1994-2001 Dodge Ram Pickup: Full Review
Updated: 11/23/08
2001 Dodge Ram 1500/2500/3500
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1994-2001 Dodge Ram Pickup ▼
- Price Range: $1,100 - $7,700
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Learn about the year-to-year changes and reliability for the 1994-2001 Dodge Ram Pickup and our price chart details a range of prices based on vehicle mileage and condition.
Pros
- Acceleration (V8, V10)
- Cargo and towing ability
- Optional 4-wheel antilock brakes
- Interior room
Cons
- Noise
- Acceleration (V6)
- Ride
- Fuel economy
Vehicle Highlights
After 22 years in its former form, Dodge shelved its full-size pickup design in favor of a bold new Ram. Not only did the new Ram hold a driver-side airbag, it could be equipped with a V10 engine, developing 300 horsepower and 450 pound-feet of torque. Initially sold only with a regular-cab body, the Ram came with a short or long cargo box, 2- or 4-wheel drive, in three series: 1500 (1/2-ton), 2500 (3/4-ton), and 3500 (one-ton), the latter with dual rear wheels. Short-bed Rams had a 118.7-inch wheelbase and 6.5-foot cargo bed. Long-bed models rode a 134.7-inch wheelbase with 8-foot bed. Dodge claimed to have the largest interior of any regular-cab pickup--an extended Club Cab didn't arrive untill late in 1994. Lowest-priced Ram was the Work Special 1500. Higher-cost versions were named LT, ST, and Laramie SLT. Rear-wheel antilock braking was standard; 4-wheel ABS optional on 1500 and 2500 models, operating in both 2WD and 4WD. A 3-place bench seat was standard; 40/20/40 split bench optional, including a "business console." Except for the available V10, engines were carried over from the previous generation: V6, three V8s, and a turbodiesel inline six.
Expert Ratings Summary (view detailed report)
| Category | Dodge Ram Pickup 5.2-liter ext. cab Rating | |
|---|---|---|
| Performance | 5 | |
| Fuel Economy | 2 | |
| Ride Quality | 3 | |
| Steering/Handling/Braking | 3 | |
| Quietness | 3 | |
| Controls/Materials | 3 | |
| Interior Room | 6 | |
| Room/Comfort (rear) | 2 | |
| Cargo Capacity | 2 | |
| Value within Class | 5 | |
| Total Score: | 34 |
Learn about the year-to-year changes of the 1994-2001 Dodge Ram Pickup. Get full details of the styling and performance changes throughout the history of the 1994-2001 Dodge Ram Pickup.
Year to Year Changes
1995 Dodge Ram:
The late arriving Club Cabs had a 138.7-inch wheelbase and 6.5-foot cargo bed, or a 154.7-inch wheelbase with an 8-foot bed. They were equipped at ST level, with the Laramie SLT their only major option package. The Club Cab's 3-place rear bench seat can be folded against the rear of the cab for extra cargo room.
1996 Dodge Ram:
A new extra-cost Camper Special suspension package for heavy-duty models gave Rams extra towing and hauling capacity. Cummins turbodiesel engines gained power.
1997 Dodge Ram:
Minor changes to interior trim and convenience features were made for 1997, along with a slight power boost for the 5.9-liter V8. The engine shifts from 230 to 235 horsepower. Club Cab (extended cab) models get dark tinted glass for the rear quarter window and optional sliding rear window.
1998 Dodge Ram:
Dodge added the Quad Cab for 1998. It was the industry's first full-size 4-door [ickup. Also new was a passenger-side airbag that could be disabled.
1999 Dodge Ram:
Changes for '99 included a rotary headlamp switch (replacing a push/pull knob), a new overhead console, and one-touch power down for power driver windows. The Sport appearance group received quad headlamps and a new front bumper, fascia, and grille.
2000 Dodge Ram:
A new Off Road Group brought increased ground clearance and wheel travel to short-bed, regular-cab, and Quad Cab 4WD Rams. It included 17-inch alloy wheels, a limited-slip differential, tow hooks, skid plates, and other heavy-duty equipment. A new SLT Plus luxury package, optional on Quad Cabs, included power heated leather seats, a CD player with steering-wheel audio controls, and keyless entry with a security alarm. All models now had a standard tachometer and underhood light.
2001 Dodge Ram:
No significant changes were made for 2001.
Our road test for the 1994-2001 Dodge Ram Pickup includes a full evaluation from the inside out. We've evaluated every aspect of the 1994-2001 Dodge Ram Pickup and highlighted the vehicle's performance with pros and cons. Use our comprehensive road test ratings to decide if this generation 1994-2001 Dodge Ram Pickup is right for you.
