1999 Dodge Ram 1500 Van

Vehicle Introduction:

The 1999 Dodge Ram 1500 Van was known for its spacious interior, powerful engine options, and sturdy construction. It came with a variety of engine and transmission options, including the 5.2L V8, 5.9L V8, and 4.7L V8. The 5.2L V8 produced 230 horsepower and 300 lb-ft of torque, while the 5.9L V8 churned out 245 horsepower and 330 lb-ft of torque. The 4.7L V8 was the most fuel-efficient option, offering 215 horsepower and 290 lb-ft of torque. While owners praised the van’s performance and practicality, they also reported some issues, particularly with the engine and suspension components.

Engine

5.2L V8

• Intake Manifold Gasket Failure:
• Description/Symptoms: Coolant or oil leaks around the intake manifold, rough idling, reduced engine performance
• Solution: Replace intake manifold gasket
• Estimated Cost to Fix: $500 - $800+

• Recalls: None Found

• Camshaft Position Sensor Failure:
• Description/Symptoms: Intermittent engine stalling, hard starting, check engine light illumination
• Solution: Replace camshaft position sensor
• Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $400+

• Recalls: None Found

• Powertrain Control Module (PCM) Failure:
• Description/Symptoms: Inability to start, poor engine performance, check engine light illumination
• Solution: Replace PCM
• Estimated Cost to Fix: $500 - $800+
• Recalls: None Found

5.9L V8

• Cylinder Head Gasket Failure:
• Description/Symptoms: Coolant leaks, overheating, white smoke from exhaust
• Solution: Replace cylinder head gasket
• Estimated Cost to Fix: $1,200 - $1,800+

• Recalls: None Found

• Oil Pump Failure:
• Description/Symptoms: Low oil pressure, noisy engine, engine failure
• Solution: Replace oil pump
• Estimated Cost to Fix: $800 - $1,200+

• Recalls: None Found

• Fuel Pump Failure:
• Description/Symptoms: Difficulty starting, engine stalling, loss of power
• Solution: Replace fuel pump
• Estimated Cost to Fix: $400 - $600+
• Recalls: None Found

4.7L V8

• Throttle Position Sensor (TPS) Failure:
• Description/Symptoms: Engine hesitation, poor acceleration, check engine light illumination
• Solution: Replace TPS
• Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $400+

• Recalls: None Found

• Spark Plug Blow Out:
• Description/Symptoms: Engine misfire, rough idling, loss of power
• Solution: Install thread repair kit, replace spark plugs
• Estimated Cost to Fix: $500 - $800+
• Recalls: None Found

Transmission

4-Speed 46RE Automatic

• Torque Converter Shudder:
• Description/Symptoms: Vibration when shifting gears, especially during acceleration
• Solution: Replace torque converter
• Estimated Cost to Fix: $1,200 - $1,800+

• Recalls: None Found

• Transmission Solenoid Failure:
• Description/Symptoms: Harsh shifting, delayed shifting, check engine light illumination
• Solution: Replace transmission solenoid
• Estimated Cost to Fix: $400 - $600+
• Recalls: None Found

No Issues Found for 5-Speed 45RFE Automatic Transmission

Suspension

• Leaf Spring Breakage:
• Description/Symptoms: Sagging rear suspension, rough ride, loss of handling
• Solution: Replace leaf springs
• Estimated Cost to Fix: $600 - $1,000+

• Recalls: None Found

• Ball Joint Failure:
• Description/Symptoms: Clunking or grinding noise while turning, uneven tire wear
• Solution: Replace ball joints
• Estimated Cost to Fix: $300 - $500+

• Recalls: None Found

• Sway Bar Link Failure:
• Description/Symptoms: Rattles or clunks while driving over bumps, poor handling
• Solution: Replace sway bar links
• Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $400+
• Recalls: None Found

Electrical

• Alternator Failure:
• Description/Symptoms: Dimming lights, dead battery, difficulty starting
• Solution: Replace alternator
• Estimated Cost to Fix: $400 - $600+

• Recalls: None Found

• Battery Drain:
• Description/Symptoms: Battery dies prematurely, difficulty starting
• Solution: Locate and fix source of drain, replace battery if necessary
• Estimated Cost to Fix: $100 - $500+
• Recalls: None Found

Exterior

• Clear Coat Peeling:
• Description/Symptoms: Clear coat on paint peeling or bubbling
• Solution: Touch up or repaint affected areas
• Estimated Cost to Fix: $500 - $2,000+
• Recalls: None Found

Interior

• Dashboard Cracking:
• Description/Symptoms: Cracks or warping on the dashboard
• Solution: Replace dashboard or repair using a dashboard repair kit
• Estimated Cost to Fix: $500 - $1,000+
• Recalls: None Found

Summary

The 1999 Dodge Ram 1500 Van had some common issues that owners should be aware of, particularly with the engine and suspension components. The severity of these issues can vary widely, and the estimated cost to fix is largely dependent on the specific parts that need to be replaced. Overall, the Ram 1500 Van is a capable vehicle with a spacious interior and powerful engines, but potential buyers should factor in the potential costs associated with these common issues before making a purchase decision.