Comprehensive pre-purchase inspection of a 2014 Ram 2500 with 6.7L Cummins diesel engine to assess overall vehicle condition, identify potential issues, and verify proper operation of all major systems.

Warnings

Tools required

Preparation

1. Park vehicle on level, solid ground with parking brake engaged and transmission in Park
2. Place wheel chocks behind rear wheels
3. Allow engine to cool to ambient temperature for accurate cold start evaluation
4. Prepare inspection checklist and camera for documentation
5. Verify vehicle VIN matches title and service records

Procedure

1. 1

   Scan for diagnostic trouble codes
   Connect OBD-II scanner to diagnostic port located under driver side dash. Retrieve and document all stored and pending diagnostic trouble codes (DTCs) from engine control module, transmission control module, and ABS system. Record freeze frame data if any codes are present. Check for cleared codes that may indicate recent repairs or seller preparation. Pay special attention to turbocharger, DPF (diesel particulate filter), EGR, and DEF system codes common on 6.7L Cummins engines.
2. 2

   Perform cold start inspection
   With engine cold, observe initial startup behavior. Listen for excessive cranking time (normal is 2-5 seconds), unusual noises during cranking, or white/blue smoke during first 30 seconds of operation. White smoke that clears quickly is normal in cold weather; excessive white smoke that persists indicates injector issues or coolant entering cylinders. Check for oil pressure gauge response within 3-5 seconds. Listen for lifter tick, rod knock, or bearing noise. Observe if check engine light, glow plug light, and other warning lights illuminate and extinguish properly.
3. 3

   Inspect engine compartment
   With engine running at idle, inspect for fluid leaks from valve cover, oil pan, oil cooler, front and rear crankshaft seals, and turbocharger oil feed/return lines. Check coolant system for leaks at radiator, water pump (located driver side of engine), heater hoses, and EGR cooler connections. Inspect all belt condition and tension; serpentine belt should show no cracking or glazing. Check battery terminals for corrosion and secure mounting. Verify oil level on dipstick is within proper range and inspect oil condition (black is normal for diesel; milky indicates coolant contamination). Check coolant overflow tank level and condition. Inspect air filter housing for proper sealing and filter condition. Look for evidence of previous repairs, non-OEM parts, or accident damage in engine bay.
4. 4

   Inspect exhaust and emissions systems
   Visually inspect entire exhaust system from turbocharger outlet to tailpipe for rust, holes, or loose connections. Check DPF (diesel particulate filter) canister for external damage or evidence of removal/deletion. Verify DEF (diesel exhaust fluid) tank is present, properly mounted, and cap seals correctly. Check for DEF level and verify fill tube is not crystallized or contaminated. Inspect EGR system connections and look for carbon buildup or leaks at EGR valve and cooler. Check turbocharger wastegate actuator operation and listen for turbo whine, grinding, or excessive shaft play (slight play is normal; significant lateral movement indicates wear). Monitor exhaust smoke under acceleration: black smoke indicates fueling issues, blue indicates oil consumption, white indicates coolant or injector problems.
5. 5

   Test drive and performance evaluation
   During test drive, verify transmission shifts smoothly through all gears without slipping, harsh engagement, or delayed shifts. The 68RFE transmission should shift firmly but smoothly. Check for proper turbo boost under acceleration (gauge should show boost, typically 20-35 psi under load). Listen for unusual driveline vibrations, clunks, or grinding noises. Test 4WD engagement by selecting 4HI and 4LO; verify both engage and disengage properly without grinding. Test brakes for even stopping power, pedal firmness, and absence of pulsation or pulling. Verify steering is responsive without excessive play or wandering. Monitor transmission temperature if equipped with gauge; should remain below 200°F under normal driving.
6. 6

   Inspect undercarriage and drivetrain
   Raise vehicle with floor jack at front frame rail and support securely on jack stands. Repeat for rear. Inspect frame for cracks, rust, or evidence of collision damage. Check all steering components including tie rod ends, drag link, ball joints, and steering stabilizer for wear or leaking. Inspect front differential for leaks at pinion seal, axle seals, and cover gasket. Check CV axle boots for tears or grease leakage. Inspect transfer case for leaks at seals and shift motor. Check rear differential for leaks and proper gear oil level (fill plug on cover). Inspect driveshafts for damaged U-joints or center support bearing wear. Check all brake lines, fuel lines, and DEF lines for corrosion, damage, or leaking. Inspect exhaust hangers and heat shields.
7. 7

   Inspect suspension and wheel bearings
   With vehicle raised, grasp each wheel at 12 and 6 o'clock positions and attempt to rock vertically; excessive movement indicates worn ball joints or wheel bearings. Grasp at 3 and 9 o'clock and rock horizontally; movement indicates tie rod or wheel bearing issues. Inspect front coil springs for sagging or damage. Check rear leaf springs for broken leaves, worn bushings, or sagging. Inspect all shock absorbers for leaking fluid or physical damage; attempt to compress by hand if accessible (should have firm resistance). Check track bar and sway bar links for wear or damage. Verify all suspension components are properly fastened and show no signs of looseness.
8. 8

