Dodge W100 problems

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The Dodge Power Wagon is a four-wheel drive medium duty truck that was produced in various model series from 1945 to 1980 by Dodge. The Power Wagon name was revived for the 2005 model year as a four-wheel drive version of the Dodge Ram 2500. As a nameplate, "Power Wagon" continues as a special package of the four-wheel drive version of 3/4 ton Ram Trucks 2500 model.

The original civilian version, commonly called the "flat fender" Power Wagon (FFPW) or "Military Type", was mechanically based on Dodge's 3/4-ton WC series of World War II military trucks. The Power Wagon was the first 4x4 medium duty truck produced by a major manufacturer in a civilian version. It represents a significant predecessor to the many modern four-wheel drive trucks in use today. It was marketed as the WDX truck. Until about 1960 it was internally known by its engineering code T137 – a name still used for the original series by enthusiasts. Following Chrysler Corporation policy of badge engineering to provide a greater number of sales outlets overseas, Power Wagons were also marketed around the world under the Fargo and De Soto badges.

Starting in the 1957 model year, factory four-wheel-drive versions of the Dodge C Series trucks were produced and sold as the W-100, W-200, W-300, and W-500, alongside the older Power Wagon. The pickups had the "Power Wagon" badge on the fender. The older design Power Wagon was marketed as the "Military Type" to distinguish it from the styled pickup versions. Later the "Military Type" was given the series number W-300M, and ultimately WM-300.

The heavy-duty four-wheel-drive W-300 and W-500 trucks were marketed as "Power Giants". The four-wheel-drive version of the Dodge Town Wagon also got the "Power Wagon" badge. The "Military Type" sales in the United States ended by 1968, because the vehicle did not comply with new federal light-duty truck regulations. The "Power Wagon" options continued on the Dodge D-Series through the 1980 model year. For the 1981 model year, "Power Ram" became the marketing logo for the medium-duty Dodge trucks, and the "Power Wagon" name was not used until the 2004 revival.

Back in 1999 there was a Dodge Power Wagon concept.

photo of Dodge W100 car production

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Dodge W100 model years

dodge w100 1976 photo
W100 1976
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dodge w100 1988 photo
W100 1988
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dodge w100 1985 photo
W100 1985
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Common Dodge W100 problems

Based on the complaints from owners of Dodge W100 cars, several common problems have been identified:

  • Electrical Issues: Complaints have surfaced regarding weak or intermittent grounds causing strange electrical problems in Dodge W100 trucks. These issues can be attributed to factors like bad MAP sensors, which can lead to stumbling, poor idle after a warm restart, and popping sounds when the throttle is activated. Additionally, oil consumption and the presence of black residue at the bottom of the throttle body have been highlighted as indicators of potential problems.
  • Engine Reliability: Concerns have been raised about the reliability of V8 engines in Dodge trucks, including the 318, 360, 400, and 440. While the 318 engine is praised for its reliability and longevity, the 360 engine has been criticized for not lasting as long, even with regular maintenance. Limited information is available about the 400 engine, but the 440 engine is noted for its power and reliability similar to the 318.

These common problems with Dodge W100 trucks highlight a range of issues from ignition-related issues to electrical and engine reliability concerns. Addressing these problems promptly and with proper diagnostics can help owners maintain the performance and longevity of their vehicles.

Dodge W100

Is a Dodge w100 a power wagon?

The first light-duty styled Power Wagons came out in 1957 with the introduction of the four-wheel-drive versions of the Dodge C Series pickups and Town Wagons, Beginning in 1957, 1⁄2-ton 2WDs were D100s and 4WDs were W100s, 3⁄4-ton 2WD and 4WD were the D200 and W200 respectively.

Are Dodge pickups reliable?

Ram Trucks are reliable because they are built to be tough. They're made with a rigid frame, body panels and suspension that can handle the harsh conditions of off-road driving. Ram Trucks are also known for their durability, which is why many owner reviews praise the truck's reliability and longevity.

What is the difference between a Dodge D100 and a W100?

D100 is a 1/2 ton 2-wheel drive truck. Later there was a heavier 1/2 ton called D150 or W150. W was the letter designated to 4-wheel drive trucks. W100 would be a 1/2 ton 4-wheel drive truck but if it was built 68 or earlier it would have 3/4 ton axles with a short bed.

What is special about Dodge Power Wagon?

The Power Wagon is the Ram 2500's off-road-focused trim, built to thunder down rocky slopes without losing its cool. It comes solely with a crew cab you can configure to seat five or six passengers. All Power Wagons have a 6-foot-4-inch cargo box. This Ram has amenities that help it shine off-road.

Percentage distribution of complaints by Dodge W100 years

We have researched Dodge problems and analysed all the complaints filed against Dodge W100 cars and compiled the top 3 most problematic Dodge W100 model years:

Below you can see the percentage distribution of known problems by Dodge W100 model years.

Distribution of the number of complaints by Dodge W100 years

We've also compiled a chart for you with the number of complaints about Volkswagen Jetta cars of certain model years:

Dodge W100 car problems categorized by type of issue

After analysing all complaints related to Dodge W100 , it was concluded that the most common issues with these cars are:

  • Suspension problems
  • Power train problems
  • Service brakes problems
  • Hydraulic problems
  • Tires problems

The graph below shows statistics for all Dodge W100 vehicle components and the number of complaints received.

The NHTSA has received 5 complaints about various vehicle components related to the Dodge W100 . Below are the 25 most recent complaints reported for Dodge W100 vehicles.

