1988 Dodge Ram 50 problems
The Mitsubishi Triton or Mitsubishi L200 is a mid-size pickup truck produced by Mitsubishi Motors. In Japan, where it has only been sold intermittently and in small numbers, it was originally known as the Mitsubishi Forte and from 1991 as the Strada. In the United States, Chrysler Corporation sold captive imports as the Dodge D50, Dodge Ram 50 and Plymouth Arrow truck, and Mitsubishi marketed it as the Mitsubishi Mighty Max until 2002.
For most export markets the name L200 is used, though it has also been known as the Rodeo, Colt, Storm, Magnum, Strakar (used in Portugal since 1999; Strakar is a portmanteau of Strada and Dakar), and others. In 2015, Fiat Professional launched a rebadged version as the Fiat Fullback. In 2016, Ram Trucks launched a rebadged version as the Ram 1200 for the Middle East market.
Cumulative sales of the first three generations exceeded 2.8 million units around the world. As of February 2021, the pickup truck is sold in every available Mitsubishi market except the United States, Canada, Japan, India and China. In Japan, it was previously sold at a specific retail chain called Car Plaza.
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Common 1988 Dodge Ram 50 problems
The Dodge Ram 50, produced in 1988, is known for several common problems based on complaints from owners. Here are the most frequently reported issues:
- Exhaust Leak at Header Pipe: This issue is often caused by the failure of the exhaust manifold gasket, which can lead to exhaust leaks and reduced engine performance.
- Whining Noise from Oil Pump: A whining noise coming from the oil pump can be an indication of a failing oil pump, which can result in insufficient lubrication for the engine and potential engine damage.
- Engine Noise due to Carbon Buildup: Carbon buildup in the engine can cause various noises, including knocking or ticking sounds. Regular maintenance and decarbonization can help prevent this issue.
- Engine Oil Leaks: Oil leaks are a common problem with the Dodge Ram 50, often caused by worn or damaged seals and gaskets. Regular inspection and maintenance can help prevent and address oil leaks.
- Excessive Engine Oil Consumption: Some owners of the Dodge Ram 50 have reported excessive engine oil consumption, which can be caused by various factors, including worn piston rings, valve guide seals, or cylinder walls.
- Starter and Battery Cables Corroding: This issue is often reported as a common problem with the Dodge Ram 50, particularly in areas with high humidity or salt exposure. Regular inspection and maintenance can help prevent corrosion and maintain battery performance.
- Sluggish Performance on Hills: Some owners have reported sluggish performance when driving uphill, which can be caused by a variety of factors, including a clogged fuel filter, a cracked head, or a worn-out engine.
- Carburetor Issues: The Dodge Ram 50's carburetor is known for causing problems, including running rich, which can lead to reduced fuel efficiency and increased emissions. Replacing the carburetor with an aftermarket or Weber conversion can help improve performance and eliminate vacuum lines.
- Automatic Hubs Failing: The automatic hubs on the Dodge Ram 50 are known to fail, particularly after high mileage. Replacing the automatic hubs with manual hubs can help prevent this issue and improve off-road performance.
- Headlight/Windshield Wiper Switch Failure: The headlight and windshield wiper switches on the Dodge Ram 50 are also known to fail, particularly after high mileage. Replacing these switches can help maintain proper functionality and safety.
These common problems with the Dodge Ram 50 can be addressed through regular maintenance, inspections, and repairs. It is important for owners to stay vigilant and address any issues promptly to ensure the longevity and performance of their vehicles.
How many miles per gallon does a 88 Dodge Ram 50 get?
Based on data from 2 vehicles, 14 fuel-ups and 3,486 miles of driving, the 1988 Dodge Ram 50 gets a combined Avg MPG of 17.40 with a 0.10 MPG margin of error.
What is the biggest problem with Dodge Ram?
Engine Problems
Many of the Ram truck problems we've seen involve exhaust manifold failures, compression issues, leaks, stalls, cylinder head malfunctions, and more. These Ram customer service complaints have been relatively common in recent years. If something seems off with your engine, get it inspected ASAP.
What is the towing capacity of a 1988 Dodge Ram 50?
While they were small trucks, these little trucks were sturdy being able to hold up to 1,500 lbs payload. Oddly, the maximum tow rating was 3,500 lbs. That number was the same for the 4-cylinder and V6 models (according to Trailers.com).
