1998 Dodge RAM 3500
Safety record from NHTSA: recalls, owner complaints, investigations and service bulletins.
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Vehicles › Dodge › RAM 3500 › 1998
These records cover every 1998 Dodge RAM 3500. To see whether one car still needs a recall repair, decode its VIN or check it with NHTSA.
Recalls
1 recall names the 1998 Dodge RAM 3500. Newest first.
Affinia IS recalling 5,700 aftermarket chassis tie rod assemblies manufactured from march 28, 2006 through march 17, 2008, sold for use on my 1998 and 1999 dodge RAM 2500 and 3500 heavy duty trucks. the dust seal supplied with the chassis tie rods were manufactured to the wrong specification. as a consequence, the dust seal may prevent the ball stud of…
Risk and remedy
Risk
If this condition remains undetected, the bolt can eventually unseat completely, causing the affected wheel to disengage from the steering mechanism, possibly resulting in a crash.
Remedy
Affinia will notify owners and replace the affected chassis tie rod assemblies free of charge. the recall IS expected to begin during april 2008. owners may contact affinia at 734-827-5400.
Owner complaints
105 complaints12 involved a crash10 involved a fire11 injuries
What owners report most
Latest complaints
- Electrical system
At least the third time I have replace the headlight switch, twice the harness because it melted together. And now today having to replace marker wire (green with white stripe) and it IS to hot to touch, the wire has gone stiff and hard and I am afraid it will cause a fire this time.
- Unknown or other
Dashboard IS cracked and disintegrating
- Unknown or other
Dashboard IS disintegrating and has sharp shards that cuts hands when cleaning it.
- Visibility/wiper
Defroster won't work due to broken dash
- Unknown or other
Broken dash. I bought trk new in 98. In 2000 I found a crack in my dash. I went to my local dealer and the serv. Mngr. Advised it was a cosmetic issue therefore not covered by warranty. I did not replace dash as it was quoted as over 750 to r/r. Over years it has gotten worse. For last couple of years small pieces of the dash would blow out of the a/c vents striking me in the face while driving. Very dangerous issue.
- Service brakes · Steering · Suspension › Front › Wheel bearing
TL* the contact owns a 1998 dodge RAM 3500. While driving 5 mph, the vehicle pulled to the right independently. While making a left turn, the front passenger side wheel detached. The anti-brake and brake system warning lights illuminated. The vehicle was taken to an independent mechanic where it…
TL* the contact owns a 1998 dodge RAM 3500. While driving 5 mph, the vehicle pulled to the right independently. While making a left turn, the front passenger side wheel detached. The anti-brake and brake system warning lights illuminated. The vehicle was taken to an independent mechanic where it was diagnosed that the wheel bearing failed due to the tie rods and the wheel hub needed to be replaced. The vehicle was repaired, but the tie rods were not replaced. The vin was not included in nhtsa campaign number: 08e027000 (steering). The manufacturer was not made aware of the failure. The failure mileage was 173,000.
- Exterior lighting · Power train · Service brakes
Takata recall sitting in park and the transmission bucked tried to go forward even against the brakes
- Steering · Suspension
Driving on a highway traveling at 75 mph, the vehicle suddenly shook violently and it was very difficult to keep a grip on the steering wheel or switch to the brake pedal. I was thrust around in my seat and items from under the back seat were thrown forward into the dash of the vehicle as well.…
Driving on a highway traveling at 75 mph, the vehicle suddenly shook violently and it was very difficult to keep a grip on the steering wheel or switch to the brake pedal. I was thrust around in my seat and items from under the back seat were thrown forward into the dash of the vehicle as well. vehicles around me also noticed and slowed down and steered clear of my vehicle. I was able to slow to a stop at the curb and it stopped. that was the first incident. I did look over the front end and felt the tie-rods, ect to test and everything IS tight as it should be and nothing visible to cause this problem. it happened again a week later traveling at 65 mph. it has occurred occasionally since those incidents in june and the speed seems to be less each time. I have avoided driving it for fear I will wreck and kill myself or someone else. I have researched and found it IS the "death wobble" that chrysler has been investigated for and did a recall on. but, the recall does not cover all second generation dodge pickups, such as mine. this must be noticed and the recall must cover all trucks in the second generation class as well. I will sue if I wreck this truck during a death wobble. *tr
- Electrical system › Wiring · Exterior lighting
TL* the contact owns a 1998 dodge RAM 3500. The contact stated that the headlights and running lights failed to activate. The vehicle was taken to an independent mechanic, who diagnosed that the wiring melted to the connector and the internal switch was melted. The vehicle was repaired but the failure persisted. The manufacturer was not made aware of the failure. The approximate failure mileage was 120,000.
