Americans are holding onto their vehicles longer than ever before, and automakers are starting to pay attention. A new report shows that the average age of cars and light trucks on U.S. roads has climbed to a record 12.6 years. That’s two months older than in 2023, and an astonishing 1.5 years older than the average in 2012.
This long-term ownership trend has created a mismatch in the auto industry. Most new vehicles still come with just a 3-year/36,000-mile warranty—less than a quarter of the average vehicle’s lifespan. Ram CEO Tim Kuniskis thinks that’s not just outdated—it’s “stupid.”
Speaking at a recent media briefing, Kuniskis argued that extended warranties are no longer a luxury but a necessity. “Nearly 80% of new truck loans now exceed five years,” he pointed out. “If something goes wrong after the warranty ends and the owner is still making payments, they might never return to that brand—and they definitely won’t recommend it to anyone else.”
That’s why Ram is making a bold move with its 2026 lineup. Starting next year, every new Ram truck and van will come standard with a 10-year/100,000-mile limited powertrain warranty. The coverage includes crucial components like the engine, transmission, transfer case, driveshafts, differentials, and axles—parts that can cost thousands to repair.
There are some fine print exclusions. The extended warranty only applies to original owners—individuals and businesses, but not fleet buyers. And it’s not a bumper-to-bumper guarantee. But considering the high cost of drivetrain repairs, the warranty could offer substantial savings and peace of mind.
Industry analysts are calling it a smart play: good for marketing, great for customer satisfaction. As Kuniskis summed it up, “Our customers are making a long-term investment in Ram, and with America’s Best Full-size Truck Limited Powertrain Warranty, Ram is making a stronger and longer commitment to our customers.”
However, there is one notable exception. The new warranty won’t apply to full battery electric vehicles—most notably, the upcoming Ram 1500 REV. While Ram hasn’t elaborated on the reasoning, the exclusion signals a cautious approach to EV commitments within its warranty strategy.
Still, for the majority of traditional truck buyers—many of whom plan to keep their vehicles for a decade or more—Ram’s extended warranty offers something rare in the auto industry these days: real, long-term value.
Source: Ram