Consumer Guide® Road-Test Evaluation
Acceleration is more than adequate with the 5.2-liter V8, which delivered average fuel economy of 14.4 mpg. We don't recommend a V6 for heavy-duty work. A burly Cummins turbodiesel is also available, but not too many folks really need that much pull. You don't get neck-snapping pickup with the V10, but it does propel the Ram with more authority than any V8, and generates less noise than expected. Gas mileage is dismal, however: just 10 mpg in mostly city travel. A turbodiesel delivered 14.6 mpg, but is slower in standing-start acceleration than a gas engine, and idles as roughly as a big rig. Even with a base suspension, a Ram 1500 can get bouncy over dips and bumps when the bed is empty. Turns may be taken with good grip and balance, and gusty crosswinds have little effect on directional stability. Ride quality in a 2500-series is undeniably stiff. Four-wheel antilock braking brings this pickup to a halt with fine control. Engine and road noise are modest for a truck, but wind roar around front roof pillars is a problem. Space is ample for three-across seating. The cab has plenty of space behind the seat, making it possible to recline seatbacks--a rarity in full-size pickups. The seatback center folds into an armrest that doubles as a compartmented console. Opening the large padded lid to gain access to the compartments, however, is not so easy while driving. Three can sit abreast in the back of a Club Cab, but the seat cushion is too short to offer real thigh support, and rear leg room is no better than in a compact car. Gauges are plainly marked; controls near at hand and logical. Three simple knobs operate the climate control. Most controls are lit at night. A slide-out holder is big enough to carry two 16-ounce beverage containers, but it obstructs the radio controls when in use.
Value for the Money
All told, the impressive Ram is as accommodating and refined as any Ford or General Motors rival. Even if you're leaning toward another brand, it's a good idea to test-drive a Ram before buying any full-size pickup.
All told, the impressive Ram is as accommodating and refined as any Ford or General Motors rival. Even if you're leaning toward another brand, it's a good idea to test-drive a Ram before buying any full-size pickup.
Expert Ratings Summary
| Category | Dodge Ram Pickup 5.2-liter ext. cab Rating | |
|---|---|---|
| Performance | 5 | |
| Fuel Economy | 2 | |
| Ride Quality | 3 | |
| Steering/Handling/Braking | 3 | |
| Quietness | 3 | |
| Controls/Materials | 3 | |
| Interior Room | 6 | |
| Room/Comfort (rear) | 2 | |
| Cargo Capacity | 2 | |
| Value within Class | 5 | |
| Total Score: | 34 |
Each vehicle report contains one rating chart for representative model. Consumer
Guide® rates in ten key areas: Performance, Fuel Economy, Ride Comfort, Steering
and Handling, Interior Noise, Controls and Materials, Driver Room, Passenger Room,
Cargo Capacity, and Insurance Costs. These ratings compare the particular vehicle
rated to ALL other vehicles, not a vehicle's standing in a particular class. In the
ratings table, "1" is the lowest rating and "10" is the highest rating.
Our reliability study for this generation Dodge Ram includes details on average repair costs, manufacturer recalls, and everything you need to know to gauge the long-term reliability of this generation Dodge Ram .
Trouble Spots
Consumer Guide's® Auto Editors have scoured repair bulletins and questioned mechanics to search
for commonly occurring problems for a particular vehicle. In some cases we also give possible manufacturer-suggested
solutions. In many instances these trouble spots are Technical Service Bulletins posted by the manufacturer,
however, we have our own expert looking at additional vehicle problems.
Air conditioner:
If the air conditioner gradually stops cooling and/or the airflow from the vents decreases, the computer (PCM) may not be sending a signal to the compressor clutch relay to cycle off, which causes the A/C evaporator to freeze up. (1994-95)
Automatic transmission:
If the transmission will not engage when first started, chances are the torque converter is draining down. A check valve in the fluid line leading to the transmission cooler will fix the problem. (1994)
Automatic transmission:
If the transmission won't upshift in cool weather, it is probably due to defective cast iron seal rings in the governor drive. (1994)
Brake wear:
Premature front brake pad wear can be limited by installing larger wheel cylinders for the rear brakes. (1994-96)
Brakes:
ABS system fails due to battery acid dripping onto the ABS control module and wiring. (1998-03)
Climate control:
If blower motor draws too much current through ignition switch, a relay kit may need to be installed. (1994-96)
Engine misfire:
Use of other than Cummins-approved oil filters may cause engine damage. (1989-01 diesel)
Engine mounts:
Seeming engine surge caused by torque converter locking and unlocking at steady speed near 50 mph is due to defective throttle position sensor or corroded connectors. (1994-02)
Manual transmission:
High shift effort on 5-speed manual transmission may be remedied with a replacement shift shaft lever and shift detent plunger. (1999-2000)
Suspension noise:
A rattle or clunk from the front can often be traced to the sway bar links where they attach to the sway bar. (1994-95)
Transmission leak:
Automatic transmission fluid leaks from the speed sensor in the transmission. (1994)
Vehicle noise:
Replacing the torque shaft spring can eliminate rattling or vibrations on the floor pan. (2000-01)
Consumer Guide® Estimated Repair Costs
This table lists costs of likely repairs for comparison with other vehicles. The
dollar amount includes the cost of the part(s) and labor (based on $50 per hour) for the
typical repair without extras or add-ons. Like the pricing information, replacement
costs can vary widely depending on region. Expect charges at a new-car dealership
to be slightly higher.
