Dodge Ram wagon 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 wagon model years
Common Dodge Ram wagon problems
Based on complaints from owners, common problems with Dodge Ram trucks include issues with the engine, transmission, Totally Integrated Power Module (TIPM), and electrical system. Here is a detailed breakdown of each problem:
Engine Problems
Owners have reported various engine issues with Dodge Ram trucks, such as exhaust manifold failures, compression problems, leaks, stalls, and cylinder head malfunctions. These engine-related complaints range from moderate to severe, impacting the performance and reliability of the vehicle. If any irregularities are noticed with the engine, immediate inspection and maintenance are recommended to prevent further damage.
Transmission Issues
Transmission problems are prevalent in Dodge Ram trucks, leading to shifting difficulties, jerking, slow acceleration, late shifts, clunking sounds during shifting, and more. Some drivers have also experienced loud noises emanating from the transmission. Addressing transmission issues promptly is crucial to ensure the safety and functionality of the vehicle.
Totally Integrated Power Module (TIPM) Defects
Issues with the TIPM, which serves as the power distribution center of the vehicle, have been a recurring problem in Dodge Ram trucks. Defective TIPMs can affect critical systems like stalling, power window failure, fuel pump issues, random locking/unlocking of doors, cooling fan failure, and more. Owners experiencing any of these issues are advised to contact the manufacturer or dealership for immediate assistance.
Electrical System Problems
Electrical malfunctions have been reported by Dodge Ram truck owners, leading to various issues like stereo and Uconnect display failures, wiring harness fires, and other electrical-related complications. These problems can pose safety hazards and require prompt attention from a qualified mechanic to prevent accidents and ensure the vehicle's proper functioning.
By addressing these common problems with Dodge Ram trucks, owners can stay informed about potential issues, take proactive maintenance measures, and seek appropriate solutions to maintain the performance and reliability of their vehicles.
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.
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 the worst years for Dodge Rams?
A: The Dodge RAM 1500 years to avoid are 2003, 2010-2013 (specifically models with the 5.7-liter V8 engine), 2014, 2015, and 2016. These model years have had various problems and recalls related to the engine, transmission, suspension, and electrical systems.
Are Rams known for transmission problems?
And is beloved for its power and performance but like any vehicle it's not immune to a few hiccups along the way one common issue that Ram 1500 owners sometimes encounter is transmission troubles. Now
Percentage distribution of complaints by Dodge Ram wagon years
We have researched Dodge problems and analysed all the complaints filed against Dodge Ram wagon cars and compiled the top 5 most problematic Dodge Ram wagon model years:
- Dodge Ram wagon 2002
- Dodge Ram wagon 1996
- Dodge Ram wagon 1998
- Dodge Ram wagon 1999
- Dodge Ram wagon 2000
Below you can see the percentage distribution of known problems by Dodge Ram wagon model years.
Distribution of the number of complaints by Dodge Ram wagon years
We've also compiled a chart for you with the number of complaints about Volkswagen Jetta cars of certain model years:
Dodge Ram wagon car problems categorized by type of issue
After analysing all complaints related to Dodge Ram wagon , it was concluded that the most common issues with these cars are:
- Structure problems
- Power train problems
- Electrical system problems
- Suspension problems
- Engine and engine cooling problems
The graph below shows statistics for all Dodge Ram wagon vehicle components and the number of complaints received.
Distribution of the number of complaints where the accident occurred by Ram wagon model years
A total of 72 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 wagon model years
There were a total of 19 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 wagon model years
There were a total of 79 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 wagon model years
There were a total of 2 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 963 complaints about various vehicle components related to the Dodge Ram wagon . Below are the 25 most recent complaints reported for Dodge Ram wagon vehicles.
Latest 25 complaints
Dodge Ram wagon 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 wagon 1996
- Date Of Incident: 2024-03-01
- Date Complaint: 2024-03-02
- VIN: 2B5WB35ZXTK
- Components: SUSPENSION,WHEELS,SERVICE BRAKES
- Summary: Upper control arm... Rusted through see attached pictures
Dodge Ram wagon 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 wagon 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 wagon 2002
- Date Of Incident: 2018-07-01
- Date Complaint: 2023-02-15
- VIN: 1D7HA16K92J
- Components: ELECTRICAL SYSTEM
- Summary: The contact owns a 2002 Dodge Ram 1500. The contact stated while attempting to turn on the heat in the vehicle, the HVAC system failed to operate as needed. The vehicle was taken to the dealer and the contact was informed that the instrument panel needed to be replaced. The vehicle was not repaired. The manufacturer was contacted and stated there was no recall for the failure. There was no additional assistance provided. The failure mileage was 50,000.
