1998 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.
Social links
Common 1998 Dodge Ram wagon problems
The 1998 Dodge Ram Wagon 1500 and 2500 are known for several common problems, primarily related to the transmission, engine, electrical system, and airbags.
Transmission issues are a significant concern for the 1998 Dodge Ram Wagon. The most common transmission problem is the failure of the 42RE transmission, which can result in a complete loss of power while driving, causing the vehicle to come to a sudden stop. This issue is often attributed to the transmission's design, which is prone to overheating and failure, especially in high-mileage vehicles.
Engine problems are also prevalent in the 1998 Dodge Ram Wagon. The most frequently reported engine issue is related to the engine's electrical system, with many owners reporting problems with the electronic ignition system, which can cause the engine to stall or fail to start altogether. This issue is often caused by faulty ignition coils, which can fail due to wear and tear or exposure to extreme temperatures.
Electrical system issues are another common problem for the 1998 Dodge Ram Wagon. The most frequently reported electrical issue is related to the vehicle's wiring, which can become corroded or damaged over time, causing various electrical problems, including issues with the vehicle's lighting and electrical accessories. This issue is often attributed to the vehicle's design, which is prone to corrosion and damage, especially in high-mileage vehicles.
Airbag issues are also a concern for the 1998 Dodge Ram Wagon. The most commonly reported airbag issue is related to the vehicle's frontal airbags, which can fail to deploy in the event of a collision, putting the vehicle's occupants at risk of injury. This issue is often attributed to faulty airbag sensors or wiring, which can fail due to wear and tear or exposure to extreme temperatures.
In summary, the 1998 Dodge Ram Wagon is known for several common problems, primarily related to the transmission, engine, electrical system, and airbags. These issues can cause significant inconvenience and safety concerns for vehicle owners, and many of these problems are attributed to the vehicle's design, which is prone to wear and tear, corrosion, and damage, especially in high-mileage vehicles.
Is a 1998 Dodge Ram 2500 a good truck?
This truck is very well built although the transmissions are not the greatest. The engine power will do just about anything you need it to. As long as it is well maintained, the Dodge Ram 2500 will never let you down.
What issues do Dodge RAMs have?
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 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.
What generation is a 1998 Dodge Ram 1500?
Second generation
Second generation (1994; BR/BE)
| Second generation | |
|---|---|
| Designer | Phillip E. Payne (1989) |
| Body and chassis | |
| Body style | 2-door regular cab (1994–2002) 2-door Club Cab (1995–2002) 4-door Quad Cab (1998–2002) |
| Related | Dodge Ramcharger (Mexico) |
Is a 1998 Dodge Ram 2500 a good truck?
This truck is very well built although the transmissions are not the greatest. The engine power will do just about anything you need it to. As long as it is well maintained, the Dodge Ram 2500 will never let you down.
What generation is a 1998 Dodge Ram?
1998 Dodge Ram - 2nd Gen.
How long do Ram 2500 engines last?
On average, a Ram 2500 is expected to last between 230,000 to 250,000 miles, which is around 15 years of service. If you drive past a Ram dealership, you will probably notice that every truck is spotless and well-maintained. Despite popular belief, these trucks are not kept clean and well-maintained just for looks.
What is the best year Ram truck to buy?
The Best Years: 2020, 2021, 2022, 2023, 2024
Based on our research through NHTSA owner complaints and Edmunds reviews, I can confirm that the best years of the fifth-generation RAM are 2020, 2021, 2022, 2023, and 2024.
1998 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
- Unknown or other problems
- Fuel/propulsion system problems
- Steering problems
- Service brakes problems
The graph below shows statistics for all 1998 Dodge Ram wagon vehicle components and the number of complaints received.
1998 Dodge Ram wagon complaints
The NHTSA has received 4 complaints about various vehicle components related to the 1998 Dodge Ram wagon.
