Dodge Wagon problems
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.
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Dodge Wagon model years
Common Dodge Wagon problems
The Dodge Magnum, a sports wagon produced by Dodge from 2005 to 2008, has been known for its unique design and powerful engine options. However, it has also been criticized for its reliability issues. Here are some of the most common problems with the Dodge Magnum, based on complaints from owners:
- Powertrain Problems: The Dodge Magnum has had two powertrain recalls. The first recall covers 2008 models with missing torque retention crimps, which can cause the rear axle hubs to loosen and potentially cause a loss of drive. The second recall covers 2005-2008 models with a power steering hose that may leak, causing a loss of power steering and potentially leading to a crash.
- Engine Problems: The base engine in the Dodge Magnum, a 2.7-liter V6, has been criticized for its poor performance and reliability issues. It has been known to suffer from oil sludge problems and misfires, which can lead to engine failure. The 3.5-liter V6, which was an optional engine, has also been criticized for its poor transmission, which can overheat and have rough shifting.
- Suspension Problems: The Dodge Magnum has been known to have suspension issues, including clunking, squeaking, rattling, and leaking. These issues can be caused by a variety of suspension parts, including struts, strut mounts, strut rods, sway bar links, sway bar bushings, control arms, brakes, tie rods, and ball joints.
- Interior Problems: The interior of the Dodge Magnum has been criticized for its poor quality and rattling. The hard plastic interior has been known to break and rattle, even during normal driving. Additionally, the turn signal has been known to fail to cancel after making a turn, causing the driver to look like a "little old lady in Florida."
- Ignition Problems: The Dodge Magnum has been known to have ignition problems, including issues with the ignition switch and the key fob. These issues can cause the car to fail to start or to stall while driving.
These are just a few of the common problems with the Dodge Magnum. While the car has been praised for its roomy interior and powerful engine options, its reliability issues have been a major concern for many owners. If you are considering purchasing a Dodge Magnum, it is important to be aware of these common problems and to consider the potential costs of repairs and maintenance.
How long do Dodge Power Wagons last?
The Hemi is a solid engine and can last 250k or more miles if maintained, the 545RFE transmission does about as well. All other items are normal wear items front-end, steering components, hubs, u-joints, etc. and are normally just replaced one-by-one as they go bad. So the truck will last as long as you want it too.
What years to avoid for the 5.7 hemi?
The worst years
While the 5.7L HEMI is a powerful and reliable motor, it isn't free from bugs. 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.
What are the problems with a Dodge Magnum?
Despite receiving low reliability ratings, the Magnum still impressed many drivers with how easy it was to maintain. The model, however, still has its issues. Some of these include malfunctioning airbags, ignition problems, and stuck gear shifters.
Do power wagons hold their value?
2023 Ram 2500 HD - 66.3 Percent Resale Value
Laramie models like our previous long-term review 2500 truck hold their value at right about the average for the range, while the burly Ram 2500 Power Wagon and Rebel are slightly below at 65 percent.
Percentage distribution of complaints by Dodge Wagon years
We have researched Dodge problems and analysed all the complaints filed against Dodge Wagon cars and compiled the top 5 most problematic Dodge Wagon model years:
Below you can see the percentage distribution of known problems by Dodge Wagon model years.
Distribution of the number of complaints by Dodge Wagon years
We've also compiled a chart for you with the number of complaints about Volkswagen Jetta cars of certain model years:
Dodge Wagon car problems categorized by type of issue
After analysing all complaints related to Dodge Wagon , it was concluded that the most common issues with these cars are:
- Suspension problems
- Power train problems
- Exterior lighting problems
- Seats problems
- Air bags problems
The graph below shows statistics for all Dodge Wagon vehicle components and the number of complaints received.
Distribution of the number of complaints where the accident occurred by Wagon model years
A total of 1 complaints were registered in which the accident occurred. In the graph you can see the distribution of the number of complaints by model year.
The NHTSA has received 9 complaints about various vehicle components related to the Dodge Wagon . Below are the 25 most recent complaints reported for Dodge Wagon vehicles.