Dodge Ram wagon 2002
- Date Of Incident: 2022-05-28
- Date Complaint: 2022-05-29
- VIN: 1D7HA16K32J
- Components: TIRES
- Summary: I was driving on the highway at about 65mph and at first I noticed that it felt like my tie rod ends were going bad. And then all of a sudden I felt an explosion and my truck made a sharp right dive into the right hand lane and caused the car in that lane to swerve right. I was then able to gain back control and gradually came to a stop on the right hand berm of the highway. The right rear tire appeared just as it does in the attached photos. The tire size is p264/70R17 no authorities were notified and the tire has not been inspected by anyone.
Dodge Ram wagon 2002
- Date Of Incident: 2021-10-11
- Date Complaint: 2021-10-12
- Number Of Injuries: 1
- Crash: 1
- VIN: 1D7ha18zx2j
- Components: AIR BAGS,UNKNOWN OR OTHER
- Summary: While traveling at normal speeds approximately 40 mph a car ran a stop sign I t-boned them on their passenger side with my front end I hit them at approximately 40 mph my airbags did not deploy my face and chest hit the steering wheel and dash
Dodge Ram wagon 2002
- Date Of Incident: 2021-09-07
- Date Complaint: 2021-10-11
- VIN: 1D7HU16N42J
- Components: POWER TRAIN
- Summary: Pinion nut became loose. It was caught before it totally fell off, however if it did fall off the rear axle could possible seize up and cause loss of control of the vehicle. This is a 2002 Dodge Ram with the 9.25" rear axle and they appear to still have issues to this day with that axle model. The recall Dodge had in 2009/10 does not even begin to cover the number of Dodge Ram/Dakota vehicles with this issue. The axle in this vehicle was replaced in 2009 for another issue with an axle retainer clip falling off and causing the internal assembly to grind on the boss for the axle. So as the original owner, and with only 137,140 miles on the vehicle in 19 years, it has had multiple problems fixed under warranty, including total axle replacement and now it will have rebuilt again. There should be a real safety concern for all Dodge pickups with the 9.25" rear axle and a recall for every one of them, not just 2009/10. This has been happening for 20 years. When will NHTSA step up and hold Dodge to task for this issue. Regards, [XXX] Minden, NV INFORMATION Redacted PURSUANT TO THE FREEDOM OF INFORMATION ACT (FOIA), 5 U.S.C. 552(B)(6).
Dodge Ram wagon 2002
- Date Of Incident: 2021-08-19
- Date Complaint: 2021-08-26
- Number Of Injuries: 1
- Fire: 1
- VIN: 1D7HU18Z52S
- Components: SERVICE BRAKES, HYDRAULIC
- Summary: The contact owns a 2002 Dodge Ram 1500. The contact stated that while her husband was driving at various speeds, the ABS warning light illuminated and the vehicle seized. The contact managed to coast the vehicle to the shoulder of the road and place the vehicle in park. The contact exit the vehicle to inspect the engine and without warning when the front hood was open 4-foot flames shoot out from the hood. The contact sustained burns to the right hand. No medical attention was sought. The contact ran to the rear of the vehicle open the trunk and poured water that he had in a bucket on the flames. No police report was made. The fire department was not contacted. The vehicle was not repaired or diagnosed. No dealer was contacted nor the manufacturer was notified of the failure. Damages were to the wire harness, ABS module, and connecting rod. The failure mileage was approximate 220,000.
Dodge Ram wagon 2002
- Date Of Incident: 2012-06-25
- Date Complaint: 2021-06-30
- VIN: 3D7HA18N02G
- Components: SERVICE BRAKES
- Summary: The brakes failed due to corrosion of the brake line from the master cyl. to the LH front brake flex hose. The brake fluid simply came out of the line. There was insifficient fluid pressure to do any wheel braking. Luckily, I had just moved off from a stop and was applying the brakes to slow down on a bend. The corrosion occured under a plastic clip that is there to keep adjacent brake lines from vibrating against each other. The corrosion occured in an area that is not inspectable unless the front wheel and wheel arch cover is first removed.
Dodge Ram wagon 1999
- Date Of Incident: 2021-06-17
- Date Complaint: 2021-06-17
- VIN: 2B5WB35Z3XK
- Components: SEATS
- Summary: The bracket that holds the bolt to secure seat to rails it slides on is snapped clean in two with the bolt hole on the outside of bracket. This is the bolt on rear right side of driver’s seat.
