2008 Dodge Ram 4000

The 2008 Dodge Ram 4000, also known as the Ram Chassis Cab, is a heavy-duty truck designed for commercial applications. It was available with a few engine options, most commonly the 5.7L Hemi V8 producing 345 horsepower and 375 lb-ft of torque. Other engine options included a 6.7L Cummins Turbo Diesel inline-6 and a 4.7L V8. Transmission options included a 5-speed automatic and a 6-speed manual, depending on the engine choice. Owners often appreciate the Ram 4000’s robust build, towing capacity, and overall workhorse capabilities. Common complaints revolve around fuel economy (especially with the gas engines), ride quality (inherent in a heavy-duty truck), and some reliability concerns.

Engine

5.7L Hemi V8

• Hemi Tick
  • Description/Symptoms: A ticking or tapping noise coming from the engine, often more noticeable at idle or low RPMs. This is often attributed to worn or collapsed lifters, particularly the roller lifters that interact with the camshaft. Can eventually lead to camshaft damage.
  • Solution: Replacement of the affected lifters and possibly the camshaft if damage has occurred.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $1,500 - $4,000+ depending on the extent of the damage and shop rates.
  • Recalls: None Found
• Exhaust Manifold Bolts Breakage
  • Description/Symptoms: Ticking or hissing sound, especially on cold start. Exhaust leak, decreased fuel economy, and potential for exhaust fumes entering the cabin.
  • Solution: Replacement of broken manifold bolts and potentially the exhaust manifold itself if warped.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $300 - $800
  • Recalls: None Found

6.7L Cummins Turbo Diesel

• Injector Failure
  • Description/Symptoms: Rough idling, misfires, excessive smoke (white, black, or blue), decreased fuel economy, and potential for engine damage. Can lead to fuel dilution in the oil.
  • Solution: Replacement of faulty fuel injectors. It is often recommended to replace all injectors at once for balanced performance.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $2,000 - $5,000+ depending on the number of injectors replaced and labor rates.
  • Recalls: None Found
• Turbocharger Failure
  • Description/Symptoms: Whining noise from the turbocharger, decreased power and acceleration, excessive black smoke, and potential for engine damage if debris enters the engine.
  • Solution: Replacement or rebuild of the turbocharger.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $1,500 - $4,000+
  • Recalls: None Found

4.7L V8

• Sludge Buildup
  • Description/Symptoms: Engine knocking, poor oil pressure, overheating, and potential for catastrophic engine failure.
  • Solution: Engine flush and oil change. If damage has occurred, engine rebuild or replacement may be necessary.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $100 - $300 for a flush, $3,000 - $8,000+ for rebuild/replacement.
  • Recalls: None Found

Transmission

5-Speed Automatic

• Torque Converter Issues
  • Description/Symptoms: Shuddering during gear changes, especially when accelerating from a stop. Slipping between gears. Trouble shifting into overdrive.
  • Solution: Replacement of the torque converter. Sometimes, a full transmission rebuild is recommended to address underlying issues.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $800 - $2,500+ depending on labor and if a full rebuild is needed.
  • Recalls: None Found

6-Speed Manual

• Clutch Failure
  • Description/Symptoms: Slipping clutch, difficulty shifting gears, clutch pedal sticking or feeling spongy, burning smell.
  • Solution: Replacement of the clutch disc, pressure plate, and throw-out bearing. Flywheel resurfacing or replacement is also often recommended.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $800 - $2,000+
  • Recalls: None Found

Suspension

• Ball Joint Failure
  • Description/Symptoms: Clunking or popping noises from the front end, especially when turning or going over bumps. Uneven tire wear. Loose or wandering steering.
  • Solution: Replacement of the ball joints.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $300 - $800 per side.
  • Recalls: None Found
• Leaf Spring Sagging/Breaking
  • Description/Symptoms: Rear end sagging, especially when loaded. Reduced ride height. Rough ride. Potential for leaf spring failure.
  • Solution: Replacement of leaf springs.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $500 - $1,500+ per side.
  • Recalls: None Found

Electrical

• TIPM (Totally Integrated Power Module) Issues
  • Description/Symptoms: Intermittent starting problems, fuel pump relay failure (leading to no-start), malfunctioning power windows, door locks, or wipers.
  • Solution: Replacement of the TIPM.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $800 - $1,500+ depending on the source of the replacement TIPM.
  • Recalls:
    • NHTSA Recall Number: 14V530000
    • NHTSA Recall Number: 13V038000

Exterior

• Rust on Lower Body Panels
  • Description/Symptoms: Rust forming on rocker panels, cab corners, and wheel wells. Common in areas with road salt usage.
  • Solution: Rust repair and panel replacement.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $500 - $3,000+ depending on the extent of the rust and body shop rates.
  • Recalls: None Found

Interior

• Dashboard Cracking
  • Description/Symptoms: Large cracks appearing on the dashboard surface, especially in warmer climates.
  • Solution: Dashboard replacement or installation of a dashboard cover.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $500 - $1,500+ for replacement, $50 - $200 for a cover.
  • Recalls: None Found

Summary

The 2008 Dodge Ram 4000, while a capable work truck, has its share of common issues. Engine problems like the Hemi tick and Cummins injector failures can be expensive to address. Electrical issues with the TIPM are also a known concern. Suspension and rust problems are typical for trucks of this age and usage. The severity and cost of repairs can vary greatly, so a thorough inspection is crucial before purchasing. Depending on the engine and the exact issue, repairs can range from a few hundred dollars to several thousand.