Dodge Ram and Dakota pickup trucks are dependable workhorses that can be equipped with strong V-6 and V-8, but the early 4.7-liter V-8 was plagued with some oil sludge problems.
The 1998-2000 4.7-liter initially had thin block walls that led to overheating and oil sludge problems that sometimes caused engine failure, according to carcomplaiants.com.
Some 2002 trucks might be required to have the gearshift block and bracket assembly replaced because the vehicle occasionally slipped out of park without the ignition key on.
The 2005 model trucks could be subject to a fire because of a faulty instrument panel circuit controlling the interior lights that might overheat, according to Motor Trend.
Some four-wheel-drive Ram 1500s should have the antilock brake system inspected because of the rear brakes locking up.
The 6.7-liter Cummins diesel engine in some Ram 2500s might be prone to a fire because of the compartment silencer pad touching the exhaust gas recirculation cooler.
The 2009 Ram 2500 and 3500 trucks should have the Powers & Sons steering linkage examined for a bad drag link at the inner tie-rod that connects to the Pitman arm ball stud. The fault could cause a fracture, leading to loss of control of the vehicle.