- Fuel/propulsion system
TL* the contact owns a 1998 dodge RAM 3500. The contact stated that while driving approximately 55 mph, the vehicle suddenly stalled. The driver stopped and merged the vehicle on the shoulder of the road. The contact inspected the vehicle and noticed the fuel pump would needed to be replaced. The…
TL* the contact owns a 1998 dodge RAM 3500. The contact stated that while driving approximately 55 mph, the vehicle suddenly stalled. The driver stopped and merged the vehicle on the shoulder of the road. The contact inspected the vehicle and noticed the fuel pump would needed to be replaced. The vehicle was repaired. The contact stated the fuel pump was replaced three different times. The approximate failure mileage was 70,000.
- Exterior lighting · Exterior lighting › Headlights › Switch
This incident involved failure of the headlight switch as described in safety recall #819 for 1995-1997 model vehicles, resulting in smoke and melting of connector and wires. inaction by dodge and a copy of the complaint follows: thank you for contacting the RAM customer assistance center in…
This incident involved failure of the headlight switch as described in safety recall #819 for 1995-1997 model vehicles, resulting in smoke and melting of connector and wires. inaction by dodge and a copy of the complaint follows: thank you for contacting the RAM customer assistance center in regards to your 1998 RAM 3500. your concerns, particularly in view of the expense and inconvenience involved in this issue, are understandable. However, your request for consideration in this matter must be declined, because the vehicle in question has exceeded the time or mileage limitations of the manufacturer's warranty at the time the expense was incurred. although a more favorable reply could not be provided, sharing your concern with us IS appreciated. thanks again for your email. [xxx] customer service representative RAM customer assistance center for any future communications related to this email, please refer to the following information: reference number: [xxx] email case number:[xxx] reply link: http://www.chrysler.com/wccs/brand_forms/us/reply.jsp?trk_id=kmm7555581v19546l0km& original message follows: ------------------------ us customer service - dodge brand site brief description: recall #819 headlight switch failure comments: although my dealer rep said that recall #819 did not apply to my vehicle, I experienced an identical failure on november 23, 2011 after driving the vehicle for 16 hours with the headlights on. The headlight switch connector and several wires were burnt. Because it IS obvious that this issue was not resolved for my vehicle (i am the original owner), I believe that dodge should provide support for the repair. information redacted pursuant to the freedom of information act (foia), 5 u.s.c. 552(B)(6). *tr
- Air bags
Tl*the contact owns a 1998 dodge RAM 3500. While the contact was driving approximately 55 mph, a chime sounded inside the vehicle and the air bag warning indicator began to illuminate intermittently. The vehicle was taken to the dealer for diagnosis. The failure was related to the clockspring. The part was ordered and the vehicle would be repaired when the part became available. The failure mileage was 92,000.
- Exterior lighting › Headlights
Tl*the contact owns a 1998 dodge RAM 3500. The contact began to notice a burning plastic smell from the headlight area when the headlights were turned on for an extended period of time. The failure occurred five times. The vehicle was taken to an authorized dealership but no repairs were performed…
Tl*the contact owns a 1998 dodge RAM 3500. The contact began to notice a burning plastic smell from the headlight area when the headlights were turned on for an extended period of time. The failure occurred five times. The vehicle was taken to an authorized dealership but no repairs were performed; the failure was repaired by the contact. The current mileage was approximately 220,000. The failure mileage was approximately 50,000.
- Trailer hitches
I was loading my tractor on my trailer, when I noticed the receiver hitch tearing away from my truck fame. I called dodge and they would not fix it under recall #872. *Tr
- Structure
Events are that the dashboard began to crack, crumbling small pieces into the electrical wiring, air bag vicinity, and even into the floorboard. eventually, huge chunks of plastic has fallen into the cavities, impeding braking, and causing concern of fire under the dashboard area. care must be taken not to touch the dashboard or your hand will go through what remains of it. *Tr
- Service brakes, hydraulic
The service brakes fail completely often. I believe that it's in the antilock system however when I take it for evaluation & repair the problem cannot be duplicated. This has caused numerous near collisions and I haven't found a way to repair it yet. The dealer says they cannot replace suspected…
The service brakes fail completely often. I believe that it's in the antilock system however when I take it for evaluation & repair the problem cannot be duplicated. This has caused numerous near collisions and I haven't found a way to repair it yet. The dealer says they cannot replace suspected parts issues without a recall being issued. The 1ST failure occurred at about 19,000 miles and has happened approximately 14 times between then and 102,000 miles now. *Tr
- Engine and engine cooling
Tl*the contact owns a 1998 dodge 3500. the contact stated that the vehicle would surge between 4,000 and 5,000 rpms while driving less than 50 mph. the dealer adjusted the computer module. on a separate occasion, the vehicle rapidly surged and behaved as if it were going to stall. the contact…
Tl*the contact owns a 1998 dodge 3500. the contact stated that the vehicle would surge between 4,000 and 5,000 rpms while driving less than 50 mph. the dealer adjusted the computer module. on a separate occasion, the vehicle rapidly surged and behaved as if it were going to stall. the contact found a recall letter and the manufacturer stated that there were no open recalls for his vin. nhtsa campaign ID number 98v209000 (engine and engine cooling:engine:diesel) was referenced. the failure mileage was unknown and the current mileage was 105,000.
