Vehicle manufacturers like Dodge invest in testing and research to ensure vehicles are safe. Yet, problems with some of the main systems, like the air conditioner, can develop over time. If you plan to buy a Dodge Ram, you need to know about these problems before you invest.
Are there common Dodge Ram air conditioning problems? Yes, there are some key concerns reported by consumers related to this vehicle. These include:
- Air conditioning refrigerant leaks
- Climate control electrical issues
- AC compressor failure
- Clogged orifice tube
Our goal here is to take a closer look at each of these problems and provide you with some simple insight into them. Then, you can do a bit more research on the Dodge Ram’s Vehicle History to get even more info before you make a buying decision.
Air Conditioning Refrigerant Leaks
One of the most common air conditioner complaints for the Dodge Ram has to do with a leak. The coolant within the system can leak out for various reasons. When it does leak, there is not enough product present to allow the system to cool air. You may notice the leak on the ground under your car. In some cases, you may not see the leak at all, but the system will blow warm air. Often, consumers report no change in the operation of the system and no warning lights, but a lack of cool air.
When this happens, it may be due to a seal in the system failing. In some situations, the leak is the result of early wear and tear on the air conditioning components or due to physical damage to it.
The leaks have been reported in various areas of the vehicle as well. Some consumers reported the evaporator was the cause of the leak. Others note a hose that was not attached properly or had areas of cracking, allowing the leak to occur. Another potential area for leaks is the condenser itself.
Climate Control Electrical Issues
There have been some reports of the Dodge Ram having electrical issues. Because so much of the vehicle today is designed to be electrical-based, there are components in the air conditioner that depend on communication between the vehicle’s computers and the system itself.
Electrical problems reported by consumers include instances of total failure — with warning lights on the dashboard — as well as instances of intermittent on and off failure. Some individuals reported their vehicles would turn on and off while driving without warning. This could indicate an electrical problem with the vehicle.
If an electrical problem exists, it is important to have this vehicle inspected by a technician. This becomes even more important when the owner is experiencing more than just the AC failing. Some Dodge Ram vehicles, especially the 2014 to 2016 model years, have had issues with the electrical system failing in multiple areas of the vehicle.
AC Compressor Failure
The air conditioner compressor is an important component of the system. While these generally do not fail for a long time — on most vehicles — there are some reports that those on the Dodge Ram can fail. Often, owners report this occurring but state the technicians had no idea why it happened. The system often will blow warm air when this happens.
The compressor is responsible for pressurizing the coolant in the system. It then moves that coolant into the air conditioner’s other components to allow air to be treated properly. In short, if the condenser fails, there is no way for the vehicle to produce the cool air desired.
One way to know if the air compressor fails is to listen to it. In some vehicles, often prior to a complete failure, the air compressor will still blow air. Other times it does not. In these instances, it may operate with a loud noise or a rough sound. It sounds like it is broken, and chances are good that it is. If you hear this, turn the air conditioner off and don’t use it until you have a technician look at it.
Clogged Orifice Tube
Another potential cause of an air conditioner problem is in the orifice tube. Over time, this tube can become clogged with material. That’s a problem because this tube connects the air conditioner’s condenser to the radiator. It also connects to the evaporator. When there is any damage to this tube, the refrigerant is unable to move through the system.
Clogs can happen for various reasons. Some owners reported their air conditioning system would not turn on when this happens. It is more common for the system to work, but without the refrigerant reaching all components, it continues to blow hot air.
There has not been a recall for these components. However, clogs like this can be problematic the longer they are untreated. Keep in mind that the system will still operate — turn on and off — in most cases, making it easy to assume this problem is related to the refrigerant. This particular Dodge Ram air conditioner problem has been common in older vehicles, including those issued prior to 2012.
Should You Buy a Dodge Ram With Air Conditioning Problems?
In every situation, drivers have to make their own decisions about which vehicle to purchase and which not to. However, the air conditioning problems with the Dodge Ram are not significant and have not affected as many drivers as other concerns. That may make it still acceptable to buy these vehicles with confidence.
Take the time to find out if the Dodge Ram is right for you. Use the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration website to track down the vehicle. Use the VIN. This produces a list of all customer complaints reported as well as recalls and known problems with the vehicle. You can also use the make, model, and year of the car to get more insight and to compare your options.
Don’t stop there. Before you buy that pre-owned Dodge Ram, make sure to get its Vehicle History. That can provide you with the insight you have to have.