| Item Name | Repair Cost |
| A/C Compressor | $380 |
| Alternator | $295 |
| Automatic Transmission or Transaxle | $795 |
| Brakes | $295 |
| Clutch, Pressure Plate, Bearing | $610 |
| Exhaust System | $260 |
| Radiator | $325 |
| Shocks and/or Struts | $230 |
| Timing Chain or Belt | $235 |
| Universal Joints | $225 |
Our price chart for this generation Dodge Ram details a range of prices in
year-by-year listings based on vehicle mileage and condition.
| Prices | Good | Average | Poor |
|
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| 2001 | |||
| Ram 1500 pickup | $4,000-8,000 | $3,300-6,600 | $1,300-2,600 |
| Ram 2500 pickup | $5,000-9,000 | $4,300-7,700 | $2,000-3,600 |
| 2000 | |||
| Ram 1500 pickup | $3,600-6,700 | $2,900-5,400 | $1,000-1,900 |
| Ram 2500 pickup | $4,400-7,800 | $3,700-6,500 | $1,500-2,700 |
| 1999 | |||
| Ram 1500 pickup | $3,200-6,000 | $2,500-4,700 | $800-1,500 |
| Ram 2500 pickup | $4,000-7,200 | $3,300-5,900 | $1,300-2,300 |
| 1998 | |||
| Ram 1500 pickup | $2,800-5,200 | $2,100-3,900 | $600-1,100 |
| Ram 2500 pickup | $3,500-6,200 | $2,800-5,000 | $900-1,700 |
| 1997 | |||
| Ram 1500 pickup | $2,400-4,500 | $1,700-3,200 | $500-900 |
| Ram 2500 pickup | $3,000-5,000 | $2,300-3,900 | $700-1,200 |
| 1996 | |||
| Ram 1500 pickup | $2,100-4,000 | $1,500-2,800 | $400-700 |
| Ram 2500 pickup | $2,700-4,500 | $2,000-3,400 | $600-1,000 |
| 1995 | |||
| Ram 1500 pickup | $1,800-3,200 | $1,200-2,200 | $300-500 |
| Ram 2500 pickup | $2,500-3,800 | $1,800-2,800 | $500-800 |
| 1994 | |||
| Ram 1500 pickup | $1,600-2,400 | $1,100-1,600 | $200-300 |
| Ram 2500 pickup | $2,100-3,200 | $1,500-2,200 | $400-600 |
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This chart details a range of prices in year-by-year listings for vehicles in three condition levels:
Good: a clean low-mileage, solid-running vehicle that needs little or no repair.
Average: a car with normal miles on the odometer, perhaps a few scrapes or dings;
engine might need a minor repair or two, but runs acceptably well.
Poor: might have potentially dangerous problems with the engine and/or body, or
abnormally high mileage; definitely in need of mechanical attention. Valuations
reflect wholesale prices paid by dealers at auction, and retail prices on used-car
lots. Each range covers all trim levels and engine types for a vehicle with a typical
amount of equipment--usually an automatic transmission, air conditioning, stereo,
etc. Fully loaded vehicles may cost more. Average mileage is 12,000 miles per year. Keep
in mind that these are guidelines only. Actual selling prices vary- especially from
region to region.
Specs for this generation Dodge Ram include everything from fuel mileage to seating capacity to options availability.
