Merrick Jeep Chrysler Dodge Ram carries used and certified pre-owned Ram 1500 inventory in Merrick, NY, serving South Shore Nassau County buyers from Bellmore, Freeport, and Wantagh. The Ram 1500 competes directly with the Ford F-150 and Chevy Silverado but consistently earns distinction for its coil-spring rear suspension, interior refinement, and the smooth-driving experience that separates it from its rivals.
Bottom Line: A used Ram 1500 near Merrick, NY is an excellent value for South Shore Nassau County buyers who want full-size truck capability with a more refined daily-driving experience than competing pickups - particularly in the 2019-2023 DT-generation models with the 5.7L HEMI or eTorque V8.
- The Ram 1500 uses a coil-spring rear suspension rather than leaf springs, delivering a car-like ride quality unmatched in the segment
- The 5.7L HEMI with eTorque mild-hybrid system delivers 395 hp and up to 12,750 lbs of towing when properly configured
- Certified Pre-Owned Ram 1500 models come with Mopar’s 7-year/100,000-mile powertrain warranty from the original in-service date
Which Used Ram 1500 Years Are the Best Buy Near Merrick, NY
The 2019-2023 fifth-generation (DT) Ram 1500 is the sweet spot for used buyers near Merrick. The DT generation brought a completely redesigned interior that rivals full-size SUVs in material quality, a new eight-speed TorqueFlite transmission, and the eTorque mild-hybrid system on the HEMI V8 for improved fuel economy without sacrificing output.
2021 and 2022 model years in particular represent strong used values as the initial depreciation has already occurred but the platform is current and Mopar parts availability is excellent. HEMI-equipped examples in the $35,000-$48,000 range at Nassau County dealerships represent genuine truck value for South Shore buyers comparing against competing pickup prices.
Avoid the 2012-2018 fourth-generation (DS) Ram 1500 unless you find an exceptionally clean, well-documented example at a significant discount. The DS generation had known issues with Takata airbag recalls (which may or may not have been remedied - check NHTSA recall status), and the interior quality gap between it and the current DT generation is significant.
Ram 1500 Engine Options Compared
| Engine | Output | Tow Rating |
|---|---|---|
| 3.6L Pentastar V6 | 305 hp | 7,730 lbs |
| 5.7L HEMI eTorque | ✓ 395 hp / 410 lb-ft | ✓ 12,750 lbs (best pick) |
| 3.0L EcoDiesel V6 | 260 hp / 480 lb-ft | 12,560 lbs |
For a complete engine and capability breakdown, see our Ram 1500 towing and payload guide for Long Island.
"The Ram 1500 stands out among full-size pickups for how it drives day to day. South Shore Nassau County buyers who do highway commuting on the Southern State are often surprised by how comfortable the Ram feels compared to competing trucks - the coil-spring rear suspension makes a genuine difference on Long Island roads."
General Manager, Merrick Jeep Chrysler Dodge Ram
Browse used Ram 1500 inventory near Merrick, NY.
What to Inspect on a Used Ram 1500 Near Merrick, NY
Check the air suspension system if shopping for Laramie Longhorn, Limited, or TRX trims equipped with Ram’s Active-Level four-corner air suspension. Air bags and compressor systems on high-mileage examples can develop leaks that result in a firm or uneven ride. Have the suspension system inspected on a lift before purchasing any used Ram with the air suspension package.
Inspect the frame and undercarriage for rust, particularly on any South Shore Nassau County Ram that was driven through salt-treated roads in winter. The Ram 1500’s frame is high-strength steel but Long Island salt exposure over multiple winters can accelerate surface corrosion. Look for heavy flaking versus surface rust, and check mounting points for the running boards, trailer hitch, and spare tire carrier.
Confirm the recall status of any used Ram 1500 you’re considering. Several 2012-2019 Ram pickups were subject to safety recalls including airbag inflator replacements. The NHTSA recall lookup database allows you to check by VIN to confirm whether any outstanding recalls are open on the specific vehicle you’re purchasing.
eTorque mild-hybrid system on post-2019 HEMI examples should be diagnosed with a scan tool for any stored fault codes before purchase. The 48-volt belt-starter generator system is generally reliable but fault codes can indicate early wear on the drive belt or battery module.
Certified Pre-Owned Ram 1500 at Merrick Jeep
Mopar Certified Pre-Owned Ram 1500 models at Merrick Jeep go through a 125-point inspection and come with a 7-year/100,000-mile powertrain warranty from the original in-service date. For used HEMI Ram buyers concerned about transmission and drivetrain reliability at higher mileage, the CPO powertrain warranty provides meaningful cost protection.
CPO Ram 1500 examples in the 2020-2022 range represent strong value propositions at Merrick Jeep - the DT generation’s better build quality and the CPO warranty coverage combine to make these among the most defensible used full-size truck purchases available in Nassau County.
For trim comparison context on new versus used Ram models, see our Ram 1500 trim levels guide for Long Island.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the difference between Ram 1500 and Ram 1500 Classic? The Ram 1500 Classic is the older DS-generation platform (2009-2018 design) sold alongside the new DT Ram 1500 for several years at a lower price point. The Classic has a leaf-spring rear suspension, an older interior, and a lower capability ceiling. The DT Ram 1500 is the current generation with the superior coil-spring suspension and upgraded interior.
Does the Ram 1500 HEMI eTorque have reliability issues? The eTorque system is generally reliable with proper maintenance. The 48-volt belt-starter generator is the most service-sensitive component - replacing the drive belt at the recommended interval is the most important maintenance item. Overall, the DT HEMI eTorque has proven more reliable in the 2019-2022 production range than early first-year examples suggest.
Can I tow my boat with a used Ram 1500 near Merrick, NY? Yes - a properly configured Ram 1500 with the HEMI V8 and towing package can tow up to 12,750 lbs, which is sufficient for most boats and trailers South Shore Nassau County owners would typically haul. Confirm the specific used example you’re considering has the factory tow package installed, including the trailer brake controller wiring harness.
What mileage is too high for a used Ram 1500? The 5.7L HEMI is a durable engine that commonly runs 200,000 miles with proper maintenance. Used examples in the 80,000-120,000 mile range are not inherently problematic if they have documented service histories. Engine compression tests and transmission fluid condition checks during pre-purchase inspection are the most important checks on higher-mileage examples.
Find Your Used Ram 1500 at Merrick Jeep on the South Shore
Merrick Jeep Chrysler Dodge Ram serves South Shore Nassau County buyers from Merrick, Bellmore, Freeport, and Wantagh. Used and certified pre-owned Ram 1500 inventory is on-site with same-day test drives available most days.
Browse current used truck inventory and contact the sales team to check for upcoming Ram 1500 inventory that may not yet be listed on the website.