The used RAM 1500: I see them go by every week—and I understand why
When a client tells me they want a pickup truck that doesn't feel like a “work truck” 24/7, the RAM 1500 almost always comes up in the conversation. Especially models between 2017 and 2024. It’s simple: in the used RAM 1500 Quebec market, it’s one of the models that best balances comfort, towing capacity, and a premium look without falling into unnecessary luxury.
I’ve been working in auto financing for over 12 years at Prêt Auto Québec, and honestly, the RAM 1500 is an interesting case. It attracts two very different types of clients. On one hand, I have contractors from Laval, Drummondville, or Trois-Rivières who want to pull a trailer, visit job sites, and haul materials. On the other, I have families from the South Shore or Quebec City who want space, a comfortable Crew Cab, and a smoother ride than a traditional pickup.
And I’ll be direct: if you’re shopping for a used 2017 to 2024 RAM 1500, you need to choose the right year, trim, and—most importantly—the right financing. Because a “good price” on a tag can quickly become expensive if the rate, mileage, or mechanical condition don’t line up.
2017 to 2024: Which years are really worth it?
I’ll give you my opinion straight, no sugar-coating.
2017 and 2018 RAM 1500s are often the most accessible in terms of price. We regularly see models ranging from $24,000 to $34,000, depending on mileage, cab style, transmission, and trim level. For someone who wants a functional truck with a realistic payment, this is often where I start.
2019 to 2021 models, however, represent the sweet spot in my view. Why? Because the 2019 redesign was a game changer. The cabin is more modern, soundproofing is improved, the suspension is more refined, and some models feature an impressive center screen, very comfortable seats, and a more upscale feel than many competitors. In the used market, these usually go for $32,000 to $48,000.
For 2022 to 2024, you’re moving up a notch, but let's be honest: the price moves with it. Depending on the trim—Big Horn, Sport, Laramie, Limited, Rebel—I’ve seen transactions between $44,000 and $68,000, sometimes more for a fully-loaded, low-mileage Limited. At that point, you have to ask yourself if the late-model used truck offers enough of an advantage over a brand-new or nearly-new vehicle.
My take on the best trims
If you ask me where the “sweet spot” is, I often say:
- Big Horn: Great balance of features and price
- Sport: Very popular in Quebec, highly sought-after look
- Laramie: Premium RAM without the excess
- Rebel: Perfect if you like a more aggressive style and rougher roads
- Limited: Stunning, but watch your total financed budget
For many, the 2019-2022 Laramie is likely one of the best buys in the category. You get the leather, the comfort, and the tech without your monthly payments spiraling out of control.
Why the RAM 1500 is so popular in Quebec
There is a simple reason: here, we actually experience all four seasons. A truck has to do the job in July on Highway 20 just as well as in February on an poorly plowed street in Sherbrooke.
The RAM 1500 stands out for its ride comfort. The rear suspension makes a real difference. For those who spend time on the road—Montreal to Saguenay, Lévis to Gaspé, or just daily commutes on rough roads—it shows. It’s not just on the spec sheet; you can feel it behind the wheel.
Add to that the Quebec realities: from December 1st to March 15th, winter tires are mandatory. And on a truck like this, I always recommend budgeting for real tires, not just the bare minimum. A good winter set for a RAM 1500, mounted and balanced, can easily cost $1,400 to $2,200 depending on the size and brand. That’s the kind of detail many forget when financing.
There is also the SAAQ registration, which varies based on usage and weight, plus Quebec taxes. When you buy a used RAM 1500 from a dealer, you have to calculate GST + QST, so nearly 14.975% in combined taxes. On a $38,000 truck, that’s about $5,690 in taxes. That changes the financed amount, and therefore, your monthly payment.
The heart of the matter: What does it really cost to finance?
This is where I help my clients the most. Many only look at the sticker price. I look at the complete file: price, taxes, term, rate, mileage, intended use, and actual budget capacity.
Right now in Quebec, for a truck auto loan on a used vehicle like a RAM 1500, rates can vary quite a bit.
Realistic interest rates in 2026 for a used RAM 1500
In general, I often see this:
- Good credit: Around 6.49% to 8.99%
- Average credit: Around 9.99% to 14.99%
- More difficult file: Often 15.99% to 24.99% depending on the lender and risk
Yes, it’s a wide range. But that’s the reality of the market. The rate depends on your file, of course, but also the truck’s age, mileage, the requested amount, and job stability.
At Prêt Auto Québec, my team works specifically to compare several Quebec auto financing scenarios to ensure a client doesn't rush into an offer that doesn't make sense.
A concrete example of a monthly payment
Let’s take a 2021 RAM 1500 Sport listed at $39,995.
With taxes, you end up at about $45,984. If you finance this over 72 months at 8.49%, the monthly payment is approximately $806 per month.
If the same file gets 10.99%, we’re looking more at $869 per month.
Over 84 months, the payment drops, yes—to around $730 to $790 depending on the rate—but the total cost of credit goes up. This is where I often slow my clients down. A lower payment provides relief today, but it can cost thousands more in the long run.
The simple formula I explain to my clients
The payment depends on 4 things:
- The price of the truck
- Taxes and fees
- The interest rate
- The loan term
A 2% difference in rate on a financed amount of $40,000 to $50,000 over 72 or 84 months really changes the final bill. It’s not just “a few bucks.”
