1997 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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Common 1997 Dodge Ram van problems
The 1997 Dodge Ram Van 2500 has been reported to have various problems by its owners, with the most common issues being related to the interior accessories and brakes.
Interior Accessories Problems
The 1997 Dodge Ram Van 2500 has 18 NHTSA complaints related to interior accessories, making it the most reported problem category.
Brake Problems
The 1997 Dodge Ram Van 2500 also has 94 NHTSA complaints related to the brakes, making it the second most reported problem category.
Other Common Problems
Other common problems reported by owners of the 1997 Dodge Ram Van 2500 include transmission problems, such as slipping or failing, as well as engine problems, such as stalling or failing to start.
Conclusion
The 1997 Dodge Ram Van 2500 has been reported to have various problems by its owners, with the most common issues being related to the interior accessories and brakes. These issues can range from minor inconveniences, such as a malfunctioning radio, to major safety concerns, such as brake failures. It is important for owners of this vehicle to be aware of these common problems and to address them promptly to ensure the safety and reliability of their vehicle.
What was the last year of the Dodge Ram van?
2003
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.
How much horsepower does a 1997 Dodge Ram 1500 5.9 have?
235 hp @ 4,000
Used 1997 Dodge Ram Pickup 1500 SS/T - Specs & Features
| Engine | |
|---|---|
| Base engine size | 5.9 L |
| Cylinders | V8 |
| Base engine type | Gas |
| Horsepower | 235 hp @ 4,000 rpm |
How many miles does a Dodge Ram van last?
A well-maintained 2019 Ram ProMaster can last around 150,000 miles, which is similar to other vans like the Mercedes-Benz Sprinter. Regular annual maintenance costs are higher than some competitors, according to data provided by Repair Pal, at $1,072 per year.
What are old Dodge vans called?
Dodge Van may refer to: Dodge A100 and A108, a compact mid-engine van sold from 1964 to 1970. Dodge B-series/Ram van, a full-sized van sold from 1971 to 2002. Dodge Caravan, a minivan sold from 1984 until 2020.
Does Ram have a good transmission?
Overall, Dodge RAM diesel transmissions are a top choice for anyone looking for a powerful and reliable diesel truck. Whether you're using your truck for work or play, these transmissions are up to the task.
What was the last year of the Dodge Ram van?
2003
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.
Are Dodge Rams known for transmission problems?
Transmission issues are very common in Ram trucks. These result in problems shifting, for which drivers report jerking, slow acceleration, late shifts, clunking sounds while shifting, and more. Some drivers also experience loud whines and howling coming from the transmission.
What year Rams have transmission problems?
What Went Wrong with the Transmissions in the Dodge Ram Trucks? The transmissions that are related to common complaints and recalls for Dodge Ram trucks are five and six-speed automatic transmissions. These were found in the 2009 Dodge Ram and 2010 through 2017 Ram models 1500, 2500, 3500, 4500, and 5500.
1997 Dodge Ram van complaints
The NHTSA has received 0 complaints about various vehicle components related to the 1997 Dodge Ram van.
You can leave your car complaint via the special form below.
Negative 1997 Dodge Ram van car reviews
Positive 1997 Dodge Ram van car reviews
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Hi there! I hope you're doing well. I just wanted to share my experience with my van. I bought it with 160,000 miles on it and have had to replace the water pump and a rear wheel bearing (which I should have replaced earlier). However, this van has never failed me or left me stranded. The mileage is now at 207,000 and still counting! The transmission was rebuilt at 100,000 miles, but the motor is original and runs smoothly. In my opinion, this is the most reliable vehicle I have ever owned. I do want to mention that rust has been an issue and the leaf spring has torn through the bed. But, if you're considering buying a used Ram van with a 3.9 engine and are hesitant because of the high mileage, don't worry! If it rides well during the test drive and you maintain it properly, chances are it will last over 300,000 miles. I wouldn't hesitate to take this van across the country. Thanks for reading and rock on 3.9!
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Just to clarify, I purchased my 1997 Dodge B1500 from a private seller for $300, even though its actual value is $2500. It's a Primetime conversion van that I instantly fell in love with, despite the fact that it stalled due to a dry gas tank and a snapped serpentine belt. It has a reliable small block V-8 engine, and my father and I were pleasantly surprised to see that it was still running strong despite needing some work, such as a tune-up and new brakes. Although it still requires some attention, it performs wonderfully! Additionally, it gets great gas mileage, averaging between 17-21 miles per gallon. This is my first car, and I absolutely adore it!
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I think this is the best van we've ever owned! It runs like a tank and has never let us down. Even after 124k miles, it still runs just as well as the day we bought it. I've been doing some preventative maintenance this year since it's now 14 years old, but these vans are so easy to work on. Plus, the gas mileage is great for such a big van. I get between 10-14mpg in the city (depending on how heavy my foot is) and 26mpg on the freeway. The 5.2L 318 engine is absolutely fantastic!
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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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This van is very reliable. I can't say enough about it!
Additional sources
More sources of information about 1997 Dodge Ram van problems:
Have you had trouble with you van's ECU / PCM ? | DodgeTalk Forum
Aug 18, 2010 ... I've contacted dodge to see if I can find anything more since it was before I owned it. --1996 Ram Van B2500 Imperial Conversion van-- 5.2L ...
97 Dodge Ram Van 2500 : r/vandwellers
Feb 10, 2016 ... Does anyone have any experience/know about any common problems with this make and model that I should be worried about? My only concern based on ...
Dodge Ram 1500 PCM Problems: Q&A on Wiring Diagrams ...
Feb 7, 2007 ... Did i short out two p.c.m.'s on a 97 dodge ram 1500. · Can a Dodge transmission interchange with one without a ... · What year Dodge van or well I ...
1997 Dodge Ram 1500 Problems and Complaints - 22 Issues
Top 1997 Dodge Ram 1500 Problems · Exhaust Manifold Bolts May Break · Water Leak Due to Faulty Rear Window Seal · Multiple Coolant Leaks · Cam Sensor Failure ...
1997 dodge ram van 3500, cranks but no start no power to coil with ...
Feb 1, 2021 ... I would also check the crankshaft sensor signal with the help of a diagnostic scanner tool as these sensors are a common problem there is also ...
Other years of Dodge Ram van
Are you having problems with your 1997 Dodge Ram van?
Edmund Ratke 2025-06-03
I bought this van used, it was a former fleet van and was only a year old. Before this, I owned a 1991 Dodge van. The 1997 van had a 3.9L V6 and a 3-speed automatic transmission. Although the drivetrain wasn't high on power, it was reliable and the transmission worked well. The only problems I had were a cracked catalyst caused by using Bosch Platinum Plus-4 spark plugs. I ran this van overloaded most of the time and regularly exceeded the tow rating by 1500-2000 lbs. The van held up well to 3 years of my abuse, then I traded it for a new 2001 Dodge van. I sold my 1997 van to a friend of mine, it had 56,000 miles at trade and now has 130,000 miles with no trouble. On the other hand, my 2001 van has been a nightmare. It has only 38,000 miles, but I've already had to replace the brakes three times. The 318 V8 and the transmission are weak, it eats rear tires, and it leaks. I think I'll buy a Ford van next time.
Lee Wintheiser 2024-11-12
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
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.
Thad Bins 2024-10-10
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.
Glen Braun 2024-09-22
We have a 3/4 ton van with the 318 engine, which has been great. However, we have had some issues with the transmission, fuel system, and even the odometer, which have all quit on us. Additionally, the van tends to get quite hot, which can be uncomfortable. Despite these challenges, we still appreciate the van's reliability and utility.