1988 Dodge Ram problems
The Ram pickup (marketed as the Dodge Ram until 2010) is a full-size pickup truck manufactured by Stellantis North America (formerly Chrysler Group LLC and FCA US LLC) and marketed from 2010 onwards under the Ram Trucks brand. The current fifth-generation Ram debuted at the 2018 North American International Auto Show in Detroit, Michigan, in January of that year.
Previously, Ram was part of the Dodge line of light trucks. The name Ram was first used in 1981 model year Dodge Trucks in October 1980, following the retiring and rebadging of the Dodge D series pickup trucks as well as B-series vans, though the company had used a ram's-head hood ornament on some trucks as early as 1933.
Ram trucks have been named Motor Trend magazine's Truck of the Year eight times; the second-generation Ram won the award in 1994, the third-generation Ram heavy-duty won the award in 2003, the fourth-generation Ram Heavy Duty won in 2010 and the fourth-generation Ram 1500 won in 2013 and 2014, and the current fifth-generation Ram pickup became the first truck in history to win the award three times, winning in 2019, 2020, and 2021.
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Common 1988 Dodge Ram problems
The Dodge Ram 1988, like any other vehicle, has its fair share of common problems that owners have reported over the years. Here are some of the most frequently mentioned issues:
- Manifold Gasket Leaks: Engine components in older trucks, such as the Dodge Ram 1988, can become leaky over time. Many owners report excessive oil consumption, sometimes up to a quart every 50 miles. This issue can also lead to a drop in gas mileage and sudden changes in oil pressure. Replacing the plenum gasket is often a relatively easy and inexpensive fix for this problem.
- Catalytic Converter Failure: The engine problems that many Dodge Rams experience can result in too much fuel entering the catalytic converter, causing it to overheat or fail. This issue can lead to a loss of power, rattling noises, and the check engine light coming on.
- Steering Wander: Some Dodge Ram 1988 owners have reported a steering wander issue, where the vehicle seems to have a mind of its own and may jolt off the road, which can be very dangerous .
- Fuel Pump and Ignition System Issues: Owners of the Dodge Ram 1988 have reported issues with the fuel pump, spark plugs, spark plug wires, EGR valve, distributor cap, rotor, pick-up coil, ignition coil, and idle control sensor. These issues can lead to poor performance, lunging forward, and a lack of power.
In summary, the Dodge Ram 1988, like many older vehicles, has several common problems that owners may encounter. These issues range from engine and transmission problems to leaks and catalytic converter failure. Regular maintenance and addressing issues promptly can help prolong the life of the vehicle and prevent more significant problems down the road.
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 is the biggest problem with Dodge Ram?
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 years did Dodge Ram 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.
Which year Ram is the most reliable?
The 2024 Ram 1500 is unmatched when it comes to reliability. With a J.D. Power quality and reliability score of 88/100, the 2024 model is not only the most reliable Ram 1500 ever but it's also one of the most reliable American trucks in 2024.
1988 Dodge Ram car problems categorized by type of issue
After analyzing all complaints sent to the NHTSA and researching popular Dodge Ram problems, we found that the most common problems with these 2023 model year vehicles are:
- Engine and engine cooling problems
- Seat belts problems
- Power train problems
- Tires problems
- Vehicle speed control problems
The graph below shows statistics for all 1988 Dodge Ram vehicle components and the number of complaints received.
1988 Dodge Ram complaints
The NHTSA has received 24 complaints about various vehicle components related to the 1988 Dodge Ram.
