Ram now backs its 2026 trucks and vans with a 10-year or 160,000-kilometre powertrain warranty. For Calgary drivers who rely on their vehicles through harsh winters and demanding work conditions, understanding what "powertrain" actually covers matters.
This warranty protects the mechanical heart of your truck--the parts that generate power and deliver it to the wheels. Here's what that means in practical terms.
What Does "Powertrain" Mean?
Powertrain refers to the system that makes your vehicle move. It starts with the engine creating power, the transmission controlling that power, and the drivetrain delivering it to the wheels.
According to Ram's official announcement, "The warranty covers the engine, transmission, transfer case, driveshafts, differentials and axles for 10 years or 160,000 kilometres, whichever comes first."
Let's break down each component.
The Engine
The engine is where fuel combustion creates the power needed to move your truck. Ram's warranty covers all internal engine components, including:
If a manufacturing defect causes any of these parts to fail, the warranty covers the repair or replacement. This protection applies to both gasoline and diesel engines (full battery-electric vehicles are excluded from this warranty program).
For Calgary drivers who experience cold starts in January or tow heavy loads through the Rockies, engine reliability is critical. This warranty addresses the most expensive potential failures.
The Transmission
Your transmission converts engine power into the right speeds for different driving conditions. It shifts gears automatically or manually, depending on your truck's configuration.
The warranty covers:
Transmission repairs are among the costliest automotive fixes. A complete transmission replacement can run into thousands of dollars. Having 10 years or 160,000 kilometres of coverage removes that financial risk during your ownership period.
The Transfer Case
If you drive a 4×4 Ram, the transfer case splits power between the front and rear axles. This component is essential for off-road capability and winter traction.
The warranty protects:
Calgary's winter roads and nearby mountain passes test 4×4 systems hard. The transfer case experiences significant stress when you switch between 2WD and 4WD modes or engage low-range gearing. Knowing it's covered for a full decade provides reassurance.
Driveshafts
Driveshafts are the metal shafts that transfer rotating power from your transmission to the axles. Most trucks have one or two driveshafts, depending on whether they're two-wheel or four-wheel drive.
Coverage includes:
These components handle immense torque, especially when towing or hauling heavy loads. They're built tough, but the warranty ensures you're protected if something fails.
Differentials
The differential sits inside each axle assembly. It allows your left and right wheels to rotate at different speeds when turning corners, which is necessary for proper handling and tire wear.
The warranty covers:
If you tow a trailer regularly or haul heavy payloads, your differentials work harder than in typical driving. This warranty protects those components through years of demanding use.
Axles
Your axles are the shafts that connect the differential to the wheels. They handle the final power transfer that makes your truck move.
Coverage includes:
Axle failures are rare, but when they happen, repairs are expensive. This warranty eliminates that concern.
What the Warranty Doesn't Cover
The powertrain warranty is specific to the components listed above. It doesn't extend to:
Your Ram comes with separate warranties for these items. The basic comprehensive warranty typically covers three years or 60,000 kilometres. The powertrain extension adds seven additional years or 100,000 kilometres of protection beyond that baseline.
Maintenance requirements remain in effect. You must follow the service schedule in your owner's manual. Skipping oil changes, ignoring fluid replacements, or neglecting routine maintenance can void warranty coverage.
Which Ram Models Are Covered?
The 10-year/160,000-kilometre warranty applies to these 2026 model-year vehicles:
You must purchase or lease a new, previously unregistered vehicle from an authorized Ram dealership in Canada. The warranty covers retail customers--both individuals and businesses--but excludes fleet purchases.
The warranty is non-transferable. It applies only to the original owner or lessee. If you sell your truck after five years, the next owner doesn't inherit the remaining coverage.
How to Use the Warranty in Calgary
If you experience a problem with a covered powertrain component, contact Courtesy Chrysler Dodge Jeep Ram to schedule a diagnostic appointment. Bring your vehicle identification number (VIN), proof of ownership, and maintenance records.
The service department will verify your eligibility, diagnose the issue, and determine whether the repair falls under powertrain coverage. If approved, they'll order parts and complete the repair at no cost to you for covered components and labour.
Tips for smooth warranty claims:
If you're traveling outside Calgary when a problem occurs, you can visit any authorized Ram dealership in Canada. The warranty applies nationwide.
Why This Warranty Matters for Calgary Drivers
Calgary sits in a region where trucks face demanding conditions. Cold winter starts test engine components. Heavy snow challenges traction systems and differentials. Summer heat stresses transmissions.
Construction sites and rural work push drivetrains harder than typical commuter use.
Ram's 10-year warranty addresses these realities. When you're hauling equipment to a job site or towing a trailer through the mountains, you need confidence that major mechanical failures won't leave you stranded or facing a repair bill after your standard warranty expires.
According to Ram CEO Tim Kuniskis, "Truck buyers are financing purchases for longer periods of time, with nearly 80% of new truck loans exceeding five years." The extended warranty aligns protection with modern financing realities.
If you're financing a 2026 Ram over six or seven years, you now have powertrain coverage that extends beyond your final payment. That's substantial protection for the most expensive potential repairs.
Frequently Asked Questions
Does this warranty transfer if I sell my truck?
No. The warranty is non-transferable. It applies only to the original retail purchaser or lessee.
What happens if I exceed 160,000 kilometres before 10 years?
The warranty expires at whichever milestone you reach first--10 years or 160,000 kilometres.
Are 2025 Ram trucks eligible for this warranty?
No. The 10-year/160,000-kilometre warranty begins exclusively with 2026 model-year vehicles.
Does the warranty cover my Ram 1500 RHO?
Yes. Both the Ram 1500 RHO and Ram Power Wagon qualify for the 10-year/160,000-kilometre warranty as long as they're 2026 model-year retail purchases.
Do I need to service my truck at a dealership?
While you're not legally required to, it's recommended. Using an authorized Ram dealership ensures all maintenance is documented properly and performed to manufacturer specifications.
What if I need warranty service while traveling?
You can visit any authorized Ram dealership in Canada. Bring your VIN, proof of ownership, and maintenance records.
Planning Your Next Ram Purchase
If you're considering a Ram 1500 for daily driving, a Ram 2500 for towing, or a ProMaster van for your business, this warranty strengthens your ownership case.
Calculate your typical annual mileage. If you drive 20,000 kilometres per year, you'll reach 160,000 kilometres in eight years. That's substantial coverage through your entire financing term and beyond.
For work trucks that face Calgary winters, gravel roads, and heavy towing, this warranty covers the most expensive potential powertrain repairs. It's a binding commitment that Ram's engines, transmissions, and drivetrains will perform for a decade.
Visit Courtesy Chrysler Dodge Jeep Ram in Calgary to explore the 2026 Ram lineup and discuss how this warranty applies to your specific needs.
