2002 Dodge Ram 2500 Van

The 2002 Dodge Ram 2500 Van was a popular choice for those seeking a reliable and capable workhorse. It offered a range of engine and transmission options, including a 5.2L V8 with 235 horsepower and 325 lb-ft of torque, a 5.9L V8 with 245 horsepower and 350 lb-ft of torque, and a 6.8L V10 with 310 horsepower and 450 lb-ft of torque. It was paired with a variety of transmission options, including a 4-speed automatic, a 5-speed manual, and a 6-speed manual.

Despite its popularity, the 2002 Dodge Ram 2500 Van has encountered various issues that have troubled owners.

Engine

• 5.2L V8
  • Intake manifold gasket failure
    • Description/Symptoms: Leaking coolant, overheating, rough idle, and reduced engine performance
    • Solution: Replace the intake manifold gasket
    • Estimated Cost to Fix: $500 - $1,000
  • Camshaft position sensor failure
    • Description/Symptoms: Engine stalling, hesitation, and difficulty starting
    • Solution: Replace the camshaft position sensor
    • Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $400
• 5.9L V8
  • Exhaust manifold gasket failure
    • Description/Symptoms: Leaking exhaust gases, rattling noise, and reduced engine power
    • Solution: Replace the exhaust manifold gasket
    • Estimated Cost to Fix: $300 - $600
• 6.8L V10
  • Spark plug failure
    • Description/Symptoms: Misfiring, reduced engine power, and increased fuel consumption
    • Solution: Replace the spark plugs
    • Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $400

Transmission

• 4-speed automatic
  • Transmission slipping
    • Description/Symptoms: Difficulty shifting gears, slipping out of gear, and delayed engagement
    • Solution: Rebuild or replace the transmission
    • Estimated Cost to Fix: $1,500 - $3,000
• 5-speed manual
  • Clutch failure
    • Description/Symptoms: Difficulty shifting gears, slipping, and chatter
    • Solution: Replace the clutch
    • Estimated Cost to Fix: $500 - $1,000
• 6-speed manual
  • Synchronizer failure
    • Description/Symptoms: Grinding noises when shifting gears, difficulty shifting into specific gears
    • Solution: Replace the synchronizers
    • Estimated Cost to Fix: $500 - $1,500

Suspension

• Leaf spring failure
  • Description/Symptoms: Sagging suspension, uneven tire wear, and reduced handling
  • Solution: Replace the leaf springs
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $500 - $1,000
• Shock absorber failure
  • Description/Symptoms: Rough ride, reduced handling, and excessive body roll
  • Solution: Replace the shock absorbers
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $400

Electrical

• Alternator failure
  • Description/Symptoms: Dimming lights, electrical system malfunction, and difficulty starting
  • Solution: Replace the alternator
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $500 - $1,000
• Battery failure
  • Description/Symptoms: Difficulty starting, electrical system malfunction, and premature battery discharge
  • Solution: Replace the battery
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $100 - $200

Exterior

• Door handle failure
  • Description/Symptoms: Difficulty opening doors, broken handle, and loose handle
  • Solution: Replace the door handle
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $100 - $200
• Tailgate latch failure
  • Description/Symptoms: Difficulty opening or closing the tailgate, loose latch
  • Solution: Replace the tailgate latch
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $100 - $200

Interior

• Dashboard cluster failure
  • Description/Symptoms: Inaccurate readings, flickering display, and complete failure
  • Solution: Replace the dashboard cluster
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $500 - $1,000
• Seat belt failure
  • Description/Symptoms: Difficulty fastening seat belts, broken latch, and ineffective restraint
  • Solution: Replace the seat belt
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $400

Summary

The 2002 Dodge Ram 2500 Van has been known to experience a range of issues, with varying severity and cost of repairs. Some of the more common problems include intake manifold gasket failure, camshaft position sensor failure, transmission slipping, and suspension issues. While some of these issues may be minor and inexpensive to fix, others can be more serious and costly. Potential buyers should be aware of these issues before making a purchase decision.