1988 Dodge Dodge truck problems
The Ram pickup (marketed as the Dodge Ram until 2010) is a full-size pickup truck manufactured by Stellantis North America (formerly Chrysler Group LLC and FCA US LLC) and marketed from 2010 onwards under the Ram Trucks brand. The current fifth-generation Ram debuted at the 2018 North American International Auto Show in Detroit, Michigan, in January of that year.
Previously, Ram was part of the Dodge line of light trucks. The name Ram was first used in 1981 model year Dodge Trucks in October 1980, following the retiring and rebadging of the Dodge D series pickup trucks as well as B-series vans, though the company had used a ram's-head hood ornament on some trucks as early as 1933.
Ram trucks have been named Motor Trend magazine's Truck of the Year eight times; the second-generation Ram won the award in 1994, the third-generation Ram heavy-duty won the award in 2003, the fourth-generation Ram Heavy Duty won in 2010 and the fourth-generation Ram 1500 won in 2013 and 2014, and the current fifth-generation Ram pickup became the first truck in history to win the award three times, winning in 2019, 2020, and 2021.
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Common 1988 Dodge Dodge truck problems
The 1988 Dodge Dakota is known to have several common problems based on complaints from owners. One of the most reported issues is with the fuel gauge, which may not read correctly. This problem affects 13 people who have reported it.
Another common problem with the 1988 Dodge Dakota is the hesitation when coming off of idle. This problem is experienced every time, whether under load or in neutral. When given light throttle, the engine may sound like it's sucking air and almost die, but when the throttle is pushed past that point, it bogs down for a split second before driving like it's supposed to. This problem is believed to be in the fuel delivery system, and the fuel pressure regulator, injectors, or fuel pump may need to be replaced.
The 1988 Dodge Dakota also has issues with the speedometer. The speedometer cable may need to be replaced as it probably needs to be replaced. The speedometer may not work at all, or it may jump up and down until 25mph. This problem is caused by a missing tooth somewhere, causing it to catch-loose-catch-loose, and it may need to be replaced.
The 1988 Dodge Dakota may also have a coolant leak from the intake gasket. When the carb and intake are pulled, and new gaskets are put in, the leak may be fixed, but the truck may have problems with the idle. The idle may need to be adjusted until it's right, and the truck may backfire and cut off when it's in gear.
The 1988 Dodge Dakota may also have a leak that can't be found, coming from right under the engine. The leak is clear oil, and it may be difficult to find the source of the leak.
The windshield wiper switch on the 1988 Dodge Dakota may not work, and it may just spin. This problem may be caused by a faulty switch or a problem with the wiring.
The steering wheel on the 1988 Dodge Dakota may have a lot of play, and the steering wheel may be upside down. This problem may be caused by a faulty steering column or a problem with the steering linkage.
The message center on the 1988 Dodge Dakota may have problems, and the lights may not light up. This problem may be caused by a faulty message center or a problem with the wiring.
The hose for the condenser on the 1988 Dodge Dakota may have a broken valve, and a new one may need to be installed. The connections may be different, and the appropriate condenser may need to be found.
The 1988 Dodge Dakota may also have problems with the brakes, and the brake pads and rotors may need to be replaced. The brake lines may also need to be replaced, and the brake fluid may need to be flushed and replaced.
In conclusion, the 1988 Dodge Dakota has several common problems based on complaints from owners. These problems include issues with the fuel gauge, hesitation when coming off of idle, problems with the speedometer, coolant leaks, leaks that can't be found, problems with the windshield wiper switch, steering wheel play, problems with the message center, problems with the condenser hose, and problems with the brakes. These problems may require replacement of various parts or repair of the affected systems.
What was the worst year for the Dodge Ram?
The worst years
A few model years, in particular, have proven more problematic than others. Model years 2011 and 2012 stand out when it comes to bad years for the 5.7L HEMI, with 2012 being an especially lousy period for Ram pickups. The biggest issue with the 2012 Ram 1500 is the infamous "HEMI tick."
What is the most common problem with Ram trucks?
Totally Integrated Power Module Defects
Some of the most common Ram truck problems with the TIPM include stalling, power window failure, fuel pump issues, doors locking/unlocking randomly, cooling fan failure, and more. If you are experiencing any of these issues, get in touch with the manufacturer or dealership ASAP.
What years did Ram trucks have transmission problems?
2010-2013 Dodge RAM 1500 (5.7-liter V8)
Drivetrain, transmission, suspension, and electrical problems have also been reported as giving owners issues as the years go by. Another big complaint here is most consumers would say the power to MPG ratio is very poor.
What years are reliable Dodge RAM 1500?
5 of the Most Reliable Used RAM Trucks
- 2020 RAM 1500 Classic. For the 2020 model year, RAM redesigned the appearance and features of its trucks. ...
