Dodge Ram 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 Ram van model years
Common Dodge Ram van problems
The Dodge Ram Van, a popular choice for those needing a reliable and spacious vehicle, has been reported to have several common problems based on owner complaints.
One of the most frequently reported issues is rust, particularly in snow country. This is not surprising, given that salt used on roads during winter months can accelerate corrosion. In the case of a 1993 Dodge Ram Van 2500, the owner reported that rust started appearing around five years ago, affecting the side and back doors. Despite living in the Midwest and subjecting the vehicle to harsh winter conditions, the owner considers it to be a very good and reliable vehicle overall.
Another common problem with the Dodge Ram Van is related to the engine. The 2003 Dodge RAM 1500, for instance, has numerous engine problems that frequently cause the check engine light to come on. Owners have reported consistently chasing down minor issues like knocking and stalling. Additionally, the dashboard in this model year is prone to cracking easily, even at low mileage.
The Dodge Ram Van also has issues with the Totally Integrated Power Module (TIPM). When the module malfunctions, it may cause several electrical issues like airbags not deploying, faulty A/C systems, coolant fans may stop operating, power windows will stop working, and more. This issue was mostly reported on the fourth generation of RAM 1500, and is a huge safety risk.
The 2014 Dodge RAM 1500, specifically the first release of the new EcoDiesel engine, had its share of problems. Like with the first release of anything, it’s most likely going to see the most issues.
The Dodge Ram Van has also been reported to have problems with the transmission and brakes. In the case of the 2002 Dodge RAM VAN, there was a recall due to transmission issues, affecting 576,418 cars. Additionally, there was a recall in 1993 for brakes, affecting 2,000 cars.
Lastly, the Dodge Ram Van has been reported to have issues with the frame rusting and breaking apart. The 2002 Dodge Ram Van 1500 has one reported problem for frame rusted and broke apart, with an average failure mileage of 70,000 miles. This can lead to serious safety issues, as reported by one owner who lost steering due to the uniframe rusting in half.
In summary, the Dodge Ram Van, while a reliable and spacious vehicle, has several common problems based on owner complaints. These include rust, engine problems, electrical issues, transmission and brake recalls, and frame issues. It is important for owners to be aware of these potential problems and address them promptly to ensure the safety and longevity of their vehicle.
Are Ram vans reliable?
The Ram ProMaster 1500 Reliability Rating is 2.0 out of 5.0, which ranks it 17th out of 21 for commercial vans. The average annual repair cost is $1,072 which means it has poor ownership costs.
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.
What issues do Dodge Rams have?
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 was the last year of the Dodge Ram van?
2003
The Dodge B-Series, also marketed as the Dodge Ram Van, was a series line of passenger or cargo vans which began around 1971 and ended in 2003.
Percentage distribution of complaints by Dodge Ram van years
We have researched Dodge problems and analysed all the complaints filed against Dodge Ram van cars and compiled the top 5 most problematic Dodge Ram van model years:
Below you can see the percentage distribution of known problems by Dodge Ram van model years.
Distribution of the number of complaints by Dodge Ram van years
We've also compiled a chart for you with the number of complaints about Volkswagen Jetta cars of certain model years:
Dodge Ram van car problems categorized by type of issue
After analysing all complaints related to Dodge Ram van , it was concluded that the most common issues with these cars are:
- Structure problems
- Air bags problems
- Power train problems
- Electrical system problems
- Suspension problems
The graph below shows statistics for all Dodge Ram van vehicle components and the number of complaints received.
Distribution of the number of complaints where the accident occurred by Ram van model years
A total of 329 complaints were registered in which the accident occurred. In the graph you can see the distribution of the number of complaints by model year.
Distribution of the number of complaints with fire by Ram van model years
There were a total of 144 complaints that resulted in a fire. In the graph you can see the distribution of the number of complaints by model year.
Distribution of the number of complaints with injuries by Ram van model years
There were a total of 352 complaints that resulted in a injuries. In the graph you can see the distribution of the number of complaints by model year.
Distribution of the number of complaints with deaths by Ram van model years
There were a total of 11 complaints that resulted in a death. In the graph you can see the distribution of the number of complaints by model year.
The NHTSA has received 4592 complaints about various vehicle components related to the Dodge Ram van . Below are the 25 most recent complaints reported for Dodge Ram van vehicles.
