1995 Dodge Ram 2500

Introduction

The 1995 Dodge Ram 2500 is a heavy-duty pickup truck with a reputation for durability and reliability. It is available with a variety of engine and transmission options, including a 5.2L V8, a 5.9L V8, and a 7.2L V8. Horsepower and torque vary depending on the engine choice. People generally praise the Ram 2500 for its powerful engines, rugged construction, and spacious interior. However, it has also been criticized for its poor fuel economy and lack of refinement in certain areas.

Engine

5.2L V8

• Blown Head Gasket: Symptoms include overheating, coolant leaks, and poor engine performance. Solution: Replace the head gasket, resurfaced the cylinder heads. Estimated Cost to Fix: $1,500 - $2,500+ Recalls: NHTSA Campaign Number 97V041000
• Intake Manifold Gasket Failure: Symptoms include coolant or oil leaks, poor engine performance, and overheating. Solution: Replace the intake manifold gasket. Estimated Cost to Fix: $500 - $1,000+ Recalls: None Found

5.9L V8

• Cracked Intake Manifold: Symptoms include rough idling, stalling, and decreased engine power. Solution: Replace the intake manifold. Estimated Cost to Fix: $800 - $1,500+ Recalls: NHTSA Campaign Number 05V175000
• Valve Train Issues: Symptoms include ticking or tapping noises from the engine, reduced engine power, and increased oil consumption. Solution: Replace the lifters, camshaft, or rocker arms as needed. Estimated Cost to Fix: $1,000 - $3,000+

7.2L V8

• Broken Timing Chain: Symptoms include a grinding noise from the engine, loss of power, and engine damage. Solution: Replace the timing chain. Estimated Cost to Fix: $2,000 - $3,500+ Recalls: None Found

Transmission

5-Speed Manual

• Leaking Transfer Case: Symptoms include fluid leaks from the transfer case. Solution: Replace the transfer case seals or gasket. Estimated Cost to Fix: $500 - $1,200+ Recalls: None Found

4-Speed Automatic

• Slipping Gears: Symptoms include difficulty shifting gears, delayed shifting, or a shuddering transmission. Solution: Rebuild or replace the transmission. Estimated Cost to Fix: $2,000 - $4,000+ Recalls: NHTSA Campaign Number 93V048000

Suspension

• Worn Ball Joints: Symptoms include clunking noises while driving, or a loose or wobbling steering wheel. Solution: Replace the ball joints. Estimated Cost to Fix: $500 - $1,200+ Recalls: None Found
• Leaking Shocks: Symptoms include poor ride quality, excessive bouncing, or uneven tire wear. Solution: Replace the leaking shock absorbers. Estimated Cost to Fix: $300 - $800+

Electrical

• Alternator Failure: Symptoms include dim or flickering lights, difficulty starting the engine, or a dead battery. Solution: Replace the alternator. Estimated Cost to Fix: $500 - $1,200+ Recalls: None Found
• Faulty Wiring Harness: Symptoms may vary widely depending on the affected circuit. Solution: Diagnose and repair the faulty wiring. Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $1,000+

Exterior

• Rusty Door Hinges: Symptoms include stiffness or difficulty opening doors, squeaking or grinding noises while opening doors. Solution: Lubricate the door hinges, or replace the hinges if necessary. Estimated Cost to Fix: $100 - $500+
• Peeling or Fading Trim: Symptoms include faded or peeling trim around windows, bumpers, or grill. Solution: Replace the trim or use a trim restorer. Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $1,000+ Recalls: None Found

Interior

• Door Panel Sagging: Symptoms include loose or sagging door panels that may interfere with window operation or latching. Solution: Reattach the door panel to the door frame or replace the clips. Estimated Cost to Fix: $100 - $400+ Recalls: None Found
• HVAC Blower Motor Failure: Symptoms include a lack of airflow from the vents or noisy operation of the blower motor. Solution: Replace the blower motor or associated wiring. Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $600+

Summary

Overall, the 1995 Dodge Ram 2500 is a reliable and durable truck. However, it is not immune to certain issues, particularly with its engines and transmission. The severity of these issues varies, and the cost to repair them can range from minor to significant. Potential buyers should be aware of these potential problems and factor them into their decision-making process.