1990 Dodge W250

1990 Dodge W250

The 1990 Dodge W250 is a heavy-duty pickup truck available in regular cab, extended cab, and crew cab configurations. It offers several engine and transmission options, including:

• 5.2L V8 (170 hp, 295 lb-ft of torque)
• 5.9L V8 (230 hp, 340 lb-ft of torque)
• 7.4L V8 (230 hp, 360 lb-ft of torque)
• 4-speed automatic transmission
• 5-speed manual transmission
• 6-speed manual transmission

The W250 is praised for its durability, towing capacity, and off-road capabilities. However, it is also known for its lack of refinement, poor fuel economy, and limited interior space.

Engine

5.2L V8

• Intake manifold gaskets leaking: Description: Coolant or oil leaks from the intake manifold gaskets. Symptoms: Engine overheating, coolant leaks, poor engine performance. Solution: Replace intake manifold gaskets. Estimated Cost to Fix: $400 - $600+
• Cylinder head cracking: Description: Cracks in the cylinder head, usually in the valve seat area. Symptoms: Engine overheating, coolant leaks, poor engine performance, misfires. Solution: Replace cylinder head. Estimated Cost to Fix: $1,500 - $2,500+
• Timing chain failure: Description: The timing chain wears out or snaps, resulting in engine timing issues. Symptoms: Engine rattling, loss of power, no start condition. Solution: Replace timing chain and related components. Estimated Cost to Fix: $800 - $1,200+

5.9L V8

• No major issues found

7.4L V8

• Oil pressure sending unit failure: Description: The oil pressure sending unit fails, resulting in inaccurate oil pressure readings or no readings at all. Symptoms: Erratic oil pressure gauge, engine damage if not addressed. Solution: Replace oil pressure sending unit. Estimated Cost to Fix: $100 - $200+

Transmission

4-speed automatic transmission

• No major issues found

5-speed manual transmission

• Clutch master cylinder failure: Description: The clutch master cylinder fails, resulting in a spongy clutch pedal or difficulty engaging gears. Symptoms: Difficulty shifting, clutch pedal sticking or falling to the floor. Solution: Replace clutch master cylinder. Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $300+
• Transmission mount failure: Description: The transmission mount breaks or deteriorates, causing the transmission to move excessively. Symptoms: Vibration, difficulty shifting, driveline noise. Solution: Replace transmission mount. Estimated Cost to Fix: $100 - $200+
• Synchronizer ring wear: Description: The synchronizer rings in the transmission wear out, making shifting difficult or causing grinding noises. Symptoms: Difficult shifting, especially into specific gears, grinding noises. Solution: Rebuild or replace transmission. Estimated Cost to Fix: $1,000 - $2,000+
• No major issues found

Electrical

• Alternator failure: Description: The alternator fails, resulting in a loss of electrical power or battery failure. Symptoms: Dimming headlights, electrical components not working, no start condition. Solution: Replace alternator. Estimated Cost to Fix: $400 - $600+
• Battery drain: Description: The battery drains quickly, even when the vehicle is not running. Symptoms: Battery dies after a few hours or overnight, electrical components not working. Solution: Test for electrical draw and repair any faulty systems. Estimated Cost to Fix: $100 - $500+
• Starter failure: Description: The starter fails to engage the flywheel or turns over slowly. Symptoms: No start condition, clicking noise when trying to start. Solution: Replace starter. Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $400+

Suspension

• Ball joint failure: Description: The ball joints wear out, causing the steering wheel to wobble or shake. Symptoms: Loose or unstable steering, clunking or popping noises. Solution: Replace ball joints. Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $400+ per side
• Leaf spring failure: Description: The leaf springs break or sag, causing the ride height to decrease and the rear end to sag. Symptoms: Sagging rear end, rough ride, unstable handling. Solution: Replace leaf springs. Estimated Cost to Fix: $400 - $600+ per axle
• Shock absorber failure: Description: The shock absorbers fail, resulting in a rough ride and reduced handling. Symptoms: Bouncy or uncontrolled ride, excessive body roll. Solution: Replace shock absorbers. Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $400+ per axle

Exterior

• Headlight switch failure: Description: The headlight switch fails, resulting in no headlights or intermittent headlight operation. Symptoms: Headlights not working, headlights flickering or not turning off. Solution: Replace headlight switch. Estimated Cost to Fix: $100 - $200+
• Tail light assembly failure: Description: The tail light assembly fails, resulting in no tail lights or brake lights. Symptoms: Tail lights or brake lights not working, moisture inside the tail light assembly. Solution: Replace tail light assembly. Estimated Cost to Fix: $50 - $150+ per side
• Door lock failure: Description: The door locks fail, resulting in difficulty locking or unlocking the doors. Symptoms: Doors not locking or unlocking, key fob not working. Solution: Replace door lock actuators. Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $400+ per door

Interior

• HVAC control panel failure: Description: The HVAC control panel fails, resulting in no climate control or inaccurate temperature readings. Symptoms: Blower motor not working, temperature controls not responding, no display. Solution: Replace HVAC control panel. Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $400+
• Power window failure: Description: The power window motors or switches fail, resulting in inoperable windows. Symptoms: Windows not working, slow or noisy window operation. Solution: Replace power window motors or switches. Estimated Cost to Fix: $100 - $300+ per window
• Radio failure: Description: The radio fails, resulting in no sound or distorted sound. Symptoms: No audio output, static or crackling noises. Solution: Replace radio. Estimated Cost to Fix: $100 - $300+

Summary

The 1990 Dodge W250 has some common issues related to engine gaskets, transmission synchronization rings, suspension components, and electrical systems. While some repairs can be relatively inexpensive, others may require significant time and money to fix. Overall, the truck’s durability and towing capabilities make it a popular choice for heavy-duty applications, but potential buyers should be aware of these potential issues.