1998 Dodge Ram 1500 review from North America
"Nice truck, but expensive"
What things have gone wrong with the car?
Glutton for punishment as I own a 1998 5.2L and a 1999 5.9L Dodge Ram 1500.
To date these are the problems I have experienced with the 1998 Ram Sport, extended cab.
55,000 - AC evaporator replaced Self Repaired $300, Dealer wanted $890+
57,000 - Back-up switch defective $28+ Self Repaired.
69,000 - Output speed sensor replaced, Dealer Repaired $200+
69,900 - Surge Problem, Occurs at any speed 40, 50, 60. Cruise Control On or Off. Occurs when engine is cold or hot, idle is good. Tachometer varies or surges 250 to 300 RPM, no detectable acceleration. Diagnostics indicate no faults found. Problem still exists and not corrected.
70,000 - Steering Column clicking when turning. Dealer says no problem, leave as it.
75,000 - Engine would not start. The Dodge dealer could not isolate problem. However, they did find that; (1) the thermostat had a leak and (2) the "Intake manifold gasket leaks oil into valley into the engine." I was aware that Technical Service Bullitin 18-48-98, 09-05-00 had been issued. Dealer repaired $583+
94,000 - Differential replace. Dealer repaired $980+
General comments?
Truck has a lot of response and better than my 5.9L Ram. If anyone has experienced the surge problem and solved the problem I would like to know.
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| 1998 - Ram 1500 SLT 4x4 5.9L V8 Very good 4x4 truck |
| Would you buy another car from this manufacturer? | No |
| Year of manufacture | 1998 |
| First year of ownership | 1999 |
| Most recent year of ownership | 2003 |
| Engine and transmission | 5.2 Automatic |
| Performance marks | 5 / 10 |
| Reliability marks | 7 / 10 |
| Comfort marks | 9 / 10 |
| Dealer Service marks | 9 / 10 |
| Running Costs (higher is cheaper) | 3 / 10 |
| Overall marks (average of all marks) | |
| Distance when acquired | 24000 miles |
| Most recent distance | 96000 miles |
| Previous car | Dodge Ram Pickup |
| Date of Entry | 29th October, 2003 |