Vehicle Dimensions
| Specification | ext. cab long bed | ext. cab short bed | reg. cab long bed | reg. cab short bed |
| Wheelbase, in. | 154.7 | 138.7 | 134.7 | 118.7 |
| Overall Length, in. | 244.0 | 224.0 | 224.1 | 204.1 |
| Overall Width, in. | 79.4 | 79.4 | 79.4 | 79.4 |
| Overall Height, in. | 71.5 | 71.6 | 71.8 | 71.9 |
| Curb Weight, lbs. | 4649 | 4529 | 4180 | 4009 |
| Cargo Volume, cu. ft. | -- | -- | -- | -- |
| Standard Payload, lbs. | 5151 | 3915 | 5340 | 2372 |
| Fuel Capacity, gals. | 35.0 | 26.0 | 35.0 | 26.0 |
| Seating Capacity | 6 | 6 | 3 | 3 |
| Front Head Room, in. | 40.2 | 40.2 | 40.2 | 40.2 |
| Max. Front Leg Room, in. | 41.0 | 41.0 | 41.0 | 41.0 |
| Rear Head Room, in. | 39.4 | 39.4 | -- | -- |
| Max. Rear Leg Room, in. | 31.6 | 31.6 | -- | -- |
|
Specifications Key: NA = not available; "--" = measurement does not exist. |
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Powertrain Options and Availability
Rams came with any of five engines. A 3.9-liter V6 making 175 horsepower (170 bhp in '96) went into 1500-series models. A 220-horsepower, 5.2-liter V8 went into 4x4s and 2500-series Rams, and was optional in 1500-series. A 230-horsepower, 5.0-liter V8 was standard in 3500-series, optional in others. A Cummins-engineered 5.9-liter inline 6-cylinder turbocharged diesel could be installed in 2500- and 3500-series Rams. Turbodiesels made 175 horsepower with manual shift, or 160 with automatic (215/180 horsepower in 1996). The 8.0-liter V10 delivered 300 horsepower. A 5-speed manual gearbox and 4-speed automatic transmission were available. Ram 4x4s used on-demand, part-time 4WD (not for dry pavement), with automatic-locking hubs and shift-on-the-fly capability.
| Engines | cu. in |
Horse- power | Torque | Transmission: |
Consumer Guide Observed |
| ohv V8 | 5.2 / 318 | 220 | 300 | 5-speed manual: 14/19 4-speed automatic: 13/17 |
5-speed manual: -- 4-speed automatic: 14.4 |
| ohv V8 | 5.9 / 360 | 230-235 | 330 | 5-speed manual: 12/16 4-speed automatic: 12/17 |
5-speed manual: -- 4-speed automatic: 12.4 |
| ohv V10 | 8.0 / 488 | 300 | 440-450 | 5-speed manual: -- 4-speed automatic: -- |
5-speed manual: -- 4-speed automatic: 10 |
| ohv V6 | 3.9 / 239 | 170-175 | 230 | 5-speed manual: 16/20 4-speed automatic: 14/18 |
5-speed manual: -- 4-speed automatic: -- |
| Turbodiesel ohv I6 | 5.9 / 360 | 160-215 | 420-440 | 5-speed manual: -- 4-speed automatic: -- |
5-speed manual: -- 4-speed automatic: 14.6 |
|
Specifications Key: NA = not available; "--" = measurement does not exist. |
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Built In: Mexico, USA
Drive Wheels: longitudinal front-engine/rear- or 4-wheel drive
Detailed safety information for this generation Dodge Ram include detailed crash test scores from the NHTSA.
NHTSA Crash-Test Results
| Test | 1999 Ram 1500 |
|---|---|
| Front Impact, Driver | 5 |
| Front Impact, Passenger | 5 |
The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) tests a vehicle's worthiness in front- and side-impact collisions and rates its resistance to rollovers. Front-impact crash-test numbers indicate the chance of serious injury: 5 = 10% or less; 4 = 10-20%; 3 = 20-35%; 2 = 35-45%; 1 = More than 45%. Sideimpact crash-test numbers indicate: 5 = 5% or less; 4 = 6-10%; 3 = 11-20%; 2 = 21-25%; 1 = More than 26%. Rollover resistance numbers indicate the chance for rollover when the vehicle leaves the roadway: 5 = Less than 10%; 4 = 10-20%; 3 = 20-30%; 2 = 30-40%; 1 = More than 40%.
Learn about official auto recalls, reliability issues, and vehicle problems for the 1994-2001 Dodge Ram Pickup directly from the NHTSA and manufacturers.
NHTSA Recall History
1994 4WD:
Front suspension attachment to axle may not be adequately tightened; can cause axle vibration.
1994 BR1500/2500 w/no rear bumpers:
Does not meet rear-impact test requirements, and increases the risk of fuel spill.
1994:
Component within passenger-side seatbelt-buckle assembly shatters, causing belt to release.
1994:
Seatback-release-latch lever might remain in released position.
1994-95 2500/3500:
Front spring/shock towers on certain trucks can crack and eventually separate from vehicle frame.
