1999 Dodge Ram 4000
Introduction
The 1999 Dodge Ram 4000 is a heavy-duty pickup truck offered with two engine options: a 5.9L V8 and a 8.0L V10. The 5.9L V8 produces 245 horsepower and 345 lb-ft of torque, while the 8.0L V10 produces 310 horsepower and 450 lb-ft of torque. Both engines are paired with a 4-speed automatic transmission. The Ram 4000 is praised for its powerful engines, impressive towing and payload capacities, and spacious interior. However, it is criticized for its poor fuel economy and stiff ride.
Engine
5.9L V8
- Intake Manifold Gasket Failure
Description/Symptoms: Coolant leaks, overheating, rough idle Solution: Replace intake manifold gasket Estimated Cost to Fix: $500 - $1000 Recalls: None Found
- Head Gasket Failure
Description/Symptoms: White smoke from exhaust, coolant leaks, overheating Solution: Replace head gaskets Estimated Cost to Fix: $1200 - $2000+ Recalls: None Found
8.0L V10
- Spark Plug Failure
Description/Symptoms: Misfires, reduced power, increased fuel consumption Solution: Replace spark plugs Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $400 Recalls: None Found
- Ignition Coil Failure
Description/Symptoms: Misfires, reduced power, hard starting Solution: Replace ignition coils Estimated Cost to Fix: $400 - $800 Recalls: None Found
Transmission
4-Speed Automatic
- Solenoid Failure
Description/Symptoms: Shifting problems, delayed engagement, slipping gears Solution: Replace solenoid Estimated Cost to Fix: $300 - $600 Recalls: None Found
- Torque Converter Failure
Description/Symptoms: Shuddering, overheating, loss of power Solution: Replace torque converter Estimated Cost to Fix: $1200 - $2000 Recalls: None Found
Suspension
- Front Ball Joint Failure
Description/Symptoms: Clunking noises, wandering steering, uneven tire wear Solution: Replace ball joints Estimated Cost to Fix: $400 - $800 Recalls: None Found
- Rear Leaf Spring Failure
Description/Symptoms: Sagging rear end, unstable handling, uneven tire wear Solution: Replace leaf springs Estimated Cost to Fix: $600 - $1200+ Recalls: None Found
Electrical
- Alternator Failure
Description/Symptoms: Dimming lights, flickering gauges, battery drain Solution: Replace alternator Estimated Cost to Fix: $500 - $800+ Recalls: None Found
- Battery Failure
Description/Symptoms: Difficulty starting, weak lights, dead battery Solution: Replace battery Estimated Cost to Fix: $100 - $200 Recalls: None Found
Exterior
- Tailgate Cable Failure
Description/Symptoms: Difficult to open or close tailgate, tailgate falling down Solution: Replace tailgate cable Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $400 Recalls: None Found
Interior
- Climate Control Failure
Description/Symptoms: Malfunctioning AC, heater, or fan Solution: Repair or replace climate control unit Estimated Cost to Fix: $300 - $800+ Recalls: None Found
- Gauge Cluster Failure
Description/Symptoms: Gauges not working, flickering, or inaccurate readings Solution: Repair or replace gauge cluster Estimated Cost to Fix: $400 - $1000 Recalls: None Found
Summary
Overall, the 1999 Dodge Ram 4000 is a reliable truck with several common issues. The most severe and costly issues are related to the engine (head gasket failure) and transmission (torque converter failure). However, many of the other issues are minor and relatively inexpensive to fix.