2007 Dodge Ram 1500

Introduction

The 2007 Dodge Ram 1500 is a full-size pickup truck offered with a range of engine and transmission options. It boasts a powerful 4.7L V8 engine that produces 230 horsepower and 290 lb-ft of torque. Other engine options include a 5.7L V8 with 345 horsepower and 375 lb-ft of torque, and a 3.7L V6 with 210 horsepower and 235 lb-ft of torque. Transmission options include a 4-speed automatic, a 5-speed automatic, and a 6-speed manual. The Ram 1500 is praised for its spacious interior, impressive towing capacity, and off-road performance. However, it also has some notable issues that potential buyers should be aware of.

Engine

• 5.7L V8
  • Intake Manifold Gasket Leak
    • Description/Symptoms: Coolant leaks from the intake manifold area, leading to overheating and reduced engine performance.
    • Solution: Replace the intake manifold gasket.
    • Estimated Cost to Fix: $500 - $800
    • Recalls: 08V-179-000
  • Valve Cover Gasket Leak
    • Description/Symptoms: Oil leaks from the valve cover, causing smoke and potential engine damage if left untreated.
    • Solution: Replace the valve cover gasket.
    • Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $300
    • Recalls: None Found
  • Spark Plug Thread Stripping
    • Description/Symptoms: Spark plugs may strip when being removed, requiring extensive repairs to the cylinder head.
    • Solution: Use a thread repair kit or replace the cylinder head.
    • Estimated Cost to Fix: $1,000 - $2,000+
    • Recalls: None Found
• 4.7L V8
  • Timing Chain Tensioner Failure
    • Description/Symptoms: The timing chain tensioner fails, causing the timing chain to skip or break, leading to catastrophic engine damage.
    • Solution: Replace the timing chain tensioner and related components.
    • Estimated Cost to Fix: $1,500 - $2,500+
    • Recalls: None Found
  • Piston Ring Failure
    • Description/Symptoms: Piston rings wear prematurely, causing excessive oil consumption and poor engine performance.
    • Solution: Rebuild the engine or replace the pistons and rings.
    • Estimated Cost to Fix: $2,000 - $4,000+
    • Recalls: None Found
• 3.7L V6
  • Throttle Body Failure
    • Description/Symptoms: The throttle body becomes faulty, leading to rough idling, acceleration problems, and engine stalling.
    • Solution: Replace the throttle body.
    • Estimated Cost to Fix: $300 - $500
    • Recalls: 07V-151-000

Transmission

• 4-Speed Automatic
  • Overdrive Band Failure
    • Description/Symptoms: The overdrive band fails, causing slipping and shuddering during acceleration.
    • Solution: Rebuild or replace the transmission.
    • Estimated Cost to Fix: $1,500 - $2,500+
    • Recalls: 08V-180-000
• 5-Speed Automatic
  • Valve Body Failure
    • Description/Symptoms: The valve body malfunctions, leading to shifting problems, delayed engagement, and slipping.
    • Solution: Replace the valve body or rebuild the transmission.
    • Estimated Cost to Fix: $1,000 - $2,000
    • Recalls: 08V-178-000
• 6-Speed Manual
  • Clutch Failure
    • Description/Symptoms: The clutch wears prematurely, causing slipping and difficulty shifting gears.
    • Solution: Replace the clutch and flywheel.
    • Estimated Cost to Fix: $500 - $800
    • Recalls: None Found

Suspension

• Front Control Arm Bushing Failure
  • Description/Symptoms: The control arm bushings wear out prematurely, leading to excessive play and a clunking noise when turning or hitting bumps.
  • Solution: Replace the control arm bushings.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $300 - $500
  • Recalls: None Found
• Leaf Spring Failure
  • Description/Symptoms: The rear leaf springs break or sag, causing a loss of stability and excessive bouncing.
  • Solution: Replace the leaf springs.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $500 - $800
  • Recalls: None Found

Electrical

• Battery Drain
  • Description/Symptoms: The battery drains prematurely, even when the vehicle is turned off.
  • Solution: Diagnose and repair electrical system issues such as faulty components or parasitic draws.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $100 - $500+
  • Recalls: None Found
• Alternator Failure
  • Description/Symptoms: The alternator fails, leading to insufficient charging of the battery and possible electrical system problems.
  • Solution: Replace the alternator.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $500 - $800
  • Recalls: 08V-153-000

Exterior

• Hood Alignment Issues
  • Description/Symptoms: The hood does not fit properly, leading to gaps or misalignment.
  • Solution: Adjust the hood hinges or replace the latch.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $100 - $300
  • Recalls: None Found

Interior

• Air Conditioning Compressor Failure
  • Description/Symptoms: The air conditioning compressor seizes or fails, resulting in insufficient cooling.
  • Solution: Replace the air conditioning compressor.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $800 - $1,200
  • Recalls: None Found

Summary

The 2007 Dodge Ram 1500 is a capable pickup truck but is not without its issues. The engine and transmission can experience serious problems that can lead to costly repairs. The suspension and electrical systems can also be sources of problems. However, the Ram 1500 also offers a spacious interior, impressive towing capacity, and off-road performance. Potential buyers should be aware of the potential issues and factor the cost of repairs into their decision-making process.