What was the last year of the Dodge Ram 50?
The Dodge Ram 50 pickup (known as the Dodge D50 from 1979 – 1980) was manufactured by the Japanese car manufacturer Mitsubishi Motors and marketed by the Chrysler Corporation from 1979 to 1993 under its own brand, Dodge. Plymouth also received a version, which was marketed under the Arrow Truck name from 1979 to 1982.
How many miles per gallon does a 88 Dodge Ram 50 get?
19 combined
1988 Dodge Ram 50 Pickup
| EPA MPG | Owner MPG Estimates |
|---|---|
| 1988 Dodge Ram 50 Pickup 2WD 4 cyl, 2.0 L, Automatic 4-spd | |
| 19 combined city/highway MPG 18 city 20 highway 5.3 gals/ 100 miles | Not Available How can I share my MPG? |
| 1988 Dodge Ram 50 Pickup 2WD 4 cyl, 2.6 L, Manual 5-spd | |
| Regular Gasoline | Not Available How can I share my MPG? |
What is the biggest problem with Dodge Ram?
Common problems include leaking windows, engine failure, and concerns over the truck's frame. Whether you already own a 2023 RAM 1500 or you're considering options for your next vehicle purchase, it's best to be aware of the most common problems with Dodge RAMs for this popular full-size truck.
What is the towing capacity of a 1988 Dodge Ram 50?
While they were small trucks, these little trucks were sturdy being able to hold up to 1,500 lbs payload. Oddly, the maximum tow rating was 3,500 lbs. That number was the same for the 4-cylinder and V6 models (according to Trailers.com).
What was the last year of the Dodge Ram 50?
The Dodge Ram 50 pickup (known as the Dodge D50 from 1979 – 1980) was manufactured by the Japanese car manufacturer Mitsubishi Motors and marketed by the Chrysler Corporation from 1979 to 1993 under its own brand, Dodge. Plymouth also received a version, which was marketed under the Arrow Truck name from 1979 to 1982.
1988 Dodge Ram 50 car problems categorized by type of issue
After analyzing all complaints sent to the NHTSA and researching popular Dodge Ram 50 problems, we found that the most common problems with these 2023 model year vehicles are:
- Seat belts problems
- Fuel system problems
- Gasoline problems
- Tires problems
- Engine and engine cooling problems
The graph below shows statistics for all 1988 Dodge Ram 50 vehicle components and the number of complaints received.
1988 Dodge Ram 50 complaints
The NHTSA has received 9 complaints about various vehicle components related to the 1988 Dodge Ram 50.
FUEL SYSTEM, GASOLINE PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2002-08-10
- VIN: JB7FL29E9JP
- Components: FUEL SYSTEM, GASOLINE
- Summary: REAR GAS TANK BRACKET FAILED (RUSTED TRHOUGH) ALLOWING TANK TO SWING DOWN AND SKID ALONG PAVEMENT. ACCIDENT AVOIDED DUE TO LOW SPEED AND RAPID STOP. *TT
TIRES PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2000-10-01
- Components: TIRES
- Summary: TREAD COMPLETELY SHEARED OFF ON HIGHWAY( DOT NUMBER: )
ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2024-11-24
- VIN: 1B7HD24Y7JS
- Components: ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING
- Summary: ENGINE MAKING NOISE.
SEAT BELTS PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 1997-07-31
- Number Of Injuries: 1
- Crash: 1
- VIN: JB7FL25E1JP
- Components: SEAT BELTS
- Summary: CONSUMER WAS IN A 4 CAR PILE-UP CRASH, HER VEHICLE WAS THE FOURTH CAR. WAS DRIVING APPROX. 20-32 MPH. WEARING SEAT BELT WHEN THE THE CRASH OCCURRED. THE SHOULDER STRAP OF DRIVER SIDE COLLAPSED, ALLOWING CONSUMER'S 110LBS UPPER BODY TO HIT THE STEERING AREA AND WHEEL; THIGHS BRUISED ON ARM REST . *AK
SEAT BELTS PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2024-11-24
- Components: SEAT BELTS
- Summary: RECALL 95V-103003, WAITING ON PARTS. *AK
SEAT BELTS PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2024-11-24
- VIN: J671L29E2JP
- Components: SEAT BELTS
- Summary: ALL THE SEAT BELT BUCKLES IN THE VEHICLE DO NOT WORK RECEIVED RECALL # 95V183000 THERE ARE NO PARTS . PLEASE DESCRIBE . *AK
SEAT BELTS PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 1995-09-01
- VIN: JB7FL55E0JP
- Components: SEAT BELTS
- Summary: #95V103003 THE DRIVER SIDE SEAT BELT BUCKLE WILL NOT UNLATCH . TT CONSUMER STATES THE PLASTIC LOOKS LIKE IT HAS BROKEN AND LODGED IN MECHANISM CAUSING TO NOT TO UNLATCH. *SLC
SEAT BELTS PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 1992-02-28
- VIN: JB7FL24D7JP
- Components: SEAT BELTS
- Summary: BOTH FRONT SEAT BELTS WOULDN'T LOCK LIKE SOMETHING THAT IS JAMMED INSIDE. TT
SEAT BELTS PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 1993-01-01
- VIN: JB7FL54E5JP
- Components: SEAT BELTS
- Summary: MODEL #524 SEATBELT BUCKLE JAMS AND IS DIFFICULT TO RELEASE.
