2000 Dodge RAM 3500
Safety record from NHTSA: recalls, owner complaints, investigations and service bulletins.
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Vehicles › Dodge › RAM 3500 › 2000
These records cover every 2000 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 2000 Dodge RAM 3500. Newest first.
Vehicle description: pickup trucks. sound deadener material inside the steering wheel could become detached from the cover and housing. note: the RAM pickup trucks were built at the warren assembly plant ("s" in the 11TH vin position) from may 16, 2000 through october 23, 2000; st. Louis north assembly plant ("j" in the 11TH vin position) from may…
Risk and remedy
Risk
When this occurs, the material could interfere with the clockspring ribbon and cause an open circuit. the driver air bag system will become disabled, and the air bag warning lamp will illuminate on the instrument panel.
Remedy
Dealers will replace the clockspring assembly. owner notification began june 18, 2001. also some 1997-200 model year vehicles that, according to warranty records, have had a suspect replacement clockspring installed, will also be included in this campaign. owners who take their vehicles to an authorized dealer on an agreed upon service date and do not receive the free remedy within a reasonable time should contact daimlerchrysler at 1-800-853-1403.
Owner complaints
58 complaints4 involved a crash5 involved a fire6 injuries1 deaths
What owners report most
Latest complaints
- Structure
The cracking has done nothing but get worse. The dash has begun having chucks of broken plastic fall off into the instrumentation and on the floor. It has disproportionately devalued the truck. The dash should be replaced by dodge along with the bezel on the instrument cluster which has 2 cracks in…
The cracking has done nothing but get worse. The dash has begun having chucks of broken plastic fall off into the instrumentation and on the floor. It has disproportionately devalued the truck. The dash should be replaced by dodge along with the bezel on the instrument cluster which has 2 cracks in it. The cracks in the dash are also were inhibiting the defroster from clearing the windshield when fogged up on the inside. This was proving very dangerous until I removed the pieces that were blocking the air flow. *tr
- Air bags
Had a car pull out in front of me and air bags did not deploy in crash. Excessive front end damage, insurance totaled truck. Also had a friend 2 weeks prior involved in a crash with excessive front end damage, insurance totaled his truck and his air bags did not deploy. His truck was a 2006 RAM 3500. Does dodge have an air bag problem in these trucks? Seem to. *tr
- Structure
Dodge case # [xxx] cracked dashboard due to defective plastic when truck was manufactured in 2000. vehicle was parked in an insulated enclosed garage except when being driven. due to the severe cracks, sharp pieces could potentially fly through the cab upon impact during an accident causing…
Dodge case # [xxx] cracked dashboard due to defective plastic when truck was manufactured in 2000. vehicle was parked in an insulated enclosed garage except when being driven. due to the severe cracks, sharp pieces could potentially fly through the cab upon impact during an accident causing serious to fatal cuts. there should be a recall on the defectives dashboards. information redacted pursuant to the freedom of information act (foia), 5 u.s.c. 552(B)(6). *tr
- Equipment · Power train
On april 2, 2012 I went to a ranch that I work at, put my truck in park, put the brake on, and opened the gate. I drove through and did the same procedure to go to close the gate. my truck popped out of park,ran through it's parking brake, the door knocked me down and the front tire of my dodge…
On april 2, 2012 I went to a ranch that I work at, put my truck in park, put the brake on, and opened the gate. I drove through and did the same procedure to go to close the gate. my truck popped out of park,ran through it's parking brake, the door knocked me down and the front tire of my dodge 3500 ran over both of my legs and my arm. it broke my legs but did not brake my arm. I am still recovering. at first I thought it was my fault until I learned that this happens a lot and people even die as a result of this injury. it IS not one particular kind of vehicle either and the attorney's do not want to even address the issue. the reason it happens IS because there IS no neutral between park and reverse. also if you had the parking brake attachment in the front brakes as you do on the rear brakes the parking brake would hold when the vehicle rolls backward. My truck rolls without peddle pressure at 6 miles per hour. there IS no excuse to not change this requirement, but I am only one person, please help me save lives. in san diego county alone we had in april one death and three injuries. this IS unacceptable. I have the idea and I am ase certified mechanic. I do not practice as a mechanic, I am 68 and just could not do the work if I tried especially now. Also I do not intend to seek a provisional patent, I just want the problem fixed. please help me help all of us throughout the world. this engineering change needs to happen. [xxx] information redacted pursuant to the freedom of information act (foia), 5 u.s.c. 552(B)(6). *tr
- Engine
TL* the contact owns a 2000 dodge RAM 3500. The contact stated that he heard a knocking noise coming from the engine while driving at all speeds. The failure also occurred while stopped. The vehicle was taken to three different repair shops and the contact was informed that the motor needed to be…
TL* the contact owns a 2000 dodge RAM 3500. The contact stated that he heard a knocking noise coming from the engine while driving at all speeds. The failure also occurred while stopped. The vehicle was taken to three different repair shops and the contact was informed that the motor needed to be replaced. The vehicle was not repaired. The manufacturer was notified and offered no assistance. The failure mileage was 98,000. The vin was unavailable.
