2009 Dodge Van 1000

The 2009 Dodge Ram 1500, often referred to as the Dodge Van 1000, is a light-duty pickup truck known for its versatility and capability. It was offered with multiple engine options including a 3.7L V6 producing around 215 horsepower and 235 lb-ft of torque, a 4.7L V8 generating approximately 310 horsepower and 330 lb-ft of torque, and a 5.7L Hemi V8 which boasts roughly 390 horsepower and 407 lb-ft of torque. The transmissions varied as well, ranging from a 4-speed automatic to a 5-speed automatic. Owners often appreciate the Ram 1500 for its comfortable ride and powerful engine options. Common dislikes can include fuel economy concerns, especially with the larger V8 engines, and reported issues with certain components over time. This information will focus on specific problems reported by owners of the 2009 Ram 1500.

Engine

3.7L V6

• Cracked Exhaust Manifold
  • Description/Symptoms: Ticking sound, especially upon cold start, due to exhaust leak. May diminish as the engine warms up. Reduced fuel economy.
  • Solution: Replace the cracked exhaust manifold.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $400 - $800+
  • Recalls: None Found

4.7L V8

• Valve Seat Failure
  • Description/Symptoms: Rough idling, misfires, loss of power, and potential engine damage.
  • Solution: Engine rebuild or replacement.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $3000+
  • Recalls: None Found

5.7L Hemi V8

• Hemi Tick
  • Description/Symptoms: Ticking or knocking sound originating from the engine, often described as a “Hemi tick”. Some causes may be related to exhaust manifold bolts, valve train components, or lifter issues.
  • Solution: Diagnosis to determine the exact cause. Repair or replacement of the affected components (e.g., exhaust manifold bolts, lifters).
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $100 - $1500+ (depending on the cause)
  • Recalls: None Found
• Exhaust Manifold Bolts Breakage
  • Description/Symptoms: Exhaust leak noise, decreased fuel economy.
  • Solution: Replace broken bolts and manifold gasket.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $300 - $600+
  • Recalls: None Found

Transmission

4-Speed Automatic

• Harsh Shifting
  • Description/Symptoms: Hard or jerky shifts between gears, especially 1st to 2nd or 2nd to 3rd.
  • Solution: Transmission fluid flush and filter change may help. If the problem persists, valve body issues or internal damage may require a rebuild or replacement.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $100 (fluid flush) to $1500 - $3000+ (rebuild/replacement)
  • Recalls: None Found

5-Speed Automatic

• Torque Converter Shudder
  • Description/Symptoms: Vibration or shudder, especially at low speeds or during light acceleration.
  • Solution: Transmission fluid flush and the addition of a shudder fix additive may temporarily alleviate the problem. Torque converter replacement is often required.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $100 (fluid flush) to $500 - $1200+ (torque converter replacement)
  • Recalls: None Found
• Slipping Gears
  • Description/Symptoms: The transmission seems to lose power or “slip” out of gear during acceleration.
  • Solution: Typically requires a transmission rebuild or replacement due to worn clutches or other internal damage.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $1500 - $3000+
  • Recalls: None Found

Suspension

• Ball Joint Failure
  • Description/Symptoms: Popping or clunking noises from the front suspension, especially when turning or going over bumps. Loose steering and uneven tire wear.
  • Solution: Replace worn ball joints.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $600+ (per side)
  • Recalls: None Found
• Worn Tie Rod Ends
  • Description/Symptoms: Loose steering, wandering, and uneven tire wear.
  • Solution: Replace worn tie rod ends.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $150 - $400+ (per side)
  • Recalls: None Found

Electrical

• Totally Integrated Power Module (TIPM) Issues
  • Description/Symptoms: Intermittent starting problems, fuel pump relay failure, stalling, horn issues, windshield wiper problems, and malfunctioning power windows/locks.
  • Solution: Replacement of the TIPM or repair of the faulty circuits within the module.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $500 - $1200+
  • Recalls: None Found
• Sensor Failures (O2, Crankshaft, Camshaft)
  • Description/Symptoms: Check engine light illumination, poor engine performance, stalling, and difficulty starting.
  • Solution: Replace faulty sensors.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $100 - $300+ (per sensor)
  • Recalls: None Found

Exterior

• Rust on rocker panels and wheel wells
  • Description/Symptoms: Bubbling paint and visible rust.
  • Solution: Rust repair or replacement of affected panels.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $300 - $1000+ (per panel)
  • Recalls: None Found

Interior

• Dashboard Cracking
  • Description/Symptoms: Cracks appearing on the dashboard surface, especially in warmer climates.
  • Solution: Dashboard replacement or installation of a dashboard cover.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $50 (cover) to $800+ (replacement)
  • Recalls: None Found
• Power Window Motor Failure
  • Description/Symptoms: Window not operating.
  • Solution: Replacement of the power window motor.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $150-$400
  • Recalls: None Found

Summary

The 2009 Dodge Ram 1500 can present owners with a variety of issues affecting the engine, transmission, suspension, electrical system, exterior, and interior. The severity of these issues can range from relatively minor (e.g., broken exhaust manifold bolts) to more significant and costly (e.g., TIPM failure, transmission rebuild). Potential buyers should be aware of these common problems and thoroughly inspect the vehicle before purchase, paying particular attention to the engine, transmission, and electrical system. Pre-purchase inspection by a qualified mechanic is highly recommended.