Dodge B200 problems
The Dodge Ram Van (also known as the Dodge B-series) is a range of full-size vans that were produced by Chrysler Corporation from the 1971 to 2003 model years. Replacing the Dodge A100, the Ram Van transitioned to a front-engine drivetrain configuration. Mostly offered as a cargo van and a passenger van, the model line was also initially offered as a cutaway van chassis.
The B-series van line was produced across 32 years of production, making it among the longest-lived platform designs in American automotive history. Much of the exterior and chassis underpinnings saw only gradual changes during their entire production, with three distinct generations developed. Alongside its use by Dodge, the full-size van range saw rebranding during the 1970s for both Fargo Trucks and Plymouth (marking the debut of the Plymouth Voyager nameplate).
For much of its entire production run, Chrysler produced B-platform vans at the now-demolished Pillette Road Truck Assembly plant in Windsor, Ontario, Canada; prior to 1980, the model line was also produced at Saint Louis North Assembly (Fenton, Missouri). In 2003, the Dodge Sprinter (a rebranding of its Mercedes-Benz namesake) was introduced, replacing the B-series van entirely from 2004 to 2009. Since 2014, the Ram division has offered the ProMaster to the full-size van market, a rebranded Fiat Ducato.
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Common Dodge B200 problems
The Dodge B200, produced in the late 1970s, has gained a reputation for its versatility and reliability among car enthusiasts. However, like any other vehicle, it is not without its common problems. Here are some of the most frequently reported issues by Dodge B200 owners:
- Engine and Transmission Issues: Several Dodge B200 owners have reported experiencing engine and transmission problems. These issues include the need for a complete front-end rebuild, engine swaps, and frequent replacement of starters, alternators, voltage regulators, ignition ECUs, radiators, water pumps, hoses, and transmission dipsticks.
- Electrical System Problems: The Dodge B200's electrical system has also been a source of frustration for some owners. For instance, one owner reported that their van would die when the brake pedal was depressed for more than 5-10 seconds while stopped, particularly when the vehicle was carrying extra weight. This issue was attributed to a possible grounding problem caused by an exposed wire from the vibrations of driving.
- Rust and Corrosion: Although the Dodge B200 is known for its sturdiness, it is not immune to rust and corrosion, especially around the drip rails. This can be a significant issue in regions with harsh winters and heavy snowfall, where road salt can accelerate corrosion.
- Fuel System Issues: Some Dodge B200 owners have reported problems with the vehicle's fuel system. For example, one owner had to replace the 2-barrel carburetor with a 4-barrel Edelbrock to improve performance.
- Handling and Stability: The Dodge B200's handling and stability have been criticized by some owners, particularly on winding roads or during high winds. This is not uncommon for large vans of that era, which typically prioritized utility over handling dynamics.
In summary, while the Dodge B200 is a beloved vehicle for its versatility, reliability, and classic charm, it is not without its common problems. These issues range from engine and transmission problems to electrical system faults, rust and corrosion, fuel system issues, handling and stability concerns, and more. However, with proper maintenance and care, many of these issues can be mitigated or resolved, ensuring that the Dodge B200 continues to serve as a reliable and beloved workhorse for its owners.
What is the wheelbase of the Dodge B200?
127-inch
Shown below: B200 Tradesman on a 127-inch wheelbase, with optional full-width rear door.
How long is a Dodge Mega Cab long bed?
Note that Mega Cab trucks are only available in 4×4 configurations and only with the 6-foot or 4-inch bed, while the other version allows choosing between 4×2 and 4×4 and an 8-foot-long bed.
How long is a 2006 Mega Cab bed?
Two bed lengths are available: a 6-foot, 3-inch short bed and an 8-foot long bed. Ordering the long bed adds 20 inches to the wheelbase. And a Quad Cab wheelbase is 20 inches longer than a Regular Cab.
Is Dodge Mega Cab bigger than a crew cab?
Dimensions: Comparing the RAM Mega Cab vs. Crew Cab Big Horn trims, the Crew Cab is shorter in length with less passenger volume overall compared to the Mega Cab. Payload: The 3500 has a higher payload and curb weight when comparing Big Horn trims with 6'4” beds.
Percentage distribution of complaints by Dodge B200 years
We have researched Dodge problems and analysed all the complaints filed against Dodge B200 cars and compiled the top 3 most problematic Dodge B200 model years:
Below you can see the percentage distribution of known problems by Dodge B200 model years.
Distribution of the number of complaints by Dodge B200 years
We've also compiled a chart for you with the number of complaints about Volkswagen Jetta cars of certain model years:
Dodge B200 car problems categorized by type of issue
After analysing all complaints related to Dodge B200 , it was concluded that the most common issues with these cars are:
- Service brakes problems
- Hydraulic problems
- Fuel system problems
- Other problems
- Structure problems
The graph below shows statistics for all Dodge B200 vehicle components and the number of complaints received.
The NHTSA has received 7 complaints about various vehicle components related to the Dodge B200 . Below are the 25 most recent complaints reported for Dodge B200 vehicles.