List of Dodge W100 complaints

Dodge W100 1988
  • Date Of Incident: 2015-05-01
  • Date Complaint: 2015-05-08
  • VIN: 1B7HW04Y4JS
  • Components: POWER TRAIN
  • Summary: I JUST BOUGHT THIS VEHICLE FROM A NEIGHBOR, IT WAS CLEAN AND STRAIGHT AND HAD NOT BEEN DRIVEN FOR YEARS. I DRAINED THE GAS AND INSTALLED A NEW PUMP IN THE TANK, THE MOTOR RUNS GREAT. IN PROGRESSING WITH ROUTINE MAINTENANCE BEFORE TRYING TO DRIVE THIS PICK-UP I STARTED TO INSTALL A NEW TRANSMISSION FILTER WHEN IN THE BOTTOM OF THE PAN I DISCOVERED A WEDGE OF CAST METAL THAT HAD A CUP IN THE MIDDLE OF THE THICK UPPER PORTION THAT WAS BROKEN OUT. I WAS DISAPPOINTED AS I KNEW THIS WOULD BE A PROBLEM. I WENT TO THE LOCAL DEALER AND THEY TOLD ME THAT IT WAS A PARKING SPRAG JUST FROM LOOKING AT IT. THEY SAID THEY COULD ORDER ME ONE AND GAVE ME NO OTHER INFORMATION. SINCE I HAVE BEEN HOME I HAVE DONE SOME RESEARCH AND FOUND THAT THERE WAS A RECALL FOR PROBLEMS WITH THIS PART. MY VIN # IS [XXX] 1988 DODGE SHORT BOX D100 4 WHEEL DRIVE WITH A 5.2 MOTOR. SHOULD I GO AHEAD AND TRANSFER THE TITLE TO MY NAME OR SEW MY FRIEND FOR SELLING ME A LEMON? INFORMATION REDACTED PURSUANT TO THE FREEDOM OF INFORMATION ACT (FOIA), 5 U.S.C. 552(B)(6). *TR
Dodge W100 1988
  • Date Of Incident: 2001-02-12
  • Date Complaint: 2001-04-17
  • VIN: 1B7HW04Y6JS
  • Components: SUSPENSION,TIRES
  • Summary: CONSUMER WAS TRAVELING ABOUT 40MPH AND FELT A LITTLE VIBRATION. SHE WAS ABLE TO STEER ONTO SHOULDERS. FRONT DRIVER'S SIDE TIRE FELL OFF, AND WAS ROLLING DOWN THE STREET . PICKED UP TIRE AND PUT IT INSIDE OF VEHICLE. PRODIGY, RADIALS, R15/31X10, HALF M/F #DOT CC82-VSK4200. *AK
Dodge W100 1976
  • Date Of Incident: 2024-11-24
  • Date Complaint: 1997-03-21
  • Components: SUSPENSION
  • Summary: THE FRONT AXLE NUT FAILED, CUTTING THE COTTER KEY , BREAKING THE SPLINE AND CAUSING THE WHEEL TO FALL OFF.
Dodge W100 1976
  • Date Of Incident: 2024-11-24
  • Date Complaint: 1997-03-21
  • Components: POWER TRAIN
  • Summary: 4 WHEEL DRIVE FRONT AXLE NUT FAILED CAUSING DRIVER TO FIND A REPLACEMENT, REPLACEMENT NUTS WERE NOT THREADED THROUGH ALL THE WAY AND WERE OF A WEAKER MATERIAL.
Dodge W100 1985
  • Date Of Incident: 2024-11-24
  • Date Complaint: 1995-08-14
  • VIN: 1B7HW14T4FS
  • Components: SERVICE BRAKES, HYDRAULIC
  • Summary: VEHICLES METAL BRAKE LINE THAT RUNS TO REAR BRAKES RUPTURED CAUSING BRAKE PEDAL TO GO TO FLOOR WITH NO STOPPING CAPABILITY. TT

Recalls Dodge W100

The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) has issued 3 recalls for different components of the Dodge W100.You can explore the year of the Volkswagen Jetta you are interested in by selecting it from the list.

  • Model: Dodge W100 1988
  • Report Received Date: 1990-07-06
  • Manufacturer: CHRYSLER CORPORATION
  • Components: STRUCTURE:BODY:BUMPERS
  • Summary: IN A REAR END COLLISION, THE PICKUP BOX CROSSMEMBER COULD CONTACT THE FUEL PUMP MODULES FUEL LINE, CAUSING A FUEL LEAK WHICH WOULD BE IN NON-COMPLIANCE WITH FMVSS 301.
  • Consequence: CONSEQUENCE OF DEFECT: LEAKAGE OF FUEL COULD CAUSE A FIRE IF A SOURCE OF IGNITION IS PRESENT.
  • Remedy: INSTALL TWO PICKUP BOX REINFORCEMENT BLOCKER BRACKETS TO THE UNDERCARRIAGE TO ELIMINATE CONTACT WITH FUEL LINE.
  • Model: Dodge W100 1988
  • Report Received Date: 1987-12-26
  • Manufacturer: CHRYSLER CORPORATION
  • Components: POWER TRAIN:AUTOMATIC TRANSMISSION:GEAR POSITION INDICATION (PRNDL)
  • Summary: AUTOMATIC TRANSMISSION MAY CONTAIN A PARK SPRAG ROD ASSEMBLY THAT MAY STICK IN THE TOOTH BUTT UNENGAGED POSITION.
  • Consequence: THIS CONDITION COULD ALLOW THE VEHICLE TO ROLL WITH THEGEAR SHIFT LEVER IN PARK POSITION.
  • Remedy: ALL INVOLVED VEHICLES WILL HAVE THE PARK SPRAG ROD ASSEMBLIES REPLACED.
  • Model: Dodge W100 1976
  • Report Received Date: 1976-02-23
  • Manufacturer: CHRYSLER CORPORATION
  • Components: UNKNOWN OR OTHER

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