1988 Dodge Ram 50 recalls
The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) has issued 1 recalls for different components of the 1988 Dodge Ram 50.
- Manufacturer: CHRYSLER CORPORATION
- Components: SEAT BELTS:FRONT:BUCKLE ASSEMBLY
- Summary: THE FRONT SAFETY BELT BUCKLE RELEASE BUTTONS CAN BREAK. THESE RED PLASTIC RELEASE BUTTONS ARE MARKED "PRESS." IF A BUTTON BREAKS, PIECES CAN FALL INTO THE BUCKLE ASSEMBLY CAUSING THE BUCKLE TO OPERATE IMPROPERLY.
- Consequence: THE SAFETY BELTS WOULD NOT PROVIDE ADEQUATE PROTECTION TO AN OCCUPANT IN A VEHICLE CRASH.
- Remedy: OWNERS SHOULD PROMPTLY CHECK THE CONDITION AND OPERATION OF BOTH FRONT SAFETY BELT BUCKLES AND CAREFULLY INSPECT THE RED RELEASE BUTTON FOR ANY BREAKS OR CRACKS. THEY SHOULD ENSURE THAT BOTH BUCKLES ARE OPERATING PROPERLY BY INSERTING EACH LATCH PLATE INTO ITS BUCKLE, TUGGING ON THE BELT TO MAKE SURE THE LATCH IS SECURELY LOCKED, AND THEN PRESSING THE RELEASE BUTTON. THE LATCH PLATE SHOULD POP OUT OF THE BUCKLE WHEN THE BUTTON IS PRESSED. IF EITHER RELEASE BUTTON SHOWS A SIGN OF BREAKING OR CRACKING OR IF EITHER BUCKLE FAILS TO OPERATE PROPERLY, OWNERS SHOULD PROMPTLY CONTACT THEIR AUTHORIZED DEALER TO SCHEDULE AN APPOINTMENT TO HAVE THE BUCKLE REPLACED OR REPAIRED, FREE OF CHARGE. THE MANUFACTURER IS DEVELOPING A REMEDY DESIGNED TO PREVENT FAILURE OF THE BUTTONS THAT ARE NOT CURRENTLY BROKEN.
Additional sources
More sources of information about 1988 Dodge Ram 50 problems:
Q&A: Troubleshooting 1988 Dodge Ram 50 Engine Firing Problem
May 13, 2007 ... It sounds like a choke problem. First remove your air cleaner lid and check to see if your choke blade moves freely (it's the butterfly valve at ...
just bought this for 800, what are some common issues with this ...
Mar 14, 2023 ... The Dodge Ram 50 pickup (known as the Dodge D50 ... Second was a 1988 that just kept the carburetor ... Biggest issue is it's a dodge. Most every ...
1988 Dodge D50 Reviews - Carsurvey.org
Jun 10, 2012 ... Faults: The carburetor needed replaced immediately. The automatic hubs needed replaced at 123000. The headlight/windshield wiper switches ...
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Well, I asked where to find a way to adapt some transmission to a Perkins 2.2 TD? I got the engine out of a skid-steer. I don't see anyway to bolt a known ...
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Jun 14, 2013 ... ... problems. when i drove it home it would ... The problems you mention could be any of a couple of things. ... 1988 Dodge Ram 50. Engine: I.D.K.? I am ...
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