- Electrical system · Structure
Dashboard cracked and caved in when I hit a bump while driving approx 68 mph on the freeway (i- 15 northbound through las vegas). plastic falling into the dashboard area disconnected several wires causing the headlights to go out as well as several other electrical accessories. freeway was well lit enough for me to stop safely and call for assistance. *tr
- Electrical system · Power train › Manual transmission · Service brakes, hydraulic
On three different occasions the retaining nut for fifth-gear has failed. dealer offered repair kit... Contained new main shaft for tranny. Cost was $3600.00, chrysler refuses to acknowledge defect in manufacturing of thread tapering. there IS also no power brakes. ABS seems to not be working…
On three different occasions the retaining nut for fifth-gear has failed. dealer offered repair kit... Contained new main shaft for tranny. Cost was $3600.00, chrysler refuses to acknowledge defect in manufacturing of thread tapering. there IS also no power brakes. ABS seems to not be working, relies on pressure from oil to brake. if pressed continuously, will go all the way to the floor. wiring harness burned up after dealer work, frank shoupe of georgetown kentucky refused to repair their mistake. said it was my fault, then refused to keep speaking with me. stated replacement was $2015.00, and would take a week;received one from junkyard in montana, took three days, and $300.00. *Tr
- Exterior lighting › Headlights › Switch
Tl*the contact owns a 1998 dodge RAM 3500. over the past five years, the contact has replaced the headlight switch seven times. the switch currently needs to be replaced for the eighth time. his vin was not included in nhtsa campaign ID number 99v024000 (exterior lighting: headlights: switch). the purchase date was unknown. the current mileage was 280,000 and failure mileage was 75,000.
- Electrical system › Wiring › Interior/under dash
TL*- the wiring of the headlight harness switch burned on the contact's 1998 dodge RAM 3500. There was a recall for this failure, but this vehicle was not included due to the vin. the dodge dealer refused to acknowledge that the prior years vehicles and this truck were having the same…
TL*- the wiring of the headlight harness switch burned on the contact's 1998 dodge RAM 3500. There was a recall for this failure, but this vehicle was not included due to the vin. the dodge dealer refused to acknowledge that the prior years vehicles and this truck were having the same failures and refused to honor the recall. He called dodge, and they also refused to honor the recall. He had to repair the vehicle at his own cost.*ak
- Electrical system
Dt*: the contact stated after the vehicle was parked for two days, the alarm suddenly sounded. by the time the door was opened, smoke had filled the cab. the vehicle was towed to the dealer who determined the wiring harness under the driver seat shorted out causing the wires to burn. the dealer replaced three wiring harnesses, the fuse box and the fuses.
- Fuel system, other › Delivery › Fuel pump · Fuel system, other › Fuel injection system
Dt*: the contact stated while driving 70 mph on the highway, the vehicle operated at a reduced speed followed by a loss of all power without warning. the contact pulled the vehicle over without incident. the vehicle was towed to the contact's residence. the contact determined the lift fuel pump and injector pumps were inoperative and both pumps were replaced. the manufacturer was not notified.
- Exterior lighting › Headlights
Plastic headlight lenses have become cloudy in my 1998 dodge RAM 3500, reducing the amount of light substantially. the dealer where it was purchased wants to charge me $186 to replace them. this IS a safety issue. dodge used inferior materials in the manufacture of the truck and they should replace them free of charge. they are familiar with the problem, so it IS not an isolated incident. *nm
- Electrical system › Starter assembly › Solenoid · Fuel system, diesel
Dt: the contact started vehicle in order to move it. Then, he turned the vehicle off. The starter kept running, causing the vehicle to catch on fire. The fire was extinguished. The vehicle was towed to a dealership to be inspected. They found the fuel shut off solenoid shorted out. The manufacturer was contacted.*ak
Defect investigations
NHTSA’s Office of Defects Investigation opened these reviews into vehicles including this one.
- Tire valve
Service bulletins
Technical service bulletins and other communications the manufacturer sent dealers about this vehicle. Ask a dealer for the full document by its number.
- 10229256KEY, Master If replacing the key/FOBIK on a WJ, KJ, TJ, or PT Cruiser, use the "AC" NIC level part number. The "AB" NIC level will not program to these platforms. For all other platforms, if the "AB" NIC level will not program to the vehicle, use the "AC" NIC level part and submit a part warranty.
