1996 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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Common 1996 Dodge Ram wagon problems
Based on the information provided in the sources, here are common problems with the Dodge Ram Wagon 1996 based on complaints from owners:
- Dashboard Replacement: Owners have reported dashboard replacement as a common issue with the 1996 Dodge Ram Wagon. This problem likely involves issues with the quality or durability of the dashboard material, leading to the need for replacement.
- Faulty Window Seals: Another common problem is faulty window seals. This issue can result in water leaks, wind noise, and potential damage to the interior of the vehicle. Replacing window seals is a recommended solution to address this problem.
- Motor Sludge: The Dodge Ram Wagon 1996 is prone to motor sludge buildup in the engine, particularly in the 2002 model. This issue can lead to engine failure, drops in oil pressure, and overheating. Addressing this problem may require engine replacement, which can be a costly repair.
- Manifold Gasket Leaks: Owners have reported manifold gasket leaks in older Dodge Ram Wagons. This problem can result in excessive oil consumption, reduced gas mileage, and fluctuations in oil pressure. Replacing the plenum gasket is a common fix for this issue.
- Catalytic Converter Failure: Catalytic converter failure is another common problem with the Dodge Ram Wagon. Issues with the engine can lead to fuel entering the converter, causing it to overheat or malfunction. Symptoms include power loss, unusual smells from the exhaust, and the illumination of the check engine light.
These common problems highlight some of the key issues that owners of the Dodge Ram Wagon 1996 may encounter. Addressing these issues promptly and with the appropriate repairs can help maintain the vehicle's performance and longevity.
Is a 1996 Dodge RAM 1500 a good truck?
Lots of power. This truck is amazing on mpg and even power the rides are also very comfortable. I would trust my Dodge Ram 1500 going anywhere I? ve drove it from Missouri to Alabama and didn?t have any trouble at all and only had to stop and get gas 3 times.
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 are the best Dodge Ram years?
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.
Do RAM trucks have reliability issues?
Understanding Dodge RAM 1500 Reliability Issues
The most expensive problem a RAM 1500 owner is likely to encounter is the need for an engine replacement. RAM 1500 trucks are also known for minor reliability issues, including electrical, gear shift, and oil consumption issues.
Is a 1996 Dodge Ram 1500 a good truck?
Lots of power. This truck is amazing on mpg and even power the rides are also very comfortable. I would trust my Dodge Ram 1500 going anywhere I? ve drove it from Missouri to Alabama and didn?t have any trouble at all and only had to stop and get gas 3 times.
What Gen is a 1996 Dodge Ram?
1996 Dodge Ram - 2nd Gen.
What was the best year for Ram trucks?
The Best Dodge Ram Trucks, Ranked On Reliability And Towing...
- 10 2017 Ram 2500 6.7 Cummins. Reliability Score: 76/100 (J.D.Power) ...
- 9 2020 Ram 2500 6.7 Cummins. ...
- 8 2018 Ram 1500 5.7L. ...
- 7 2019 Ram 3500 6.7L Cummins. ...
- 6 2017 Ram 3500 6.7L Cummins. ...
- 5 2023 Ram 1500 Classic 5.7L. ...
- 4 2022 Ram 1500 3.6L. ...
- 3 2017 Ram 2500 5.7L.
How long will a 1996 Dodge Ram 1500 last?
The general life expectancy for the Dodge Ram 1500 is 15 years. If You keep up with the manufacturer's suggested maintenance while also making sure You keep up with major services and regular oil changes, The Dodge Ram should last You well over 100k miles. These trucks are designed to last a long time.
1996 Dodge Ram wagon car problems categorized by type of issue
After analyzing all complaints sent to the NHTSA and researching popular Dodge Ram wagon problems, we found that the most common problems with these 2023 model year vehicles are:
- Power train problems
- Suspension problems
- Wheels problems
- Service brakes problems
- Engine and engine cooling problems
The graph below shows statistics for all 1996 Dodge Ram wagon vehicle components and the number of complaints received.
1996 Dodge Ram wagon complaints
The NHTSA has received 6 complaints about various vehicle components related to the 1996 Dodge Ram wagon.
