2010 Dodge Ram 4500

Introduction:

The 2010 Dodge Ram 4500 is a heavy-duty pickup truck offered with several engine and transmission options. It features a 6.7L Cummins Turbo Diesel I6 as its standard engine, delivering 350 horsepower and 650 lb-ft of torque. Transmission choices include a 6-speed manual and a 6-speed automatic. The Ram 4500 is known for its impressive towing and hauling capabilities but has also faced some issues reported by owners.

Engine

6.7L Cummins Turbo Diesel I6

• Turbocharger failure:
  • Symptoms: Excessive smoke from the exhaust, decreased engine power, loud whistling noise
  • Solution: Replacement of the turbocharger
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $2,000 - $3,000+
• Inlet manifold gasket leak:
  • Symptoms: Loss of coolant, engine overheating, white smoke from the exhaust
  • Solution: Replacement of the inlet manifold gasket
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $500 - $1,000
• Injection system problems:
  • Symptoms: Difficulty starting, rough idle, decreased fuel mileage
  • Solution: Repair or replacement of injectors, fuel pump, or ECM
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $1,000 - $5,000+
• EGR system issues:
  • Symptoms: Reduced engine power, rough idling, increased emissions
  • Solution: Cleaning or replacement of the EGR valve and related components
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $500 - $2,000
• Recalls:
  • NHTSA Campaign Number: 16V375000; Issue: Exhaust Gas Recirculation (EGR) Valve Sticking; Fix: Replace EGR Valve
  • NHTSA Campaign Number: 17V011000; Issue: Fuel Pump Failure; Fix: Replace Fuel Pump

Transmission

6-speed Manual

• Clutch problems:
  • Symptoms: Difficulty shifting gears, slipping clutch
  • Solution: Replacement of the clutch assembly
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $1,500 - $2,000
• Synchro issues:
  • Symptoms: Grinding noise when shifting gears
  • Solution: Replacement of the synchronizers
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $500 - $1,000

6-speed Automatic

• Transmission slip:
  • Symptoms: Hesitation or slipping during gear changes
  • Solution: Replacement or repair of the transmission
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $3,000 - $5,000+
• Torque converter shudder:
  • Symptoms: Vibration or shudder on acceleration
  • Solution: Replacement of the torque converter
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $1,000 - $2,000+
• Recalls:
  • NHTSA Campaign Number: 14V346000; Issue: Transmission Mount Failure; Fix: Replace Transmission Mount

Suspension

• Front suspension component wear:
  • Symptoms: Excessive tire wear, clunking or rattling noise
  • Solution: Replacement of worn components (e.g., ball joints, tie rods)
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $500 - $1,500+

Electrical

• Alternator failure:
  • Symptoms: Battery not charging, dimming headlights
  • Solution: Replacement of the alternator
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $500 - $1,000
• Ignition switch problems:
  • Symptoms: Difficulty starting the vehicle, electrical system malfunctioning
  • Solution: Replacement of the ignition switch
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $300 - $500

Exterior

• Door lock actuator failure:
  • Symptoms: Inability to lock or unlock doors remotely or manually
  • Solution: Replacement of the door lock actuator
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $500

Interior

• Climate control issues:
  • Symptoms: Inconsistent or ineffective temperature control
  • Solution: Repair or replacement of the HVAC system components
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $500 - $2,000+
• Seat belt pretensioner malfunction:
  • Symptoms: Seat belt locking up unexpectedly during a collision
  • Solution: Replacement of the seat belt pretensioner
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $500 - $1,000
• Recalls:
  • NHTSA Campaign Number: 15V272000; Issue: Seat Belt Pretensioner Malfunction; Fix: Replace Seat Belt Pretensioner

Summary

The 2010 Dodge Ram 4500 has encountered various issues, including problems with the engine, transmission, suspension, electrical system, and interior components. While some repairs may be relatively inexpensive, others, such as transmission replacements, can be costly. Overall, researching the specific issues associated with this vehicle is crucial before purchasing to gauge potential maintenance and repair expenses.