1999 Dodge Ram 3500 Van

Introduction

The 1999 Dodge Ram 3500 Van is a versatile workhorse known for its spacious interior, burly V8 engine, and rugged capabilities. It came equipped with a standard 5.9-liter V8 producing 245 horsepower and 442 lb-ft of torque, paired with a four-speed automatic transmission. However, it also offered a more potent 5.9-liter V8 boasting 318 horsepower and 450 lb-ft of torque, mated to a five-speed manual or a four-speed automatic transmission. Owners praise its towing capacity, reliability, and durability, while criticizing its poor fuel economy and somewhat outdated interior.

Engine

5.9L V8 (245 hp)

• Intake Manifold Gasket Failure:
  • Description/Symptoms: Coolant or oil leaks, overheating, loss of power
  • Solution: Replace the intake manifold gasket
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $300 - $600+
  • Recalls: None Found
• EGR Valve Failure:
  • Description/Symptoms: Engine stalling, rough idle, reduced power
  • Solution: Clean or replace the EGR valve
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $100 - $300+
  • Recalls: None Found

5.9L V8 (318 hp)

• Camshaft Position Sensor Failure:
  • Description/Symptoms: No starts, erratic engine performance
  • Solution: Replace the camshaft position sensor
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $150 - $300+
  • Recalls: None Found
• Water Pump Failure:
  • Description/Symptoms: Coolant leaks, overheating
  • Solution: Replace the water pump
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $400+
  • Recalls: None Found

Transmission

4-Speed Automatic (5.9L V8)

• Torque Converter Failure:
  • Description/Symptoms: Slipping gears, shuddering, loss of power
  • Solution: Replace the torque converter
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $1,000 - $2,000+
  • Recalls: None Found

5-Speed Manual (5.9L V8)

• Synchronizer Failure:
  • Description/Symptoms: Difficulty shifting gears, grinding noises
  • Solution: Replace the affected synchronizers
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $500 - $1,000+
  • Recalls: None Found

Suspension

• Ball Joint Wear:
  • Description/Symptoms: Loose or rattling front end, uneven tire wear
  • Solution: Replace the affected ball joints
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $400 per side
  • Recalls: None Found

Electrical

• Alternator Failure:
  • Description/Symptoms: Dimming lights, electrical system failures, charging system warning light
  • Solution: Replace the alternator
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $300 - $600+
  • Recalls: None Found
• Starter Failure:
  • Description/Symptoms: Engine won’t crank, clicking sound
  • Solution: Replace the starter
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $400+
  • Recalls: None Found

Exterior

• Door Handle Failure:
  • Description/Symptoms: Handles breaking, difficulty opening doors
  • Solution: Replace the affected door handles
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $100 - $200 per handle
  • Recalls: None Found

Interior

• Dash Panel Cracking:
  • Description/Symptoms: Cracks appearing on the dashboard
  • Solution: Replace the dash panel
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $300 - $600+
  • Recalls: None Found
• Seat Belt Retractor Failure:
  • Description/Symptoms: Seat belts failing to retract, uncomfortable pulling sensation
  • Solution: Replace the affected seat belt retractors
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $150 - $300 per retractor
  • Recalls: None Found

Summary

While the 1999 Dodge Ram 3500 Van is a capable and reliable workhorse, it has its fair share of issues. Engine problems are not uncommon, especially for the 5.9L V8 engines. Transmission issues are less frequent but can be costly to repair. The suspension and electrical systems also have their quirks. Several interior issues can be annoying and inconvenient but are relatively inexpensive to fix. Overall, the severity and cost of these issues can vary, and it’s essential to consider them when making a purchase decision.