List of Dodge Wagon complaints
Dodge Wagon 1996
- Date Of Incident: 2008-02-02
- Date Complaint: 2008-02-06
- Crash: 1
- VIN: 2B4HB15Y8TK
- Components: AIR BAGS
- Summary: TL*THE CONTACT OWNS A 1996 DODGE WAGON. THE CONTACT STATED THAT HER HUSBAND AND BROTHER WERE INVOLVED IN A SERIOUS CRASH WHILE DRIVING APPROXIMATELY 45-50 MPH. THE VEHICLE WAS DESTROYED. THE AIR BAGS FAILED TO DEPLOY. A POLICE REPORT WAS FILED. THE CONTACT HAS NOT CONSULTED THE DEALER OR MANUFACTURER. THE PURCHASE DATE WAS UNKNOWN. THE CURRENT AND FAILURE MILEAGES WERE 155,000.
Dodge Wagon 1990
- Date Of Incident: 2007-08-01
- Date Complaint: 2008-02-02
- VIN: 1B3XA5638LF
- Components: EXTERIOR LIGHTING
- Summary: MY CAR HAS BEEN HAVING A HEADLIGHT PROBLEM. IT STARTED THE MIDDLE OF 2007 AND IS STILL HAPPENING. I REPLACED THE SWITCH BOX IN THE DASHBOARD AND THE PROBLEM HAD STOPPED. IN JANUARY 2008 THE PROBLEM HAPPENED AGAIN. I HAPPENS MAINLY AT NIGHT, THE LIGHTS WILL BE ON THEN THEY JUST GO OUT AND SOMETIMES THEY TAKE LONGER THAN A SECOND TO COME BACK ON. THIS IS A SERIOUS PROBLEM BECAUSE AT NIGHT WHEN I DON'T HAVE LIGHTS I CANNOT SEE. ONE OF THESE TIMES, I WILL GO INTO THE DITCH. *TR
Dodge Wagon 1998
- Date Of Incident: 2005-02-04
- Date Complaint: 2005-02-08
- Components: SUSPENSION
- Summary: THE DRIVER SIDE STRUT TOWER ON MY WIFES 98 CARAVAN IS NEARLY RUSTED THROUGH. IF IT FAILS SHE COULD BE INJURED OR KILLED. CHRYSLER WILL NOT ACCEPT RESPONSIBILITY FOR THEIR OBVIOUS ENGINEERING FAILURE. I HAVE TO PAY FOR THE REPAIR $600.00 - $1800.00. *AK
Dodge Wagon 1999
- Date Of Incident: 2004-12-05
- Date Complaint: 2004-12-12
- VIN: 1B4HS28Z9XF
- Components: SUSPENSION
- Summary: I HAVE A 1999 DODGE DURANGO. I HAVE SEEN YOUR RECENT REQUEST FOR CHRYSLER TO RECALL THE DURANGO BECAUSE OF THE UPPER BALL JOINTS. THE RECALL REQUEST WAS 2000-2004 DURANGOS AND DAKOTAS. I HAVE HAD TO REPLACE THE BALL JOINTS AND FRONT AXALS IN MY TRUCK TWICE . THIS IS THE SAME BODY STYLE AS 2000 THR 2004 . WHY ARE THEY NOT REQUESTING RECALL ON THE 1999 DURANGOS TO? *JB
Dodge Wagon 1999
- Date Of Incident: 2001-07-31
- Date Complaint: 2004-12-10
- VIN: 1B4HS28YXXF
- Components: SUSPENSION
- Summary: I HAVE HAD TIE ROD ENDS REPLACED ON MY 1999 DURANGO TWICE. ONCE AT 23883 MILES (7/31/01) AND AGAIN AT 45534 MILES AND BALL JOINTS REPLACED AT 45534(9/03/2004. BOTH TIMES THE HANDLING OF THE VEHICLE BECAME VERY UNSTABLE. I WROTE TO DODGE AND CALLED WITH THE ONLY RESPONSE THAT I NEEDED TO HAVE A QUALIFIED DODGE DEALER DO THE WORK, WHICH I HAD, BOTH TIMES. MY CONCERN IS WITH ALL THE FRONT END ISSUES I'VE HAD, WILL I HAVE TO REPLACE SOMETING AGAIN IN ANOTHER 20,000 MILES AND IS THE VEHICLE SAFE?*AK
Dodge Wagon 1998