Latest 25 complaints
Dodge Ram van 2003
- Date Of Incident: 2000-05-14
- Date Complaint: 2024-10-02
- VIN: 1D7HU18D13S
- Components: STRUCTURE
- Summary: The frame/chasis rusted through and dealer could not raise truck because lift went through frame. If it had not been noticed at dealership, we and others could have been killed if the frame had broken through on the highway. The dealership and repair shop can confirm. The box and other body components are severely rusted. The body around the gas filler cap is so rusty that I have to hold the gas dispenser just so as to prevent gas leakage from the filler apparatus going into the gas tank. The gas tank fell off the truck twice and the truck was towed into the dealer to be fixed. The truck has less than 150,000 miles, and was purchased new. The incidents occurred between 2004 and 2020 - approx. No police reports or injuries, but no help from dealer.
Dodge Ram van 2001
- Date Of Incident: 2024-07-02
- Date Complaint: 2024-08-30
- VIN: 1B7KF23741J
- Components: UNKNOWN OR OTHER
- Summary: My 2001 Dodge Ram Instrument Panel has cracked in three pieces causing the defroster & vents to stop working recently due to the moisture/UV Issue. I'm aware of this problem because I participated in the investigation as manager of validation and testing for the manufacturer, Textron Automotive. How can I get a replacement to correct this Safety issue...?
Dodge Ram van 2002
- Date Of Incident: 2024-06-12
- Date Complaint: 2024-06-12
- VIN: 1D7HU18N52S
- Components: EXTERIOR LIGHTING
- Summary: The contact owns a 2002 Dodge Ram 1500. The contact stated that while driving at an undisclosed speed at night, he became aware that the external lights and turn signal lights were not functioning properly. The lamp out warning light was illuminated. The vehicle was not taken to the dealer or an independent mechanic. The vehicle was not repaired. The manufacturer was not notified of the failure. The failure mileage was unknown.
Dodge Ram van 2001
- Date Of Incident: 2024-03-01
- Date Complaint: 2024-04-02
- VIN: 3B7KC236X1G
- Components: ELECTRICAL SYSTEM,AIR BAGS,UNKNOWN OR OTHER
- Summary: I have a 2001 Dodge Ram 2500. In 2003, I noticed parts of the dash, starting to break apart. In 2004, I had a major head on collision, and the airbag, did NOT deploy. The damage was extensive, with bent frame. The damage was $17,000 in 2004. I was told by the Chrysler Dealership, that did the repairs, that they could not check the condition of the airbag wiring, because the dashboard was broken. I wonder how many others out there, that have the same issue, with the dashboard, and don't have a working airbag. The other issue I have, is the seatbelt tensioner, has caused the seatbelt, to get chewed up. The belt, is now, no more than an inch wide.
Dodge Ram van 2001
- Date Of Incident: 2023-12-21
- Date Complaint: 2024-03-28
- Fire: 1
- VIN: 3B7HF13Z81G
- Components: AIR BAGS
- Summary: Passenger side airbag exploded while sitting in my yard.
Dodge Ram van 2002
- Date Of Incident: 2023-03-30
- Date Complaint: 2023-11-05
- VIN: 3D7HU18N12G
- Components: ELECTRICAL SYSTEM
- Summary: The heat stopped working so i replaced the blower motor and blower relay the heater switch and still have no heat. The wire gets hot to the touch. The heater only use to work on high then all of a sudden it just stopped all the way around
Dodge Ram van 2003
- Date Of Incident: 2023-10-25
- Date Complaint: 2023-10-26
- Components: TIRES
- Summary: The contact owns a 2003 Dodge Ram 1500. The contact stated while driving 30 MPH, there was an abnormal thump, prompting the contact to look through the review mirror, where he observed that the spare tire was on the roadway. After a visual inspection, the contact observed that the spare tire hoist cable had detached, allowing the spare tire to fall from the spare tire compartment. The vehicle was not taken to the dealer or an independent mechanic. The vehicle was not repaired. The manufacturer was not notified of the failure. The failure mileage was 99,600. The VIN was not available.
Dodge Ram van 2003
- Date Of Incident: 2023-10-19
- Date Complaint: 2023-10-20
- VIN: 1D7HA18D63S
- Components: POWER TRAIN,AIR BAGS
- Summary: The contact owns a 2003 Dodge Ram 1500. The contact stated that while driving at slow speeds, the driveshaft detached. Due to the failure, the gear oil and rear differential fluid leaked out of the vehicle. The contact was able to temporarily repair the driveshaft. The dealer and the manufacturer were notified of the failure but offered no assistance. Additionally, the VIN was included in NHTSA Campaign Number: 15V312000 (Air Bags) however, the contact was informed that due to a crack in the dashboard, he would be charged for the repair. The vehicle was not repaired. The failure mileage was approximately 230,000.
