1996 Dodge Ram 1500

1996 Dodge Ram 1500

The 1996 Dodge Ram 1500 is a popular full-size pickup truck that has been praised for its powerful engines, rugged construction, and spacious interior. It is available with a variety of engine and transmission options, including V6, V8, and diesel options.

While the Ram 1500 is generally a reliable vehicle, there are some common issues that owners have reported. These issues can vary depending on the specific engine and transmission combination, as well as the year of production.

Engine

• 5.2L V8
  • Intake manifold gasket failure
    • Description/Symptoms: Coolant or oil leaking from the intake manifold, engine overheating, reduced power
    • Solution: Replace intake manifold gasket
    • Estimated Cost to Fix: $300 - $600+
    • Recalls: None Found
  • Cylinder head cracking
    • Description/Symptoms: Engine overheating, coolant leaking, white smoke from exhaust
    • Solution: Replace cylinder heads
    • Estimated Cost to Fix: $1,500 - $2,500+
    • Recalls: None Found
• 5.9L V8
  • Valve seat recession
    • Description/Symptoms: Loss of compression, reduced power, engine knocking
    • Solution: Replace valve seats
    • Estimated Cost to Fix: $1,000 - $1,500+
    • Recalls: None Found
  • Lifter failure
    • Description/Symptoms: Engine ticking or knocking, reduced power
    • Solution: Replace lifters
    • Estimated Cost to Fix: $300 - $600+
    • Recalls: None Found

Transmission

• 4-speed automatic (46RE)
  • Overdrive failure
    • Description/Symptoms: Vehicle will not shift into overdrive, transmission slipping
    • Solution: Rebuild or replace transmission
    • Estimated Cost to Fix: $1,000 - $2,000+
    • Recalls: None Found
• 5-speed automatic (545RFE)
  • Solenoid failure
    • Description/Symptoms: Transmission slipping, delayed shifting, check engine light
    • Solution: Replace solenoid
    • Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $500+
    • Recalls: None Found

Suspension

• Front ball joint failure
  • Description/Symptoms: Clunking or popping noises from front suspension, uneven tire wear
  • Solution: Replace ball joints
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $400+
  • Recalls: None Found
• Rear leaf spring failure
  • Description/Symptoms: Sagging or broken rear suspension, rough ride
  • Solution: Replace leaf springs
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $400 - $800+
  • Recalls: None Found

Electrical

• Battery drain
  • Description/Symptoms: Battery dies after sitting overnight, difficulty starting
  • Solution: Identify and repair source of drain
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: Varies depending on source of drain
  • Recalls: None Found
• Headlight switch failure
  • Description/Symptoms: Headlights not working, intermittent operation
  • Solution: Replace headlight switch
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $100 - $200+
  • Recalls: None Found

Exterior

• Door handle failure
  • Description/Symptoms: Door handle breaks or becomes loose, difficulty opening door
  • Solution: Replace door handle
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $100 - $200+
  • Recalls: None Found

Interior

• Window regulator failure
  • Description/Symptoms: Window will not open or close properly, rattling noise
  • Solution: Replace window regulator
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $300 - $600+
  • Recalls: None Found

Summary

The 1996 Dodge Ram 1500 is generally a reliable vehicle, but it is not without its issues. Some of the most common problems include intake manifold gasket failure, valve seat recession, and transmission overdrive failure. These issues can be costly to repair, especially if they are not caught early. It is important to have regular maintenance performed on your Ram 1500 to help prevent these problems from occurring.