- Date Of Incident: 2003-11-24
- Date Complaint: 2004-01-15
- Components: FUEL SYSTEM, GASOLINE
- Summary: FUEL TANK DEVELOPED A HOLE. AS A RESULT, AN ODOR SEEPED INTO THE VEHICLE. *AK WHEN THE GAS TANK WAS REMOVED, THE HOLE WAS VISIBLE. *JB *NM
Dodge Wagon 1995
- Date Of Incident: 2000-08-01
- Date Complaint: 2002-06-04
- VIN: 2B4HB25Z6SK
- Components: POWER TRAIN
- Summary: IN AUGUST OF 2000 MY WIFE AND I TOOK A TRIP UTILIZING THIS VAN TO PULL OUR TRAVEL TRAILER OUT TO THE EAST COAST, (MAINE). PRIOR TO DEPARTURE ALL FLUID LEVELS WHERE CHECKED AND ADJUSTED. WHEN STOPPING FOR FUEL IN VERMONT I NOTICED (SMELLED) THE ODOR OF HOT GEAR GREASE. UPON INSPECTION I DISCOVERED THAT OIL WAS BEING BLOWN OUT PAST THE PINION SEAL. I PROCEEDED TO REFILL THE DIFFERENTIAL AND CONTINUED ON OUR TRIP CHECKING THE FLUID PRIOR TO EACH LEG OF OUR TRIP. UPON ARRIVING HOME FROM OUR TRIP I PURCHASED A NEW SEAL FROM OUR LOCAL CHRYSLER DEALER AND REPLACED LEAKING PINION SEAL. THIS VEHICLE (AND THE TRAILER THAT IT TOWS) ARE STORED INSIDE ALL WINTER. IN GETTING THE VEHICLE READY FOR A TRIP IN MAY OF 2002 I OBSERVED THAT THE ABS LIGHT WAS ON AND IN DIAGNOSING THE PROBLEM WITH THE ABS SYSTEM IDENTIFIED THAT THE PINION SEAL IS LEAKING GEAR OIL AGAIN. THE ABS SENSOR ON THE DIFFERENTIAL HAD FAILED, I BELIEVE, FROM THE EXCESSIVE HEAT OF THE REAR AXEL. IN RESEARCHING WHAT THE CAUSE OF THE PINION SEAL COULD BE I HAVE IDENTIFIED THAT CHRYSLER OR ITS SUBCONTRACTOR DURING THE MANUFACTURING OF THE AXEL HOUSING FAILED TO PLACE A VENT IN EITHER THE AXEL TUBE OR THE DIFFERENTIAL HOUSING ALLOWING THE PRESSURE FROM THE HOT OIL TO PUSH THE OIL OUT OF THE HOUSING PAST THE PINION SEAL. IN TALKING TO OTHER DODGE OWNERS I HAVE BEEN TOLD THAT THEY HAD A PROBLEM WITH THE DIFFERENTIAL FILL PLUG (PLASTIC) BEING BLOWN OUT FROM THE PRESSURE THEREBY ALLOWING THE OIL TO LEAK. I SUSPECT THAT THE WAY THE DIFFERENTIAL NOW SINGS AND BY THE BLUEING OF THE METAL THAT IT IS HEADED FOR FAILURE IN THE VERY NEAR FUTURE. HOPEFULLY YOU CAN CONVINCE DODGE TO DO A RECALL AND INSTALL VENTS ON THE AXEL TUBES OF THOSE TRUCKS THAT HAVEN'T YET HAD AN OVERHEATING PROBLEM, AND TO ALSO TAKE CARE OF THOSE CUSTOMERS THAT HAVE HAD A PROBLEM. THANK YOU FOR YOUR TIME. *AK
Dodge Wagon 1992
- Date Of Incident: 1992-01-01
- Date Complaint: 2000-11-11
- VIN: 2B6HB21Y5NK
- Components: POWER TRAIN
- Summary: NHTSA ITEM #SB032264-SERVICE BULLETIN #211892- DATE OF BULLETIN 9211. NO SAFETY DEFECT LISTED. *AK
Dodge Wagon 1995
- Date Of Incident: 1999-12-01
- Date Complaint: 2000-02-16
- VIN: 2B4GH4538SR
- Components: SEATS
- Summary: SEAT LATCH FAILED CAUSING THE FRONT DRIVER SEAT BACK TO BREAK. NLM
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