2006 Dodge Ram 4000

2006 Dodge Ram 4000

Overview

The 2006 Dodge Ram 4000 is a heavy-duty truck designed for commercial and vocational applications. As such, its reliability is paramount for its intended use. This analysis focuses on common reported issues beyond standard maintenance, examining key areas like the powertrain, suspension, electrical systems, and body components. While generally robust, like any vehicle, specific components can experience failures. This data aims to provide a clear picture of potential reliability concerns for owners and fleet managers.

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Engine

5.9L Cummins ISB Turbo Diesel

Injector Failure

• Symptoms: Rough idle, loss of power, increased exhaust smoke, check engine light.
• Solution: Replacement of faulty fuel injectors.
• Cost: $800 - $1500 per injector, potentially more for a full set.

Turbocharger Issues

• Symptoms: Whining noise, loss of power, excessive smoke, oil leaks around the turbo.
• Solution: Repair or replacement of the turbocharger assembly.
• Cost: $1200 - $2500

Head Gasket Failure

• Symptoms: Overheating, coolant loss, white smoke from exhaust, milky oil.
• Solution: Replacement of the head gasket and potentially resurfacing of the cylinder head.
• Cost: $1500 - $3000

8.3L Viper V10 Gasoline

No widespread issues reported.

• Symptoms: N/A
• Solution: N/A
• Cost: Varies

Transmission

NV5600 6-Speed Manual

Clutch Wear

• Symptoms: Slipping clutch, difficulty shifting gears, burning smell.
• Solution: Replacement of the clutch assembly.
• Cost: $1000 - $2000

Input Shaft Bearing Failure

• Symptoms: Grinding noise, especially when clutch is engaged, difficulty shifting.
• Solution: Replacement of the input shaft bearing and potentially other transmission components.
• Cost: $1500 - $3000

G56 6-Speed Manual

Dual Mass Flywheel Issues

• Symptoms: Rattling noise at idle, vibration, difficulty engaging gears.
• Solution: Replacement of the dual-mass flywheel and clutch kit.
• Cost: $1200 - $2200

48RE Automatic

Torque Converter Failure

• Symptoms: Slipping, shuddering, delayed engagement, overheating transmission fluid.
• Solution: Replacement of the torque converter.
• Cost: $800 - $1500

Solenoid Issues

• Symptoms: Harsh shifting, delayed engagement, transmission fault codes.
• Solution: Replacement of faulty transmission solenoids.
• Cost: $400 - $800

Suspension

Heavy-Duty Leaf Spring Suspension

Leaf Spring Breakage

• Symptoms: Sagging rear end, uneven ride height, clunking noises over bumps.
• Solution: Replacement of broken leaf springs.
• Cost: $500 - $1000 per axle

Shackle/Bushing Wear

• Symptoms: Clunking noises, loose feel in the rear suspension, uneven tire wear.
• Solution: Replacement of worn shackles and bushings.
• Cost: $300 - $600

Electrical

Standard Electrical System

Alternator Failure

• Symptoms: Dimming lights, battery warning light, starting issues, dead battery.
• Solution: Replacement of the alternator.
• Cost: $400 - $700

Wiring Harness Corrosion

• Symptoms: Intermittent electrical component failures, flickering lights, corrosion on connectors.
• Solution: Inspection and repair/replacement of corroded wiring harnesses and connectors.
• Cost: $300 - $800

Exterior

Body Panels and Frame

Frame Rust

• Symptoms: Visible rust on the frame rails, especially in areas with road salt exposure.
• Solution: Rust treatment, repair, or frame replacement (if severe).
• Cost: $500 - $5000+ depending on severity

Tailgate Latch Issues

• Symptoms: Difficulty opening or closing the tailgate, loose tailgate.
• Solution: Adjustment or replacement of tailgate latches and mechanisms.
• Cost: $150 - $300

Interior

Cabin Components

HVAC Blower Motor Failure

• Symptoms: No airflow from vents, intermittent fan speed, unusual noises from the dashboard.
• Solution: Replacement of the HVAC blower motor.
• Cost: $200 - $400

Seat Upholstery Wear

• Symptoms: Tearing or excessive wear on seat fabric or leather.
• Solution: Repair or replacement of seat covers or cushions.
• Cost: $300 - $800 per seat

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Summary Verdict

The 2006 Dodge Ram 4000, particularly with the 5.9L Cummins engine, is known for its robust powertrain but is not immune to specific issues. Common problems include injector failures, turbocharger wear, and potential head gasket issues on the diesel engines, which can be costly to repair. The manual transmissions, while generally durable, can suffer from clutch wear and input shaft bearing problems. The automatic transmission may experience torque converter or solenoid issues. Suspension components like leaf springs can break under heavy load, and frame rust is a concern in corrosive environments. Electrical issues like alternator failure are also reported. Interior wear is typical for a work vehicle. Overall, the Ram 4000 is a capable truck, but owners should be aware of these potential reliability concerns and budget for maintenance and repairs, especially on higher-mileage units.