- 2016 RAM 1500. Slightly earlier into the fourth generation, we can recommend shopping for a 2016 RAM 1500 for a couple of reasons. ...
- 2021 RAM 1500. ...
- 2018 RAM 1500.
What was the worst year for the Dodge Ram?
The worst years
A few model years, in particular, have proven more problematic than others. Model years 2011 and 2012 stand out when it comes to bad years for the 5.7L HEMI, with 2012 being an especially lousy period for Ram pickups. The biggest issue with the 2012 Ram 1500 is the infamous "HEMI tick."
What is the most common problem with Ram trucks?
Totally Integrated Power Module Defects
Some of the most common Ram truck problems with the TIPM include stalling, power window failure, fuel pump issues, doors locking/unlocking randomly, cooling fan failure, and more. If you are experiencing any of these issues, get in touch with the manufacturer or dealership ASAP.
What years did Ram trucks have transmission problems?
2010-2013 Dodge RAM 1500 (5.7-liter V8)
Drivetrain, transmission, suspension, and electrical problems have also been reported as giving owners issues as the years go by. Another big complaint here is most consumers would say the power to MPG ratio is very poor.
What years are reliable Dodge RAM 1500?
5 of the Most Reliable Used RAM Trucks
- 2020 RAM 1500 Classic. For the 2020 model year, RAM redesigned the appearance and features of its trucks. ...
- 2016 RAM 1500. Slightly earlier into the fourth generation, we can recommend shopping for a 2016 RAM 1500 for a couple of reasons. ...
- 2021 RAM 1500. ...
- 2018 RAM 1500.
1988 Dodge Dodge truck car problems categorized by type of issue
After analyzing all complaints sent to the NHTSA and researching popular Dodge Dodge truck problems, we found that the most common problems with these 2023 model year vehicles are:
- Tires problems
- Service brakes problems
- Hydraulic problems
- Steering problems
- Seat belts problems
The graph below shows statistics for all 1988 Dodge Dodge truck vehicle components and the number of complaints received.
1988 Dodge Dodge truck complaints
The NHTSA has received 4 complaints about various vehicle components related to the 1988 Dodge Dodge truck.
TIRES PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2000-11-22
- Components: TIRES
- Summary: CONSUMER SEEKING REIMBURSEMENT FROM BRIDGESTONE FOR REPLACEMENT OF 4 NEW TIRES, TIRES WERE 50,000 MILE TIRES, WHICH LASTED FOR ONLY 3,592 MILES. THE TIRES ARE P215/75SR15. *CJ
SERVICE BRAKES, HYDRAULIC PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 1999-10-15
- Crash: 1
- VIN: 1B7HF1321XJ
- Components: SERVICE BRAKES, HYDRAULIC
- Summary: WHEN DRIVING AT 35 MPH AND APPLYING THE BRAKES, BRAKES WENT TO THE FLOORBOARD, CAUSING THE CONSUMER TO REAR END ANOTHER VEHICLE. CONSUMER HAD TO STAND ON THE BRAKES TO BRING THE VEHICLE TO A STOP. *AK
STEERING PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 1997-04-14
- VIN: 1D7GN14X1JS
- Components: STEERING
- Summary: RECALL REPAIR WORK DENIED DUE TO LACK OF PARTS, RACK AND PINION STEERING.
SEAT BELTS PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 1996-02-18
- Components: SEAT BELTS
- Summary: SEAT BELT LATCH INOPERATIVE. *SD
Additional sources
More sources of information about 1988 Dodge Dodge truck problems:
1988 RAM -Troubleshooting trouble | Dodge RamCharger Central
Jun 7, 2004 ... 8. If the fuel pressure drops rapidly (to below 10 psi in one minute or less) a leak is present in the fuel supply system. 9. If no leaks are ...
**FAQ -----General Info, Common problems, Factory Service ...
Aug 29, 2006 ... Go HERE for a diagnostic chart. Truck will not start.- A common problem in the trucks ... 1995 Dodge Dakota Factory Service Manual PDF ... 1988-1989 ...
1988 Dodge Dakota V6: Common Problems & Troubleshooting
May 24, 2019 ... Was this answer helpful? up Yes. down No. Finish.
just bought this for 800, what are some common issues with this ...
Mar 14, 2023 ... Ye ole dodge Ram 50. 3 years ago I was driving around a 89' Mitsubishi Mighty Max. Never had any problems with it besides the self changing oil.
1988 D150 Acceleration Problems | DodgeTalk Forum
May 13, 2007 ... Dodge Ram Truck 1st Gen (88 - 93) Forum ... 1988 dodge d150 starting problem i have a 1988 dodge ... engine performance upgrades I can get for my ...
Other years of Dodge Dodge truck
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