1990 Dodge B150

Introduction

The 1990 Dodge B150 is a full-size van that was available with a variety of engine and transmission options. The base engine is a 3.9L V6 that produces 140 horsepower and 215 lb-ft of torque. A 5.2L V8 engine was also available, producing 170 horsepower and 255 lb-ft of torque. The B150 came standard with a four-speed manual transmission, while a three-speed automatic transmission was optional.

Drivers appreciate the B150’s spacious interior, powerful engines, and versatile cargo hauling capabilities. However, the vehicle has also been criticized for its poor fuel economy and lack of modern features.

Engine

3.9L V6

• Intake Gasket Leak
  • Description/Symptoms: Coolant leaks from the intake manifold gasket, causing overheating and reduced engine performance.
  • Solution: Replace the intake manifold gasket.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $400+
  • Recalls: None Found
• Oil Pressure Sensor Failure
  • Description/Symptoms: The oil pressure sensor fails, causing inaccurate oil pressure readings and potential engine damage.
  • Solution: Replace the oil pressure sensor.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $100 - $200+
  • Recalls: None Found

5.2L V8

• Valve Cover Gasket Leak
  • Description/Symptoms: Oil leaks from the valve cover gasket, causing reduced oil levels and potential engine damage.
  • Solution: Replace the valve cover gasket.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $400+
  • Recalls: None Found
• Exhaust Manifold Bolt Failure
  • Description/Symptoms: The exhaust manifold bolts fail, causing exhaust leaks and potential engine damage.
  • Solution: Replace the exhaust manifold bolts.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $150 - $300+
  • Recalls: None Found

Transmission

Four-Speed Manual

• Synchronizer Wear
  • Description/Symptoms: The synchronizers in the transmission wear out, causing difficulty shifting gears.
  • Solution: Replace the synchronizers.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $500 - $1,000+
  • Recalls: None Found

Three-Speed Automatic

• Torque Converter Failure
  • Description/Symptoms: The torque converter fails, causing transmission slippage and reduced power.
  • Solution: Replace the torque converter.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $800 - $1,200+
  • Recalls: None Found
• Valve Body Malfunction
  • Description/Symptoms: The valve body malfunctions, causing transmission shifting issues and potential transmission damage.
  • Solution: Replace the valve body.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $300 - $600+
  • Recalls: None Found

Suspension

• Leaf Spring Breakage
  • Description/Symptoms: The leaf springs in the rear suspension break, causing reduced ride height and potential handling issues.
  • Solution: Replace the leaf springs.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $400 - $800+
  • Recalls: None Found
• Ball Joint Wear
  • Description/Symptoms: The ball joints in the front suspension wear out, causing loose steering and potential suspension damage.
  • Solution: Replace the ball joints.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $400+
  • Recalls: None Found

Electrical

• Alternator Failure
  • Description/Symptoms: The alternator fails, causing battery drain and potential vehicle stalling.
  • Solution: Replace the alternator.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $300 - $500+
  • Recalls: None Found
• Starter Motor Malfunction
  • Description/Symptoms: The starter motor malfunctions, causing difficulty starting the vehicle.
  • Solution: Replace the starter motor.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $400+
  • Recalls: None Found

Exterior

• Rust Prone
  • Description/Symptoms: The vehicle is prone to rust, especially on the body panels and undercarriage.
  • Solution: Rust prevention measures, such as rustproofing and regular washing, can help mitigate the issue.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: Varies depending on the extent of the rust damage.
  • Recalls: None Found

Interior

• Dashboard Cracking
  • Description/Symptoms: The dashboard cracks due to sun exposure or temperature fluctuations.
  • Solution: Replace the dashboard or cover it with a dash cover.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $300 - $600+
  • Recalls: None Found
• Air Conditioning Failure
  • Description/Symptoms: The air conditioning system fails, causing inadequate cooling.
  • Solution: Repair or replace the air conditioning components, such as the compressor, condenser, or evaporator.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $500 - $1,200+
  • Recalls: None Found

Summary

The 1990 Dodge B150 is a capable and versatile vehicle, but it has some known issues that can be costly to repair. Engine and transmission problems, such as gasket leaks and torque converter failure, are common. The vehicle is also prone to rust and interior issues, such as dashboard cracking and air conditioning failure. Owners should be aware of these potential problems and budget accordingly for maintenance and repairs.