2009 Dodge Ram 2500

The 2009 Dodge Ram 2500 is a heavy-duty pickup truck known for its towing capacity and ruggedness. Engine options include the 5.7L Hemi V8 (350 hp, 390 lb-ft of torque), the 6.7L Cummins Turbo Diesel I6 (350 hp, 650 lb-ft of torque), and the 5.7L Hemi V8 CNG (Compressed Natural Gas) (TBD hp, TBD lb-ft of torque). Transmission options include a 5-speed automatic with the 5.7L Hemi V8, a 6-speed manual, and a 6-speed automatic with the Cummins Turbo Diesel. Owners often praise its capability and durability but sometimes complain about fuel economy and ride quality.

Engine

5.7L Hemi V8

• Hemi Tick
  • Description/Symptoms: A ticking or tapping noise emanating from the engine, particularly when cold or at idle. Can be related to exhaust manifold leaks, worn lifters or rocker arms.
  • Solution: Replacing the exhaust manifold, lifters, or rocker arms.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $300-$1500+ (depending on which parts need to be replaced).
  • Recalls: None Found

6.7L Cummins Turbo Diesel

• Turbocharger Failure
  • Description/Symptoms: Decreased engine power, excessive black smoke from the exhaust, whining or unusual noises from the turbocharger, potential engine damage. Can be caused by oil starvation, foreign object damage, or excessive wear.
  • Solution: Replacement or rebuild of the turbocharger.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $1500-$3500+
  • Recalls: None Found
• EGR (Exhaust Gas Recirculation) Valve Problems
  • Description/Symptoms: Rough idling, decreased fuel economy, black smoke from the exhaust, check engine light illuminated. Caused by carbon buildup and failure of the EGR valve.
  • Solution: Cleaning or replacement of the EGR valve.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $300-$800
  • Recalls: None Found

Transmission

5-Speed Automatic (5.7L Hemi V8)

• Torque Converter Failure
  • Description/Symptoms: Shuddering during acceleration, slipping between gears, abnormal noise from the transmission.
  • Solution: Replacement of the torque converter.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $800-$2000+
  • Recalls: None Found

6-Speed Automatic (6.7L Cummins Turbo Diesel)

• Valve Body Issues
  • Description/Symptoms: Harsh or erratic shifting, slipping between gears, failure to shift properly, transmission overheating.
  • Solution: Replacement or rebuild of the valve body.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $500-$1500+
  • Recalls: None Found

Suspension

• Ball Joint Failure
  • Description/Symptoms: Clunking noise from the front suspension, loose steering, uneven tire wear. Primarily affects the front lower ball joints.
  • Solution: Replacement of the ball joints.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $300-$800+
  • Recalls: None Found
• Steering Linkage Wear
  • Description/Symptoms: Loose steering, wandering on the road, difficulty maintaining a straight line. Caused by wear in the tie rod ends, ball joints, and steering shaft.
  • Solution: Replacement of worn steering linkage components.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $200-$800+
  • Recalls: None Found

Electrical

• TIPM (Totally Integrated Power Module) Issues
  • Description/Symptoms: Intermittent starting problems, fuel pump issues, power windows not working, erratic behavior of electrical accessories.
  • Solution: Replacement of the TIPM or repairing faulty connections.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $500-$1500+
  • Recalls: None Found
• Alternator Failure
  • Description/Symptoms: Dimming lights, battery not charging, vehicle stalling, warning lights illuminated.
  • Solution: Replacement of the alternator.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $300-$700
  • Recalls: None Found

Exterior

• Rusting of Rear Wheel Wells/Fenders
  • Description/Symptoms: Rust developing around the rear wheel wells and fenders.
  • Solution: Repair or replacement of rusted panels.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $500-$2000+
  • Recalls: None Found

Interior

• Dashboard Cracking
  • Description/Symptoms: Cracking of the dashboard, especially in warmer climates.
  • Solution: Replacement or repair of the dashboard.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $300-$1500+
  • Recalls: None Found
• Blend Door Actuator Failure
  • Description/Symptoms: Inability to control air temperature, clicking noises behind the dashboard, air blowing only hot or cold.
  • Solution: Replacement of the blend door actuator.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $200-$600+
  • Recalls: None Found

Summary

The 2009 Dodge Ram 2500 can experience a range of issues. The 6.7L Cummins Turbo Diesel, while powerful, can be prone to costly turbocharger and EGR valve failures. Electrical problems related to the TIPM and alternator failures are also frequently reported. Suspension issues like ball joint failure and steering linkage wear are also not uncommon. Rust in the rear wheel wells is a prevalent issue, and interior complaints often include dashboard cracking and blend door actuator problems. While some repairs are relatively inexpensive, others, like turbocharger replacement or TIPM replacement, can be quite costly. Prospective buyers should be aware of these potential issues and thoroughly inspect the vehicle before purchase.