POWER TRAIN PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2024-11-24
- VIN: 1B7GD24Y3J5
- Components: POWER TRAIN
- Summary: WHEN THE VEHICLE IS IN PARKING GEAR IT MAKES HORRIBLE AND BUMPING NOISE. DEALERSHIP IS AWARE OF PROBLEM.*AK
POWER TRAIN PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2001-08-08
- Crash: 1
- VIN: 1B7GDD2442J
- Components: POWER TRAIN
- Summary: TRANSMISSION FAILURE. *AK
POWER TRAIN PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2001-07-01
- Crash: 1
- VIN: 1BBBB7GD24Y
- Components: POWER TRAIN
- Summary: VEHICLE WAS PARKED AND RUNNING, AND WITHOUT PRIOR WARNING, VEHICLE SLIPPED INTO ANOTHER GEAR AND ROLLED BACK, HITTING ANOTHER VEHICLE.*AK
ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2001-03-10
- Fire: 1
- Components: ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING
- Summary: SHORTLY AFTER COLD START VEHICLE CAUGHT FIRE. WAS COMPLETELY CONSUMED. *AK
EXTERIOR LIGHTING PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2000-10-16
- VIN: JB7FM55E5JP
- Components: EXTERIOR LIGHTING
- Summary: DUE TO FAILURE OF TURN SWITCH, I WAS TICKETED FOR NO BRAKE LIGHTS AND TURN SIGNALS, AND FORCED TO HAVE $366.48 IN REPAIRS FOR A FAULTY SWITCH THAT SHOULD HAVE BEEN RECALLED AT INITIAL RELEASE OF VEHICLE IN 1988.*AK
TIRES PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2000-08-06
- Number Of Injuries: 1
- Crash: 1
- VIN: 3B4GD02W8JM
- Components: TIRES
- Summary: ON AUGUST 6, 2000, TRAVELING NORTH ON I-75 NEAR BELLVIEW FORIDA I EXPERIENCED A COMPLETE TREAD SEPARATION ON THE RIGHT REAR TIRE. THE TREAD TORE AWAY FROM THE TIRE CASING WHILE TRAVELING AT A RATE OF 75 MPH LEAVING THE TIRE STILL INFLATED WITH THE STEEL BELTS SHOWING. THE VEHICLE RAN OVER THE SEPARATED TREAD THROWING THE MATERIAL INTO THE UNDERBODY CAUSING DAMAGE TO THE TAILPIPE /MUFFLER ASSEMBLY. THE FORCE OF THE INCIDENT CAUSED THE RIGHT REAR OF THE VEHICLE TO JUMP UPWARDS APPROXIMATELY 3 FEET CAUSING A UNCONTROLLED SKID INTO THE LEFT LANE SLIGHTLY ONTO THE LEFT PAVEMENT EDGE AND THEN BACK INTO RIGHT LANE AND CONTINUED OFF THE LEFT EDGE OF THE PAVEMENT. AS THE WHEEL TWISTED DURING THE SKIDDING I EITHER SPRAINED OR BROKE MY RIGHT WRIST . THE ACCIDENT CAUSED NO DAMAGE TO OTHER VEHICLES OR PROPERTY AND A LETTER DESCRIBING THE ACCIDENT WAS HAND DELIVERED TO OLSON TIRE, COUNTRYSIDE OFFICE, CLEARWATER FLORIDA. THE VEHICLE'S OTHER TIRES ARE THE SAME MAKE AND SIZE BUT ARE MADE IN CANADA AND NOT BEARING THE DOT VDHL CODE, EACH TIRE HAS APPROXIMATELY TWO THIRDS REMAING TREAD AS COMPARED TO NEW AND ALL TIRES WERE INFLATED PROPLERLY. I VISITED THE OLSON STORE TWICE MAKING AN APPOINTMENT TO HAVE THE TIRE INSPECTED EXLAINING THE DEFECTIVE TIRE WAS AVAILABLE TO SEE, HOWEVER THE EMPLOYEE DECLINED TO LOOK AT THE TIRE INSTRUCTING ME TO BRING IT BACK WHEN NEW TIRES WERE AVAILABLE. HE WAS NOT IMPRESSED THAT THE EXHAUST SYSTEM WAS DAMAGED AND MAY BE A SAFETY HAZARD WITH EXHAUST FUMES , NEITHER DID HE ADVISE WHAT INFORMATION MIGHT BE NEEDED REGARDING THE WRIST INJURY.THE TIRE IS AVAILABLE FOR INSPECTION AND I HAVE MADE AN APPOINTMENT FOR REPAIRS TO THE EXHAUST AND HAVE SCHEDULED A PHYSICIAN OFFICE VISIT TO EXAMINE AND XRAY WRIST IF REQUIRED.( DOT NUMBER: VDHL1PY157 TIRE SIZE: P235/75R15 )