List of Dodge B200 complaints
Dodge B200 1978
- Date Of Incident: 2007-09-18
- Date Complaint: 2007-10-01
- Components: TIRES
- Summary: ALL 4 TIRES HAD THE BELT SEPARATE 1 BLEW OUT THE SIDE 2 HAD A 1 INCH DIFFERENCE BETWEEN INSIDE AND OUTSIDE OF TREAD ONE TIRE SOUNDED LIKE YOU WERE DRIVING DOWN THE RUMBLE STRIPS ON THE HIGHWAY AND THEY ALL SHOOK AND I HAD A HEAT GUN AND WHEN THEY WENT THEY WERE RUNNING AT 190 DEG AND ONE TIRE HAD A HOT SPOT OF 310 DEG ALL 4 TIRES HAD THE SAME DOT NUMBER. *JB
Dodge B200 1977
- Date Of Incident: 1998-11-02
- Date Complaint: 1998-12-23
- VIN: B21BF7X1493
- Components: FUEL SYSTEM, OTHER
- Summary: THE FUEL TANK FLOAT SENDER HAD BROKEN LOOSE, CAUSING FUEL TANK TO LEAK. *AK
Dodge B200 1977
- Date Of Incident: 2024-11-24
- Date Complaint: 1997-08-19
- Components: STRUCTURE
- Summary: RECALL 80V-027000, DLR REFUSES TO DO THE RECALL FOR FREE. *AK
Dodge B200 1977
- Date Of Incident: 1997-06-01
- Date Complaint: 1997-07-18
- Components: LATCHES/LOCKS/LINKAGES
- Summary: SLIDING DOOR LATCH BROKE.
Dodge B200 1986
- Date Of Incident: 2024-11-24
- Date Complaint: 1997-05-07
- VIN: 2B7HB23T0GK
- Components: SERVICE BRAKES, HYDRAULIC
- Summary: CALIPERS FAILED, PULLING VEHICLE TO THE RIGHT, 2ND VEHICLE FROM 517026.
Dodge B200 1986
- Date Of Incident: 2024-11-24
- Date Complaint: 1997-05-07
- VIN: 2B7HB23T0GK
- Components: SERVICE BRAKES, HYDRAULIC
- Summary: ROTORS FAILED.
Dodge B200 1986
- Date Of Incident: 2024-11-24
- Date Complaint: 1997-05-07
- VIN: 2B7HB23T0GK
- Components: SERVICE BRAKES, HYDRAULIC
- Summary: DEFECTIVE RIGHT FRONT MOUNTING CLIP PINCHES OFF THE RIGHT FRONT BRAKE HOSE PREVENTING BRAKE FLUID FROM RETURNING FROM THE CALIPER TO THE MASTER CYLINDER, THIS CONDITION CAUSES RIGHT FRONT BRAKES TO PULL. BRAKE CALIPERS AND ROTORS WERE REPLACED AS A RESULT OF THIS PROBLEM. (2ND VEHICLE ON DOCUMENT 517026)
Recalls Dodge B200
The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) has issued 4 recalls for different components of the Dodge B200.You can explore the year of the Volkswagen Jetta you are interested in by selecting it from the list.
- Model: Dodge B200 1977
- Report Received Date: 1980-03-14
- Manufacturer: CHRYSLER CORPORATION
- Components: STRUCTURE:FRAME AND MEMBERS
- Summary: THE FRONT RAIL EXTENSION MAY EXPERIENCE FATIGUE CRACKING NEAR THE AREA WHERE THE POWER STEERING GEAR ATTACHES TO THE FRAME. IF THE CRACK PROGRESSES THROUGH MOST OR ALL OF THE RAIL SECTION, STEERING SYSTEM FREE PLAY ACCOMPANIED BY METALLIC RATTLE NOISE WILL BE EXPERIENCED.
- Remedy: AFFECTED VEHICLES WILL BE WELD REPAIRED AND A REINFORCEMENT ROD WILL BE INSTALLED OVER THE CRACKED AREA.
- Model: Dodge B200 1978
- Report Received Date: 1980-03-14
- Manufacturer: CHRYSLER CORPORATION
- Components: STRUCTURE:FRAME AND MEMBERS
- Summary: THE FRONT RAIL EXTENSION MAY EXPERIENCE FATIGUE CRACKING NEAR THE AREA WHERE THE POWER STEERING GEAR ATTACHES TO THE FRAME. IF THE CRACK PROGRESSES THROUGH MOST OR ALL OF THE RAIL SECTION, STEERING SYSTEM FREE PLAY ACCOMPANIED BY METALLIC RATTLE NOISE WILL BE EXPERIENCED.
- Remedy: AFFECTED VEHICLES WILL BE WELD REPAIRED AND A REINFORCEMENT ROD WILL BE INSTALLED OVER THE CRACKED AREA.
- Model: Dodge B200 1978
- Report Received Date: 1979-04-30
- Manufacturer: CHRYSLER CORPORATION
- Components: SERVICE BRAKES, HYDRAULIC:FOUNDATION COMPONENTS:HOSES, LINES/PIPING, AND FITTINGS
- Summary: THE FRONT BRAKE HOSE ROUTING MAY ALLOW INTERFERENCE BETWEEN THE HOSES AND THE TIRE AND WHEEL ASSEMBLIES DURING EXTREME TURNING ANGLES.
- Remedy: DEALER WILL REPLACE BOTH LEFT AND RIGHT FRONT BRAKE HOSES AND INSTALL A NEW BRAKE HOSE SUPPORT BRACKET TO ELIMINATE CONTACT WITH TIRE/WHEEL.
- Model: Dodge B200 1978
- Report Received Date: 1978-04-13
- Manufacturer: CHRYSLER CORPORATION
- Components: SEAT BELTS:FRONT:ANCHORAGE
- Summary: THE INVOLVED VEHICLES DO NOT CONFORM TO FEDERAL MOTOR VEHICLE SAFETY STANDARD NO. 209, "SEAT BELT ASSEMBLIES", IN THAT THEY DO NOT HAVE THE CAPABILITY OF FITTING CERTAIN ADULT PASSENGERS WHEN THE SEAT IS IN THE FULL FORWARD POSITION.
- Remedy: DEALER WILL REPLACE THE FRONT PASSENGER UNIBELT ASSEMBLY WITH AN ASSEMBLY HAVING A LONGER BELT WEBBING.