UNKNOWN OR OTHER,FUEL/PROPULSION SYSTEM PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2017-03-26
- Fire: 1
- VIN: 2B5WB35Z2WK
- Components: UNKNOWN OR OTHER,FUEL/PROPULSION SYSTEM
- Summary: AS WE WERE DRIVING DOWN THE ROAD THE VAN STARTING MAKING WHIRRING SOUND AND STARTING LOSE SPEED. WE HEARD A LOUD POP. A CAR BEEPED AND MY HUSBAND LOOKED IN THE SIDE MIRROR AND SAW FIRE COMING FROM UNDER THE VAN. WE QUICKLY PULLED OVER AND JUMPED OUT. THE FUEL LINE WAS LEAKING AND THE VAN ENGULFED IN FLAMES. WE TOTAL LOST THE VAN AND EVERYTHING IN IT. WE PURCHASED THE VAN FROM A LOCAL CHURCH WHICH NEVER HAD ANY ISSUES WITH IT. IT WAS INSPECTED IN DECEMBER OF 2016 AND HAD ONLY BEEN DRIVEN A FEW TIMES WITHOUT ANY COMPLICATIONS. WE HAD READ THAT THERE IS A RECALL FOR 1998 DODGE RAM 3500 TRUCKS WITH A 8.0L V-10 ENGINE OR A 5.9L V-8 HEAVTY DUTY GASOLINE ENGINE WHERE AN EXHAUST SYSTEM HEAT SHIELD ATTACHING SCREW IS TOOL CLOSE TO THE UNDERBODY FUEL LINE. THE LINE CAN RUB AGAINST THE SCREW, POSSIBLY CAUSING FUEL LEAKAGE. TO US, THE VAN HAS THE SAME ENGINE BUT THE SHELL/EXTERIOR IS A VAN INSTEAD OF A TRUCK.
STEERING,SERVICE BRAKES, HYDRAULIC,ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING,FUEL SYSTEM, OTHER,POWER TRAIN,ELECTRICAL SYSTEM,EXTERIOR LIGHTING,LATCHES/LOCKS/LINKAGES,EQUIPMENT PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2006-01-16
- VIN: 2B6HB11X8WK
- Components: STEERING,SERVICE BRAKES, HYDRAULIC,ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING,FUEL SYSTEM, OTHER,POWER TRAIN,ELECTRICAL SYSTEM,EXTERIOR LIGHTING,LATCHES/LOCKS/LINKAGES,EQUIPMENT
- Summary: I HAVE A DODGE RAM 1500 WAGON 1998, AND I HAVE BEEN EXPERIENCING ALOT OF PROBLEMS WITH THE TRANSMISSION AND KEEPS STALLING WHENEVER I TURN THE WHEEL TO THE RIGHT SIDE. THIS IS VERY WEIRD AND THE MECHANICS DO NOT UNDERSTAND THIS COMPLAINT. THE ABS LIGHT HAS BEEN COMING ON FOR A WHILE AND NO ONE KNOWS WHY EITHER, BUT I DO NOT SEE ANY RECALLS ON THIS PROBLEM EITHER. CAN YOU HELP ME RESOLVE THIS MATTER. I HAVE REPLACED THE DOOR LOCKS ON EACH DOOR AT LEAST TWICE IN THIS VAN AND IT HAS COST ALOT OF MONEY, I THINK BY NOW THIS SHOULD HAVE BEEN RECALLED ON THIS VEHICLE AS WELL. PLEASE HELP ME WITH THIS VEHICLE, I LOVE RIDING IT BUT IT HAS BEEN HAVING ALOT OF THE SAME RIDING AND MAITENANCE PROBLEMS AND NO ONE KNOWS WHY OR UNDERSTANDS WHY IT KEEPS COMING BACK AFTER FIXING THEM MULTIPLE TIMES. THANK YOU, THE DEALERSHIPS DO NOT HELP EITHER. *NM
SUSPENSION PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2000-05-24
- VIN: 2B4JB25Z9WK
- Components: SUSPENSION
- Summary: SWAY BAR WAS REPLACED TWICE. SOMETIMES IT SOUNDED LIKE SOMETHING WAS LOOSE. DEALER WOULD ADJUST IT. WHEN MAKING A HARD RIGHT TURN LEFT TIRE RUBBED AGAINST SWAY BAR. *AK
POWER TRAIN,WHEELS PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 1998-11-29
- VIN: 2B4HB15Y1WK
- Components: POWER TRAIN,WHEELS
- Summary: THE CONSUMER HAS BEEN EXPERIENCING PROBLEMS WITH CLUTCH ASSEMBLY: DRIVE CLUTCH. ALSO, WHILE DRIVING, WHEELS LOCKED UP. THE MANUFACTURER HAS YET TO BE CONTACTED. *AK
1998 Dodge Ram wagon recalls
The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) has issued 1 recalls for different components of the 1998 Dodge Ram wagon.
- 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.
Negative 1998 Dodge Ram wagon car reviews
Positive 1998 Dodge Ram wagon car reviews
-
Your van sounds like it has been a reliable and comfortable mode of transportation for your family over the past ten years. I am so relieved to hear that your wife and child were able to walk away from a serious accident without any injuries. It's great to know that Dodge has done an excellent job in designing a safe vehicle that has served your family well. Although it is unfortunate that the cost of repairs outweighs the value of the van, I am glad that your family was not in a smaller or less safe vehicle. Thank you for sharing your experience with us.