Dodge Ram van 2003
- Date Of Incident: 2023-03-23
- Date Complaint: 2023-07-23
- VIN: 1D7HA18N53J
- Components: ELECTRICAL SYSTEM
- Summary: UNKNOWN Everything will stop operating as I'm driving and after coming to a stop will start Right back up. I had one repair shop tell me that it has something to do with the fuel but the problem continue, the second repair shop said it was a brain box issue, if this was safety issue or problem can I get reimbursed.
Dodge Ram van 2003
- Date Of Incident: 2023-05-23
- Date Complaint: 2023-07-14
- VIN: 1D7HA18D83S
- Components: POWER TRAIN
- Summary: The driveshaft to pinion gear at the differential comes loose during normal driving. I have replaced the bit numerous times, but it keeps coming loose. There is a recall on same truck but different years. The exact problem the other Rams have is exact issue with mine. When it comes loose, the car grinds to a halt.
Dodge Ram van 2002
- Date Of Incident: 2023-07-13
- Date Complaint: 2023-07-13
- VIN: 3D7HA18N92G
- Components: SUSPENSION,UNKNOWN OR OTHER
- Summary: To put it as simple as I can describe it is a death wobble. that occurs every time you hit a bump in the road, hole, or pot hole. This truck has always had this death wobble from factory. The reason why this is a safety issue is because it causes the steering wheel to go out of balance and go into other lanes in the road and potentially cause an accident.
Dodge Ram van 2003
- Date Of Incident: 2003-01-01
- Date Complaint: 2023-07-12
- VIN: 1D3HU18D53J
- Components: AIR BAGS,UNKNOWN OR OTHER
- Summary: The reason the owners of these Dodges is that the dealers break the already brittle dash boards and REFUSE to repair or replace the dashboard. So most wont have the recall performed. So until the dealers are forced to repair/replace the brittle dashes when they perform these recalls then people will not have it addressed. Also i have owned my Dodge since October 2022. Truck is registered with dodge on the website and yet to receive a recall notice in the mail. Now if i go and look it shows the recall on my truck but many do not register their vehicles with the manufacturers website. All in all the EXPENSIVE dashboards being broke by dealerships performing the recall is why owners wont go thru it. Many have paid thousands in getting the dashes fixed. Also id think brittle dashboards that turn sharp daggers would be a safety hazard as well but yet no recall. My dash is missing HUGE pieces. Leaving sharp jagged edges that will be knives in an accident. I mean if the dashes bust just by replacing an airbag inflator or just sun exposure. Imagine being in an accident.
Dodge Ram van 2001
- Date Of Incident: 2023-03-26
- Date Complaint: 2023-06-14
- VIN: 3B7HC13YX1M
- Components: POWER TRAIN,ELECTRICAL SYSTEM,ENGINE
- Summary: The headlights no matter what bulbs I buy are extremely dim making it unsafe to drive at night. Now truck will not start for some unknown reason. It tries to turn over but will not crank. The mileage flashes NO BUS. I was literally only getting at best 8 miles per gallon.
Dodge Ram van 2003
- Date Of Incident: 2023-05-30
- Date Complaint: 2023-06-01
- VIN: 1D7HA18D83S
- Components: POWER TRAIN
- Summary: Rear end of my ram 1500 pickup model year 2003 locked up doing 60 MPH on the interstate broke the drive shaft and the front of the rear end and yoke off. This is the third rear end I have put in this truck. This has been reported all over the internet thousands and thousands of times over about these Dodge ram 1500 pickup truck rear ends having catastrophic failure causing injury and near fatalities yet Chrysler Dodge Jeep still has not issued a recall for the 2003 model year ram 1500 rear end. It is the same exact rear end as the model year 2005 which has the same recall and other years that they have issued recalls for. I cannot understand how this has gone on for years with so many reports and incidences of this happening and still nothing being done of it. Again this is the third rear end I have put in my truck. My truck only has 120,000 miles on it first rear end went out well under 100,000 mi. It was also brought to the dealership to have pinion seal and nut fixed under warranty at 30,000 miles. I have paperwork proving that there was an issue starting at 30,000 miles with this truck. I really hope somebody will finally do something about this issue that has plagued hundreds of thousands of people and their trucks. A simple internet search will show thousands and thousands of people all having the same issues with their 2003 Dodge ram 1500 pickup trucks. You can see in two of the pictures the skid marks from the rear end locking up on the road and I buy a miracle manage to keep the truck from sliding into the guardrail next to it. The vehicle is currently on a car trailer at my house and can be inspected at any time as I do not have the money to put a fourth rear end to this vehicle at this time.
