2004 Dodge Ram 3500

2004 Dodge Ram 3500

The 2004 Dodge Ram 3500 is a heavy-duty pickup truck that is available with a variety of engine and transmission options. It is known for its powerful engines and robust construction, but it has also been plagued by a number of issues.

Engine

• 5.9L Cummins Turbo Diesel
  • Turbocharger failure: The turbocharger can fail, causing a loss of power and increased exhaust emissions.
    • Solution: Replace the turbocharger.
    • Estimated Cost to Fix: $1,500 - $2,500+
    • Recalls: NHTSA Campaign Number 10V343000
  • Fuel injector failure: The fuel injectors can fail, causing the engine to misfire and run rough.
    • Solution: Replace the fuel injectors.
    • Estimated Cost to Fix: $500 - $1,000+
    • Recalls: NHTSA Campaign Number 04V320000
  • EGR cooler failure: The EGR cooler can fail, causing the engine to overheat.
    • Solution: Replace the EGR cooler.
    • Estimated Cost to Fix: $500 - $1,000+
    • Recalls: NHTSA Campaign Number 10V343000
• 5.7L Hemi V8
  • No major issues found.

Transmission

• 4-speed automatic transmission
  • Torque converter failure: The torque converter can fail, causing the transmission to slip and lose power.
    • Solution: Replace the torque converter.
    • Estimated Cost to Fix: $1,000 - $2,000+
    • Recalls: NHTSA Campaign Number 06V305000
• 6-speed manual transmission
  • No major issues found.

Suspension

• Front suspension:
  • Ball joint failure: The ball joints can fail, causing the front wheels to lose camber and alignment.
    • Solution: Replace the ball joints.
    • Estimated Cost to Fix: $500 - $1,000+
    • Recalls: None Found
• Rear suspension:
  • Leaf spring failure: The leaf springs can fail, causing the rear of the vehicle to sag.
    • Solution: Replace the leaf springs.
    • Estimated Cost to Fix: $500 - $1,000+
    • Recalls: None Found

Electrical

• Alternator failure: The alternator can fail, causing the battery to discharge and the vehicle to lose power.
  • Solution: Replace the alternator.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $300 - $500+
  • Recalls: None Found
• Battery failure: The battery can fail, causing the vehicle to lose power.
  • Solution: Replace the battery.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $100 - $200+
  • Recalls: None Found

Exterior

• Rust: The body of the vehicle can rust, especially in areas where it is exposed to salt or moisture.
  • Solution: Repair the rust or replace the affected panels.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $500 - $2,000+
  • Recalls: None Found
• Clearcoat failure: The clearcoat on the paint can fail, causing the paint to fade and become dull.
  • Solution: Repaint the vehicle or apply a new clearcoat.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $500 - $1,500+
  • Recalls: None Found

Interior

• Dashboard cracks: The dashboard can develop cracks, especially in hot climates.
  • Solution: Replace the dashboard or apply a dash cover.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $500 - $1,000+
  • Recalls: None Found
• Power window failure: The power windows can fail, causing them to become inoperable.
  • Solution: Replace the window motor or switch.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $500+
  • Recalls: None Found

Summary

The 2004 Dodge Ram 3500 is a capable and powerful pickup truck, but it has been plagued by a number of issues over the years. The most severe and expensive issues include turbocharger failure, fuel injector failure, and torque converter failure. Other issues, such as rust and clearcoat failure, are less severe but can still be costly to repair. Overall, the 2004 Dodge Ram 3500 is a vehicle that should be thoroughly inspected before purchasing, and buyers should be prepared for potential repairs.