   Inspect brake system
   Measure brake pad thickness on all four wheels; minimum thickness is 3mm, replace if less than 4mm remaining. Inspect rotors for scoring, heat cracks, or excessive lip at outer edge. Check brake caliper operation; pistons should be free of corrosion and slide pins should move freely. Inspect brake hoses for cracking, bulging, or leaking. Check master cylinder reservoir fluid level and condition; fluid should be clear amber, not dark brown. Test parking brake operation; should hold vehicle firmly on incline. Verify ABS sensor wiring is intact at all four wheels. If equipped with trailer brake controller, verify proper installation and wiring.
9. 9

   Inspect tires and wheels
   Measure tread depth at multiple points on each tire using depth gauge; minimum legal depth is 2/32 inch, replace if less than 4/32 inch. Check for uneven wear patterns indicating alignment issues (inside/outside edge wear), suspension problems (cupping), or improper inflation (center wear). Inspect tire sidewalls for cracks, bulges, or damage. Verify all tires are same size and load rating appropriate for vehicle (Load Range E or higher recommended). Check wheel rims for cracks, bends, or damage. Verify tire age from DOT code on sidewall; tires over 6 years old should be replaced regardless of tread depth. Check lug nut torque and condition.
10. 10

    Inspect cooling system
    With engine completely cool, remove radiator cap and inspect coolant level and condition. Coolant should be purple (Mopar OAT) and free of rust, oil contamination, or debris. Use coolant test strips to verify freeze point and pH if available. Inspect radiator for bent fins, leaks, or collision damage. Check radiator cap seal condition. Inspect both upper and lower radiator hoses for soft spots, cracking, or bulging. Verify coolant overflow tank is not cracked and hose connections are secure. Check water pump for leaks at weep hole (small hole on bottom of pump). Inspect fan clutch operation; should spin freely when cold, provide resistance when warm. If equipped with auxiliary transmission cooler, inspect for leaks and proper line routing.
11. 11

    Inspect fuel system
    Check fuel tank and fuel lines for damage, leaks, or excessive corrosion. Inspect fuel filter housing (located on driver side frame rail) for leaks; water-in-fuel light should not be illuminated. Verify fuel cap seals properly. Check lift pump operation if audible; should prime when ignition is turned to ON position before starting. Look for evidence of fuel system modifications or aftermarket lift pump installation. Inspect fuel tank skid plate for damage. On models with two fuel tanks, verify switching mechanism operates properly. Check fuel filler neck for corrosion or damage that could allow water entry.
12. 12

    Verify fluid levels and condition
    Check transmission fluid level with engine at operating temperature in Park (dipstick located at rear of engine on passenger side). Fluid should be red and smell like ATF, not burnt. Check power steering fluid reservoir; level should be within MIN/MAX marks, fluid should be clear red. Verify brake fluid is at proper level and clear amber color. Check windshield washer fluid level. Inspect transfer case and both differentials for proper fill levels if not already verified. Document all fluid conditions and levels for buyer records.
13. 13

    Inspect body and paint
    Walk around entire vehicle inspecting for paint condition, panel gaps, and evidence of bodywork or collision repair. Use paint thickness gauge if available to identify repainted panels. Check all doors, hood, and tailgate for proper alignment and operation. Inspect bed for rust, dents, or damage. Check for proper operation of all latches and locks. Verify tailgate operates smoothly and latches securely. Inspect fifth wheel or gooseneck mounting points in bed if equipped. Look for rust in common areas: wheel wells, rocker panels, door bottoms, and cab corners. Check windshield and all glass for cracks or chips.
14. 14

    Test electrical and accessory systems
    Verify operation of all interior and exterior lights including headlights (high and low beam), fog lights, turn signals, brake lights, reverse lights, and marker lights. Test all power windows, locks, and mirrors. Verify cruise control operation. Test horn. Check HVAC system operation in all modes and temperature settings; A/C should blow cold, heat should be hot. Test radio and all speakers. If equipped, verify backup camera, navigation, and Bluetooth connectivity function properly. Check all interior lights and dome lights. Test power seats and heated seats if equipped. Verify all gauges operate correctly. Check for proper operation of trailer brake controller and trailer light connector if equipped.
15. 15

    Document findings and compile report
    Lower vehicle from jack stands safely. Compile all inspection findings into comprehensive report including: all DTCs found, fluid conditions and levels, tire measurements, brake measurements, identified leaks or damage, test drive observations, and recommended repairs or maintenance. Prioritize findings into immediate safety concerns, near-term maintenance needs, and long-term considerations. Estimate repair costs for identified issues based on severity. Provide photographs of any significant findings. Review service history if available and note any missed maintenance intervals specific to 6.7L Cummins (particularly DEF system service, DPF service, and transmission service intervals).

Reassembly

1. Ensure vehicle is lowered completely and jack stands are removed
2. Verify all fluid caps and dipsticks are reinstalled securely
3. Disconnect OBD-II scanner and ensure diagnostic port cover is reinstalled if equipped
4. Verify hood is closed and latched properly

Verification

• All systems tested operate within normal parameters
• No active warning lights remain illuminated on dashboard
• All fluid levels verified at proper operating levels
• Complete written inspection report prepared with photographs of significant findings
• Buyer provided with comprehensive list of current condition and recommended repairs or maintenance
• Test drive revealed no safety concerns that would prevent operation
• Vehicle returned to same condition as received for inspection

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