SUSPENSION,WHEELS,SERVICE BRAKES PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2024-03-01
- VIN: 2B5WB35ZXTK
- Components: SUSPENSION,WHEELS,SERVICE BRAKES
- Summary: Upper control arm... Rusted through see attached pictures
ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2006-08-11
- VIN: 2B5WB35T7TK
- Components: ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING
- Summary: TL*- THE CONTACT'S 1996 DODGE VAN HAD BEEN EXCLUDED FROM THE RECALL INVOLVING A CATALYTIC CONVERTERS USED IN DODGE VAN OF THAT YEAR AND IT FAILED TO PASS SMOG TEST DUE TO THE FAILURE OF THE CATALYTIC CONVERTER. THE DEALER DECLINED TO PERFORM THE RECALL REPAIRS, AND A FOLLOW UP CALL TO THE MANUFACTURER WAS PLACED, AND THEY WERE ALSO NOT HELPING. THE CONTACT BELIEVED THAT THEY EXCLUDED THE VAN FROM THE RECALL BECAUSE THEY HAD A VERY LIMITED NUMBER OF ELECTRICAL HIGH POWERED VANS. EVEN THOUGH THE PARTS WERE DEFECTIVE DODGE DECLINED TO FIX IT.*AK UPDATED 04/12/07/. *JB
POWER TRAIN PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2024-11-24
- VIN: 2B5WB35Z6TK
- Components: POWER TRAIN
- Summary: VEHICLES TRANSMISSION COOLER QUICK CONNECT RECALLED, BUT REPAIRS NOT MADE DUE TO DEALER PROBLEM.
PARKING BRAKE PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2024-11-24
- VIN: 2B4FP2539TR
- Components: PARKING BRAKE
- Summary: BRAKE RELEASE HANDLE FAILED.
POWER TRAIN PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2024-11-24
- VIN: 2B4FP2539TR
- Components: POWER TRAIN
- Summary: TRANSMISSION INDICATOR FAILED.
POWER TRAIN PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 1996-07-01
- VIN: 2B5WB35Z4TK
- Components: POWER TRAIN
- Summary: FAN CLUTCH FAILED.
Negative 1996 Dodge Ram wagon car reviews
Positive 1996 Dodge Ram wagon car reviews
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This van is great! It drives incredibly smoothly and is extremely reliable. With only 104,000 miles, it's in great condition for its age, and most of those miles were on the highway. You can trust that it will start up every time you turn the key!
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This van has been incredibly versatile, serving us well for everything from family vacations to hauling hay (the seats come out and get stored in the garage). It's easy to drive and has plenty of space, making it a joy to use. The interior is also beautifully designed, which my wife loves.
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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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Hi there! You'll be happy to know that we have a great selection of full-size vans available for you to choose from. Let us know if you have any questions or if there's anything we can do to help!
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This is my second Dodge family van. The first one we had was a 1980 model, 250 3/4 ton, which we kept for 10 years. It never let us down and was exceptionally useful, with good gas mileage, although it was prone to body rust. The 1996 SLT (Luxury) 2500 model 3/4 ton has a firm, good handling suspension (the 1500 1/2 is too soft and wallows), a 5.2L Magnum V8 which is AWESOME, a 4-speed Torqueflite transmission, and a 3.55 ratio HD rear axle. It has an average fuel economy of 15.6 miles per gallon over 50,000 miles. It's a roomy, good-looking vehicle that's easy to drive with great visibility. We've had no mechanical or electrical problems, and it's easy to service. Best of all, there's no rust. We've even taken it on many 24-hour trips from Massachusetts to Florida!
Additional sources
More sources of information about 1996 Dodge Ram wagon problems:
Have you had trouble with you van's ECU / PCM ? | DodgeTalk Forum
Aug 18, 2010 ... 1996 Ram Van B-2500 Conversion Van - 318 ... issue was a common problem. The common fix ... 3G Dodge RAM - General Talk 3G Dodge Ram - Performance ...
Automatic 1996 Dodge Ram Van 3500 Mechanical Issue : r ...
Feb 22, 2023 ... It does this at stop lights, turning, backing up, etc. I have no issues on the highway or going higher speeds. I've had a mechanic run a smoke ...
Q&A: Dodge Ram Van 2500 Transmission - 4 Speed Automatic ...
Sep 17, 2011 ... A month later it started with these problem. I don't know if this particular transmission has an overdrive or not. But what ever it has when I ...
Dodge Ram 3500 cargo van reliability - Maintenance/Repairs - Car ...
Jan 7, 2012 ... The motor in these vans are great, strong no issues. The trannys are ehh, but with Proper service should be ok. The issue with these vans and ...
1996 Dodge Ram 1500 Problems and Complaints - 23 Issues
Top 1996 Dodge Ram 1500 Problems · Water Leak Due to Faulty Rear Window Seal · Multiple Coolant Leaks · Cam Sensor Failure Causing no Start or Stalling · Locked up ...
Other years of Dodge Ram wagon
Are you having problems with your 1996 Dodge Ram wagon?
Sanford Bergnaum 2025-01-04
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!
Mikel Gibson 2024-06-27
You still own this vehicle and you wish you had gotten it new. This van reminds you of old faithful and it is still great mechanically. It is a sound van that seats 15 passengers, making it perfect for the kids. Although the seats do not remove easily for cargo, the 8 cylinder motor is strong enough to pull a large trailer. The rubber flooring makes it easy to clean up after the messy kids. However, the gas mileage is not so good, with around 10 mpg in the city and 14 over the road. Despite this, with just basic upkeep, it starts up every time, even in cold weather.