1996 Dodge Ram 2500 Van

Introduction:

The 1996 Dodge Ram 2500 Van is a full-size commercial van offered with a range of engine and transmission options. It was known for its spacious interior, rugged construction, and powerful engines. However, it also had some notable issues that plagued owners.

Engine

5.2L V8

• Intake Manifold Gasket Failure
  • Description/Symptoms: Coolant leaks, overheating, rough idle, loss of power.
  • Solution: Replace intake manifold gaskets.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $500 - $1,000
  • Recalls: None Found
• Oil Pump Failure
  • Description/Symptoms: Low oil pressure, knocking noises, engine seizure.
  • Solution: Replace oil pump.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $800 - $1,200
  • Recalls: None Found

5.9L V8

• Head Gasket Failure
  • Description/Symptoms: Coolant leaks, overheating, loss of power, exhaust smoke.
  • Solution: Replace head gaskets.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $2,000 - $3,000
  • Recalls: None Found

Transmission

4-Speed Automatic (46RE)

• Overdrive Clutch Failure
  • Description/Symptoms: Transmission slipping in overdrive, poor acceleration.
  • Solution: Rebuild transmission or replace overdrive clutch solenoid.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $1,500 - $2,500
  • Recalls: None Found
• Valve Body Failure
  • Description/Symptoms: Erratic shifting, no shifts, delayed engagement.
  • Solution: Rebuild or replace valve body.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $500 - $1,000
  • Recalls: None Found

Suspension

No Issues Found

Electrical

Battery Drain * Description/Symptoms: Battery going dead overnight, dim headlights, flickering gauges. * Solution: Inspect wiring for shorts, test battery and alternator. * Estimated Cost to Fix: $100 - $300 * Recalls: None Found

Exterior

Rusty Tailgate * Description/Symptoms: Rust forming on the inside of the tailgate, leading to paint bubbling and flaking. * Solution: Replace or repair tailgate. * Estimated Cost to Fix: $500+ * Recalls: None Found

Interior

Dashboard Fade * Description/Symptoms: Dashboard color fading or peeling, especially on sun-exposed surfaces. * Solution: Replace or resurface dashboard. * Estimated Cost to Fix: $500 - $1,000 * Recalls: None Found

Summary:

The 1996 Dodge Ram 2500 Van had several significant issues, with engine and transmission problems being the most costly and severe. Owners reported head gasket failures, oil pump failures, and oil pump failures on the 5.9L V8 engine, while the 4-speed automatic transmission was prone to overdrive clutch and valve body issues. Additionally, rusting tailgates and dashboard fading were common exterior and interior problems. The estimated cost to repair these issues varied widely depending on the severity and parts needed.