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 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)

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)

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)

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.

2002 w/4WD: Rear axle flange weld could fatigue and allow brake caliper assembly to rotate resulting in loss of braking ability. Dealers will install rear brake caliper reinforcements on the rear axle assemblies.

2002: Detent on exterior mirror may lose functionality resulting in restricted rearward vision. Dealers will install a kit to correct this condition.

2002: Incorrect terminal for HVAC blower-motor circuit could cause the blower motor to become inoperative. Dealers will install a wiring harness overlay to correct this condition.

2002: Trucks equipped with the snowplow preparation package may have tires that exceed the maximum load capacity. Dealers will inspect and replace affected parts.

2003: On vehicles with antilock brake systems that have aftermarket batteries, the batteries may leak electrolyte into the control module and short circuit it. Dealers will inspect and replace affected parts.

2004 Ram 1500: Vehicle certification label on some pickups lists incorrect tire and wheel sizes, and incorrect recommended inflation pressure.

2004 Ram 1500/Ram 2500: The transfer case may not be attached properly, causing a possible leak of fluid and damage to system components. Dealers will inspect and replace affected parts.

2004 w/4.7-liter V8: Generator wiring harness may short-circuit due to contact with valve cover stud; could cause an underhood fire.