1999 Dodge RAM 2500 engine problems

Filed May 5, 2016 · Engine · 74,000 miles · WA

Truck has a 53 block which has cracked below the #5 cylinder freeze plug at 74,000 miles. First noticed overheating with loss of coolant that didn't go on the ground, then found 53 on block and found crack. Dodge will not even acknowledge the problem of the 53 block exists, and have been somewhat rude in their denials and lack of info. Cummins will at least acknowledge the problem, but has offered no solutions for a problem caused by poor block design. Estimates to fix are about $9,000. Which I can't afford. This problem should be covered under a dodge extended warranty, however dodge refuses to accept any responsibility. This issue can cause the truck to overheat, which could leave driver and passenger(s) stranded or even cause a fire.

Filed Dec 31, 2014 · Engine · 42,000 miles · WA

Tl* contact owns a 1999 dodge ram 2500. The contact stated that while driving approximately 55 MPH, the vehicle stalled without warning. The vehicle was able to be restarted but the failure recurred on several occasion. The vehicle was not diagnosed or repair. The manufacturer was made aware of the failure. The failure mileage was 42,000.

Filed Jul 18, 2013 · Airbags, Engine · 168,000 miles · OR

I had a leaky heater core that needed to be replaced which required me to remove the dashboard. I noticed some hairline fractures in the dash before I removed it, however it looked very much in tact so I didn't think much of it. After removing the dash from its mounted position however it began breaking apart and throwing shards of sharp broken plastic to the floorboard and seats. It virtually began to disintegrate before my very eyes and I could not help but imagine what it would be like to be in an accident and have all of those plastic shards being propelled into my body and face. I am terrified when I think of my safety and the safety of my family. The plastic is obviously defective. Is dodge aware of this, orvam I the only one? What a nightmare.

Filed Jun 6, 2011 · Engine · 115,000 miles · NM

Tl*the contact owns a 1999 dodge ram 2500. While driving approximately 60 MPH the contact heard a flapping sound underneath the hood. The contact stopped the vehicle and noticed there was a part missing from the engine. The contact found the harmonic balancer that was attached to the crank shaft position sensor in the engine. The vehicle was towed to the contacts home. The dealer was informed of the failure. The dealer stated the part was unavailable and would be ordered. The contact stated approximately four months had passed since the part was ordered and was not received. The vehicle was not repaired. The approximate failure mileage was 115,000.

Filed Apr 30, 2010 · Engine · 167,000 miles · CA

I own a 1999 dodge/cummins diesel 2500 truck with a #53 cummins engine block. This engine block has developed a crack and is leaking coolant. This engine block has a known defect from the manufacturing process. In research, it was found from sources such as the turbo diesel register.com and a national repair company - locknstitch.com - that 1000s (thousands) of these blocks have cracked in the same place necessitating repairs costing owners millions of dollars thus far. The cost to me alone to repair this block will be $3000.00 with no guarantee it will not crack again! I know there have been many complaints filed here. Why has there been nothing done about this obvious and very costly defect???

Filed Mar 25, 2009 · Electrical, Engine · 90,490 miles · CA

Before any engine performance up grade, recognized after tbs 18-019-01 installed in the ECM/PCM of my 1999 dodge diesel 2500 24v coolant not circulating through engine. Temp fix with new ECM and tsb upgrade 10-040-02. No code or serious over heat especially during winter months. But does run 190 degrees or more up hill- winter months. Scalding signs inside engine at thermostat change. Mechanic clueless upon visual over pressure of top radiator hose after engine reaches operating temps. Software seem to go into default or hacked cal mode. With this decrease in performance is suddenly mileage decrease, power and shifting erratic suddenly. Other symptoms not obvious either. Again everything seem fine after last software boot but after 100 miles or so returning home from out of town dealership, truck running loosely after over night sit.

Filed Jan 14, 2008 · Engine · 100,000 miles · CO

I have a 1999 cummins with the #53 block. The block is cracked and according to this my research, this is a common problem. I have always owned dodge vehicles but with all the hassle and money I have gone through trying to fix this, it is really making me reconsider buying a dodge product ever again. This is not a wear and tear issue this is a defect and cummins needs to address it properly. Buyer beware!

Filed Mar 5, 2007 · Brakes, Engine · 44,600 miles · MI

Tl* - the contact owns a 1999 dodge ram 2500. The contact stated that he first had the brakes replaced at 36,000 miles. Periodically when applying the brakes the front wheels locked, and felt a very hard pulsating in the brake pedal. The contact stated that at 42,000 miles he replaced all four tires at the dealers prodding that the problem was with the tires. At 44,000 miles he replaced the electronic module after being told that this was the problem. The contact stated that after taking the car in approximately 5 times the same problem with the brakes recurred and never did work properly. The contact stated that weather was not a factor, and that he was driving at 30 MPH the times that he experienced problems with the brakes. *ak the consumer stated the vehicle pulled to the left, there was a buzzing sound coming from the radio, the lower intake gasket was replaced. The AC blew warm air. Updated 04/05/07.

Filed Sep 18, 2006 · Brakes, Engine · 63,000 miles · IN

From the first 6000 miles-3 intake manifold gaskets, new tires, blow out & damaged truck, brakes ,calipers and rotors bad,transmission not right, steering not right two rear axle seals blown, new engine at 63,000. It is now blown (we believe, the computer system & torque converter should have been replaced for the start). We have all our paperwork dealership does not!!!!!!!! Warranty company does. We maintained this truck extremely well!!!!! We bought a total piece of junk.

Filed Mar 8, 2006 · Engine · 123,279 miles · IN

Crack in block leaking coolant yr. 1999 dodge ram 2500 diesel.