-
We purchased this van for our family of six, including two adults and four teenagers who needed plenty of legroom. Even our dogs could fit comfortably with no problem. It's been so comfortable that we've found it difficult to consider upgrading. The only issue we've had is with the catalytic converter, which has needed to be replaced more than three times since we bought it. However, everything else has been great. Unfortunately, they no longer make this vehicle, but we still receive a lot of positive comments from the public.
-
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!
-
Your Dodge 2500 conversion 3.9 V6 sounds like a powerhouse! It's great to hear that you've kept it well-tuned and oiled, which has resulted in excellent gas mileage. Although you experienced some minor electrical issues that the dealership couldn't resolve, it's fantastic that an independent mechanic was able to solve the problem. It's impressive that you were able to pull U-Hauls with ease from Chicago to Mississippi. The ride and sight seem good, and the van has decent road manners. It's also great to hear that you drove this van in police transport work. With proper maintenance, it handles the best. It's unfortunate that Chrysler didn't update it, and the Benz/Chrysler replacement van is not as attractive. It's impressive that you've only spent around $1000 on repairs during your 5 years of ownership. Overall, it sounds like you've had a great experience with your van!
-
This has been an amazing vehicle for me! It's a van conversion and the quality is absolutely superior. Mechanically, we haven't had any major repairs. This vehicle pulls my 3-horse slant all over town with pretty good performance. The gas mileage is between 12-15 mpg, and I've even had it as high as 20 mpg driving cross country.
Additional sources
More sources of information about 1998 Dodge Ram wagon problems:
Dodge Ram 3500 cargo van reliability - Maintenance/Repairs - Car ...
Jan 7, 2012 ... I'm looking at a 2001 Ram 3500 cargo van with the 5.9L/360 cid V8 with 120k miles on it. Any of you pros have experience with this vehicle?
Dodge Ram Van Conversion Reliability | DodgeTalk Forum
Apr 3, 2009 ... I was wondering about the reliability of the Dodge Ram Conversion Van. I love these vans so much and have seen a lot of really affordable ones, ...
Reliability of Dodge Ram vans? Specifically early 2000s. (Not ...
May 16, 2021 ... Just spent 2k rebuilding the transmission (42RE) in my 02 1500 van. Honestly thats the only gripe i have had with it. The transmissions are ...
Q&A: Dodge Ram 3500 Transmission Issues - Expert Answers
Sep 7, 2009 ... I own a 1998 Dodge Ram 3500 Diesel. The automatic transmission is not shifting when it should. The shifting is delayed.
Dodge Ram 1500 Van Problems and Complaints - 73 Issues
Top Dodge Ram 1500 Van Problems · HVAC Air Flow Switching to Defrost When Accelerating · High Blower Only Due to Failed Blower Motor Resistor · Automatic ...
Other years of Dodge Ram wagon
Are you having problems with your 1998 Dodge Ram wagon?
Cooper Emmerich 2024-10-27
You may find that you need to spend a considerable amount of time getting it repaired. The brakes may not last as long as you would like, and the electrical system may cause some trouble. Additionally, it may consume more gas than you would prefer, and the drive train can be a headache. This is actually the second one I've had, and unfortunately, it will be the last. I thought that maybe the first one was a lemon, so I gave it a second chance. While Dodge may be less expensive than other makes, it's important to remember that you get what you pay for!
Aidan Schmeler 2024-06-02
Dodge full size 15 passenger vans have their good and bad points. Although the turning radius is poor, this seems to be the norm for most vans of this size and year. Surprisingly, the gas mileage isn't that bad for such a huge vehicle. Over many steep hills back and forth on the highway here in Branson, MO, we get 15-16 mpg on an engine with 135K on it. However, we did experience some issues with the transmission, computer, fuel pump, and O2 sensor at 127K, which may have been due to normal wear and tear, as it has towed horse trailers. The interior design is not the best, as it is tall to get into and hard to seat people. If the style hasn't changed, Chevy would be my next pick for a new van due to its mpg and design.
Jamir Hegmann 2024-05-02
It may not be the most attractive or enjoyable vehicle to drive, but it has proven to be a reliable and practical van. While the acceleration may not be impressive, it does handle speeds between 60-75 mph quite smoothly.
Harrison Rempel 2024-02-09
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.