I’m Stuck Between Buying a Ram 1500 and a Ford F-150, But I’m Leaning Ram Because Ford’s 10-Speed Pretty Much Sucks

Ram 1500 vs. Ford F-150: Why The Transmission Is The Deciding Factor

During my research into truck reliability, I found a telling post from Seth Gleason, who is stuck between a Ram 1500 and a Ford F-150 but worries that Ford's 10-speed transmission "pretty much sucks." As a Senior Reporter with 14 years of experience covering the automotive industry, I recognize this as a valid concern that is driving many buyers away from the Blue Oval. In fact, I recently reported on an owner who ditched his 2021 Ford F-150 specifically to escape these repair nightmares forever.

Here is the unfiltered advice Ram owners gave him, backing up what I have seen in thousands of reports regarding the superiority of the Ram's drivetrain.

Ford vs. Ram: The Transmission Dilemma

If you are looking for a full-size truck right now, you are likely wrestling with the same dilemma Seth Gleason posted on the Dodge Ram 1500 Facebook page this week. It's the classic battle of the American titans, but with a specific mechanical twist. Seth writes:

"I am stuck between buying a 2026 Ram 1500 or a 2026 Ford F-150. I want something around 2023 or 2024. I know this group is Ram-focused and biased, but I want to know your experiences with the Ram 1500. The only reason I am asking is because of Ford's 10-speed transmission pretty much sucks."

Seth isn't alone in his assessment. The Ford 10-speed automatic (10R80) has been plagued by complaints of harsh shifting, gear searching, and hesitation, often linked to the CDF clutch drum bushing. 

I have previously covered how these transmission failures can strike without warning; in a related report, I detailed how a Chevy Silverado owner, whose truck shares a similar 10-speed architecture, had his engine and transmission "crap the bed" despite meticulous maintenance. Conversely, the Ram 1500 uses the ZF 8-speed automatic, a transmission widely considered the "gold standard" in the industry for its buttery smooth shifts and reliability.

I combed through the responses from actual owners to see if the Ram 1500 is truly the sanctuary Seth hopes it is. Here is the unfiltered advice they gave him.

The "Last of the Hemis" Argument

The group's overwhelming consensus was to target a specific window: 2023 or 2024.

Why? Because these are the final years of the legendary 5.7L Hemi V8 before Ram switched to the twin-turbo Hurricane inline-six for 2025. While the new engine is powerful, reliability is always a question with new tech. I wrote a cautionary tale about a used Ram buyer who passed on the warranty for a 2019 Ram and regretted it when the engine blew 7,000 miles later, a reminder that sticking to the proven late-model Hemi (2023-2024) is often the safer financial bet.

David M. didn't mince words: "Get a 2024 with the Hemi. Proven engine, proven transmission. The 2025s are a new engine platform, and I never buy the first year of a new powertrain. The ZF 8-speed in the Ram is lightyears ahead of that Ford 10-speed clunker."

Aaron K. added a reliability perspective: "I came from a 2021 F-150. The transmission felt like it was going to drop out every time I accelerated from a stop. My 2023 Ram shifts so smooth I sometimes have to look at the tachometer to see if it actually changed gears. Night and day difference."

Ride Quality: The Secret Weapon

While Seth focused on the transmission, owners were quick to point out another major advantage Ram has: the suspension. Ram uses a coil-spring rear suspension (or optional air suspension) rather than the traditional leaf springs found on the F-150.

Mike T. commented: "The transmission is better, yes. But the ride is what will keep you. The F-150 drives like a truck, bouncy and stiff. The Ram drives like a luxury SUV. If you do a lot of highway miles, your back will thank you for picking the Ram."

The Verdict: Is Ram the Safer Bet?

If your primary concern is transmission reliability, the data support the Facebook group's bias.

• Transmission: The ZF 8-speed in the 2023/2024 Ram is mature technology with a stellar track record. The Ford 10-speed is still the subject of TSBs (Technical Service Bulletins) and consumer complaints.
• Engine: The 5.7L Hemi in the 2023/2024 models is at the end of its lifecycle, meaning most bugs were worked out a decade ago. It is thirsty on gas, but it is reliable.
• Tech: While Ford's infotainment is competitive, Ram's Uconnect system remains one of the most user-friendly interfaces on the market.

My take: Seth is right to be wary of the Ford 10-speed if smooth driving is your priority. If he can find a low-mileage 2024 Ram 1500 Laramie or Big Horn with the 5.7L Hemi, buy it. You get the best transmission in the class and one of the best V8 engines ever made before they went extinct.

In The End

For truck buyers prioritizing smooth shifting and long-term reliability, the 2023-2024 Ram 1500 with the 5.7L Hemi remains the clear winner over the Ford F-150. While brand loyalty runs deep, the proven durability of Ram's ZF 8-speed transmission offers a peace of mind that Ford's troublesome 10-speed cannot match.

Even loyal GM owners are switching; I recently wrote about a long-time GMC Sierra owner who is "done with GM" and is now conflicted, leaning toward the Ram 1500 specifically for its reliability and ride comfort. If you want a truck that drives as well as it works, the final years of the Hemi are your safest bet.

It's Your Turn

Have you driven both the Ford F-150 with the 10-speed and the Ram 1500 with the ZF 8-speed? Do you agree with Seth that the Ford transmission is a dealbreaker, or has your experience been different? Click the red link below to write your comment and let us know if the Ram's smooth shifting is worth the switch.

I'm Denis Flierl, a Senior Torque News Reporter since 2012, bringing over 30 years of automotive expertise to every story. My career began with a consulting role with every major car brand, followed by years as a freelance journalist, test-driving new vehicles, which equipped me with a wealth of insider knowledge. I specialize in delivering the latest auto news, sharing compelling owner stories, and providing expert, up-to-date analysis to keep you fully informed.

Follow me on X @DenisFlierl, @WorldsCoolestRides, Facebook, Instagram and LinkedIn

Photo credit: Denis Flierl