Did you just buy, or are looking at, a Dodge Ram truck? While they are known as one of the best trucks around, they can be subject to a number of common problems. If you research the potential troubles before you buy, you will be in a better position to negotiate a fair and honest price.
What kind of problems could be found on a Dodge Ram?
Owners have reported issues such as:
- Excessive engine noise paired with poor acceleration
- Truck pops into gear while parked and engine is off
- Trouble shifting in and out of 4WD and “Service 4WD” light
Are these indicatives of a truck that is ready for retirement? In most cases, problems reported on the Dodge Ram usually need a simple fix to get it back on the road. Read on to learn about the most typical issues and how to have them resolved.
Dodge Ram Trucks Ruling America’s Roads
In 1981, the first generation of the Dodge Ram full-size light-duty pickup rolled off the production line. Since then, four generations have made their debut, providing a powerful and dependable workhorse for homeowners, farmers, and businesses across America.
The brand was renamed as simply Ram in 2010, giving the truck and commercial division a brighter spotlight.
The Ram 1500 is the most popular truck offered and can be configured with rear or four-wheel drive. The standard two-door cab seats up to three while the crew cab expands interior capacity up to six with a split front bench seat.
With changing demands for utility vehicles, current Ram 1500 trucks can feature a short, regular, or long box.
While completing your initial research on problems found on Dodge Ram trucks, it may appear that they have many chronic issues.
However, once you review the stats, most reported problems occur after the first 100,000 miles. Some owners report their truck is still running after 20 years and 300,000 miles.
The Ram Truck badge also produces a full line of heavy-duty vehicles including the Ram 2500, 3500, 4500, and 5500. You can also find cutaways and chassis cabs featuring the Ram heavy-duty truck chassis and ready to be upfitted for your business.
Tackling Common Problems on Your Dodge Ram Truck
Excessive Engine Noise Paired with Poor Acceleration
Owners of the 1995 to 2010 Dodge Ram 1500 with the 3.7L or 4.7L engine reported noticeable decrease in power during acceleration paired with loud engine noise around the exhaust area.
The bolts that hold the exhaust manifold gasket in place can snap off, creating a leak. Replacing the gasket and any failing bolts fixes the problem.
Rear Window Leaking
Drivers noticed water entering the truck cab around the seal of the rear window on model years 1997 to 2010. Poor installation of the original window seal resulted in a gap allowing rain to get in.
Replacing the window seal resolves the situation.
Leaking Coolant Detected Around the Water Pump
Most owners of the Dodge Ram reported problems with leaking coolant after 150,000 miles. Leaks are often found around the water pump, thermostat, and intake manifold. Routine maintenance and repairs of the coolant system can prevent leaks from starting.
Engine Won’t Crank or Stalls
Multiple drivers reported putting in the key, trying to start the engine and only getting the click of the starter motor. Troubleshooting determined that the cam sensor failed, which prevented the engine from engaging. Intermittent failure of the sensor also results in the truck stalling while in motion.
Replacing the sensor solved the problem.
Trouble Shifting in and out of 4WD and “Service 4WD” Light
Some drivers have noted that their 4WD Dodge Ram 1500 sometimes struggles to go in and out of four-wheel drive. A failed actuator for the front axle may need replacing.
Also, the Totally Integrated Power Module may require a software update. This is the same TIPM that had a major recall on other Dodge/Chrysler vehicles, but not the Dodge Ram.
Excessive Oil Consumption and Engine Knock
Older Dodge Ram trucks over 120,000 miles may see a sudden increase in oil consumption along with spark knock. The intake manifold gasket may have deteriorated, resulting in a leak along the plenum. Replacing the gasket should restore the 3.9L and 5.9L V8 engine back to proper working order.
Engine Surging at ~45 mph
This common issue often appears on commercial vehicles over 250,000 miles. A service bulletin was issued for the 3.9L and 5.2L V8 engines that suggested rerouting the ignition coil and spark plug wires.
This dramatically reduces the instances of misfire that results in the engine surging.
Defroster Kicks on During Acceleration
Some owners complained that when they hit the gas, the defroster would switch on for no reason. A faulty vacuum check valve was determined to be the cause. A new one was released. The engine should also be checked for any vacuum leaks.
Truck Pops into Gear While Parked
Affecting Dodge Ram Trucks from 2009 to 2017, a faulty brake interlock pin enabled the automatic transmission to pop in and out of gear without the brake pedal being depressed. A major recall resulted in the inspection of 1.5 million vehicles and replacement of the brake interlock pin or module on some of the trucks.
Finding the Facts on the Dodge Ram You Want to Buy
Anyone shopping for a pre-owned car or truck like the Dodge Ram needs to know if it has had any major problems. Vehicle History and the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration can provide the precise information you need for an informed purchase. Enter the VIN or make, model, and year into the search boxes.
You receive a complete maintenance report for your prospective ride and a list of any recalls that could affect its functional life.