- Power train › Automatic transmission
Consumer states dodge RAM 3500 diesel popped out of park causing injuries *tgw the consumer stated the door of the vehicle hit her and the truck ran over her, breaking both of her legs. *Jb
- Structure › Body
TL* the contact owns a 2000 dodge RAM 3500. The contact stated that the dashboard was severely cracked and fractured. The vehicle was not taken to have the failure diagnosed or repaired. The manufacturer was not made aware of the failure. The failure mileage was 80,000. updated 04/30/13*lj
- Structure › Frame and members
Tl*the contact owns a 2000 dodge 3500. The contact stated when turning into his driveway he heard a loud clanging noise. When he inspected the vehicle he noticed that the frame had detached from the vehicle due to rust. The manufacturer was contacted and offered no assistance. The vehicle was not…
Tl*the contact owns a 2000 dodge 3500. The contact stated when turning into his driveway he heard a loud clanging noise. When he inspected the vehicle he noticed that the frame had detached from the vehicle due to rust. The manufacturer was contacted and offered no assistance. The vehicle was not repaired. The failure and current mileages were approximately 120,000. Updated 07/08/11 *bf the consumer stated he noticed the drag link mount had come off the frame and was rusted through in many places. updated 02/03/12
- Suspension › Front
Tl*the contact owns a 2000 dodge RAM 3500. The contact stated that the right front wheel bearing froze. The contact had trouble getting the wheel bearing off and the dealer stated that it would come off when more pressure was applied. When the contact applied more pressure, the threads on the drive…
Tl*the contact owns a 2000 dodge RAM 3500. The contact stated that the right front wheel bearing froze. The contact had trouble getting the wheel bearing off and the dealer stated that it would come off when more pressure was applied. When the contact applied more pressure, the threads on the drive axle and axle nut stripped and the contact then had to replace the hub, nut and axle. The current and failure mileages were 100,000. updated 03/02/11 *bf the consumer stated he tried to pull the hub off the axle and it separated. The consumer had to replace the hub, axle and nut. the drive axle and nut are available only through the dealer; axle $760 and nut $31.00. Updated 09/19/11
- Suspension › Front › Wheel bearing
S10 appropriate handling- letter from regarding dodge RAM trucks problems *tgw the consumer stated he experienced three left front wheel bearing failures. The first incident caused $600 in damage to the vehicle. *jb
- Trailer hitches
TL* the contact owns a 2000 dodge RAM 3500. The contact stated that the trailer hitch side brackets fractured from the vehicle. The contact took the vehicle to the dealer and inquired in regards to nhtsa campaign ID number: 00v107000 (trailer hitches). The dealer advised the contact that his vin was not included in the recall campaign. The vehicle was not repaired. The failure and current mileage was 135,000.
