1981 Dodge Ramcharger problems
The Dodge Ramcharger is a large sport utility vehicle built by Dodge from 1974 to 1993, based on a shortened-wheelbase version of the Dodge D series/Ram pickup chassis. A Plymouth version, named the Plymouth Trail Duster, offered from 1974 to 1981, was Plymouth's only SUV.
The Ramcharger was mostly produced as a two-door, 4×4 vehicle, although a two-wheel-drive version was available. As a full-size SUV, it competed with the Chevrolet K5 Blazer and the 1978–1996 Ford Bronco.
The Ramcharger was discontinued at the end of the 1993 model year in North America. In Mexico, however, production continued until 1996. It was then brought back from 1999 to 2001, still as a two-door SUV and sharing the design of the contemporary Ram pickup. Approximately 30,000 were produced, with all examples being two-wheel-drive only.
In November 2023, Stellantis announced that the Ramcharger nameplate would be revived for a plug-in hybrid version of the 2025 Ram 1500.
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Common 1981 Dodge Ramcharger problems
Based on the complaints from owners of the 1981 Dodge Ramcharger, several common problems have been reported:
- Electrical System Issues: Owners have reported various electrical system problems with the 1981 Dodge Ramcharger. These issues can range from faulty wiring causing electrical shorts to problems with the vehicle's lighting system, affecting headlights, taillights, and interior lights.
- Engine Performance: Complaints regarding engine performance have been noted, including issues with engine stalling, rough idling, and poor acceleration. These problems can be attributed to fuel system malfunctions, ignition system issues, or general engine wear and tear.
- Transmission Concerns: Owners have reported transmission problems with the 1981 Dodge Ramcharger, such as difficulty shifting gears, transmission slipping, or complete transmission failure. These issues can significantly impact the vehicle's drivability and overall performance.
- Braking System Troubles: Brake-related complaints have been common among owners, with reports of brake system malfunctions, including brake fluid leaks, worn brake pads, and issues with the braking mechanism. Proper functioning brakes are crucial for the safety of the vehicle and its occupants.
- Rust and Corrosion: The 1981 Dodge Ramcharger is prone to rust and corrosion issues, especially in regions where salt is used on roads during winter. Owners have reported significant rust damage on the body, frame, and undercarriage of the vehicle, which can compromise its structural integrity over time.
- Suspension Problems: Suspension-related complaints have been raised by owners, indicating issues with the vehicle's suspension system, such as worn-out shocks, springs, or bushings. These problems can lead to a rough ride, poor handling, and uneven tire wear.
- Heating and Cooling System Malfunctions: Some owners have experienced heating and cooling system problems with the 1981 Dodge Ramcharger, including issues with the heater core, radiator, or thermostat. These issues can result in inadequate cabin heating or cooling, leading to discomfort for the occupants.
By addressing these common problems reported by owners of the 1981 Dodge Ramcharger, it is essential for potential buyers and current owners to be aware of these issues to ensure proper maintenance and timely repairs to keep the vehicle in optimal condition.
How much is a Ramcharger worth?
A: The average price of a Dodge Ramcharger is $19,853.
Why was the Ramcharger discontinued?
This version of the Ramcharger was not sold in the U.S. for numerous reasons: Two-door SUV sales had been declining: GM soon ended production of its two-door Chevrolet Tahoe in 1999, and Ford replaced the long-running two-door-only Ford Bronco for the 1997 model year with the four-door Ford Expedition.
Are Ramchargers good off road?
All right well Ram Charger made it back without any major problems and we even did a little bit of off-roading with it we did we took it off-road.
Why wont my Ramcharger start?
The most common reasons a Dodge Ramcharger won't start are a dead battery, an alternator problem, or failed starter.
Why was the Ramcharger discontinued?
This version of the Ramcharger was not sold in the U.S. for numerous reasons: Two-door SUV sales had been declining: GM soon ended production of its two-door Chevrolet Tahoe in 1999, and Ford replaced the long-running two-door-only Ford Bronco for the 1997 model year with the four-door Ford Expedition.
Are Ramchargers good off road?
All right well Ram Charger made it back without any major problems and we even did a little bit of off-roading with it we did we took it off-road.
How much is a Ramcharger worth?
A: The average price of a Dodge Ramcharger is $19,853.
Why wont my Ramcharger start?
The most common reasons a Dodge Ramcharger won't start are a dead battery, an alternator problem, or failed starter.
1981 Dodge Ramcharger car problems categorized by type of issue
After analyzing all complaints sent to the NHTSA and researching popular Dodge Ramcharger problems, we found that the most common problems with these 2023 model year vehicles are:
- Tires problems
The graph below shows statistics for all 1981 Dodge Ramcharger vehicle components and the number of complaints received.
1981 Dodge Ramcharger complaints
The NHTSA has received 1 complaints about various vehicle components related to the 1981 Dodge Ramcharger.
TIRES PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 1999-01-01
- VIN: 1B4GW12R6BS
- Components: TIRES
- Summary: INFO SENT TO WEBMASTER ,I DID RECEIVE A MESSAGE ON THE PHONE BUT LOST THE #. RIGHTREAR TIRE HAD TOTAL TREAD SEPARATION. LEFTREAR REPLACED AFTER HEAVY BULGING OF TREAD NOTICED. NO DOTS ON REPLACED TIRES. BUT BOTH FRONT TIRES ARE FROM THE ORIGINAL SET OF 4 AND STILL OK.(FRONT DOTS-VN60AXC135 & VD60AXC265) LEFTREAR LASTED 2600 MILES, RIGHTREAR LASTED 40K MILES BEFORE TREAD SEPARATION AND DENTING REAR BODY AREA AND RIPING OFF MUFFLER AND TAIL PIPE. LH REAR REPLACED WITH WILDERNESS AT DOTVD60AW3183, RHREAR REPLACED WITH GOODYEAR TIRE. *AK (DOT NUMBER: VN60AXC135 TIRESIZE: 31X10.50R1)
1981 Dodge Ramcharger recalls
The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) has issued 1 recalls for different components of the 1981 Dodge Ramcharger.
- Manufacturer: CHRYSLER CORPORATION
- Components: STRUCTURE:FRAME AND MEMBERS:UNDERBODY SHIELDS
- Summary: VEHICLES ARE NOT IN COMPLIANCE WITH THE IMPACT TEST REQUIREMENTS OF FEDERAL MOTOR VEHICLE SAFETY STANDARD 301, "FUEL SYSTEM INTEGRITY." THE STRUCTURE OF THE REAR STEP BUMPER MAY NOT WITHSTAND A REAR END COLLISION SIMILAR TO THE FORCE CREATED IN TESTING; FUEL LEAKAGE MAY OCCUR UPON IMPACT.
- Remedy: A FUEL TANK PROTECTIVE SKID PLATE WILL BE INSTALLED FREE OF CHARGE.
Additional sources
More sources of information about 1981 Dodge Ramcharger problems:
Common problems with Ramchargers? | Dodge RamCharger Central
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Other years of Dodge Ramcharger
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