Dodge Cargo van 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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Dodge Cargo van model years
Common Dodge Cargo van problems
Dodge Cargo Vans are known for their versatility and reliability, but like any vehicle, they can experience certain issues. Here are some of the most common problems based on complaints from owners of Dodge Cargo Vans:
- Coolant Leaks: Dodge Cargo Vans equipped with a rear heat/AC system are prone to coolant leaks from the underbody. This issue is often seen in vans with hoses that haven't been replaced for a long time. Regular maintenance, including hose replacement, is essential to prevent this problem.
- Shifting Harshness and Shuddering: If you experience shuddering and shifting harshness while driving your Dodge Cargo Van, it's crucial to inspect the automatic transmission unit. This issue can sometimes lead to greater problems in the auto transmission unit, requiring the assistance of an expert auto repair technician.
- Starting Issues: If you are unable to release the key from the ignition or cannot start the vehicle with the key, you may need to replace the key assembly. If this doesn't fix the problem, you might have to replace the lock cylinder and tumblers in your Dodge Cargo Van.
- Noise in Front Suspension: A clunking or rattling noise from the front suspension during low-speed motion can indicate a worn-out sway bar end links or sway bar bushings. Replacing the front struts can help fix this issue.
- Stuck in Park: Dodge Ram Van 2500 owners have reported issues with the vehicle getting stuck in park, making it impossible to shift into reverse or drive. This problem is most commonly reported in Dodge Avenger models but has also been reported in other Dodge makes and other Chrysler and Jeep vehicles.
- Cracked Dashboards: Dodge Cargo Van owners have reported issues with their dashboards falling apart and breaking into pieces. This issue is often seen in 2001 and 2003 Ram Van 2500 models, where the dashboard caves in on itself, leaving owners feeling helpless.
- Rust Holes in the Frame: In the 2003 Ram Van 2500, rust holes in the frame are a common issue, with one complaint reported.
- Abs Brake Light On: In the 1997 Ram Van 2500, the abs brake light staying on is a common problem, with one complaint reported.
- Dash Board Cracking: In the 2003 Ram Van 2500, dash board cracking is a common issue, with one complaint reported.
- Stalls While Driving: In the 1999 Ram Van 2500, stalls while driving are a common problem, with one complaint reported.
- Interior Issues: In Dodge Cargo Vans from 2002-2003, interior issues are a common problem, with five complaints reported.
- Steering Issues: In Dodge Cargo Vans from 2002-2003, steering issues are a common problem, with two complaints reported.
- Fuel System Issues: In Dodge Cargo Vans from 2002-2003, fuel system issues are a common problem, with one complaint reported.
- Brakes Issues: In Dodge Cargo Vans from 2002-2003, brakes issues are a common problem, with one complaint reported.
- Transmission Issues: In Dodge Cargo Vans from 2002-2003, transmission issues are a common problem, with one complaint reported.
It's important to note that these issues may not affect all Dodge Cargo Vans and may vary depending on the model year and specific vehicle. Regular maintenance and inspections can help prevent many of these issues and ensure the longevity and reliability of your Dodge Cargo Van.
What are common problems with Dodge ProMaster?
Worst Issues
- squealing brakes in the 2014 ProMaster 2500. ...
- squealing noise in the 2014 ProMaster 2500. ...
- won't start intermittently in the 2014 ProMaster 2500. ...
- sensor coming on in the 2014 ProMaster 2500. ...
- electrical system not recharging in the 2014 ProMaster 2500.
Are Dodge cargo vans reliable?
Per RepairPal, the Ram ProMaster reliability score is a two out of five, which is pretty poor. Not to mention, the average annual cost of repairs is $1,072. This can cause concern for some who are in the market for a campervan — especially if they will be living in it full-time.
How long do Ram cargo vans last?
Life Expectancy
However, consumers report that the Ford Transit and Ram ProMaster regularly last until 150,000 – 200,000 miles without major engine problems. And the Mercedes Sprinter regularly lasts anywhere between 250,000 and up to 600,000 miles without significant engine problems.
What is the transmission problem with the Dodge ProMaster?
The automaker is recalling an estimated 165,503 2019-2021 Ram ProMaster vehicles equipped with a 62TE transmission because the park pawl may not fully engage the park gear due to debris inside the transmission. This scenario can result in vehicle rollaway, which increases the likelihood of a crash.
Percentage distribution of complaints by Dodge Cargo van years
We have researched Dodge problems and analysed all the complaints filed against Dodge Cargo van cars and compiled the top 1 most problematic Dodge Cargo van model years:
Below you can see the percentage distribution of known problems by Dodge Cargo van model years.
Distribution of the number of complaints by Dodge Cargo van years
We've also compiled a chart for you with the number of complaints about Volkswagen Jetta cars of certain model years:
Dodge Cargo van car problems categorized by type of issue
After analysing all complaints related to Dodge Cargo van , it was concluded that the most common issues with these cars are:
- Steering problems
- Air bags problems
- Engine problems
The graph below shows statistics for all Dodge Cargo van vehicle components and the number of complaints received.
The NHTSA has received 2 complaints about various vehicle components related to the Dodge Cargo van . Below are the 25 most recent complaints reported for Dodge Cargo van vehicles.
List of Dodge Cargo van complaints
Dodge Cargo van 2012
- Date Of Incident: 2017-08-28
- Date Complaint: 2017-09-29
- VIN: 2C4JDGAG7CR
- Components: STEERING,AIR BAGS
- Summary: I LIVE IN HAWAII ON MOLOKAI AND THERE IS NO WHERE TO DRIVE THE CAR TO HAVE RECALL WORK DONE. DODGE SAID TO SHIP IT OFF ISLAND AND SEND RECEIPTS TO GET REIMBURSED FOR SHIPPING COST. NOW THEY ARE GOING BACK ON THEIR WORD AND SAYING THEY WILL NOT REFUND ME THE MONEY FOR MY HAVING TO SHIP THE VAN TO HAVE RECALL WORK DONE. THIS IS NOT FAIR TO THE CUSTOMER, I WAS LIED TO AND IT TOTALED 1100 DOLLARS IN SHIPPING COST. I WOULD APPRECIATE SOME HELP IN THIS CASE. I'VE BEEN LIED TO AND IS NOT FAIR TO ME AS A COSTUMER OF A CAR THAT HAS BEEN RECALLED WITH SPECIAL CIRCUMSTANCES. PLEASE HELP ME IN THIS MATTER THANK YOU [XXX] INFORMATION REDACTED PURSUANT TO THE FREEDOM OF INFORMATION ACT (FOIA), 5 U.S.C. 552(B)(6).?*JB
Dodge Cargo van 2012
- Date Of Incident: 2012-03-28
- Date Complaint: 2013-06-21
- VIN: 2C4JDGAG9CR
- Components: ENGINE
- Summary: JERKING MOTION WHILE TAKING OFF FROM STOPS. WITH VIBRATION FROM THE FRONTEND. *TR