28th Jul 2003, 20:30

Bought 1998 Dodge Ram 1500 SLT Quad Cab in May 31, 2003. Took it in to get it tuned up 3 weeks later, and the computer came back with a torque converter problem. No problems as of yet and had 900 miles of their 1000 mile warranty from the dealer already driven, so I didn't take it back to the dealer (couldn't afford to not have a vehicle at that time). About 2 weeks after that, transmission kicks out of overdrive a couple of times. Took it and had the bands tightened and the fluid changed. Then haul my 5X8 DJ trailer 45 miles with overdrive off, and ruin the tranny. I'm a student and can't afford the repairs. I love the way it looks and rides, but wish I'd have never seen it. My dad helped pick it out with me and he's just plain sick about it!

28th Jul 2003, 20:45

I just bought a used 2000 Dodge Ram 1500. After reading these comments, I am scared to death of taking it to the shop. It makes strange noises when I turn the wheel. I don't know what a torque converter does. My truck has about 45k miles. It is a 4x4. If anyone can give me an idea of what is wrong, I would appreciate it.

Melissah@peerlesscompanies.com.

28th Sep 2003, 10:14

I own a 1998 dodge 1500 4x4 with a 5.9 engine.I've had the truck for a year now. The engine began to ping with spark knock and I had that fixed with a computer update installed.11 months latter and the problem is back.

The lock up torque converter locks in and out after the transmission shifts into overdrive. I also believe the rear shocks need replacing as the back wheels frequently pop off the ground when I hit bumps in the road. This wasn't a problem until recently and it's getting worse. The fuel injectors are also noisy, which is annoying. Any input would be helpful.

Wolfert@dotnet.com.

3rd Oct 2003, 10:43

I own a 1996 Ram 1500 with 100,000 Miles. Have had all the steering replaced twice (Idler Arm, Pitman Arm, U-Joints, etc) now... torque converter & solenoid, etc. has gone out at a cost of $2000. I was curious as to if this was a common problem with Dodge Rams...well, this site gave me my answer. NEVER BY A DODGE AGAIN!

23rd Oct 2003, 06:14

I bought this new 1999 dodge ram 1500 4x4 I love this truck, it presently has 175,000 miles this truck gets 3 tanks of gas a week and a oil change every month and a set of tires every year, but I wouldn't trade it for anything. I'am still on the stock transmission it has never been rebuilt, although it does hesitate going into second sometimes. under the hood I have only replaced one thermostat sepentine belt and two sets of plugs and one set of brakes. i maintain this truck myself. it is the best truck I have ever owned.

Dave Northwood NH

13th Aug 2004, 11:53

I have always tryed to buy, made in the U.S.A, but after this Dodge truck, never again, if this is what you get when you buy made in the U.S.A. I'am done.

26th Aug 2004, 17:32

I just bought a '97 ram 1500 club cab 4x4 with 72k from the original owner. It was very well maintained with no major problems other than regular scheduled service. This truck rides, shifts and feels like a new one! It doesn't make any strange noises, and I don't have a single complaint with it. We've been a mopar family since before I was born, and I will always buy mopar!

9th Sep 2004, 17:07

This is my last Big 3 vehicle. I have currently have a 2000 Dodge 150 4X4 which I've owned since new. In the past year the following have failed:

34000 miles the heater core failed, $1300.00.

36000 miles the steering box failed, $900.00.

Last night (43000 miles) the hood latch failed allowing the hood to flip back while traveling 50 MPH. (Lucky no one was hurt) Estimated cost to replace hood, $1000.00.

I've had other expensive repairs on my last 4 vehicles, one Ford, one Chevy and 2 Chrysler products. The Big 3 have seen my last dollar.

27th Sep 2004, 09:41

I own a 1998 Dodge Quad cab 2 wheel drive. I've gor 109,000 on it now. Rear brakes have not worked properly since I purchased it, replaced front pads 4 times now, rear srill looks like new! Brakes do grab well (throw you into dash) when it's dewy outside. Serviced the transmission 2 weeks ago and discovered one of the valve body bolts in the pan. Checked the rest of the bolts and all were loose, tightened them back up..."dodged" that arrow! ABS light came on at the same time my speedometer started malfunctioning, replaced one speed sensor (on transmission, NOT it and now have to replace another, I didn't realize there was another one one on the rear. Hopefully this will cure current problem. Engine light has been on for about 6 months now. There doesn't seem to be a problem...we'll see. It first came on when truck started missing, changed wires & plugs cured it. Also had to replace catalytic converter at 72,000. I upkeep truck myself and sincerely hope this will be the last of my problems for a while. I had an idea about the gas mileage before going in, always owned a truck, I can live with 13-17 mpg. Overall I love this truck, I'd probably buy another one.

12th Nov 2004, 16:06

I just bought a 1998 RAM 1500 4x4, found out the fuel gauge is off buy a 1/2 tank. The rear differential has been making a grinding noise, and getting worse by the day. The CD player doesn't work. I've already had to put plugs, wires, cap, & rotor because it was missing on three CYL. The truck only has 73,000 miles, new paint & perfect interior. The truck is just sweet, but I'm struggling just to pay the taxes let alone all the repair bills adding up already. My wife is on my case about it, not sure what to do. I guess I'll have to sell my 70 roadrunner, nobody wants my truck because it always setting at a shop.

25th Jan 2005, 01:09

1998 Dodge Ram 1500 Laramie 4x4 Quad Cab. P.O.S..!!! Do not buy a Dodge truck. They are first class JUNK..!!! All the above comments are true. I have had the fuel sending unit in the tank replaced, the rear-end rebuilt and is making noise again, cracked head replaced, I've lost count how many times I had to replace the front brakes, replaced rear speed sensor, replaced transmission twice and getting ready for the third. Torque Converters are WORTHLESS...!!! I can say one good thing about Dodge trucks, they keep mechanics in business, definite job security as a mechanic as long as Dodge keeps making vehicles. That is the first and last Dodge or Chrysler I will ever own.