2010 Dodge Ram 3500

Introduction

The 2010 Dodge Ram 3500 is a heavy-duty pickup truck that offers impressive towing and payload capabilities. It is available with a range of engine and transmission options, including a 5.7L V8 Hemi, a 6.7L Cummins Turbo Diesel inline-six, and a 4.0L V6 natural gas engine. Despite its rugged nature, the Ram 3500 has some known issues that buyers should be aware of.

Engine

5.7L V8 Hemi

• MDS Lifter Failure
  • Description/Symptoms: Ticking or rattling noise from the engine, reduced engine power, possibly leading to catastrophic engine damage.
  • Solution: Replace the faulty lifters and camshaft.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $2,000 - $4,000+
  • Recalls: NHTSA Campaign ID: 14V384000

6.7L Cummins Turbo Diesel

• Exhaust Gas Recirculation (EGR) Cooler Failure
  • Description/Symptoms: White or blue smoke from the exhaust, decreased engine power, overheating.
  • Solution: Replace the EGR cooler.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $1,500 - $2,500
  • Recalls: NHTSA Campaign ID: 14V414000
• Turbocharger Failure
  • Description/Symptoms: Loss of boost pressure, reduced engine power, black smoke from the exhaust.
  • Solution: Replace the turbocharger.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $2,500 - $4,000+
  • Recalls: None Found

4.0L V6 Natural Gas

• Intake Valve Failure
  • Description/Symptoms: Engine misfires, loss of power, rough idle.
  • Solution: Replace the intake valves and associated components.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $1,000 - $2,000+
  • Recalls: None Found

Transmission

6-Speed Automatic

• Torque Converter Failure
  • Description/Symptoms: Shuddering or slipping during gear changes, difficulty shifting into gear.
  • Solution: Replace the torque converter.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $1,500 - $2,500
  • Recalls: None Found
• Transmission Control Module (TCM) Failure
  • Description/Symptoms: Harsh shifting, delayed shifts, transmission stuck in one gear.
  • Solution: Replace the TCM.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $500 - $1,000
  • Recalls: None Found

Suspension

• Leaf Spring Failure
  • Description/Symptoms: Sagging in the rear suspension, uneven tire wear, difficulty handling.
  • Solution: Replace the leaf springs.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $800 - $1,200+
  • Recalls: None Found

Electrical

• Alternator Failure
  • Description/Symptoms: Dimming lights, electrical system malfunction, dead battery.
  • Solution: Replace the alternator.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $500 - $800
  • Recalls: None Found
• Headlight Switch Failure
  • Description/Symptoms: Headlights won’t turn on or off, intermittent headlights.
  • Solution: Replace the headlight switch.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $400
  • Recalls: None Found

Exterior

• Tailgate Latch Failure
  • Description/Symptoms: Tailgate won’t stay closed, tailgate pops open while driving.
  • Solution: Replace the tailgate latch.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $400
  • Recalls: None Found

Interior

• Instrument Cluster Failure
  • Description/Symptoms: Gauges not working, warning lights staying on, flickering or blank display.
  • Solution: Replace the instrument cluster.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $1,000 - $1,500+
  • Recalls: None Found

Summary

While the 2010 Dodge Ram 3500 is a capable truck, it has some significant issues that can be expensive to repair. The most severe issues include engine lifter failure, EGR cooler failure, turbocharger failure, and transmission torque converter failure. These issues can lead to catastrophic engine damage, reduced power, and difficulty driving. Potential buyers should carefully consider these issues before purchasing this vehicle.