Dodge Ram wagon 2002
- Date Of Incident: 2021-02-18
- Date Complaint: 2021-03-18
- VIN: 1D7HU18Z82S
- Components: POWER TRAIN,VEHICLE SPEED CONTROL,ENGINE
- Summary: 2002 DODGE RAM 1500 4X4 5.9L WAS DRIVING DOW HEY 10 WHEN MY BACK TRIES LOCKED UP COULDN'T GET IT IN GEAR OR OUT ALMOST CRASH WHEN GOT IT ON TO SIDE OF ROAD AND STOPPED WHEN IT FINALLY WAS ABLE TO GO IN A GEAR IT WAS REVERSES AND IT WOULD JUST MAKE THIS GOD AWFUL GRINDING NOSE TRUCK WAS TOWED BACK HOME
Dodge Ram wagon 2000
- Date Of Incident: 2020-11-08
- Date Complaint: 2020-12-15
- VIN: 2B4HB15Y1YK
- Components: STEERING,SUSPENSION,SERVICE BRAKES
- Summary: WHEN DRIVING DOWN HIGHWAY FELT INTERMITTENTLY LOSS OF STEERING, BRAKES FELT WEAK, NOISE WHEN TURNI G. REPAIR SHOP SAID BEARINGS GAVE AND NEEDED BRAKES. THEN LOST ALIGNMENT, STEERING,WOULD NOT RESPOND PROPERLY...MECHANIC SAID DUE TO RUST, BEARING FAILED AGAIN, FRAME IS ROTTED BY STEERING BOX AND HELPING TO SPREAD UNDER PRESSURE..LUCKY TO BE ALIVE , HE SAID...NO REPAIR PARTS AVAILABLE AND DODGE, AWARE OF THE PROBLEM, SAID SORRY...NO RECALLS HAVE BEEN ISSUED...MANY COMPLAINTS OF THIS FRAME FOR DUE TO A/ C DRAINAGE AND RADIATOR OVERFLOW..NOW UNREPAIRABLE PAPER WEIGHT....MECHANIC SAID PREVIOUS WELDING / REPAIR WAS ATTEMPTED WHICH SAYS KNOWLEDGE PRIOR TO ME BUYING THIS FAULTY, UNSAFE VEHICLE..
Dodge Ram wagon 2002
- Date Of Incident: 2020-06-23
- Date Complaint: 2020-07-31
- VIN: 2B4JB25Y62K
- Components: SERVICE BRAKES
- Summary: EXITED I-40 IN TUCUMCARI, NM. RIGHT TURN OFF INTERSTATE, RIGHT TURN INTO SHELL. UPON LEAVING THE FUEL STATION TO ENTER I-40 WESTBOUND, I HAD NO BRAKES. PEDAL TO THE FLOOR. COASTED UPHILL TO RESTAURANT PARKING LOT; BRAKE FLUID UNDER DRIVER-SIDE FRONT WHEEL. UNUSUAL SINCE I HAD ZERO BRAKING POWER. SHREDDED BRAKE HOSE WAS REPLACED THE NEXT DAY. PROBLEM IS DISCUSSED BY A MECHANIC HERE: HTTPS://WWW.YOUTUBE.COM/WATCH?V=3OUZ-TRM5KG&T=620S
Dodge Ram wagon 2002
- Date Of Incident: 2020-07-01
- Date Complaint: 2020-07-08
- VIN: 1D7HU18N52J
- Components: STRUCTURE
- Summary: THE BEAM UNDER THE BED OF THE TRUCK IS BREAKING APART. NO OTHER PART UNDER THE TRUCK HAD THIS PROB. NO CORROSION ANY OTHER PLACE BUT THE BEAM OF THE TRUCK
Recalls Dodge Ram wagon
The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) has issued 1 recalls for different components of the Dodge Ram wagon.You can explore the year of the Volkswagen Jetta you are interested in by selecting it from the list.
- Model: Dodge Ram wagon 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.
Latest negative Dodge Ram wagon car reviews
Latest positive Dodge Ram wagon car reviews
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Vehicle year: 1999
I use my 1998 15 passenger van for my shuttle business. I bought it with 10,000 miles in 1999 and as of December 2007, it has 180,000 miles on it. This van has been incredibly reliable, with no major issues besides regular maintenance such as oil changes, tire replacements, and brake pad replacements. The engine and transmission are still in great condition, and the air conditioning works well. Overall, this has been the best van I have ever owned.
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Vehicle year: 1998
This has been an excellent vehicle for family vacation and fun to drive. It handles very well in the changing weather in Nebraska, and mechanically, it has been a sound car. Never had a mechanical problem, just general maintenance has kept it rolling.
