Date Published: March 31, 2026 | Last Modified: 1 hour ago | 4 minute read Verified by Jill Tresch at Redwater Dodge

The Great Debate: Should You Buy a New or Used Truck?

The 2026 Advantage: Canada’s Best Powertrain Warranty

For the 2026 model year, Stellantis has raised the bar. When you purchase a new 2026 RAM truck, you aren't just getting a world-class vehicle; you're getting the 10-Year / 160,000-Kilometre Limited Powertrain Warranty.

Key Benefits of the 10/160 Warranty:

• Zero Additional Cost: This isn't an "add-on" or a hidden fee. It is included right from the factory.
• Unmatched Longevity: Most competitors (like Ford or Chevy) typically stop at 5 years or 100,000 km. We double that duration to ensure your engine, transmission, and drivetrain are covered for a full decade.
• Investment Security: If you plan on financing your truck over 6 or 7 years, you are covered well beyond the life of your loan.

Understanding Used Vehicle Warranty Coverage

If you have your eye on a used truck, the warranty landscape looks a little different. When you buy pre-owned, you typically inherit the remaining balance of the original factory warranty.

Expert Tip: If a truck was originally sold with a 5-year warranty and it's already 3 years old, you only have 2 years of "free" protection left. Once that expires, you are responsible for any mechanical repairs.

However, choosing used doesn't mean you have to drive unprotected. At Redwater Dodge, we offer the ability to purchase additional warranty coverage. While this does come at an extra cost, it allows you to customize your protection based on your specific needs, whether you want bumper-to-bumper security or just powertrain insurance.

Cost-Benefit Analysis: The "Free" New Warranty vs. Paid Used Extension

Frequently Asked Questions

Q1. Is the 10-year/160,000 km warranty transferable if I sell my truck?

A1. No. For the 2026 model year, this specific extended powertrain warranty is available exclusively to the original retail purchaser or lessee.

Q2. Does the warranty cover wear-and-tear items like brakes or tires?

A2. No. The 10-year warranty focuses on the powertrain (engine, transmission, and drivetrain). Consumables like brake pads, windshield wipers, and tires fall under standard maintenance or the shorter 3-year/60,000 km basic warranty.

Q3. Can I finance the cost of an extended warranty on a used truck?

A3. Absolutely. Most lenders allow you to roll the cost of a mechanical breakdown protection plan directly into your monthly vehicle payments.