2002 Dodge Ram 3500 Van

Introduction

The 2002 Dodge Ram 3500 Van is a full-size van offered with various engine and transmission options. It is powered by a standard 5.9L V8 engine that produces 245 horsepower and 420 lb-ft of torque, paired with a 4-speed automatic transmission. Other engine options include a 5.7L Hemi V8 with 345 horsepower and 420 lb-ft of torque, and a 6.8L V10 with 305 horsepower and 450 lb-ft of torque. Transmission options include a 5-speed automatic, a 6-speed manual, and a 6-speed automatic.

Owners of the 2002 Dodge Ram 3500 Van appreciate its spacious interior, powerful engine options, and reliable performance. However, it has also been subject to several issues over the years.

Engine

5.9L V8

• Intake Manifold Gasket Failure
  • Description/Symptoms: Coolant and oil leaks, engine overheating, rough idle
  • Solution: Replace intake manifold gasket
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $500 - $1000+
  • Recalls: None Found
• Throttle Position Sensor Malfunction
  • Description/Symptoms: Poor engine performance, stalling, check engine light
  • Solution: Replace throttle position sensor
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $300
  • Recalls: None Found

5.7L Hemi V8

• Valve Spring Breakage
  • Description/Symptoms: Engine misfire, loss of power, check engine light
  • Solution: Replace valve springs
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $1500 - $2000+
  • Recalls: None Found

6.8L V10

• Distributor Cap Failure
  • Description/Symptoms: Engine misfire, hard starting, check engine light
  • Solution: Replace distributor cap and rotor
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $300
  • Recalls: None Found

Transmission

4-Speed Automatic

• Torque Converter Shudder
  • Description/Symptoms: Vibration or shuddering during acceleration or cruising
  • Solution: Replace torque converter
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $1200 - $2000
  • Recalls: None Found

5-Speed Automatic

• Shift Solenoid Failure
  • Description/Symptoms: Rough shifting, slipping, check engine light
  • Solution: Replace shift solenoid
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $500 - $1000
  • Recalls: None Found

6-Speed Automatic

• No Issues Found

6-Speed Manual

• Clutch Disc Wear
  • Description/Symptoms: Difficulty shifting gears, slipping, burnt clutch smell
  • Solution: Replace clutch disc
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $500 - $1000
  • Recalls: None Found

Suspension

• Front Ball Joint Failure
  • Description/Symptoms: Clunking or popping noises, uneven tire wear
  • Solution: Replace ball joints
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $300 per side
  • Recalls: None Found
• Rear Leaf Spring Sag
  • Description/Symptoms: Rear end sagging, rough ride, uneven tire wear
  • Solution: Replace leaf springs
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $500 - $1000 per side
  • Recalls: None Found

Electrical

• Battery Drain
  • Description/Symptoms: Battery dies quickly, electrical components not working properly
  • Solution: Diagnose and repair electrical system components that are drawing power
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: Varies depending on the cause
  • Recalls: None Found
• Alternator Failure
  • Description/Symptoms: Dim lights, electrical components not working properly, battery not charging
  • Solution: Replace alternator
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $500 - $1000
  • Recalls: None Found

Exterior

• Rear Tailgate Rust
  • Description/Symptoms: Rust forming on the tailgate, particularly around the latch and hinges
  • Solution: Replace tailgate or treat rust
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: Varies depending on the severity
  • Recalls: None Found

Interior

• Dashboard Cracking
  • Description/Symptoms: Cracking on the dashboard, particularly around the vents
  • Solution: Replace dashboard
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $500 - $1000
  • Recalls: None Found
• Air Conditioning Compressor Failure
  • Description/Symptoms: Air conditioning not blowing cold air
  • Solution: Replace air conditioning compressor
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $1000 - $1500
  • Recalls: None Found

Summary

The 2002 Dodge Ram 3500 Van is a reliable and powerful vehicle, but it has been subject to several common issues, particularly with the engine, transmission, and suspension. The severity of these issues varies, and the cost to fix them can be significant. Potential buyers should be aware of these issues and factor them into their purchasing decision.