1997 Dodge B2500

Introduction: The 1997 Dodge B2500 is a heavy-duty 3/4-ton pickup truck offered with various engine and transmission options. It boasts a powerful standard 5.2L V8 engine producing 230 horsepower and 325 lb-ft of torque. Other engine options include a 5.9L V8 and a 7.2L V8, while transmission choices include a 4-speed automatic, 5-speed manual, and 6-speed manual. The B2500 is known for its ruggedness, towing capacity, and spacious interior. However, some common issues have been reported by owners.

Engine

• 5.2L V8
  • Cracked Intake Manifold: Description/Symptoms: Coolant leaks, overheating, rough idling, reduced power; Solution: Replace intake manifold; Estimated Cost to Fix: $500 - $1,000+
  • Camshaft Sensor Failure: Description/Symptoms: Stalling, difficulty starting, reduced engine power; Solution: Replace camshaft sensor; Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $400
• 5.9L V8
  • Head Gasket Failure: Description/Symptoms: Coolant leaks, overheating, white smoke from exhaust; Solution: Replace head gasket; Estimated Cost to Fix: $1,000 - $2,000
• 7.2L V8
  • Piston Ring Failure: Description/Symptoms: Excessive oil consumption, blue smoke from exhaust, loss of power; Solution: Rebuild engine; Estimated Cost to Fix: $3,000 - $5,000+

Transmission

• 4-Speed Automatic
  • Torque Converter Issues: Description/Symptoms: Slipping gears, delayed engagement, overheating; Solution: Replace torque converter; Estimated Cost to Fix: $1,500 - $2,500
  • Transmission Fluid Leaks: Description/Symptoms: Dripping fluid, low fluid levels, slippage; Solution: Repair leaks, replace seals; Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $600
• 5-Speed Manual
  • Clutch Failure: Description/Symptoms: Slipping, difficulty shifting, grinding noises; Solution: Replace clutch; Estimated Cost to Fix: $1,000 - $1,500
• 6-Speed Manual
  • No Issues Found

Suspension

• Front Suspension:
  • Ball Joint Wear: Description/Symptoms: Clunking noises, excessive play, uneven tire wear; Solution: Replace ball joints; Estimated Cost to Fix: $400 - $800
• Rear Suspension:
  • Leaf Spring Breakage: Description/Symptoms: Sagging rear end, excessive bounce, handling problems; Solution: Replace leaf springs; Estimated Cost to Fix: $600 - $1,200

Electrical

• Alternator Failure: Description/Symptoms: Dimming lights, reduced battery life, electrical problems; Solution: Replace alternator; Estimated Cost to Fix: $500 - $800
• Starter Problems: Description/Symptoms: Difficulty starting, grinding noises, no response; Solution: Repair or replace starter; Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $600
• Fuse Box Issues: Description/Symptoms: Blown fuses, electrical malfunctions, intermittent power; Solution: Repair or replace fuse box; Estimated Cost to Fix: $100 - $300

Exterior

• Rear Bumper Rust: Description/Symptoms: Rust and corrosion on rear bumper; Solution: Replace rear bumper; Estimated Cost to Fix: $500 - $1,000

Interior

• Door Panel Sagging: Description/Symptoms: Door panels hanging loosely, rattling noises; Solution: Repair or replace door panel mounting brackets; Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $400
• Center Console Cup Holder Weakness: Description/Symptoms: Cup holders break easily, cannot hold drinks securely; Solution: Replace center console; Estimated Cost to Fix: $300 - $500

Summary: The 1997 Dodge B2500 is a rugged and capable pickup truck, but it is not without its issues. The most common problems involve the engine, especially with the 5.2L and 5.9L V8s. Issues with the transmission and suspension can also be costly to repair. The electrical system and interior have minor problems to address. Overall, these issues range from relatively inexpensive to moderately expensive to fix, and the severity may vary depending on the specific part failure and its impact on the vehicle’s drivability.