- 10224768Connecting to the DRB III Emulator for Cummins Engines
- 10223854Service - Four Piece Oil Pan Gasket All Cummins Equipped Vehicles ONLY - The replacement oil pan gasket can be a four piece gasket rather than a single piece gasket. This applies to Cummins 5.9L and 6.7L engines only. Installation: 1. Clean the oil pan T-joints.~ 2. Fill the T-joint between the pan rail/gear housing and pan rail/rear seal retainer with sealant. Use Mopar Silicone Rubber Adhesive Sealant or equivalent. 3. Apply a 2-mm [0.063-in] bead of Mopar Engine Sealant RTV Silicone Rubber Adhesive, to the oil pan flange.~ 4. The four piece gasket will need to be assembled to make a complete oil pan gasket. 5. Lay the oil pan gasket(s) onto the oil pan flange.~ 6. Ensure the oil pan gasket segment joints are properly aligned. 7. Apply a 2-mm [0.063-in] bead of Mopar Engine Sealant RTV Silicone Rubber Adhesive, to the top of the oil pan gasket.~ 8. Install the oil pan. Starting from the center and working outward, tighten the oil pan bolts to 28 Nm [21 ft. lbs.].
- 10221686KEY, Master If replacing the key/FOBIK on a WJ, KJ, TJ, or PT Cruiser, use the "AC" NIC level part number. The "AB" NIC level will not program to these platforms. For all other platforms, if the "AB" NIC level will not program to the vehicle, use the "AC" NIC level part and submit a part warranty.
- 10220101Use of Aftermarket Parts This bulletin involves discussing FCA US LLC position with regard to collision repair industry awareness regarding the use of aftermarket parts.
- 10220099Use of Salvage/Recycled Parts This bulletin involves discussing FCA US LLC position with regard to collision repair industry awareness regarding the use of recycled or salvage parts.
- 10220097Repair Parts Used For Structural Repairs This bulletin involves discussing FCA US LLC position with regard to structural repair parts usage.
- 10191460Valve Body. These may cause over drive cycling.
- 10191455Cummins Equipped Vehicles ONLY - The replacement oil pan gasket can be a four piece gasket rather than a single piece gasket. This applies to Cummins 5.9L and 6.7L engines only.
- 10176211This SKU is a Clock Spring. The customer communication requested return of unsold inventory to inspect the internal spring. If the internal spring is not seated, the electrical circuit for the horn is disconnected and the horn will not function. The horn electrical circuit does not affect the airbag circuit.
- 10175735Charging System, Battery Diagnostic Tools and Warranty This information only bulletin discusses using the correct test equipment for testing batteries and charging systems, and also warranty reimbursement when battery replacements are necessary.
- 10169249Use of Aftermarket Parts This bulletin involves discussing FCA US LLC position with regard to collision repair industry awareness regarding the use of aftermarket parts.
- 10169247Use of Salvage/Recycled Parts This bulletin involves discussing FCA US LLC position with regard to collision repair industry awareness regarding the use of recycled or salvage parts.
- 10169245Repair Parts Used For Structural Repairs This bulletin involves discussing FCA US LLC position with regard to structural repair parts usage.
- 10148823This SKU is a front upper ball joint. The Customer communication requested return of unsold inventory to inspect for ball studs with excessive rotational friction in the ball joint assembly. Excessive friction in the ball joint assembly may cause a perceptible increase in steering effort.
- 10148822This SKU is an Automatic Transmission Oil Cooler Line. The Customer communication requested return of unsold inventory to inspect for improperly crimped hose fittings. Improperly crimped hose fittings could cause a potential fluid leak at the crimp.
- 10139596Part Description: Insulator on Lever Assy Manual Valve - Valve Body - RWD Transmission Issue Description: The manual valve insulator, attaching rivet and instruction sheet are now available as a kit. If the insulator requires replacement please order kit 68253161AA. Insulator only used on Auto-RWD transmission Note: The color of the insulator is not relevant for service.
- 1013900968069384A$, R8069384A$, 68086182A$, R8027067A$, RL002012A$ - Gasket, Cylinder Head Cover Before replacing injectors for Diagnostic Trouble Codes P0201, P0202, P0203, P0204, P0205, and/or P0206, please make sure that the wiring loom and/or connector in the valve cover gasket is not the root cause to your concern. In addition, make sure that the wiring attaching nuts are torqued to their proper value.~
- 606351Emissions recall no. 817 regarding the powertrain control module not illuminating the maintenance required light as specified by federal regulations.
Every Dodge RAM 3500 model year
Bars are owner complaints, dots mark years with recalls. Select a year to open its report.