1999 Dodge Van 1500 Sherri Conversion review from North America
"Nice Van, but the 5.2 Magnum V-8 engine may have a serious problem/defect not covered under warranty"
What things have gone wrong with the car?
My freeze plug failed and leaked all the antifreeze/coolant out of the engine. I was driving my 1999 Dodge 1500 Conversion Van, with 52K miles on the 5.2 Mag. V-8 engine, down the interstate. After driving about 10 miles from town where I had just filled up with unleaded gasoline, the engine started to "ping" like bad gas. Then without warning, smoke started to pour out of the engine and tail pipe. I pulled over and called tow truck. I had the van hauled to the local dealer where I purchased the van and had been receiving service and oil changes. The dealer said "freeze plug had small hole in it, all coolant drained out, need new engine, not covered under any warranty". I have talked with several people about this, and no one that I have spoken with has ever seen this happen on such a new model van with low mileage.
General comments?
Has anyone else experienced this problem with the 5.2 Magnum V-8?
Recommended reviews
  | This automobile is not a bargain at all |
| Poor factory complaince |
| Would you buy another car from this manufacturer? | No |
| First year of ownership | 2001 |
| Most recent year of ownership | 2003 |
| Engine and transmission | 5.2 Magnum V8 Automatic |
| Performance marks | 8/10 |
| Reliability marks | 8/10 |
| Comfort marks | 5/10 |
| Dealer Service marks | 4/10 |
| Running Costs (higher is cheaper) | 6/10 |
| Distance when acquired | 30000 miles |
| Most recent distance | 52000 miles |
| Previous car | Honda Accord |
| Date of Entry | 17th January, 2003 |