1999 Dodge Ramcharger

Introduction

The 1999 Dodge Ramcharger was a full-size pickup truck that was offered with a variety of engine and transmission options. The standard engine was a 5.2L V8 that produced 230 horsepower and 300 lb-ft of torque. A 5.9L V8 that produced 245 horsepower and 345 lb-ft of torque was optional. Both engines were paired with a 4-speed automatic transmission.

Owners of the 1999 Dodge Ramcharger generally praise the vehicle for its powerful engines, spacious interior, and comfortable ride. However, some owners have reported experiencing various issues with the vehicle, including engine, transmission, suspension, and electrical problems.

Engine

• 5.2L V8
  • Intake manifold gasket failure
    • Description/Symptoms: Coolant and oil leaking from the intake manifold gasket, causing overheating and rough idling.
    • Solution: Replace the intake manifold gasket.
    • Estimated Cost to Fix: $300 - $500
    • Recalls: None Found
  • Cylinder head cracking
    • Description/Symptoms: Loss of coolant, overheating, and white smoke from the exhaust.
    • Solution: Replace the cylinder head.
    • Estimated Cost to Fix: $2,000 - $3,000
    • Recalls: None Found
• 5.9L V8
  • Valve seat recession
    • Description/Symptoms: Loss of compression, reduced power, and misfiring.
    • Solution: Replace the valve seats and valves.
    • Estimated Cost to Fix: $1,500 - $2,500
    • Recalls: None Found

Transmission

• 4-speed automatic
  • Slipping gears
    • Description/Symptoms: Inability to engage gears smoothly or at all, resulting in delayed acceleration or sudden loss of power.
    • Solution: Rebuild or replace the transmission.
    • Estimated Cost to Fix: $1,500 - $3,000
    • Recalls: None Found

Suspension

• Front suspension
  • Ball joint failure
    • Description/Symptoms: Clunking or popping noise from the front end while driving over bumps, reduced steering precision, and uneven tire wear.
    • Solution: Replace the ball joints.
    • Estimated Cost to Fix: $500 - $800
    • Recalls: None Found
• Rear suspension
  • Leaf spring failure
    • Description/Symptoms: Sagging or uneven ride height, rough ride, and potential for axle misalignment.
    • Solution: Replace the leaf springs.
    • Estimated Cost to Fix: $800 - $1,200
    • Recalls: None Found

Electrical

• Alternator failure * Description/Symptoms: Dimming lights, difficulty starting the vehicle, and electrical system malfunctions. * Solution: Replace the alternator. * Estimated Cost to Fix: $500 - $800 * Recalls: None Found
• Battery discharge * Description/Symptoms: Vehicle battery drains quickly, resulting in difficulty starting or a dead battery. * Solution: Test and replace the battery, check for parasitic drains, or repair electrical components causing the discharge. * Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $500 * Recalls: None Found

Exterior

• Tailgate latch failure * Description/Symptoms: Difficulty opening or closing the tailgate, loose tailgate, or tailgate falling off. * Solution: Replace the tailgate latch mechanism. * Estimated Cost to Fix: $150 - $300 * Recalls: None Found
• Window regulator failure * Description/Symptoms: Inability to raise or lower the windows, loose or rattling windows, or broken window glass. * Solution: Replace the window regulator motor or assembly. * Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $400 per window * Recalls: None Found

Interior

• Dashboard cracking * Description/Symptoms: Cracks or splits on the dashboard surface, especially in areas exposed to sunlight. * Solution: Replace or repair the dashboard. * Estimated Cost to Fix: $500 - $1,000 * Recalls: None Found
• HVAC system failure * Description/Symptoms: Inability to control temperature, airflow, or defrost, or malfunctioning climate control system. * Solution: Diagnose and repair the specific components causing the issue, such as actuators, blend doors, or compressor. * Estimated Cost to Fix: $300 - $1,000 * Recalls: None Found

Summary

The 1999 Dodge Ramcharger is a capable truck with powerful engines and a comfortable ride. However, it is not without its issues. Engine problems, such as intake manifold gasket failure and cylinder head cracking, can be costly to repair. Transmission issues, including slipping gears, can also be expensive to fix. Suspension and electrical problems are also common, but they are generally less severe and less expensive to repair. Overall, the 1999 Dodge Ramcharger is a reliable vehicle, but it is important to be aware of its potential issues before purchasing one.