram 2500. It is designed to help the owner understand the vehicle's features, perform basic checks, and know when professional service is required. It covers all standard and optional equipment for this model year.

Estimated Page Count:

Approximately 350-400 pages (typical for a comprehensive owner's manual for a heavy-duty truck).

📖 Manual Coverage

Systems Covered:

Engine operation and maintenance, transmission operation and maintenance, braking system, steering and suspension, electrical system, climate control, safety systems (airbags, seat belts), infotainment system, interior and exterior features, wheels and tires, fluid capacities and specifications, towing information, troubleshooting, driver controls and indicators.

Specific Systems Covered:

Engine Oil, Coolant, Brake Fluid, Power Steering Fluid, Transmission Fluid, Washer Fluid specifications and capacities; Tire pressure monitoring system (TPMS); Lighting system operation; Wiper and washer system; Climate control system (HVAC); Gauges and indicators; Driver information center; Audio system controls; Power outlets; Remote keyless entry; Security system.

Procedures Included:

Routine maintenance checks, fluid level checks and top-offs, tire pressure checks, basic troubleshooting guidance for common warning lights, information on operating various vehicle features, safety procedures, emergency procedures, recommended maintenance schedules.

Specific Procedures Included:

How to check and add engine oil, coolant, brake fluid, power steering fluid, transmission fluid, and windshield washer fluid; How to check and adjust tire pressure; How to jump-start the vehicle; How to change a flat tire; How to operate trailer towing features; How to use the infotainment system; Basic troubleshooting for dashboard warning lights.

Technical Depth:

Owner-level operation and maintenance; does not include detailed diagnostic procedures, component replacement, or in-depth repair instructions (typical for an Owner's Manual, not a Service Manual).

Troubleshooting Scope:

Covers basic troubleshooting for common dashboard warning lights and minor operational issues. Does not delve into diagnostic trouble codes (DTCs) or advanced repair procedures.

📊 Manual Specifications

File Format:

Portable Document Format (PDF)

Searchable Text:

Yes, typically PDF files are searchable.

File Size Estimate:

Typically 20-50 MB, depending on included diagrams and resolution.

Print Quality:

High-resolution, suitable for printing individual pages or the entire document.

Printable:

Yes, individual pages or the entire document can be printed.

Binding Type:

N/A (Digital Download)

Paper Type:

N/A (Digital Download)

⚙️ Engine Specifications

Primary Engine Options:

5.7L HEMI V8 (2009-2010), 6.7L Cummins I6 Turbodiesel (2007.5-2010)

5.7L Hemi V8 Horsepower:

357 hp @ 5600 rpm

5.7L Hemi V8 Torque:

395 lb-ft @ 4000 rpm

6.7L Cummins I6 Turbodiesel Horsepower:

350 hp @ 3000 rpm

6.7L Cummins I6 Turbodiesel Torque:

650 lb-ft @ 1500 rpm

Fuel System:

Multi-point Fuel Injection (HEMI), Common Rail Direct Injection (Cummins)

Fuel Type Required 5.7L Hemi:

Unleaded gasoline, 89 octane recommended for optimal performance.

Fuel Type Required 6.7L Cummins:

Ultra-Low Sulfur Diesel (ULSD)

5.7L Hemi Engine Code:

EZZ

6.7L Cummins Engine Code:

ISC (specific variant)

🔧 Transmission

Standard Transmission:

6-Speed Manual (2009 Ram 2500 available with 5.7L HEMI, less common)

Optional Transmission:

6-Speed Automatic (48RE for early 6.7L Cummins, then 68RFE for later 6.7L Cummins and 5.7L HEMI)

Transmission Features:

Heavy-duty construction, Tow/Haul mode (automatic transmission), Electronic range selection.

📐 Dimensions

Wheelbase:

Varies by configuration (e.g., 140.5 inches for Regular Cab SWB, 160.5 inches for Crew Cab SWB)

Overall Length:

Varies by configuration (e.g., 229.4 inches for Regular Cab SWB)

Overall Width:

Approx. 79.1 inches

Overall Height:

Approx. 77.6 inches

Front Track:

Approx. 67.5 inches

Rear Track:

Approx. 66.0 inches

Bed Length Options:

6.3-foot (76.3 in), 8.0-foot (97.4 in)

Curb Weight:

Approx. 6,000 - 7,500 lbs (varies by configuration and engine)

Gross Vehicle Weight Rating Gvwr:

Approx. 9,500 - 10,000 lbs (depending on configuration)

Maximum Payload Capacity:

Up to approx. 3,500 - 4,000 lbs (varies)

Maximum Towing Capacity:

Up to approx. 16,000 - 19,000 lbs (GCWR dependent, varies by configuration)

Tongue Weight Limit:

Typically 10-15% of towing capacity, consult manual for exact figure.