When credit isn't perfect, the RAM 1500 is still possible—but you have to be strategic
I’m going to tell you something that many dealerships don’t say clearly enough: a truck, especially a popular model like the RAM 1500, can still be financed even with a damaged file, but you have to do it the right way.
I helped a client, let's call him Martin, from the Saint-Hyacinthe area. A self-employed construction worker with good income but past delays on credit cards and a vehicle repo a few years back. He thought a recent RAM was out of reach. In the end, we placed him in a 2019 RAM 1500 Big Horn, with a modest down payment and a term adapted to his seasonal income. The approval took less than 24 hours, and he drove away with a payment that made sense for his business.
Conversely, I’ve also seen clients get approved for too much, too quickly. I don’t like that. If the budget is tight, I prefer a clean, well-inspected 2018 RAM over an overpriced 2023 model that will suffocate you for 7 years.
If your file is more difficult, the right door to enter is often 2nd chance auto credit. And in some more complex cases—multiple refusals, proposals, recent bankruptcy—we adjust the strategy. The goal isn't just to get a “yes.” The goal is a sustainable “yes.”
Mechanical points I recommend checking before signing
I’m not a mechanic, but after 12 years of looking at files, I know how to spot the areas to watch. Especially with Dodge RAM Jeep Chrysler financing, where the vehicle's history makes all the difference.
On a used RAM 1500, I always recommend checking:
- The condition of the suspension and steering
- The brakes, especially if the truck has been used for towing
- Complete maintenance history
- Transmission condition
- Signs of underbody wear related to road salt
- 4x4 functionality
- Condition of summer and winter tires
- Actual mileage versus advertised usage
A RAM that has driven 140,000 km mostly on the highway isn't necessarily a bad buy. A 95,000 km RAM that was poorly maintained and constantly hauled heavy loads can be much riskier.
I also strongly advise asking for a history report and a pre-purchase inspection. Yes, even if the truck looks beautiful. Especially if it looks beautiful.
Where buyers go wrong the most
The biggest trap? Falling in love with the look before checking the total cost.
A black RAM Sport on 22-inch rims catches the eye. I know. But when I add taxes, rates, insurance, winter tires, gas, maintenance, and sometimes an extended warranty, some realize too late that they’ve exceeded their comfort zone.
And speaking of insurance: for a RAM 1500, depending on the driver's age, region, and record, I often see premiums between $1,400 and $2,800 per year. More if the vehicle is very recent or the file is complex. In Montreal, Longueuil, or Laval, that goes up fast.
My very simple budget advice
If your car payment approaches or exceeds 15% of your net monthly income, I seriously invite you to slow down. Especially with a truck that consumes more fuel than a mid-size SUV.
Pro tip: Look at “cost per useful year,” not just the payment
This is probably the most concrete advice I give.
Two RAMs might have nearly the same payment, but not the same real value.
Example:
- A 2018 RAM 1500 at $29,995 with 132,000 km
- A 2021 RAM 1500 at $39,995 with 68,000 km
The first one seems “cheaper.” However, if you keep the truck for 5 years and the 2018 leads you to major repairs sooner, the gap closes quickly. I prefer to calculate what the vehicle costs you per year of probable use, not just per month.
In other words: a slightly more expensive truck that is newer and better maintained might be the best financial choice.
How we do things at Prêt Auto Québec
At our company, I prefer things to be simple. We start by understanding your reality. Not just your credit score. Your job, your commute, your towing needs, your budget, your credit file, your down payment—or the lack thereof.
Then, we look at the options available in our inventory, and we validate the payment scenario with the calculator. If you want to get straight to the point, you can also fill out an application online, and my team can often give a preliminary answer within a few hours. In many complete files, approval can happen the same day or in less than 24 to 48 hours.
I recently helped Karine, from Quebec City, who was recently separated with two children. She wanted a truck to pull her lightweight trailer in the summer and manage winter without stress. Her credit was okay, but not perfect. We avoided an overly expensive model she was originally looking at, then guided her toward a 2020 RAM 1500 Laramie that was better equipped, better maintained, with a monthly payment of about $742 every two weeks. She called me back a month later to say she didn't regret for a second not choosing the “flashy” one. That kind of feedback is exactly why I love my job.
My frank advice before you jump in
If you want a truck that gives a real sense of premium comfort, the 2017-2024 used RAM 1500 remains a very good choice in Quebec. I sincerely mean that. But I don't recommend buying the one with the biggest screen or the best color.
I recommend buying:
- The most logical year for your budget
- A well-equipped trim, without paying for extras
- A vehicle that is inspected and documented
- Financing adapted to your reality, not your emotions of the moment
My winning trio? 2019 to 2022, Big Horn, Sport, or Laramie trim, with a clear history, reasonable mileage, and a term that doesn't tie you down unnecessarily for too long.
If you are shopping for a used RAM 1500 Quebec and want me to look at it with you as I would for a member of my own family, write to us. At Prêt Auto Québec, we take the time to build an intelligent file, whether your credit is excellent, average, or complicated. My team and I are here to find the right truck—and, above all, the right way to finance it.