2002-2005 Dodge Ram 1500: Reliability
Updated: 11/23/08
2005 Dodge Ram 1500
View the Photo Gallery
View the Photo Gallery
2002-2005 Dodge Ram 1500 Pickup ▼
- Price Range: $4,000 - $21,600
Reviews & Ratings
Pricing
Explore
Specifications & Safety
Related to Dodge Ram
Related Reviews
View Another Vehicle
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:
The air conditioning and/or defroster may quit working because the condenser fan motor draws too much current and blows the fuse, which can also be caused by ice buildup in the fan shroud preventing fan rotation. (2002)
Air conditioner:
The fan for the A/C condenser may repeatedly blow fuses on the 5.7L Hemi engine requiring an upgrade fan motor and redesigned fan shroud. (2002)
Audio system:
Front door speakers (Infinity sound system) may rattle or buzz and removing the mesh cover from the speakers is required. (2002)
Doors:
Power door locks may lock/unlock by themselves, especially in rain or after a carwash, requiring replacement lock cylinder switches. Also, rear door power locks may not work requiring repair to the lock rod in the doors. (2002)
Hood/trunk:
The hood may have dents, or low spots, from how it was glued down at the factory. Melting the glue with a heat gun generally relieves the dents. (2002)
Rough idle:
The 4.7L Hemi engine may idle too slowly when coming to a stop in gear requiring an update to the powertrain computer software. (2002)
Seat:
The power seats may be loose and rock or chuggle when accelerating or braking, requiring replacement of the seat track(s). (2002)
Steering noise:
Snapping or clicking noise in steering caused by defective upper bearing retainer for which there is a fix kit. (2003-05)
Water leak:
A water leak at the grab handle on the A-pillar (the section between the windshield and door) is likely due to a leak in the roof seam or the retainer that holds the door seal in place, while a leak at the rear window requires resealing from the inside. (2002)
Windows:
Water may leak into the interior via the secondary door gasket or the rear window. (2002)
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 | $465 |
| Alternator | $255 |
| Automatic Transmission or Transaxle | $1,995 |
| Brakes | $420 |
| Clutch, Pressure Plate, Bearing | $455 |
| Constant Velocity Joints | $740 |
| Exhaust System | $310 |
| Radiator | $295 |
| Shocks and/or Struts | $555 |
| Timing Chain or Belt | $895 |
Advertisement
Car Buying Resources
Search
Local Listings
Vehicle
History Report
FREE CARFAX Record Check
Looking at a used car, check for costly hidden problems before
you buy.