- Structure
TL* the contact owns a 2000 dodge RAM 3500. The contact stated the dashboard disintegrated and began to fall from the vehicle. the manufacture advised they had not received any complaints similar to his and would not provide any assistance. The failure and current mileages were 55,000. updated 07/19/10 *bf updated 09/07/10
- Structure
2000 dodge RAM 3500 dash caved in , all plastic IS breaking. *Tr
- Service brakes, hydraulic
While towing a trailer brake line near the rear of fuel tank ruptured causing brake failure found that other dodge trucks with same problem existed called dodge safety recall 800 number was told there IS no such issue I own a 2000 dodge RAM 3500. *tr
- Structure
Dash board has several cracks. They make popping noises and are getting worse. *tr
- Electrical system › Wiring › Interior/under dash · Seats › Front assembly › Seat heater/cooler
Electric seat fire, safety fuse failed to blow. Fuse block melted, seat motor shorted out,wiring harness burned into fire wall, across carpet, and under seat into foam padding. Truck was parked in driveway, and was not on. Problem occurred in the middle of the night, and had not been driven on that…
Electric seat fire, safety fuse failed to blow. Fuse block melted, seat motor shorted out,wiring harness burned into fire wall, across carpet, and under seat into foam padding. Truck was parked in driveway, and was not on. Problem occurred in the middle of the night, and had not been driven on that day. Upon investigation it was found that the original seat wiring harness had been improperly installed at the plant. Chrysler has inspected the truck and denied any liability, and has failed to offer any customer assistance. Yet on 2-20-2008 their parts manager admitted that they had rerouted the new wiring harness where it was supposed to go, and further electrical issues are still occurring. I have been without a truck for 6 weeks now, and my state farm insurance IS having to cover an obvious manufacture flaw. *tr
- Electrical system › Wiring › Interior/under dash
2000 dodge RAM 3500 quad cab/electric seat wiring harness fire. Safety fuse failed, thus resulting in smoldering fire between seat foam and along carpet below the seat. Harness was installed over metal frame, and compromised when anyone would set on the set. Over time the protective coating wore…
2000 dodge RAM 3500 quad cab/electric seat wiring harness fire. Safety fuse failed, thus resulting in smoldering fire between seat foam and along carpet below the seat. Harness was installed over metal frame, and compromised when anyone would set on the set. Over time the protective coating wore off and the wiring grounded out on seat frame. We got up one morning only to find the truck filled with smoke, and were unable to locate the reason. I continued to use the truck occasionally, even though I had no dash lights, radio, dome lights, etc... Finally one day about 2-3 weeks later I happened to lean on the side of the seat and saw a burned place. Upon further investigation, I was able trace a fire trail. I drove the truck to the dealership where I bought it, and was told they couldn't help me. That I would have to fix it myself. I returned home with the truck and contacted an electrician to come look at the truck for me. He took one look at the damage and said that it was a faulty wiring job from the factory, and he was not able to help me. He suggested I contact the dealership. So I returned with the truck and contacted chrysler customer service with the 800 number I was given. Both chrysler and my state farm agent said the truck was unsafe and not to drive it until a representative from chrysler inspected the truck. State farm's adjuster was not allowed to see the truck until after chrysler finished their 'investigation'. I received a letter 1/18/2008 from chrysler absolving them of any liability, or defect. I feel that something IS very wrong here and would appreciate someone checking into this. Before some IS seriously injured. *tr
- Electrical system › Instrument cluster/panel
Tl*the contact owns a 2000 dodge RAM 3500. while driving approximately 45 mph, the contact noticed excessive cracking on the instrument control panel cluster. the cracking has progressively worsened and created a large hole in the panel, causing particles to fall inwards. the dealer stated that…
Tl*the contact owns a 2000 dodge RAM 3500. while driving approximately 45 mph, the contact noticed excessive cracking on the instrument control panel cluster. the cracking has progressively worsened and created a large hole in the panel, causing particles to fall inwards. the dealer stated that the failure was a common occurrence. the vehicle has not been repaired. the failure mileage was 160,000 and current mileage was 170,000.
- Fuel system, gasoline › Delivery · Fuel system, gasoline › Delivery › Fuel pump
While driving my dodge van, it will shut of, no gas to engine. I can cruise to the side of the road most of the time. Had the vehicle worked on, new fuel pump, cleaned the ground as advised my a dodge service center, had a complete tune up and anything else myself or my mechanic could think of. The vehicle still cuts off when it wants without warning. It will restart after 4-5 minutes. *tr
- Fuel system, other › Fuel injection system
Diesel engine leaking fuel and ecm mandating replacement of injection pump as well as three and one half weeks down time to secure parts. Problems began in june 2007. *tr
- Service brakes, hydraulic › Foundation components › Hoses, lines/piping, and fittings
Brake line failure due to corrosion. 2000 RAM 3500 4WD. No warning. Towing trailer at the time, used parking break to avoid accident. Part replaced with manufacturer's replacement part #52009177. Note manufacturer has changed material on replacement part to aluminum. Manufacturer has not notified…
Brake line failure due to corrosion. 2000 RAM 3500 4WD. No warning. Towing trailer at the time, used parking break to avoid accident. Part replaced with manufacturer's replacement part #52009177. Note manufacturer has changed material on replacement part to aluminum. Manufacturer has not notified owners of these vehicles that there product was manufactured with inferior material. However, they must have known something IS wrong as demonstrated by the change of material in the replacement part. Over 200,000 dodge rams are at risk of catastrophic break failure. The manufacturer has a responsibility to recall this product and fix it. I could have been killed. *Jb
- Steering
Tl*the contact owns a 2000 dodge RAM 3500. while driving 60 mph she felt the vehicle vibrate. the dealer was unable to diagnose the failure. approximately a year later the failure occurred again while 60 mph. the dealer was unable to diagnose the failure. the contact stated that they made a few repairs but she was unsure what they repaired. the failure mileage was 137,000 and the current mileage was 150,000.
