1997 Dodge Ram Pickup 1500 4x4 Sport 5.2 (318ci) V8 from North America
Summary:
Transmission is gone at 53,000 miles
Faults:
The rear window leaked during heavy rains.
The big fault is the transmission. No mechanical problems to speak of until in went at 53,000 miles. The cost to replace is $3000.
General Comments:
I really loved my ram up until about two weeks ago. After 53,000 miles of trouble-free ownership I paid a hefty price.
I purchased my 1997 Ram with the intention of keeping it until the wheels fell off. I love the styling and overall performance... until now. I now have to replace a transmission. I do use my truck as a truck. It is used on the farm in central Kentucky. It has scratches on it and its rarely clean, but it is ALWAYS maintained. I depend on it to run the farm. It tows a load about once a month, usually no heavier than a 18 foot boat (less than 3500 lbs). I always tow with overdrive off and had the tranmission serviced at 41000 miles. I was driving a completely empty truck when the transmission went out. My concern is it seems the comments about transmissions are very similar in symptoms and mileage. So now I wonder, what gives with Dodge trucks? No transmission should be dead after only 53,000 miles.
Would you buy another car from this manufacturer? Don't Know
Review Date: 5th August, 2002
2nd Sep 2002, 19:35
I believe dodge needs to research their transmissions, I too had problems with mine right after warranty ran out and dealer would not repair with out cost.. these comments have been very helpful in making a new car decision for me.