1994-95:
Lower steering shaft can separate from upper shaft if the retaining plastic pins and metal clip break; can result in loss of vehicle control.
1994-95:
While making a turn, extra keys in keyring can lodge in holes in back of steering wheel.
1994-96 w/diesel:
The throttle cable could unravel (fray) or break, resulting in a loss of throttle control.
1994-96 w/gasoline engine:
Valve on fuel tank can allow fuel to leak onto ground; could result in fire.
1994-96:
Ignition switch and wiring on certain trucks could overheat.
1994-97:
Under certain high-load conditions, fluid line could separate from transmission; fluid may then spray onto exhaust manifold.
1994-99 w/V10 engine, manual transmission, 4WD:
Under sustained maximum load, while driving up steep grade in 4WD low range in hot ambient conditions, hydraulic clutch line temperature can become excessive and possibly rupture.
1994-99:
Secondary hood-latch rod can bind and prevent engagement.
1995-96 w/diesel engine:
Vacuum hose may deteriorate and partially collapse, possibly reducing power-brake assist.
1996 w/6800- or 9000-pound GVW rating:
Tire/wheel specification information on certification label indicates smaller tire than is required.
1997 w/diesel engine:
Exhaust pipe may contact, or be too near, dash-panel silencer pad, causing smoldering and igniting of adjacent materials.
1997-01:
Sound-deadening material inside the steering wheel could become detached from the cover and housing causing the driver-airbag system to become disabled. The airbag-warning lamp will illuminate on the instrument panel.
1998 w/5.9-liter diesel engine:
Intermittent high engine-idle condition can occur, due to malfunction of vehicle speed sensor.
1998 w/5.9-liter diesel engine:
Low-pressure supply tube between filter and high-pressure pump can fracture, allowing fuel to leak.
1998 w/V10 or heavy-duty 5.9-liter gas V8:
Exhaust-system heat-shield attaching screw is too close to fuel line, which can rub against the screw, possibly causing fuel leakage.
1998:
Bolts used to attach cab and core support to frame may have been improperly hardened; can allow cab to separate from frame.
1998:
Brake-rotor material strength on some trucks is not sufficient, causing hub fatigue fracture that can result in crack propagation and, ultimately, in wheel separation.
1998:
Front-seatbelt buckles were not properly riveted to support strap.
1998-00 w/optional trailer hitch:
Trailer-hitch side brackets may lack sufficient strength, and could fatigue and fracture in area where hitch mounts to frame.
1998-03:
On vehicles that have ABS and an aftermarket battery, there is a risk of battery leakage, which may short circuit the system and cause a fire. Dealers will inspect and replace affected parts.
1999:
The front-seatbelt retractor does not comply with the requirements of the standard. If the retractor does not work properly, it will not adequately protect occupants in the event of a crash.
1999:
Underbody hydraulic clutch line heat shield on some trucks is too short, allowing line material to be directly exposed to exhaust temperatures.
2000:
During full-lock turns, it is possible for the tire or wheel to contact the brake hose/ABS sensor wire assembly. Continued contact can result in wire damage and/or a hole in the brake line and reduced braking effectiveness.
2000:
Welds at right lower control-arm bracket to axle-tube attachment on a few trucks may have inadequate fatigue life; could result in separation.
2000-01:
Some of the owner's manuals for these vehicles are missing instructions for properly attaching a child restraint system's tether strap to the tether anchorage.
2001 Quad Cab w/camper:
Spacer plate could lead to deformation of the upper spring plate during assembly of the axle to the vehicle, resulting in a soft joint and possible loss of vehicle control.
2001:
Improper lug nut torque could allow a wheel to loosen. Dealers will inspect affected vehicles.
2001:
Road salt, water and other debris can cause a short in the power-seat connector, which may result in a vehicle fire. Owners will receive instructions for removing the circuit breaker from the fuse panel.
2001:
Some owner's manuals are missing instructions for installing child seats. Owners will be provided with an addendum to the owners manual.
2001:
Sound deadener in the steering wheel could interfere with the clockspring ribbon and illuminate the airbag light on the instrument panel. Dealers will replace affected clockspring assemblies.
2001:
Upper control arm nuts may break causing separation of brake lines. Dealers will replace upper control arm bolts and nuts in affected vehicles.
2001:
Wire connection to alternator can loosen and cause a vehicle fire. Dealers will inspect connection and reposition affected wires.
2001-2002 Ram van with automatic transmission:
The transmission lever may potentially be shifted out of park with the key removed and without depressing the brake pedal, or the key may be removed when the shifter is not in park which fails to comply with Federal regulations. Dealers will replace the gearshift blocker and bracket assembly.
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