1999 Dodge Ram 2500 Problems & Reliability

If you’re a truck enthusiast or someone who relies on a heavy-duty vehicle for work or play, you’ve probably heard of the 1999 Dodge Ram 2500. Known for its rugged build and powerful performance, this truck has been a staple in the world of heavy-duty pickups. However, like any vehicle that’s been around for a couple of decades, it comes with its own set of quirks and issues. Whether you’re considering buying a used one or just curious about its history, understanding the common problems and overall reliability of the 1999 Dodge Ram 2500 can help you make an informed decision. In this blog post, we’ll dive into the nitty-gritty of what makes the 1999 Dodge Ram 2500 tick—and what might make it tick you off. From engine troubles to transmission woes, we’ll cover the most frequently reported issues and discuss how they impact the truck’s reliability. But it’s not all doom and gloom; we’ll also highlight the aspects that have kept this truck on the road for so long and why many owners still swear by it. So, grab a cup of coffee, settle in, and let’s explore the ups and downs of owning a 1999 Dodge Ram 2500.
Body Components

Parts Assessed:

Windows, power locks, manual locks, doors, trunk, tailgate, mirrors, power and manual seat controls, seat belts, sunroof, convertible top, glass defects.

Reported Problems:

N/A

Analysis:

No major problem has been reported

Parts Assessed

Brake pads, brake rotors, brake calipers, anti-lock braking system (ABS), brake lines, brake master cylinder, brake booster, parking brake, brake sensors, regenerative braking system (if applicable).

Reported Problems:

  • Replace Pressure Solenoid in Transmission Valve Body to Fix Transmission Bucking

Analysis:

The 1999 Dodge Ram 2500 is known for its rugged build, but like any vehicle, it has its quirks. One common issue is the transmission bucking, which can often be resolved by replacing the pressure solenoid in the transmission valve body. While this fix can improve the truck’s performance, it’s important to keep an eye on other potential wear and tear issues typical for a vehicle of this age.

Parts Assessed

Air conditioning compressor, AC condenser, AC evaporator, heater core, blower motor, automatic climate control system, refrigerant leaks, HVAC electrical components, temperature sensors, ventilation system.

Reported Problems:

  • Numerous Conditions May Cause Engine to Crank But Not Start

Analysis:

The 1999 Dodge Ram 2500 has a reputation for being a solid truck, but one common issue is that the engine might crank without starting. This problem can be caused by various conditions, such as fuel delivery issues, ignition system failures, or sensor malfunctions. While its a reliable vehicle overall, these starting issues can be a bit of a headache for owners.

Parts Assessed

CV joints, driveshaft, axles, differential, limited-slip differential (if applicable), traction control system, electronic stability control (ESC), four-wheel-drive (4WD) components, all-wheel-drive (AWD) components, transfer case, driveline vibration.

Reported Problems:

  • Water Leak Due to Faulty Rear Window Seal

Analysis:

The 1999 Dodge Ram 2500 has a known issue with water leaks due to a faulty rear window seal. This problem can lead to water seeping into the cabin, potentially causing interior damage and mold if not addressed promptly. While this issue is a concern, addressing it with a proper seal replacement can help maintain the truck’s overall reliability.

Parts Assessed

Infotainment system, GPS navigation, Bluetooth connectivity, touchscreen display, phone pairing, backup camera, rear entertainment system, head-up display, instrument cluster, digital gauges.

Reported Problems:

  • Vehicle Drifts/Pulls to One Side When Brakes Are Applied

Analysis:

The 1999 Dodge Ram 2500 has been known to experience issues with the vehicle drifting or pulling to one side when the brakes are applied. This problem can be attributed to uneven brake pad wear, misaligned wheels, or issues with the brake calipers. While this is a notable concern, addressing these components can help improve the overall reliability of the vehicle’s braking system.

Parts Assessed

Radiator, radiator hoses, cooling fan, water pump, thermostat, antifreeze leaks, engine coolant reservoir, overheating prevention system, intercooler (if applicable).

Reported Problems:

  • HVAC Air Flow Switching to Defrost When Accelerating

Analysis:

The 1999 Dodge Ram 2500 has a known issue where the HVAC air flow switches to defrost mode when accelerating, which can be pretty annoying for drivers. This problem might not be a deal-breaker, but it does add to the list of quirks that come with owning an older truck. Overall, while the Ram 2500 is generally reliable, this particular issue is something to keep in mind if you’re considering one.

Parts Assessed

Alternator, battery, ignition switch, ignition coil, spark plugs, ignition wires, engine control module (ECM), electronic ignition system, auto stop/start function, battery cables, engine wiring harness, fuse box, relays, starter motor.

Reported Problems:

  • Multiple Coolant Leaks

Analysis:

The 1999 Dodge Ram 2500 seems to have some issues with multiple coolant leaks, which can be a bit of a headache for owners. These leaks might lead to overheating problems if not addressed promptly, affecting the truck’s overall reliability. It’s something to keep an eye on if you’re considering this model or already own one.

