2002 Dodge Ram 1500

The 2002 Dodge Ram 1500 is a popular full-size pickup truck known for its ruggedness and distinctive styling. Engine options included the 3.7L Magnum V6 (215 hp, 235 lb-ft of torque), the 4.7L Magnum V8 (235 hp, 300 lb-ft of torque), and the 5.9L Magnum V8 (245 hp, 335 lb-ft of torque). Transmission options included a 5-speed manual and a 4-speed automatic. Owners generally liked the truck’s comfortable ride and towing capacity, but common complaints revolved around reliability issues, particularly with the transmission and some engine components.

Engine

3.7L Magnum V6

• Cracked Exhaust Manifolds
  • Description/Symptoms: Ticking noise, especially when cold, that diminishes as the engine warms up. This is caused by cracks in the exhaust manifold.
  • Solution: Replacement of the cracked exhaust manifold.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $300 - $600+
  • Recalls: None Found

4.7L Magnum V8

• Sludge Buildup
  • Description/Symptoms: Some 4.7L engines, especially those with infrequent oil changes, are prone to developing sludge buildup, leading to reduced oil pressure and potential engine damage. Symptoms include engine knocking, rough idling, and oil pressure warning lights.
  • Solution: Regular oil changes with high-quality synthetic oil and engine flush treatments may help prevent or mitigate sludge buildup. In severe cases, engine disassembly and cleaning or engine replacement may be necessary.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $100 (flush) - $3000+ (engine replacement)
  • Recalls: None Found

5.9L Magnum V8

• “Death Flash” PCM Failure
  • Description/Symptoms: Hard starting, stalling, poor idle, and overall erratic engine behavior can occur when the Powertrain Control Module (PCM) experiences what is commonly referred to as the “death flash”. This relates to corrupted memory.
  • Solution: Replacement or reprogramming of the PCM.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $300 - $800+
  • Recalls: None Found

Transmission

4-Speed Automatic (42RE/44RE/46RE/47RE)

• Transmission Slipping/Harsh Shifting
  • Description/Symptoms: Slipping between gears, harsh or delayed shifting, and complete loss of drive are common issues. This is often attributed to worn clutches, valve body issues, or a failing torque converter.
  • Solution: Transmission rebuild or replacement, valve body repair or replacement, torque converter replacement.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $1500 - $3500+
  • Recalls: None Found
• Overdrive Failure
  • Description/Symptoms: Overdrive stops working.
  • Solution: Overdrive rebuild/replacement
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $1000+
  • Recalls: None Found

Suspension

• Ball Joint Failure
  • Description/Symptoms: Front end clunking or popping noises, especially when going over bumps or turning. Loose or worn ball joints can cause alignment issues and compromise steering.
  • Solution: Replacement of the affected ball joints.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $600+ per side
  • Recalls: None Found
• Tie Rod End Failure
  • Description/Symptoms: Loose steering, vibrations, or difficulty maintaining alignment. Worn tie rod ends can cause excessive play in the steering system.
  • Solution: Replacement of the affected tie rod ends and alignment.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $150 - $400+ per side
  • Recalls: None Found

Electrical

• Instrument Cluster Issues
  • Description/Symptoms: Gauges failing to work properly, flickering lights, or complete failure of the instrument cluster.
  • Solution: Repair or replacement of the instrument cluster. Sometimes resoldering connections can resolve the issue.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $100 - $500+
  • Recalls: None Found
• Power Window/Door Lock Issues
  • Description/Symptoms: Intermittent or complete failure of power windows and door locks. This can be caused by faulty switches, wiring issues, or a failing window regulator.
  • Solution: Diagnosis and repair or replacement of the affected components (switches, wiring, regulators).
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $50 - $300+ per window/door
  • Recalls: None Found

Exterior

• Rust
  • Description/Symptoms: Rust, particularly around the wheel wells, rocker panels, and cab corners.
  • Solution: Rust repair, panel replacement.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $2000+ depending on severity
  • Recalls: None Found

Interior

• Dashboard Cracking
  • Description/Symptoms: Cracking of the dashboard, especially in warmer climates, is a common complaint.
  • Solution: Dashboard replacement or installation of a dashboard cover.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $100 - $800+
  • Recalls: None Found

Summary

The 2002 Dodge Ram 1500 is a capable truck, but it is prone to a variety of reliability issues as it ages. The most concerning issues involve the transmission and engine, which can be costly to repair. Suspension and electrical problems are also common. Rust is also a major concern. Potential buyers should carefully inspect the truck for these issues before purchasing. While some repairs are relatively inexpensive, others can be quite costly, making it important to factor in potential maintenance costs when considering this model.