2004 Dodge Ram 2500

Introduction

The 2004 Dodge Ram 2500 is a heavy-duty pickup truck offered with a variety of engine and transmission options. The 5.7L Hemi V8 engine produces 345 horsepower and 420 lb-ft of torque, while the 8.3L V10 engine generates 330 horsepower and 475 lb-ft of torque. Transmission options include a 4-speed automatic and a 6-speed manual.

Owners appreciate the Ram 2500’s powerful engines, spacious cabin, and impressive towing and hauling capabilities. However, the truck has also been plagued by several issues.

Engine

5.7L Hemi V8

• Intake manifold gasket failure:
  • Description/Symptoms: Coolant leaks, engine overheating, rough idle
  • Solution: Replace intake manifold gasket
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $600 - $1,000
  • Recalls: N/A
• Camshaft position sensor failure:
  • Description/Symptoms: Engine stalling, difficulty starting, reduced engine power
  • Solution: Replace camshaft position sensor
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $400
  • Recalls: N/A

8.3L V10

• Valve seat recession:
  • Description/Symptoms: Engine knocking, loss of power, increased oil consumption
  • Solution: Replace affected valves and valve seats
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $2,000+ (requires engine disassembly)
  • Recalls: 10V-172

Transmission

4-Speed Automatic

• Torque converter shudder:
  • Description/Symptoms: Vibration when accelerating or shifting gears
  • Solution: Replace torque converter
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $1,000 - $2,000
  • Recalls: N/A

6-Speed Manual

• Difficulty shifting gears:
  • Description/Symptoms: Binding, grinding, or popping noises when shifting
  • Solution: Adjust or replace clutch system components
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $500 - $1,500
  • Recalls: N/A

Suspension

• Front suspension component failure:
  • Description/Symptoms: Excessive noise, vibration, or difficulty steering
  • Solution: Replace affected components (e.g., ball joints, tie rods)
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: Varies depending on the component
  • Recalls: N/A

Electrical

• Alternator failure:
  • Description/Symptoms: Battery discharge, dimming lights, dashboard warning lights
  • Solution: Replace alternator
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $500 - $1,000
  • Recalls: N/A

Exterior

• Headlight condensation:
  • Description/Symptoms: Moisture accumulation inside headlight lenses
  • Solution: Replace headlight assemblies with updated versions
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $500+ (per headlight)
  • Recalls: N/A

Interior

• Dashboard cracking:
  • Description/Symptoms: Cracks in the dashboard plastic
  • Solution: Replace dashboard
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $500 - $1,000
  • Recalls: N/A

Summary

The 2004 Dodge Ram 2500 is a capable truck, but it has been prone to several issues. While some issues are minor and relatively inexpensive to fix, others can be severe and costly. Potential buyers should be aware of these issues before purchasing a Ram 2500 of this generation.