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2000 Dodge Ramcharger

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By Research the Car 5 min read

Okay, here’s the requested breakdown of common issues for the 2000 Dodge Ramcharger.

It’s crucial to remember that the 2000 Dodge Ramcharger was not sold in North America. Production for North America ended in 1993. You are most likely referencing the Ramcharger sold in Mexico. These models, while bearing the Ramcharger name, share many components with the Dodge Ram pickup trucks of the era. The information below assumes the Mexican-market 2000 Ramcharger. Common engine options include the 5.2L Magnum V8 (approximately 220 hp and 330 lb-ft of torque) and the 5.9L Magnum V8 (approximately 245 hp and 335 lb-ft of torque). Owners generally appreciate the Ramcharger’s ruggedness, off-road capability, and simplicity. Common dislikes include poor fuel economy and dated interior.

Engine

5.2L Magnum V8

  • “Death Flash” PCM Issues
    • Description/Symptoms: Erratic engine behavior, stalling, rough idle, difficulty starting. Often attributed to a faulty or poorly programmed Powertrain Control Module (PCM).
    • Solution: Replacement or reprogramming of the PCM.
    • Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $800+ depending on PCM replacement vs. reprogramming and labor costs.
    • Recalls: None Found
  • Intake Manifold Plenum Gasket Leak
    • Description/Symptoms: Vacuum leaks, rough idle, lean fuel trims, possible oil consumption, and ticking noises. The gasket between the intake manifold plenum and the intake manifold often fails.
    • Solution: Replacement of the intake manifold plenum gasket.
    • Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $500+ depending on labor.
    • Recalls: None Found

5.9L Magnum V8

  • “Death Flash” PCM Issues
    • Description/Symptoms: Erratic engine behavior, stalling, rough idle, difficulty starting. Often attributed to a faulty or poorly programmed Powertrain Control Module (PCM).
    • Solution: Replacement or reprogramming of the PCM.
    • Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $800+ depending on PCM replacement vs. reprogramming and labor costs.
    • Recalls: None Found
  • Intake Manifold Plenum Gasket Leak
    • Description/Symptoms: Vacuum leaks, rough idle, lean fuel trims, possible oil consumption, and ticking noises. The gasket between the intake manifold plenum and the intake manifold often fails.
    • Solution: Replacement of the intake manifold plenum gasket.
    • Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $500+ depending on labor.
    • Recalls: None Found
  • Cracked Exhaust Manifolds
    • Description/Symptoms: Exhaust leaks, ticking noises (especially when cold), reduced fuel economy.
    • Solution: Replacement of the cracked exhaust manifold(s).
    • Estimated Cost to Fix: $300 - $800+ depending on which manifold(s) and labor.
    • Recalls: None Found

Transmission

46RE Automatic Transmission

  • Slipping/Erratic Shifting
    • Description/Symptoms: Transmission slipping between gears, harsh or delayed shifts, failure to shift. Can be caused by worn clutches, valve body issues, or a faulty transmission control module (TCM).
    • Solution: Varies depending on the cause. Could involve a transmission rebuild, valve body replacement, or TCM replacement.
    • Estimated Cost to Fix: $500 - $3000+ depending on the extent of the damage.
    • Recalls: None Found
  • Overdrive Issues
    • Description/Symptoms: Overdrive not engaging, erratic shifting in and out of overdrive, transmission overheating.
    • Solution: Could involve solenoid replacement, governor pressure sensor replacement, or a transmission rebuild if clutches are worn.
    • Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $1500+ depending on the issue and labor.
    • Recalls: None Found

Suspension

  • Worn Ball Joints/Tie Rod Ends
    • Description/Symptoms: Loose steering, clunking noises from the front end, uneven tire wear.
    • Solution: Replacement of worn ball joints and/or tie rod ends.
    • Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $600+ per side depending on parts and labor.
    • Recalls: None Found
  • Sagging Leaf Springs (Rear)
    • Description/Symptoms: Rear end sagging, reduced load-carrying capacity, poor ride quality.
    • Solution: Replacement of the leaf springs.
    • Estimated Cost to Fix: $400 - $1000+ depending on the leaf spring brand and labor.
    • Recalls: None Found

Electrical

  • Instrument Cluster Issues
    • Description/Symptoms: Gauges not working properly, flickering lights, complete instrument cluster failure.
    • Solution: Instrument cluster repair or replacement.
    • Estimated Cost to Fix: $150 - $600+ depending on the repair method and labor.
    • Recalls: None Found
  • Power Window/Door Lock Failures
    • Description/Symptoms: Power windows not working, power door locks malfunctioning. Often caused by faulty switches or wiring issues.
    • Solution: Replacement of faulty switches or repair of wiring.
    • Estimated Cost to Fix: $50 - $300+ per window/door lock depending on the issue.
    • Recalls: None Found

Exterior

  • Rust (especially in salty environments)
    • Description/Symptoms: Rust on body panels, undercarriage, and frame.
    • Solution: Rust repair or panel replacement. Prevention with rustproofing.
    • Estimated Cost to Fix: Highly variable depending on the extent of the rust. $100 - $1000s.
    • Recalls: None Found
  • Headlight Lens Clouding/Yellowing
    • Description/Symptoms: Reduced headlight brightness, yellowed or cloudy headlight lenses.
    • Solution: Headlight lens restoration or replacement.
    • Estimated Cost to Fix: $50 - $200+ depending on the method used.
    • Recalls: None Found

Interior

  • Dashboard Cracking
    • Description/Symptoms: Cracks appearing on the dashboard surface, often due to sun exposure.
    • Solution: Dashboard repair or replacement.
    • Estimated Cost to Fix: $100 - $800+ depending on the extent of the damage and repair method.
    • Recalls: None Found
  • Headliner Sagging
    • Description/Symptoms: The headliner material detaching from the roof and sagging.
    • Solution: Headliner replacement.
    • Estimated Cost to Fix: $150 - $500+ depending on labor and material.
    • Recalls: None Found

Summary

The 2000 Dodge Ramcharger, specifically the Mexican-market version, is generally a reliable vehicle but suffers from common issues related to its age. Engine issues, particularly the plenum gasket leak and PCM problems, are prevalent and can lead to performance issues. Transmission problems can range from minor shifting issues to major rebuilds. Suspension components wear with age, and electrical issues are common. Rust is a concern, especially in areas with road salt. While some fixes are relatively inexpensive, major repairs like transmission overhauls or extensive rust repair can be costly. Careful inspection and preventative maintenance are essential for maintaining these vehicles.

Dodge, Ramcharger
Dodge Ramcharger 2000
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