TIRES PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 1997-10-10
- Components: TIRES
- Summary: 3 YEARS AGO, I WAS RETURNING FROM HOUSTON TX WHEN THE TREAD ON THE LEFT FRONT TIRE OF MY DODGE RAM CHARGER PEELED OFF. FORTUNETALLY, THE PIECES OF THE TIRE WENT UNDER THE TRUCK AND OUT THE BACK. WHEN I STOPPED AND CHECKED THE TIRE, IT WAS INFLATED YET MISSING ALL OF THE TREAD MINUS THE WALLS. THERE WAS NO SERIOUS DAMAGE, NOR AM I LOOKING FOR ANY COMPENSATION. BUT GIVEN THE CURRENT INVESTIGATION REGARDING FIRESTONE TIRES, I FELT IT COULDN'T HURT TO SUBMIT THIS. I AM NOT SURE HOW OLD THE TIRES WERE WHEN WE BOUGHT THE TRUCK IN 1996 (USED). AFTER THE INCIDENT, I REPLACED ALL THE TIRES (SPARE INCLUDED) WITH BRAND NEW *COUGH* FIRESTONE TIRES, AND SOLD THE TRUCK IN APRIL.( DOT NUMBER: )
SUSPENSION PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 1999-01-01
- VIN: 2BLHB23Y4JK
- Components: SUSPENSION
- Summary: LEFT UPPER CONTROL ARM CROSSMEMBER RUSTED THROUGH CAUSING THE COIL SPRING TO PUSH UP THROUGH THE TOP.
ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 1999-01-21
- VIN: JB7FM54E4JP
- Components: ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING
- Summary: WHEN IT'S RAINING OR WATER GETS INTO THE DISTRIBUTOR THROUGH THE ENGINE, THE VEHICLE CUTS COMPLETELY OFF. DEALER HAS NOT SEEN. *AK
TIRES PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2024-11-24
- VIN: 2B7FK1335JR
- Components: TIRES
- Summary: SPARE TIRE CABLE RUSTED OFF CAUSING TIRE TO FALL OFF OF VEHICLE.
STRUCTURE PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2024-11-24
- VIN: 2B4HB11Y4JK
- Components: STRUCTURE
- Summary: FACTORY PAINT ON TOP AND SIDES IS PEELING OFF IN SHEETS.
STEERING PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2024-11-24
- Components: STEERING
- Summary: STEERING GEAR BOX IS CRACKED WHICH CAUSES A LOSS OF POWER STEERING. DEALER SAYS THE CHASSIS NEEDS TO BE REPLACED. *AK
STEERING PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 1997-12-23
- VIN: 2B4KB31W9JK
- Components: STEERING
- Summary: STEERING WHEEL HAS PLAY IN IT, AND DRIVER HAD TO MOVE IT LIKE A FOOT BEFORE ANYTHING HAPPENED,. SPEED APPROXIMATELY 25-60 MPH, NO CHANGE IN WET OR DRY PAVEMENTS, NO WARRANTY ON VEHICLE. DEALER CONTACTED AND TIGHTENED BOLTS, COSTS WERE $62. CONSUMER STATES THAT THE COST WAS TOO MUCH. *AK
ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING,FUEL SYSTEM, GASOLINE PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 1996-06-01
- Components: ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING,FUEL SYSTEM, GASOLINE
- Summary: GASP IN FUEL INTAKE WHEN ACCELERATING OR SOMETIMES WHEN CRUISING ALONG 75 MPH UP AN INCLINE IN PASSING LANE, SPEEDOMETER DROPPED DOWN TO 35 MPH. PREVIOUSLY REPLACED OXYGEN SENSOR/FUEL PUMP/CARBURETOR TWICE. *AK
VEHICLE SPEED CONTROL PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2024-11-24
- Components: VEHICLE SPEED CONTROL
- Summary: VEHICLE SUDDENLY ACCELERATED OUT OF CONTROL, RESULT OF A DEFECTIVE CARBURETOR, SECONDARY THROTTLE PLATE ON THE CARBURETOR CORRODED SHUT DURING THE NORMAL, THROTTLE LINKAGE STICKING AGAINST THE SECONDARY THROTTLE LINKAGE.
