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I have been a service advisor at both Ford and Dodge dealerships. While both companies make great Full Size pickups, I did notice a big difference between the two when it came to servicing requirements. I just figured I would pass it on to the public, so you would know what kind of expense you would face when buying either an F-150 or a Ram pickup.
First off, the Ram (and Dakota for that matter) have rear differentials that the manufacturer recommends you have serviced every 12,000 miles. I am not making that up. Check the owners manual. I saw many a Ram pickup with Ring and Pinion problems in the rear diff. due to lack of service. The F-150, on the other hand, only requires servicing at about 90,000 miles. So that can save you a big chunk of change in the long haul.
Secondly, the Hemi engined Ram requires its spark plugs (all sixteen of them...don't ask)to be replaced every 30,000 miles. Again the F-150 goes until 90,000 miles. While I think the Hemi is the better engine performance wise, it does require more maintenance.
Does this mean I am recommending the Ford? Probably from a long term expense point of view I think it is the better value. But it is hard to argue with the noise from that Hemi. As I have no experience at a Toyota or GM dealer I don't really know the expense involved with maintaining a Tundra or GMC Sierra. But if you are shopping for one of those call the corresponding service department and ask the service advisor what sort of maintenance is required for the vehicle you are interested in. Always good to go into your new truck relationship with your eyes open.
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