Parts Assessed

Engine rebuilds, cylinder head, head gasket, timing chain, timing belt, camshaft, crankshaft, connecting rods, turbocharger or supercharger (if applicable), valve train, piston rings, oil control system, engine knocking, engine misfires.

Reported Problems:

  • Increased Oil Consumption Due to Intake Manifold Plenum Gasket Leak

Analysis:

The 1999 Dodge Ram 2500 is known to have some issues with increased oil consumption, often due to a leak in the intake manifold plenum gasket. This problem can lead to more frequent oil top-ups and potential engine performance issues if not addressed. While it’s a common issue for this model year, regular maintenance and timely repairs can help keep the truck running smoothly.

Parts Assessed

Muffler, catalytic converter, exhaust manifold, heat shields, exhaust pipes, oxygen (O₂) sensors, resonator, exhaust leaks, emissions control system.

Reported Problems:

  • Inspect Fuses if Engine Cranks But Does Not Start

Analysis:

The 1999 Dodge Ram 2500 is generally a reliable truck, but like any vehicle, it can have its quirks. One common issue is when the engine cranks but doesn’t start, which might be due to a blown fuse. Checking the fuses is a simple first step that can often resolve the problem without much hassle.

Parts Assessed

Fuel pump, fuel injectors, fuel rail, fuel pressure regulator, throttle body, fuel gauge sensor, evaporative emissions system, EGR (exhaust gas recirculation) valve, charcoal canister, fuel filter, fuel tank, vapor leaks.

Reported Problems:

  • Oil leaks from valve cover, intake manifold, and timing cover gaskets

Analysis:

The 1999 Dodge Ram 2500 is known to have some issues with oil leaks, particularly from the valve cover, intake manifold, and timing cover gaskets. These leaks can lead to more significant engine problems if not addressed promptly, so it’s something to keep an eye on if you’re considering this truck. While it’s a solid vehicle in many respects, these gasket issues can affect its overall reliability over time.

Flagship-One-Engine-Computer-In-Stock
Onboard Electronics

Parts Assessed

Cruise control, keyless entry system, push-button start, wiper motor, warning lights, power mirrors, interior lighting, exterior lighting, dashboard indicators, electronic parking brake, tire pressure monitoring system (TPMS), alarm and security system, remote engine start, heated and ventilated seats, heated steering wheel, wireless charging pad.

Reported Problems:

  • Check Engine Light Due to Pinched Leak Detection Pump Vacuum Lines

Analysis:

The 1999 Dodge Ram 2500 is known to have some issues with the check engine light coming on due to pinched leak detection pump vacuum lines. This problem can be a bit of a hassle, as it might require some troubleshooting to pinpoint the exact cause. Overall, while this issue is relatively common, it doesn’t necessarily reflect the truck’s overall reliability, which many owners still find dependable for its age.

Parts Assessed

Dashboard rattles, squeaks, wind noise, door seals, weather stripping, water leaks, air leaks, excessive road noise, suspension noise, drivetrain noise, exhaust rattles, engine bay noises.

Reported Problems:

  • Engine oil leaks at distributor may be misdiagnosed

Analysis:

The 1999 Dodge Ram 2500 is generally a reliable truck, but one issue to watch out for is engine oil leaks at the distributor, which can sometimes be misdiagnosed. This problem might lead to unnecessary repairs if not accurately identified, so it’s important to have a trusted mechanic take a look if you notice any oil leaks. Overall, while the truck has its quirks, staying on top of maintenance can help keep it running smoothly.

Parts Assessed

Paint durability, clear coat protection, rust prevention, corrosion resistance, body panel alignment, door seals, window trim, plastic trim, metal finishes, fading, cracking, peeling.

Reported Problems:

  • Carbon buildup at top of piston may cause noise

Analysis:

No major problem has been reported

Parts Assessed

Struts, shocks, control arms, sway bars, ball joints, tie rods, wheel bearings, power steering pump, power steering fluid leaks, electronic power steering (EPS), steering rack and pinion, steering linkage, alignment issues, torsion bars, springs, air suspension (if applicable).

Reported Problems:

  • Rerouting Ignition Coil/Spark Plug Wires Can Solve Misfire/Surge Problems

Analysis:

The 1999 Dodge Ram 2500 is known for its durability, but like any vehicle, it has its quirks. One common issue is misfires or surges, which can often be resolved by rerouting the ignition coil and spark plug wires. This simple fix can significantly improve the truck’s performance and reliability, making it a solid choice for those who need a dependable workhorse.

Parts Assessed

Transmission rebuild, transmission replacement, torque converter, transmission solenoids, gear selector, gear shifting, transmission control module (TCM), transmission fluid leaks, clutch (manual transmission), automatic transmission valve body, CVT (continuously variable transmission) components, dual-clutch transmission (DCT) components.

Reported Problems:

  • Replace leaf spring tip liners to stop noise when driving over bumps

Analysis:

The 1999 Dodge Ram 2500 is generally a reliable truck, but like any vehicle of its age, it can have its quirks. One common issue is the noise from the leaf springs when driving over bumps, which can often be resolved by replacing the leaf spring tip liners. Addressing this problem can help maintain a smoother and quieter ride, contributing to the overall dependability of the truck.

Conclusion

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