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Vehicle year: 2001
I really appreciate the way this van handles, with its power and luxury. It's an excellent all-around van that also looks great.
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Vehicle year: 1999
This vehicle has been very reliable from the start. It has plenty of power and I have even towed a heavy pop-up camper at 95mph in Montana. I am able to tow it at highway speed and keep up with any traffic. I take care of all maintenance and most repairs myself, fixing things before they break. I have replaced the fuel pump at 123000, as well as the water pump, alternator, and starter just in case. Although I thought the transmission was gone, it turned out to be just a blown hose. It uses about one quart of oil in 3000 miles. However, the power door locks are not very reliable and there is some windshield leakage and wind noise.
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Vehicle year: 2000
Our 2000 Dodge Ram van Glaval conversion is a fantastic vehicle. It offers a smooth and comfortable ride, and its elevated position provides a great view of the road ahead, which is especially useful in traffic or on rough terrain. While we love our van, we have identified two areas for improvement. Firstly, as we are over 70, getting in and out of the van has become more challenging. Secondly, we have noticed that there is not enough foot room in the front, which means that one foot has to rest on the wheel well while driving or riding as a passenger. However, we are confident that these issues can be addressed and look forward to continuing to enjoy our van for years to come.
Are you having problems with your Dodge Ram wagon?
Cordell Kozey 2025-03-15
Vehicle year: 2002
I have an '02 Ram Van 1500, Regency Conversion, with a 3.9l V6 engine and a 3-speed automatic transmission. I bought it because it was spacious and affordable ($19k brand new in Aug 03). I really enjoy driving the van, but unfortunately, my wife has trouble getting in and out of it. Passengers absolutely love the 2nd row captain's chairs and 3rd row bench. To make their ride even more enjoyable, I added a flip-down TV. I was initially concerned that the V6 engine would be underpowered, but it has exceeded my expectations, except for when merging onto freeways. Perhaps a 4-speed auto would have helped. The fuel economy is acceptable, with typical highway mileage of 15 mpg and 13 mpg in town. However, I have managed to get 17 mpg on the highway by keeping my speed down.
Obie Schneider 2025-02-28
Vehicle year: 2000
I have to confess, I own a big blue van - the 15-passenger airport shuttle bus van. I purchased it for my motorcycle racing trips across the country as I prefer not to tow a trailer. It's spacious enough to accommodate two bikes, all my gear, my partner, and still have enough room for me to take a nap in the back seat. Although the interior trim is a bit cheesy and it can be quite noisy, the drivetrain is incredibly reliable. I once almost ran it out of oil, but refilling it had no consequences. It has impressive highway power, but it's a bit slow off the line, which is understandable given its dry weight of almost 6,000 lb.
Cleo Skiles 2025-01-15
Vehicle year: 2000
Hi there! I hope you're doing well. I just wanted to share my experience with my car. I bought it used 16 months ago with 75000 miles on it, and I've put 100000 miles on it since then. I have to say, it's been a great investment for me. It's powerful, durable, and handles the road really well. Plus, it's incredibly useful! Of course, it's not perfect, but considering the price, I think it's an excellent value. It's also a strong towing vehicle, which is a huge plus. Thanks for listening!
Miller Turcotte 2025-01-09
Vehicle year: 2001
The vehicle is just the right size for our family of 7. It has taken us on trips with lots of luggage and performed well, until lately. Unfortunately, we experienced some issues with the transaxle bearing and A/C compressor, which cost around $2500 to fix. In my opinion, these repairs should not have been necessary at only 50K miles. Additionally, we have noticed some wear and tear on the front end shocks and bushings. Overall, I have not been very impressed with the quality of the van, but I am hopeful that things will improve.
Sanford Bergnaum 2025-01-04
Vehicle year: 1996
Hello! I hope you're doing well. I just wanted to share my experience with the Ram Wagon. We've had it for four years now and it's been such a reliable vehicle. We've only needed to do regular maintenance and it's been good as new. It's also really comfortable for long trips and we've taken it on several 700-mile rides with six kids and two adults without any complaints! Plus, it's the short wheelbase version so it's easy to park at the mall. If you're looking for a people hauler but don't want a minivan or SUV, I highly recommend the Ram Wagon. It has good but not great fuel mileage, decent handling, and a good ride. Plus, the low repair costs make it a great choice over the Chevy or Ford vans. Just a heads up, this bodystyle was replaced by the Mercedes-manufactured Sprinter. Let me know if you have any questions!