Dodge Ram van 2001
- Date Of Incident: 2023-05-04
- Date Complaint: 2023-05-08
- VIN: 3B7KC26Z81M
- Components: UNKNOWN OR OTHER
- Summary: Hood latch Hood came off while driving.
Recalls Dodge Ram van
The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) has issued 4 recalls for different components of the Dodge Ram van.You can explore the year of the Volkswagen Jetta you are interested in by selecting it from the list.
- Model: Dodge Ram van 2001
- Report Received Date: 2007-12-04
- Manufacturer: CHRYSLER LLC
- Components: POWER TRAIN:AUTOMATIC TRANSMISSION:LEVER AND LINKAGE:COLUMN SHIFT
- Summary: ON CERTAIN VAN AND PICKUP TRUCKS EQUIPPED WITH AUTOMATIC TRANSMISSIONS, THE IGNITION/PARK SHIFT INTERLOCK SYSTEM MAY BECOME INOPERATIVE. THIS CAN ALLOW THE SHIFTER TO BE MOVED OUT OF THE "PARK" POSITION WITH THE IGNITION KEY REMOVED (OR IN THE "LOCK" POSITION). THIS CAN ALSO ALLOW THE IGNITION KEY TO BE REMOVED WHEN THE SHIFTER HAS NOT BEEN PLACED IN THE "PARK" POSITION.
- Consequence: EITHER OF THESE CONDITIONS COULD ALLOW THE VEHICLE TO ROLL AWAY CAUSING A CRASH WITHOUT WARNING.
- Remedy: DEALERS WILL REPLACE THE GEARSHIFT BLOCKER AND BRACKET ASSEMBLY FREE OF CHARGE. THE RECALL IS EXPECTED TO BEGIN DURING JANUARY 2008. OWNERS MAY CONTACT CHRYSLER AT 1-800-853-1403.
- Model: Dodge Ram van 2002
- Report Received Date: 2007-12-04
- Manufacturer: CHRYSLER LLC
- Components: POWER TRAIN:AUTOMATIC TRANSMISSION:LEVER AND LINKAGE:COLUMN SHIFT
- Summary: ON CERTAIN VAN AND PICKUP TRUCKS EQUIPPED WITH AUTOMATIC TRANSMISSIONS, THE IGNITION/PARK SHIFT INTERLOCK SYSTEM MAY BECOME INOPERATIVE. THIS CAN ALLOW THE SHIFTER TO BE MOVED OUT OF THE "PARK" POSITION WITH THE IGNITION KEY REMOVED (OR IN THE "LOCK" POSITION). THIS CAN ALSO ALLOW THE IGNITION KEY TO BE REMOVED WHEN THE SHIFTER HAS NOT BEEN PLACED IN THE "PARK" POSITION.
- Consequence: EITHER OF THESE CONDITIONS COULD ALLOW THE VEHICLE TO ROLL AWAY CAUSING A CRASH WITHOUT WARNING.
- Remedy: DEALERS WILL REPLACE THE GEARSHIFT BLOCKER AND BRACKET ASSEMBLY FREE OF CHARGE. THE RECALL IS EXPECTED TO BEGIN DURING JANUARY 2008. OWNERS MAY CONTACT CHRYSLER AT 1-800-853-1403.
- Model: Dodge Ram van 1998
- Report Received Date: 1998-04-08
- Manufacturer: CHRYSLER CORPORATION
- Components: SEATS:FRONT ASSEMBLY:POWER ADJUST
- Summary: VEHICLE DESCRIPTION: PASSENGER VEHICLES BUILT WITH POWER SEAT OPTION. THE DRIVER'S SIDE FRONT SEAT ATTACHING RISER WELDS WERE NOT CORRECT.
- Consequence: THE SEAT ATTACHMENT STRENGTH WOULD NOT BE SUFFICIENT IN THE EVENT OF A VEHICLE CRASH INCREASING THE RISK OF PERSONAL INJURY.
- Remedy: DEALERS WILL REPLACE THE DRIVER'S SIDE POWER FRONT SEAT RISE WITH A RISER THAT WAS MIG WELDED.