- Structure
Dodge 3500 dash cracking into pieces, con cern of sharp edges if in an accident and pieces falling through the dash onto gas linkage or brake preventing them from working. *Tr
- Electrical system
Low beam headlights stopped working. had repair done (dealer) then next day vehicle makes no contact with starter, everything else works. repaired at dealer, headlights don't work. with rental vehicle replacement of starter (dealership advised), replacement of alternator ( dealership advised)…
Low beam headlights stopped working. had repair done (dealer) then next day vehicle makes no contact with starter, everything else works. repaired at dealer, headlights don't work. with rental vehicle replacement of starter (dealership advised), replacement of alternator ( dealership advised), replacement of batteries (dealership advised), headlights not working. brought back to houston to dealer all at my expense of $1,850.00. took to another dealer and have been told that I need an entire wiring harness to the tune of $2,823.00. all techs have made the same comment, dodge made the wiring too tight, constantly in a bind when raising and lowering the steering wheel. Don't trust them anymore. was there a fire question; not yet. Date IS approximate. *nm
- Unknown or other
Bought a beautiful 2000 dodge RAM 3500 truck in 2004, within 8 months there were several cracks all over the dashboard. the plastic was so brittle it could not be repaired and I am now looking into replacement. *jb
Defect investigations
NHTSA’s Office of Defects Investigation opened these reviews into vehicles including this one.
- 2000-2001 dodge RAM pickup hood latch
The agency opened this investigation based on 30 complaints alleging that the hoods on model year (my) 2000 and 2001 dodge RAM pickup trucks flew up and blocked the driver's vision.these vehicles have a primary hood latch and a secondary (backup) hood latch.the secondary latch IS designed to secure the hood if the…
The agency opened this investigation based on 30 complaints alleging that the hoods on model year (my) 2000 and 2001 dodge RAM pickup trucks flew up and blocked the driver's vision.these vehicles have a primary hood latch and a secondary (backup) hood latch.the secondary latch IS designed to secure the hood if the primary hood latch IS not properly closed or otherwise malfunctions.in these complaints, the secondary hood latch malfunctioned, apparently due to corrosion, and did not latch.dodge conducted recall 01v-040 in 1999 to address similar problems on model year 1994-1997 dodge RAM pickup trucks.the information chrysler provided in response to odi's information request letter indicated that the my 2000 and 2001 vehicles were equipped with secondary hood latches with stainless steel return springs, as opposed to the earlier recalled trucks that had zinc coated carbon steel return springs.the recalled components were susceptible to corrosion-induced failure due to the type of material used, whereas the corrosion failures in the newer models appear to be due to lubrication loss over time (regular application of grease IS advised per instructions in the owners' manual). Odi's review of chrysler's warranty, complaint, and injury data for the 2000 and 2001 vehicles indicates that the rates for subject vehicles are low and are declining.a potential defect trend has not been identified.this investigation IS closed.
- 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.
- 10216348Heavy Duty Filtration MOPAR Retrofit or Add On Parts Available
- 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.
- 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.~
- 1012900882212076, 82203694 - Fabric Cleaner This "fabric cleaner" is not intended for sale in California, the otc states (Connecticut, Delaware, Massachusetts, Maine, New Hampshire, New Jersey, New York, Pennsylvania, Virginia, and Washington dc), and some ladco states (Illinois, Michigan, and Ohio). Mopar offers an alternative product (82213192) which is a water based product approved for sale in the aforementioned states.~ ~ Please inform the customer & your prep dept that spraying excessive amounts of the fabric protector on load floors will result in the breaking down of the adhesive (glue) that is used to create the bond between the fabric (carpet) and the load floor. This will apply to any vehicles equipped with rear load floors such as WK, WD, PM, MK, KA, KK. The carpet will appear to be loose, wrinkly, or bunch up~
- 10128933Heavy Duty Filtration MOPAR Retrofit or Add On Parts Available
Every Dodge RAM 3500 model year
Bars are owner complaints, dots mark years with recalls. Select a year to open its report.