2008 Dodge Ram 4500

The 2008 Dodge Ram 4500 is a heavy-duty truck designed for commercial and demanding applications. Engine options included a 6.7L Cummins turbodiesel inline-six, producing 305-350 horsepower and 610-650 lb-ft of torque, and a 5.7L Hemi V8 gasoline engine that generated 330 horsepower and 375 lb-ft of torque. Transmission options were typically a 6-speed manual or a 6-speed automatic. Owners often praise the Ram 4500 for its towing capacity and robust build, while common complaints include its fuel economy, turning radius, and overall size, which can make it difficult to maneuver in tight spaces.

Engine

6.7L Cummins Turbodiesel

• Turbocharger Failure
  • Description/Symptoms: Whining noise from the turbo, loss of power, excessive black smoke, and potential engine damage.
  • Solution: Replace the turbocharger.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $1,500 - $3,000+
  • Recalls: None Found
• Fuel Injector Issues
  • Description/Symptoms: Rough idle, misfires, white smoke, poor fuel economy. Can lead to cylinder damage if not addressed.
  • Solution: Replace faulty fuel injectors. Requires proper recalibration and diagnostic testing.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $600 - $3,000+ (depending on the number of injectors needing replacement and labor costs)
  • Recalls: None Found
• EGR (Exhaust Gas Recirculation) Valve Problems
  • Description/Symptoms: Rough running engine, poor fuel economy, check engine light.
  • Solution: Replace the EGR Valve
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $300 - $800+
  • Recalls: None Found

5.7L Hemi V8

• Hemi Tick
  • Description/Symptoms: Ticking noise from the engine, especially when cold, caused by worn lifters or exhaust manifold leaks.
  • Solution: Replace lifters or repair/replace exhaust manifolds and gaskets.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $500 - $2,000+ (depending on the severity and specific issue)
  • Recalls: None Found
• Manifold Bolts Breaking
  • Description/Symptoms: Ticking noise from the engine when it is cold. The noise will lessen when the engine warms up. This is due to a leak in the exhaust.
  • Solution: Replace the exhaust manifold bolts.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $300 - $700+ (depending on if the bolts can be extracted or the manifold has to be replaced.)
  • Recalls: None Found

Transmission

6-Speed Automatic (AS69RC/Aisin)

• Torque Converter Issues
  • Description/Symptoms: Shuddering during shifting, slippage, failure to lock up, and overheating.
  • Solution: Replace the torque converter. Consider replacing the transmission filter and fluid at the same time.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $800 - $2,500+ (depending on labor and whether a remanufactured or new converter is used)
  • Recalls: None Found
• Valve Body Problems
  • Description/Symptoms: Erratic shifting, harsh shifts, delayed engagement, and transmission slipping.
  • Solution: Replace or rebuild the valve body.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $500 - $1,500+
  • Recalls: None Found

Suspension

• Ball Joint Failure
  • Description/Symptoms: Clunking or popping noises from the front suspension, excessive tire wear, and loose steering.
  • Solution: Replace the ball joints.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $300 - $800+ per side
  • Recalls: None Found
• Worn Tie Rod Ends
  • Description/Symptoms: Loose steering, wandering, uneven tire wear, and vibration.
  • Solution: Replace the tie rod ends.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $500+ per side
  • Recalls: None Found

Electrical

• TIPM (Totally Integrated Power Module) Failures
  • Description/Symptoms: Random electrical issues, including starting problems, fuel pump issues, lighting malfunctions, and horn not working.
  • Solution: Replace or repair the TIPM.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $500 - $1,500+
  • Recalls: None Found
• Wiring Harness Issues
  • Description/Symptoms: Intermittent electrical problems, including lights flickering, sensors malfunctioning, and starting issues.
  • Solution: Repair or replace the damaged wiring harness.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $1,000+ (depending on the severity and location of the damage)
  • Recalls: None Found

Exterior

• Rust on Body Panels
  • Description/Symptoms: Rust forming along the bottom edges of doors, fenders, and bed panels.
  • Solution: Repair or replace the rusted panels.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $300 - $2,000+ per panel (depending on the extent of the rust and repair method)
  • Recalls: None Found

Interior

• Cracked Dashboard
  • Description/Symptoms: Cracks appearing on the dashboard, especially in areas exposed to sunlight.
  • Solution: Replace the dashboard cover or the entire dashboard assembly.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $1,000+ (depending on the method chosen and whether a new or used part is used)
  • Recalls: None Found
• HVAC Blend Door Actuator Failure
  • Description/Symptoms: Inability to control the temperature of the air coming from the vents, clicking noises behind the dashboard.
  • Solution: Replace the blend door actuator.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $150 - $500+
  • Recalls: None Found

Summary

The 2008 Dodge Ram 4500 can be a capable work truck, but it’s important to be aware of potential issues. Engine-related problems, especially with the 6.7L Cummins, can be costly to repair. Transmission issues, particularly with the Aisin automatic, are also a concern. Electrical problems stemming from the TIPM can be frustrating and require professional diagnosis. Suspension components are prone to wear, given the truck’s heavy-duty nature. While some issues are relatively minor, others can lead to significant expenses. Potential buyers should thoroughly inspect the vehicle and consider a pre-purchase inspection by a qualified mechanic.