2010 Dodge Ram 4500

The 2010 Dodge Ram 4500 is a heavy-duty work truck designed for towing and hauling. The primary engine option is a 6.7L Cummins Turbo Diesel engine producing 350 horsepower and 650 lb-ft of torque. It comes with either a 6-speed manual or a 6-speed automatic transmission. Owners often praise its towing capacity and powerful engine but commonly complain about its ride quality, fuel economy, and some reliability issues.

Engine

6.7L Cummins Turbo Diesel

• Turbocharger Failure
  • Description/Symptoms: Loss of power, excessive black smoke, whistling noises, and potential engine damage.
  • Solution: Replacement of the turbocharger. The HE351CW turbocharger is commonly found in the 2010 Rams.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $1,500 - $3,000+
  • Recalls: None Found
• EGR (Exhaust Gas Recirculation) Valve Failure
  • Description/Symptoms: Rough idling, poor fuel economy, check engine light.
  • Solution: EGR valve replacement.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $400 - $800
  • Recalls: None Found
• Fuel Injector Issues
  • Description/Symptoms: Misfires, rough running, black or white smoke.
  • Solution: Fuel injector replacement or cleaning.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $500 - $2,000+ (depending on the number of injectors replaced)
  • Recalls: None Found

Transmission

6-Speed Automatic

• Torque Converter Failure
  • Description/Symptoms: Slipping, shuddering, difficulty shifting.
  • Solution: Torque converter replacement.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $800 - $2,000+
  • Recalls: None Found
• Valve Body Issues
  • Description/Symptoms: Harsh or delayed shifting, transmission slipping.
  • Solution: Valve body replacement or rebuild.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $600 - $1,500
  • Recalls: None Found

6-Speed Manual No Issues Found

Suspension

• Ball Joint Failure
  • Description/Symptoms: Clunking noises, poor steering, uneven tire wear.
  • Solution: Ball joint replacement.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $300 - $800 per side
  • Recalls: None Found
• Leaf Spring Sagging/Breakage
  • Description/Symptoms: Reduced payload capacity, rough ride, visible sagging.
  • Solution: Leaf spring replacement.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $500 - $1,500 per side
  • Recalls: None Found

Electrical

• TIPM (Totally Integrated Power Module) Failure
  • Description/Symptoms: Intermittent starting problems, malfunctioning fuel pump relay, power windows/locks not working.
  • Solution: TIPM replacement.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $800 - $1,500
  • Recalls: None Found
• Wiring Harness Issues
  • Description/Symptoms: Intermittent electrical problems, corrosion on connectors.
  • Solution: Wiring harness repair or replacement.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $1,000+ (depending on the severity)
  • Recalls: None Found

Exterior

• Rust on Underbody and Frame
  • Description/Symptoms: Visible rust, structural weakening.
  • Solution: Rust repair or frame replacement (in severe cases).
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $500 - $5,000+ (depending on severity)
  • Recalls: None Found
• Brake Light Failures
  • Description/Symptoms: Brake lights not illuminating, or intermittently working
  • Solution: Replacement of tail light assembly.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $50-$200 per side
  • Recalls: None Found

Interior

• Dashboard Cracking
  • Description/Symptoms: Large cracks appearing on the dashboard surface.
  • Solution: Dashboard replacement or use of a dashboard cover.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $800 - $2,000+ (dashboard replacement)
  • Recalls: None Found

Summary

The 2010 Dodge Ram 4500, while a capable work truck, can suffer from some significant reliability issues. Engine and transmission problems, particularly with the diesel engine and automatic transmission, can be costly to repair. Electrical issues related to the TIPM are also a common complaint. Suspension components and rust can also lead to unexpected expenses. The overall severity of these issues ranges from moderate to severe, and the associated costs can be substantial, especially for major engine or transmission repairs.