2000 Dodge Ram 4000
Introduction:
The 2000 Dodge Ram 4000 is a heavy-duty pickup truck that offers a wide range of engine and transmission options. Available engines include the 5.9L Magnum V8, 8.0L V10, and 5.9L Cummins turbodiesel inline-six. Transmission choices include the 47RE four-speed automatic and the NV4500 five-speed manual. The Ram 4000 is known for its powerful engines, rugged construction, and spacious cabin. However, it has also been plagued by a number of issues.
Engine
5.9L Magnum V8
- Intake manifold gasket failure: The intake manifold gasket can fail, causing coolant and oil leaks. Symptoms include a loss of coolant, an increase in oil consumption, and a rough idle. The solution is to replace the intake manifold gasket. Estimated cost to fix: $500 - $1,000+
8.0L V10
- Spark plug blowouts: The spark plugs can blow out of the cylinder heads, causing a loss of power and engine damage. Symptoms include a misfire, a rough idle, and a loss of compression. The solution is to replace the spark plugs and install new cylinder heads. Estimated cost to fix: $2,000 - $5,000+
5.9L Cummins turbodiesel inline-six
- Turbocharger failure: The turbocharger can fail, causing a loss of power and increased emissions. Symptoms include a lack of boost, a decrease in fuel economy, and an increase in smoke from the exhaust. The solution is to replace the turbocharger. Estimated cost to fix: $1,500 - $3,000+
- Fuel injector failure: The fuel injectors can fail, causing a loss of power and a rough idle. Symptoms include a misfire, a lack of power, and an increase in fuel consumption. The solution is to replace the fuel injectors. Estimated cost to fix: $500 - $1,000+
Transmission
47RE four-speed automatic
- Transmission slipping: The transmission can slip, causing a loss of power and a rough ride. Symptoms include a loss of acceleration, a jerking sensation when shifting gears, and a whining noise from the transmission. The solution is to rebuild or replace the transmission. Estimated cost to fix: $1,500 - $3,000+
NV4500 five-speed manual
- Transmission grinding: The transmission can grind when shifting gears. Symptoms include a difficult time shifting gears, a grinding noise when shifting, and a loss of power. The solution is to replace the transmission. Estimated cost to fix: $1,500 - $2,500+
Suspension
Front suspension: The front suspension can wear out prematurely, causing a loss of control and a rough ride. Symptoms include a loss of steering precision, a wandering feeling when driving, and an increase in noise from the front suspension. The solution is to replace the worn suspension components. Estimated cost to fix: $500 - $1,500+
Rear suspension: The rear suspension can also wear out prematurely, causing a loss of stability and a rough ride. Symptoms include a loss of traction, a swaying feeling when driving, and an increase in noise from the rear suspension. The solution is to replace the worn suspension components. Estimated cost to fix: $500 - $1,500+
Electrical
Electrical short: The electrical system can short out, causing a loss of power and a potential fire hazard. Symptoms include a loss of power, a burning smell, and smoke from the electrical system. The solution is to find and repair the short. Estimated cost to fix: $500 - $1,000+
Battery failure: The battery can fail prematurely, causing a loss of power. Symptoms include a difficulty starting the vehicle, a dim or flickering dashboard, and a loss of electrical accessories. The solution is to replace the battery. Estimated cost to fix: $100 - $200+
Interior
Dashboard cracking: The dashboard can crack, causing an unsightly appearance. Symptoms include cracks in the dashboard, a loss of dashboard functionality, and a reduction in the value of the vehicle. The solution is to replace the dashboard. Estimated cost to fix: $500 - $1,500+
Carpet fading: The carpet can fade, causing an unsightly appearance. Symptoms include a loss of color in the carpet, a lack of durability, and a decrease in the value of the vehicle. The solution is to replace the carpet. Estimated cost to fix: $500 - $1,000+
Exterior
Headlight lenses clouding: The headlight lenses can cloud over time, reducing visibility and making it difficult to see at night. Symptoms include a decrease in headlight brightness, a loss of clarity in the headlight beam, and an overall reduction in visibility. The solution is to replace the headlight lenses. Estimated cost to fix: $200 - $500+
Taillight lenses cracking: The taillight lenses can crack, causing a loss of illumination and a potential safety hazard. Symptoms include a loss of taillight illumination, a cracked or broken taillight lens, and a lack of visibility for other drivers. The solution is to replace the taillight lenses. Estimated cost to fix: $100 - $200+
Summary
The 2000 Dodge Ram 4000 has a number of potential issues that can affect its reliability and value. These issues range from minor annoyances to major mechanical failures, and they can be expensive to fix. However, the Ram 4000 is still a powerful and capable truck that can be a good choice for buyers who are looking for a heavy-duty vehicle.