VEHICLE SPEED CONTROL PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 1990-12-14
- Components: VEHICLE SPEED CONTROL
- Summary: CABURETOR CORRODED SHUT DURING THE NORMAL USE OF THE TRUCK, RESULTING IN THE PRIMARY THROTTLE LINKAGE STICKING AGAINST THE SECONDARY THROTTLE PLATE CAUSING VEHICLE TOO ACCELERATE AND VEHICLE TO RUN INTO STORE. (ATTORNEY FOR CONSUMER).
VEHICLE SPEED CONTROL PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 1996-08-23
- Crash: 1
- VIN: JB7FL29EJP0
- Components: VEHICLE SPEED CONTROL
- Summary: VEHICLE WAS IN PARK, PUT INTO DRIVE, VEHICLE WENT INTO OPEN THROTTLE POSITION, SPEED UNKNOWN, IMPACT 11:00 POSITION. *AK
SEAT BELTS PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 1994-01-01
- Components: SEAT BELTS
- Summary: SEAT BELT LATCHES BROKE PRIOR TO RECALL. *SD
SEAT BELTS PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 1996-03-01
- VIN: JB7FL25E4JP
- Components: SEAT BELTS
- Summary: PASSENGER SIDE SEAT BUCKLE WILL NOT LATCH PROPERLY. *AK
SEAT BELTS PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 1996-03-01
- VIN: JB7FL25E4JP
- Components: SEAT BELTS
- Summary: PASSENGER SIDE SEAT BUCKLE WILL NOT LATCH PROPERLY. *AK
SEATS PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 1995-11-09
- VIN: 3B4GD12Y5JM
- Components: SEATS
- Summary: PASSENGER'S SEAT HINGE THAT TILTS FORWARD IS MADE OF WEAK MATERIAL CAUSING HINGE TO BREAK. *SD
SEAT BELTS PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 1995-01-01
- VIN: JB7FL25E8JP
- Components: SEAT BELTS
- Summary: DRIVERS SEAT BELT BUCKLE WOULD NOT LATCH. *DSH
ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 1995-04-07
- Components: ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING
- Summary: ENGINE CYLINDER HEAD REPLACED DUE TO ENGINE OVERHEATING/EMITTING FOUL ODOR, ALSO #3 CYLINDER FAILED, ANTIFREEZE TO LEAK INTO ENGINE OIL.. *AW
EQUIPMENT PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 1994-10-20
- VIN: IB6GK1333JX
- Components: EQUIPMENT
- Summary: VEHICLES SPARE TIRE CARRIER CABLE BROKE ON HWY AND TIRE ROLLED OVER TOP OF ANOTHER VEHICLE.TT *JB
Additional sources
More sources of information about 1988 Dodge Ram problems:
1988 RAM -Troubleshooting trouble | Dodge RamCharger Central
Jun 7, 2004 ... 8. If the fuel pressure drops rapidly (to below 10 psi in one minute or less) a leak is present in the fuel supply system. 9. If no leaks are ...
1988 Ford F250 Common Problems | Snow Plowing Forum
Apr 4, 2006 ... ... truck! Thanks!!! :drinkup: -1995 Ford F350 XLT Regular Cab 4X4 7.3L PSD With 8.5' Diamond Plow -2003 Dodge Ram 2500 SLT Crew Cab 4X4 5.7L - ...
Common problems with Ramchargers? | Dodge RamCharger Central
Jun 11, 2011 ... I wouldn't be surprised if this truck will go places your Ram will not go. L.Clemons 1988 Ramcharger AW450-318EFI-NP435 4 speed-NP205 ...
Q&A: Troubleshooting 1988 Dodge Ram 50 Engine Firing Problem
May 13, 2007 ... It sounds like a choke problem. First remove your air cleaner lid and check to see if your choke blade moves freely (it's the butterfly valve at ...
just bought this for 800, what are some common issues with this ...
Mar 14, 2023 ... Ye ole dodge Ram 50. 3 years ago I was driving around a 89' Mitsubishi Mighty Max. Never had any problems with it besides the self changing oil.
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