Keen to know what the maximum mileage you can expect from a 5.7 Hemi? Are these engines good for 300K? What are some of the known issues commonly found on these engines? IF you are in the market for a used high mileage 5.7 Hemi or you own a high mileage 5.7 Hemi and would like to know what to expect then this article could help you.
5.7 Hemi engines are good for 250-300 000 miles and more if properly cared for and regular maintenance is carried out. Early models suffered from valve seat issues which were rectified after 2008.
It’s not uncommon to find high mileage 5.7 Hemi trucks running around today. Doing a quick online search will reveal there are many happy owners with well over 200k and 300k miles on their vehicles. These Ram trucks are often compared to the Chevy and Ford juggernauts, which all have a very strong and loyal following.
Unfortunately, as is the case with most vehicles, the 5.7 lump has its own Achilles Heel. Let’s look a bit deeper into what kind of service you can expect and the potential problems they give once mileages reach the other side of 100k miles.
How Many Miles Can You Put On A 5.7 Hemi?
Yes, the Hemi engine has proven itself to be a robust, reliable, and durable one. This solid engine, in most cases, outlasts the rest of the truck and is usually the least problematic of all its combined parts. There are many RAM owners who swear by the Hemi engine, boasting about their mileage racking up well into the hundreds of thousands of miles.
Still not convinced?
Then let’s have a look at what some Hemi owners have to say.
Owner Feedback
The Ram was built with hard labor and fleet owners in mind so you can expect your truck to give you a minimum of 250 000 miles of good service.
Below are just a few examples of owners who’ve racked up mileage in excess of 200k miles.
Owner Feedback #1
I’ve got 229k on my 07 ram with minimal work done to the hemi. Ac blend door and I’m on my 3rd fuel pump. Original went at 228k lol the replacement pump failed and then that replacement the sending unit is going . I chalk it up to bad batch of parts cause I’ve had same shop/guys workin on it since 35k. No motor work and no suspension work other than one tie rod . Took family on 7 hr trip and hauled a riding lawn mower back no issues. Taken care of those motors they last . I would hesitate to buy the truck without the 5.7 in it. Solid solid motor in my book.
https://www.reddit.com/r/Dodge/comments/78kapb/how_does_the_57l_hemi_stand_up_after_200000_kms/
https://www.reddit.com/r/Dodge/comments/78kapb/how_does_the_57l_hemi_stand_up_after_200000_kms/
Owner Feedback #2
I’ve got 230K on my 2011 Hemi and it still works like a top. It broke a valve spring last summer, which took some time to diagnose, but it was an easy fix and was covered under my 3rd party warranty. Other than that hiccup, it still chugs along great, and has more than enough power to turn my 35’s. They are a very reliable motor.
https://www.reddit.com/r/Dodge/comments/78kapb/how_does_the_57l_hemi_stand_up_after_200000_kms/
Owner Feedback #3
I paid 2800 for an 03 dodge 1500 1 original owner. Swear to god looks brand spanking new inside, everything works and paint looks great, plugged in scanner. No codes, no emissions problems, passes smog, no oil leaks, no drama and it has 259k miles! Still running strong!!!!
https://www.cargurus.com/Cars/Discussion-d665_ds747614
Owner Feedback #4
I have a 2009 Dodge Ram 1500 and I have over 198,000 miles and I still tow 4 jet skis, drive to work every day RT approx 30 miles. Ski in the winter so I do drive it in the snow. The only issue I have is the damper for the heater and air conditioner, I have had to fix the actuator in the air and heating system which was cheap to do, but it only last about 2 years and the heater side breaks again. The part cost less than $20. And I had a recall fixed on my axel in which Dodge paid $2300 to fix with no problem.
https://www.cargurus.com/Cars/Discussion-d665_ds747614
Hemi 5.7 Common Issues
- Hemi Tick
- Water and Sludge buildup in the oil
- Water pump failure in higher milers
Maintenance Tips
Any engine, however reliable they are, relies 100% on regular maintenance to produce the best results over a long period. There are a few additional things you can do to your Hemi engine to get the most out of it.
- Carry out the scheduled oil changes on time
- Use only the quality oils and lubricants available
- Use a decent oil filter (Do not cheap-out here)
- Replace the air filter regularly
- Regularly inspect the brake pads and replace timeously
- Check and replace transmission fluids timeously
- Replace axle fluids timeously
5.7 hemi Potential Problems
The early model Hemi engines ranging between 03 and 08 were prone to valve issues. This was caused by the interference fit being too low and valve seats falling out. The aluminum head design was later changed which appears to have solved the problem. A less common problem reported is roller lifters locking up and eating camshafts.
Other non-engine-related problems that plague the Ram Trucks are rust and dashboard cracking.
5.7 Hemi at 200k Miles
Once your Hemi engine reaches 200k miles and over there are a few additional components that will need your attention. You want to inspect your water pump for leaks, ensure you top up all diff and transmission oils.
You’ll also want to pay special attention to the valve seats to make sure they’re still seated correctly.
Things to look out for at 200k and over:
- Water Pump
- Diff and Transmission fluids
- Valve Seats
As mentioned previously, certain pre-08 Hemi engines suffered from intake valve seats that becomes dislodged. Unfortunately, there isn’t always a prior warning and this failure can occur under normal operation. A Service bulletin was eventually released which advised, all the valve seats need replacement. This can be quite a costly exercise if the vehicle is out of warranty, which most likely is the case at this high mileage.
The valve seat failure is reported to happen once the engine is warm and then started again after being driven a while.
Description of valve seat failure:
- Sounds metallic
- Clattering like loose nuts and bolts
- Not consistent with overheating
- Low revs
- No prior warning
Once this occurs, It is strongly advised to replace the heads before it causes catastrophic damage to the block and related components.
5.7 Hemi at 300k Miles
Once you reach 300k miles there are additional components that will require attention. Pay attention to all the items listed under 200k as well as the following:
- Torque converters
- valve stem seals
There is no real issue with the converters except that they are a bit undersized for the sheer size and weight and HP of the Hemi and usually tend to last no more than 150 miles.
Other components to inspect are:
- Inspect the air cleaner box for oil blow by
- Fuel Pump
- Injectors
- Transmission
- Diffs
Resources
Bluetooth OBDII Scanner and clear CHECK ENGINE error
High-Performance Aluminum Fuel Rail
5.7 Hemi Performance Air Intake Kit
Valve Springs and Seals Hemi 5.7 Kit
Conclusion
The Hemi 5.7 in the Ram has proven itself to be a very dependable durable truck, even with some of the listed issues above. With proper care and maintenance, the Hemi 5.7 could outlast the rest of the truck. High mileage 5.7’s are a common occurrence now with many over 300k still running original engines, transmissions, and drive-trains. These vehicles transmissions and drive-trains are built to last and if you’re doing the usual maintenance as needed, your Hemi will go the distance.