- Model: Dodge Ram van 1993
- Report Received Date: 1993-05-11
- Manufacturer: CHRYSLER CORPORATION
- Components: SERVICE BRAKES, HYDRAULIC:ANTILOCK/TRACTION CONTROL/ELECTRONIC LIMITED SLIP
- Summary: SOME OF THE ABS EQUIPPED VEHICLES WERE BUILT WITH AN UNDERSIZED BRAKE RETURN CHECK VALVE. IN INCIDENTS WHERE HARD BRAKE PEDAL EFFORT IS APPLIED ON LOW FRICTION ROAD SURFACES, LIKE RAIN COVERED STREETS, THE VALVES MAY FAIL, CAUSING THE ABS TO BECOME INOPERATIVE. THIS CREATES EXCESS BRAKE PEDAL TRAVEL AND MAY CAUSE THE ABS WARNING LIGHT TO COME ON.
- Consequence: LACK OF FRONT WHEEL ABS COULD CAUSE THE FRONT WHEELBRAKES TO LOCK, INCREASING STOPPING DISTANCE WHICH MAY RESULT IN AN ACCIDENT.
- Remedy: REPLACE THE RETURN CHECK VALVE WITH THE CORRECT VALVE.
Latest negative Dodge Ram van car reviews
Latest positive Dodge Ram van car reviews
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Vehicle year: 1997
Hello! I hope you're doing well. I just wanted to share my experience with this vehicle. I bought it brand new and have taken great care of it by performing all scheduled maintenance as directed. I've only had to take it in for major service once, and that was just to replace all belts, hoses, and filters (voluntarily) after 100,000 miles. I always use Mobil-1 synthetic oil in all of my vehicles. This van has been a real workhorse for me, hauling tons of equipment and supplies without ever showing signs of fatigue. I even use it to tow my 21' cuddy-cabin sport fisherman! While it can be a bit noisy on the highway, it's important to remember that it is a cargo van. I've driven it for 13 hours straight on I-95 between VA and FL with no worries and no trouble. Thanks for listening!
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Vehicle year: 1997
This van is very reliable. I can't say enough about it!
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Vehicle year: 1998
Hey there! I just got some new Michelin tires for my van and took care of a couple of little oil drips for $277. Overall, this vehicle has been super reliable to drive!
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Vehicle year: 2000
Hey there! I just got some new Michelin tires for my van and took care of a couple of little oil drips for $277. Overall, this vehicle has been super reliable to drive!
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Vehicle year: 2000
This is the greatest vehicle I've ever had. The Mark III conversion package is the jewel of luxury.
Are you having problems with your Dodge Ram van?
Dejon Beahan 2024-11-22
Vehicle year: 2000
The 1996 Elk Conversion is an excellent choice for traveling with 5 or more people. While I also have a Suburban that is better on the highway and in winter driving, this van offers unparalleled passenger room. The driver visibility is great and I have experienced very few mechanical problems to date. Overall, this has been a reliable and enjoyable vehicle for our family.
Hester Beahan 2024-11-16
Vehicle year: 1998
The 1996 Elk Conversion is an excellent choice for traveling with 5 or more people. While I also have a Suburban that is better on the highway and in winter driving, this van offers unparalleled passenger room. The driver visibility is great and I have experienced very few mechanical problems to date. Overall, this has been a reliable and enjoyable vehicle for our family.
Lee Wintheiser 2024-11-12
Vehicle year: 1997
At 75000 miles, the timing chain and gear were replaced, and the thermostat was replaced at 76000. When starting the engine cold, it may be difficult to keep it running. Additionally, the engine can be noisy and may overheat. Unfortunately, rain leaks through all doors due to a bad roof design that retains water and encourages rust-through. The build quality is not up to par, with door stops breaking and metal at front hinges cracking. The roof welds show movement, and the paint flakes for no apparent reason. The rear muffler hanger also tends to fail. While driving, the vehicle can be pushed around by crosswinds and may struggle on long moderate hills, averaging 13 mpg. Legroom can also be cramped. I hope this information helps!
Rolando Veum 2024-11-08
Vehicle year: 1997
Congratulations on passing the smog test in Los Angeles with 230000 miles! The 5.2 liter engine is both powerful and reliable, which is great to hear.
Ubaldo Gaylord 2024-11-05
Vehicle year: 2000
The upper radiator hose in my van has a leak. While the engine design could use some improvement in terms of maintenance, I have the expertise to handle it. As an experienced aircraft mechanic, I have seen many engine designs, and this one could benefit from quick disconnects for the electric lines and an engine block extension for the thermostat installation. Despite these challenges, I am confident in my ability to fix the issue. While I have had some trouble with this van, I am considering other options, such as a Toyota van. Thank you for your attention to this matter.