1997 Dodge Ram Pickup Ram 1500 4x4 SLT Laramie review from North America
"Poor quality, but cheaper to fix than replace"
What things have gone wrong with the car?
20000 miles transmission replaced under warranty.
75000 miles first water pump failed.
80000 miles intake manifold gasket failed (sucks oil out of the engine with no indications, luckily I check oil at the gas station)
95000 miles replaced rear end and entire steering assembly, paint on front fenders started to peel off.
112000 miles second water pump failed, ABS system needed replaced and ignition control problems.
119000 speed sensor on transmission works intermittently.
119100 miles all brake lines replaced due to multiple leaks occurring within a week.
119500 miles third water pump replaced (not using OEM parts this time)
120000 miles transmission starting to slip.
General comments?
I love the interior layout on the truck, all the controls are in the right place and there is plenty of storage for a regular cab.
I have never exceeded recommended limits for towing, hauling, or loading, but reliability is poor. If I abused the truck I would understand, but it was supposedly built for this work and isn't standing up.
I got the truck new in 96.
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| Would you buy another car from this manufacturer? | No |
| Model year | 1997 |
| Year of manufacture | 1996 |
| First year of ownership | 1996 |
| Most recent year of ownership | 2008 |
| Engine and transmission | 5.2 Automatic |
| Performance marks | |
| Reliability marks | |
| Comfort marks | |
| Dealer Service marks | |
| Running Costs (higher is cheaper) | |
| Distance when acquired | 30 miles |
| Most recent distance | 120000 miles |
| Date of Entry | 7th March, 2008 |