1999 Dodge RAM 1500: windshield wiper failure

Filed Jun 7, 2011 · 50,000 miles · AL

Dashboard cracking issue. I have a 1999 dodge ram 1500 sport. Two years after purchasing the vehicle I noticed a crack in my dashboard. I took it to dodge and they said that I broke it and there was nothing they could do. Over time since the dash has cracked it has gotten worse. There are several large cracks in the dash as well as a huge chunk missing right above the instrument cluster. This causes a glare in the windshield that is dangerous and may cause a wreck. There is exposed wiring in the dash that may short out, due to parts of the dash falling on it or the heat of the sun. This may cause either the air bag to deploy, wipers not to function properly during use in rainy conditions, or the headlights not working during the night that could result in a crash injuring an occupant. I have already noticed sun fading on the wiring. I keep it covered with a towel to reduce the risk of sun exposure. The vehicle has been keep in my garage most of its life. There are 5 dodge ram's in my family and they all have this issue. This is not a isolated incident with these trucks and is not my fault. I paid over 22,000 dollars for this truck in 2000 and it only has 135,000 miles on it. I keep my vehicle very well maintained and clean . Every dodge ram on the road that I see has this issue. So there are thousands of trucks out there with this issue. They are all hazardous to operate in the present condition . I hope that it does not take someone getting hurt by this issue for it to get resolved. The resolution: it is my opinion that the ntsb make dodge issue a recall for the dashboard problem. The consumer should be able to make an appointment with their local dealer. The part should be replaced with not cost to the owner of the vehicle. This is a very dangerous situation for the driver/passenger of the vehicle as well as other motorist around the subject vehicle.

Filed Jun 29, 2008 · Airbags, Body · 56,000 miles · CA

1999 dodge ram dash cracking which could lead to failure of electrical safety functions such as air bags, headlights and windshield wipers. Dodge and dodge dealerships are aware of this problem due to the tremendous number of complaints. Reports of large chunks falling into electrical wiring.

Filed Oct 23, 2007 · Body · 57,000 miles · TX

The vehicle's upper dash has developed six major and separate cracks which poses a possible hazard. It is an apparent defect most likely within the process of molding the dash. In the molding process, if the molten plastic is not the proper temperature, or formulated properly, then the dash will develop "stress cracks", which are straight lines, not webbing. Additionally, these cracks are neither caused by sun or protectorant nor heavy use or environment. Main concern: further cracking can and will lead to the dashboard failing and falling into the wiring, possibly causing a short or fire. Electrical failure could cause a fatality due to the deploying of the air bags in a manner not related to an automobile accident via a short (two wires touching), or the failure of the headlamps during darkness, or the failure of the windshield wipers at speed during heavy rain. I have contacted the manufacturer to see if they will address this inherent flaw in the product.

Filed Mar 15, 2004 · Body, Brakes · OK

Several cracks all along dash board from window seal to front of airbag/vent sections, when I showed the dealer who I bought it from, they brushed me off like I was complaining of cosmetic damage. I consider these cracks a manufacturer defect that hold vital components if I or my passengers were ever in a wreck, my vehicle interior was in excellent condition when I bought it from the used lot in october 2001, I can't say the same for the mechanics. The first day I had to return it for the harmonic balancer, then the emerg brake light stayed on, then the ABS brake light which lead to replacement of drums,rotors, and calipers. In feb 2003 I had to take it in for windshield wiper motor burn out, and this last month the waterpump went out. Can you advise me as to what is normal wear and tear and what parts aren't supposed to have to be replaced on a vehicle that now has 82,000 miles and regular upkeep? And if the sound of air blowing thru loose metal is what my truck should sound like when I accelerate from a normal stop? Thank you for your time,amber.

Filed Dec 24, 2000 · Visibility · MN

Winshield wipers occasionally quit working when first turning them on for use. It did not make a difference if vehicle was running for awhile or just starting vehicle. If wipers were left on even though inoperable, they sometimes started working later.