2002 Dodge Ram 3500

2002 Dodge Ram 3500

The 2002 Dodge Ram 3500 is a heavy-duty pickup truck available with the following engine and transmission options:

• 5.9L Magnum V8 (245 hp, 330 lb-ft torque) with 4-speed automatic or 6-speed manual transmission
• 8.0L Magnum V10 (310 hp, 450 lb-ft torque) with 4-speed automatic or 6-speed manual transmission

People like the Ram 3500 for its powerful engines, comfortable interior, and rugged capabilities. However, it has also been reported to have some issues.

Engine

5.9L Magnum V8 with 4-speed automatic transmission

• Intake manifold gasket failure
  • Symptoms: Coolant leak, overheating, engine misfire
  • Solution: Replace the intake manifold gasket
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $500 - $1,000
• Spark plug blowout
  • Symptoms: Engine misfire, rough idle, reduced power
  • Solution: Replace the spark plugs and inspect the threads in the cylinder heads
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $400
• Timing chain failure
  • Symptoms: Engine noise, loss of power, engine stalling
  • Solution: Replace the timing chain and related components
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $1,500 - $2,500
• Oil pump failure
  • Symptoms: Low oil pressure, engine noise, engine seizure
  • Solution: Replace the oil pump
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $500 - $1,000

5.9L Magnum V8 with 6-speed manual transmission

• Clutch failure
  • Symptoms: Difficulty shifting gears, slipping clutch, burning smell
  • Solution: Replace the clutch, pressure plate, and flywheel
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $1,000 - $1,500

8.0L Magnum V10 with 4-speed automatic transmission

• No Engine Issues Found

8.0L Magnum V10 with 6-speed manual transmission

• No Engine Issues Found

Transmission

4-speed automatic transmission

• Torque converter failure
  • Symptoms: Transmission slipping, overheating, shuddering
  • Solution: Replace the torque converter
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $1,000 - $1,500
• Valve body failure
  • Symptoms: Transmission shifting problems, delayed engagement, slipping
  • Solution: Replace the valve body
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $500 - $1,000

6-speed manual transmission

• No Transmission Issues Found

Suspension

• Front suspension ball joint failure
  • Symptoms: Clunking noise, loose or wobbly steering, uneven tire wear
  • Solution: Replace the ball joints
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $500 - $1,000
• Rear leaf spring failure
  • Symptoms: Sagging rear end, rough ride, uneven tire wear
  • Solution: Replace the leaf springs
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $500 - $1,000

Electrical

• Alternator failure
  • Symptoms: Dim headlights, loss of electrical power, battery not charging
  • Solution: Replace the alternator
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $500 - $1,000
• Starter failure
  • Symptoms: Engine won’t crank, clicking noise when starting
  • Solution: Replace the starter
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $300 - $500

Exterior

• No Exterior Issues Found

Interior

• HVAC blend door failure
  • Symptoms: Inability to control temperature or air flow
  • Solution: Replace the blend door actuator or blend door
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $300 - $600

Summary

The 2002 Dodge Ram 3500 has some potential issues, particularly with its engine and transmission. These issues can be costly to fix, ranging from a few hundred dollars to several thousand dollars. However, it is important to note that not all vehicles will experience these problems. With proper maintenance and care, the Ram 3500 can be a reliable and capable pickup truck.