2009 Dodge H100

The 2009 Dodge H100 is a cab-over-engine light commercial vehicle, primarily sold in markets outside of North America. It’s known for its maneuverability, payload capacity, and affordability. Common dislikes center around its basic features, ride quality, and limited availability of parts in certain regions. It was typically offered with a 2.5L CRDi diesel engine (around 116 horsepower and 188 lb-ft of torque) mated to a 5-speed manual transmission. Other available engines included the 2.4L Petrol and a naturally aspirated diesel engine.

Engine

2.5L CRDi Diesel

• Fuel Injector Failure
  • Description/Symptoms: Hard starting, rough idling, decreased fuel economy, black smoke from exhaust, and potential engine misfires.
  • Solution: Replacement of faulty fuel injectors. Cleaning the fuel system may also be recommended.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $300 - $800+
  • Recalls: None Found
• Turbocharger Issues
  • Description/Symptoms: Whining noise from the engine, loss of power, excessive oil consumption, and blue smoke from the exhaust. Potential turbo failure.
  • Solution: Inspection and potential replacement of the turbocharger. Check oil lines to the turbo.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $800 - $1500+
  • Recalls: None Found

2.4L Petrol

• No Issues Found

Transmission

5-Speed Manual

• Clutch Wear/Failure
  • Description/Symptoms: Clutch slippage (engine revs high without acceleration), difficulty shifting gears, grinding noises when shifting, and a soft or spongy clutch pedal.
  • Solution: Replacement of the clutch disc, pressure plate, and throw-out bearing. Flywheel resurfacing may also be necessary.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $400 - $1000+
  • Recalls: None Found
• Synchro Wear
  • Description/Symptoms: Grinding when shifting into a particular gear, especially when cold. Difficulty engaging the gear smoothly.
  • Solution: Transmission disassembly and replacement of worn synchros.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $800 - $1500+
  • Recalls: None Found

Suspension

• Leaf Spring Sagging/Cracking
  • Description/Symptoms: Vehicle sagging, especially when loaded. Reduced ride height, poor handling, and potential cracking or breakage of leaf springs.
  • Solution: Replacement of leaf springs.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $400 - $800+ per spring (depending on parts and labor)
  • Recalls: None Found
• Worn Shock Absorbers
  • Description/Symptoms: Bouncy ride, excessive body roll during cornering, longer stopping distances, and uneven tire wear.
  • Solution: Replacement of shock absorbers.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $500+ (for a pair)
  • Recalls: None Found

Electrical

• Wiring Harness Issues
  • Description/Symptoms: Intermittent electrical problems, such as lights flickering, malfunctioning sensors, or starting problems. Often caused by corrosion or damaged wiring.
  • Solution: Diagnosis and repair of damaged wiring harness sections. May involve replacing connectors or entire harness sections.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $100 - $500+ (depending on the extent of the damage)
  • Recalls: None Found
• Alternator Failure
  • Description/Symptoms: Dimming headlights, battery not charging, warning light on the dashboard, and eventually a dead battery.
  • Solution: Replacement of the alternator.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $500+
  • Recalls: None Found

Exterior

• Rusting
  • Description/Symptoms: Rust formation, particularly in areas prone to moisture and road salt exposure (e.g., undercarriage, wheel wells, body panels).
  • Solution: Rust removal, body repair, and repainting. Application of rustproofing.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $2000+ (depending on the severity)
  • Recalls: None Found

Interior

• Dashboard Cracking
  • Description/Symptoms: Cracks appearing on the dashboard, particularly in areas exposed to direct sunlight.
  • Solution: Dashboard replacement or installation of a dashboard cover.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $100 - $800+
  • Recalls: None Found
• HVAC Blower Motor Failure
  • Description/Symptoms: Air conditioning or heat not working, weak airflow, or blower motor making unusual noises.
  • Solution: Replacement of the blower motor.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $150 - $400+
  • Recalls: None Found

Summary

The 2009 Dodge H100 can be a reliable workhorse, but potential buyers should be aware of some common issues. The most significant problems revolve around the 2.5L CRDi diesel engine (fuel injectors, turbocharger) and transmission (clutch, synchros). Suspension and electrical issues can also occur. The cost to repair these issues can range from a few hundred dollars to over a thousand dollars, depending on the specific problem and the extent of the damage. Rust is also a potential issue, especially in areas with harsh winters. Careful inspection and a thorough pre-purchase inspection are recommended.