1997 DODGE RAM 3500 PROBLEMS

Common Complaints and Reliability

• 1. Fire-related issues:

  • Vehicle stalled and caught fire due to fuel tank hanger strap assembly failure
    
  • Dash started to burn and caught fire due to headlight switch melting
    
  • Throttle linkage broke and caused engine to shut down and idle
    
  • Transmission tubes rubbed together and caused a fire
    
  • Vehicle caught on fire after smelling brake fluid burning
    
  • Transmission caused a fire that led to vehicle burning up
    
  • Water entering headlamp enclosure caused halogen lamp to burst
    

• 2. Brake issues:

  • ABS and brake light stays on, brakes not functioning properly
    
  • Brake pads failed
    
  • Brakes completely failed for a few seconds and then reengaged
    
  • Vehicle pulled to the left or right when brakes were applied
    
  • Vehicle veered severely to left or right under braking
    
  • Vehicle experienced sudden acceleration while shifting from park to drive
    

• 3. Electrical issues:

  • Vehicle's headlight switch melted
    
  • Airbag deployed without reason
    
  • Airbag failure in a collision
    

• 4. Transmission issues:

  • Transmission failed to shift properly, causing stalls and loss of power
    
  • Transmission failed twice
    
  • ABS causes transmission to malfunction
    

• 5. Suspension issues:

  • Front end suspension not sufficient for vehicle's diesel engine, causing premature tire wear and loose tie rods
    

• 6. Other mechanical issues:

  • Fuel sent unit defective, causing inaccurate fuel gauge readings
    
  • Exhaust manifold bolts failure led to insulation wall fire
    
  • Headlamp switch failure led to loss of headlight function
    
  • Steering wheel shakes uncontrollably, affecting driving ability
    

• 7. Safety issues:

  • Driver hit a pole and sustained head and neck injuries due to vehicle frame bending
    
  • Vehicle's frame was described as too thin, causing buckling during an accident
    

• 8. Other issues:

  • Trailer hitch defective, causing safety concerns
    
  • Paint peeling off truck, creating an aesthetic issue
    
  • Tires constantly malfunctioning without a clear cause