Gcwr Gross Combined Weight Rating:

Up to approx. 23,000 - 24,500 lbs (depending on configuration)

🛡️ Safety Features

NHTSA Front Impact Rating:

N/A (NHTSA ratings for heavy-duty trucks were less comprehensive in 2009)

IIHS Frontal Offset Rating:

Acceptable (for 2009 models tested)

Active Safety Features:

Anti-lock Braking System (ABS), Electronic Stability Control (ESC - standard on some configurations), Traction Control.

Brake System Type:

Power-assisted front disc and rear drum brakes (or disc/disc on some trims), with rear anti-lock braking system (RABS) or four-wheel ABS.

Passive Safety Features:

Front airbags, Optional side-curtain airbags, Seat belt pretensioners, High-strength steel frame.

💡 Technology Features

Infotainment System:

Uconnect infotainment system available, including AM/FM radio, CD player, MP3 capability, SiriusXM Satellite Radio, available navigation, and Bluetooth connectivity. Basic AM/FM/CD player was standard.

Available Screen Sizes:

Varies, typically 6.5-inch or 7-inch touchscreens for premium Uconnect systems.

Driver Assistance Features:

ParkView Rear Back-Up Camera (optional), Trailer Brake Controller (optional).

Connectivity Options:

Auxiliary input jack, USB port (on some Uconnect systems), Bluetooth hands-free calling (Uconnect).

🔧 Maintenance

Oil Change Interval 5.7L Hemi:

Every 6,000 miles or 6 months (whichever comes first), or based on oil life monitoring system.

Oil Change Interval 6.7L Cummins:

Every 7,500 miles or 6 months (whichever comes first) with diesel engine oil, or based on oil life monitoring system. Severe duty may require more frequent changes.

Tire Rotation Interval:

Every 6,000 - 7,500 miles

Transmission Fluid Change Interval:

Varies by transmission type and usage. Consult manual for specifics (e.g., 30,000 - 60,000 miles for heavy use).

Air Filter Replacement Interval:

Inspect every 15,000 miles, replace as needed or every 30,000 miles, sooner under dusty conditions.

Engine Oil Specification 5.7L Hemi:

API SN or newer, SAE 5W-20 synthetic blend or full synthetic

Engine Oil Specification 6.7L Cummins:

API CJ-4 or CK-4, SAE 15W-40 synthetic blend or full synthetic diesel engine oil

Coolant Specification:

HOAT (Hybrid Organic Acid Technology) extended life antifreeze/coolant, typically Mopar OAT or equivalent.

Transmission Fluid Specification Automatic:

ATF+4 (for 48RE and 68RFE)

Differential Fluid Type Rear:

API GL-5, SAE 75W-90 or 75W-140 synthetic (depending on application/load)

Transfer Case Fluid Type:

ATF+4 (for NV271, NV273, and other models)

Known Issues Common:

Fuel injector issues in early 6.7L Cummins, EGR cooler failures, turbocharger issues (particularly with frequent short trips or aggressive driving), front suspension components (ball joints, tie rods) wear due to heavy use, potential for exhaust manifold leaks (Cummins), water pump leaks.

Known Issues Specific:

Flexplate cracking on 5.7L HEMI (less common on later models but can occur with heavy towing); Glow plug issues on Cummins diesel; DPF regeneration issues if not driven regularly on highway trips; Water pump leaks on HEMI.

Known Issues Diesel Emissions:

Diesel Particulate Filter (DPF) regeneration may be interrupted by frequent short trips, leading to potential clogging. Exhaust Gas Recirculation (EGR) cooler failures can occur, leading to coolant loss and engine issues.

📚 Vehicle History

Brand Heritage:

Dodge has a long history of producing robust and capable trucks, with the 'Ram' nameplate becoming synonymous with heavy-duty performance and towing prowess since its introduction in 1981.

Model Evolution 2009:

The 2009 model is part of the fourth generation (DS), introduced for the 2009 model year. This generation featured a complete redesign with a distinctive grille, improved aerodynamics, and significant updates to the chassis and powertrain, including the introduction of the 6.7L Cummins with a Diesel Particulate Filter (DPF) and urea injection for emissions control. The interior also saw a major overhaul, moving towards a more car-like comfort and feature set.

Key Changes For 2009:

Complete redesign (new chassis, body, interior), introduction of the 6.7L Cummins turbodiesel with improved emissions controls, enhanced towing and payload ratings, new exterior styling including the distinctive crosshair grille.

Production Location:

Saltillo, Mexico; Warren, Michigan, USA

🏆 Awards & Recognition

Major Awards:

While specific awards for the 2009 model year are less commonly cited than its overall generation, the Ram Heavy Duty trucks consistently receive positive reviews for towing and hauling capabilities from automotive publications and industry experts.

Truck Trends Recognition:

Often recognized for towing leadership and powertrain excellence.