1999 Dodge Ram 1500
Introduction: The 1999 Dodge Ram 1500 is a popular full-size pickup truck known for its ruggedness and versatility. It is powered by a range of engine options, including a 3.9L V6, a 4.7L V8, and a 5.9L V8. The 3.9L V6 produces 175 horsepower and 225 lb-ft of torque, the 4.7L V8 produces 235 horsepower and 300 lb-ft of torque, and the 5.9L V8 produces 245 horsepower and 345 lb-ft of torque. Transmission options include a 5-speed manual transmission, a 4-speed automatic transmission, and a 6-speed manual transmission.
People who appreciate the 1999 Dodge Ram 1500 mention its robust construction, spacious cabin, and powerful engine options. However, some common issues have been reported with this vehicle.
Engine
- 3.9L V6:
- Intake Manifold Gasket Leak:
- Description/Symptoms: Coolant leak, overheating
- Solution: Replace intake manifold gasket
- Estimated Cost to Fix: $500 - $800
- Recalls: None Found
- Intake Manifold Gasket Leak:
- 4.7L V8:
- Intake Manifold Gasket Leak:
- Description/Symptoms: Coolant leak, overheating
- Solution: Replace intake manifold gasket
- Estimated Cost to Fix: $500 - $800
- Recalls: None Found
- Intake Manifold Gasket Leak:
- 5.9L V8:
- Cylinder Head Gasket Failure:
- Description/Symptoms: Coolant leak, overheating, loss of power
- Solution: Replace cylinder head gasket
- Estimated Cost to Fix: $2,000 - $3,000+
- Recalls: None Found
- Cylinder Head Gasket Failure:
Transmission
- 5-speed Manual Transmission:
- Syncro Failure:
- Description/Symptoms: Grinding noises when shifting gears, difficulty shifting
- Solution: Replace syncros
- Estimated Cost to Fix: $500 - $1,000
- Recalls: None Found
- Syncro Failure:
- 4-speed Automatic Transmission:
- Shift Solenoid Failure:
- Description/Symptoms: Transmission slipping, delayed shifting
- Solution: Replace shift solenoid
- Estimated Cost to Fix: $300 - $500
- Recalls: None Found
- Shift Solenoid Failure:
- 6-speed Manual Transmission:
- No Issues Found
Suspension
- Front Ball Joints:
- Description/Symptoms: Clunking noises, uneven tire wear
- Solution: Replace ball joints
- Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $400
- Recalls: None Found
- Rear Leaf Springs:
- Description/Symptoms: Sagging rear end, decreased ride height
- Solution: Replace leaf springs
- Estimated Cost to Fix: $400 - $800
- Recalls: None Found
Electrical
- Alternator Failure:
- Description/Symptoms: Dimming headlights, battery discharge
- Solution: Replace alternator
- Estimated Cost to Fix: $300 - $600
- Recalls: None Found
- Battery Drain:
- Description/Symptoms: Battery dies quickly, even when the vehicle is not in use
- Solution: Diagnose and fix the source of the drain
- Estimated Cost to Fix: $50 - $300+
- Recalls: None Found
Exterior
- Tailgate Cable Failure:
- Description/Symptoms: Tailgate will not open or close properly
- Solution: Replace tailgate cable
- Estimated Cost to Fix: $100 - $200
- Recalls: None Found
- Rear Window Seal Leak:
- Description/Symptoms: Water leaking into the cab
- Solution: Replace rear window seal
- Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $500
- Recalls: None Found
Interior
- Dashboard Cracking:
- Description/Symptoms: Cracks developing on the dashboard
- Solution: Replace dashboard
- Estimated Cost to Fix: $500 - $1,000
- Recalls: None Found
- Power Window Switches:
- Description/Symptoms: Power windows not working
- Solution: Replace power window switches
- Estimated Cost to Fix: $100 - $300
- Recalls: None Found
Summary: The 1999 Dodge Ram 1500 is a capable and popular truck but has some potential issues that can be expensive to repair. The severity of these issues varies, with some being minor inconveniences and others being major mechanical failures. Engine and electrical issues can be particularly costly to address, and the severity of these problems can vary depending on the mileage and maintenance history of the vehicle.