2002 Dodge RAM Quad Cab
Safety record from NHTSA: recalls, owner complaints, investigations and service bulletins.
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These records cover every 2002 Dodge RAM Quad Cab. To see whether one car still needs a recall repair, decode its VIN or check it with NHTSA.
Owner complaints
206 complaints9 involved a crash4 involved a fire12 injuries
What owners report most
Latest complaints
- Structure › Body
The plastics used in the 2002 dodge RAM interior are a safety issue. there IS widespread evidence across the internet showing the dash breaking apart like mine. it IS structurally unsound and dodge should find a safe solution. if I got into an accident sharp shards of dash flying around IS more likely to cause injury than the impact of the crash.
- Power train
Bought truck in 2009. Drive a couple times a week. Transmission has went out 5 times now including this morning. Was told by a coworker that theres ab issue with the dodgers not circulating fluid when idling in gear.??? Either way this will be the 5TH time in 10 years taking it to get rebuilt!!!! Which has been 2,500.00 to 4,000.00 each time!!! Really bout to give up on dodge
- Power train
Rear end locked up going down highway at approximately 45 mph, sent me sliding into the slow lane and then off of the highway into a driveway coming to a halting stop with my tailgate was still partially in a heavily traveled highway. The driveshaft also dropped down and eventually came completely…
Rear end locked up going down highway at approximately 45 mph, sent me sliding into the slow lane and then off of the highway into a driveway coming to a halting stop with my tailgate was still partially in a heavily traveled highway. The driveshaft also dropped down and eventually came completely off and I had to call a roll back to come get truck. I have had this 2002 truck for the past 11 years and I have never been notified by dodage that this could be a major issue. All in all it has been a good truck. This incident really scared me, as I work out of this truck with my business and now I have to suffer a loss for not being able to work until I spend a good some of money to fix this issue so I am able to use it again.
- Structure › Body · Unknown or other
Craked dash, sharp metal and sharp broken chunks of plastic that used to be a dashboard. Not safe to drive this way! The parts if available are exspensive, why IS this not recalled replacing using better safer products.
- Unknown or other
I have a 2002 dodge RAM 1500 p/u truck. I'm aware that it's out of warranty. I plan to keep this truck until I die. The dashboard IS completely damaged. I now have a dash cover over it. And it's seem to be falling in as well. Please consider replacing my dash since it's the wrong material on all…
I have a 2002 dodge RAM 1500 p/u truck. I'm aware that it's out of warranty. I plan to keep this truck until I die. The dashboard IS completely damaged. I now have a dash cover over it. And it's seem to be falling in as well. Please consider replacing my dash since it's the wrong material on all 3RD gens were made out of polyvinyl chloride. As time passes they dry out and crack. Causing pieces to fall inside causing problems with the blower and electrical system. I plan to travel from san diego ca to chicago ill. In august in my truck, I can't put anything on the dashboard without the fear of damage or malfunction to the electronics or other parts underneath.with liquids or more plastics falling inside or passing though the the dash cover its not water proof or water resistant please help... please help save my truck, please and keep me safe on the road.
- Visibility/wiper
Blows heat only on passenger side vents. blows cool air on drivers side.
- Structure › Body · Visibility › Defroster/defogger/hvac system
TL* the contact owns a 2002 dodge RAM quad cab. The contact stated that the dashboard was fractured along the air conditioner and heater vent. The contact was concerned that the front passenger air bag could inadvertently deploy because of the fracture. The contact stated that the air conditioner…
TL* the contact owns a 2002 dodge RAM quad cab. The contact stated that the dashboard was fractured along the air conditioner and heater vent. The contact was concerned that the front passenger air bag could inadvertently deploy because of the fracture. The contact stated that the air conditioner and heater vent were inoperable on the lower settings due to obstruction from pieces of fractured debris. The contact stated that the air conditioner and heating system would only function on a high setting. The contact also stated that the windshield defroster was inoperable. The vehicle was not taken to be diagnosed or repaired. Neither the dealer nor the manufacturer were contacted. The approximate failure mileage was 103,000. The vin was not available.
- Tires
Michelin latitude tires p265/70 R17 bought sept. 2011 from costco in inglewood calif. The tread surface IS peeling from the tire. There are small crater like areas where the tread has crumbled away. The latitude tire was advertised as; "latitude tour tires use a silica-based tread compound molded…
Michelin latitude tires p265/70 R17 bought sept. 2011 from costco in inglewood calif. The tread surface IS peeling from the tire. There are small crater like areas where the tread has crumbled away. The latitude tire was advertised as; "latitude tour tires use a silica-based tread compound molded into a symmetric tread design". I went to costco to see if they would warranty the tire. At first they told me the deterioration of the tire thread was due to the surface that I drove on. After I assured the costco service tech that I drive on the streets and highway, not off road, he said he would only prorate the tire value based on the thread use. That turned out to be 50 percent of on a new set of tires. *tr
- Exterior lighting
All the sudden all rear lights went off took to garage they couldn't tell what was wrong after paying to find out nothing and they having truck for 2 days and dead battery from trying a bunch of [xxx], I brought it home and started to try for myself it was the fuse box of all things I have never in…
All the sudden all rear lights went off took to garage they couldn't tell what was wrong after paying to find out nothing and they having truck for 2 days and dead battery from trying a bunch of [xxx], I brought it home and started to try for myself it was the fuse box of all things I have never in my life heard of having to replace fuse box about 500.00 , and dash IS cracked all over the place priced to replace cost about 700.00 I will wait to see if they are going to replace it already had to get defroster vent fixed from stuff falling in there ,i have seen a lot of owners complain about these things going wrong but I thought one more my make a difference . I would hope that this IS recalled before some one gets injured and all so the back door wiring on both sides went bad had to repair they I would thing that IS a fire issue but who am I the consumer we don't know anything that's why I a women fix my own truck. Hope something IS done about these problems.. *tr information redacted pursuant to the freedom of information act (foia), 5 u.s.c. 552(B)(6). *tr
- Electrical system
Knock on my door from the fire department, said my truck burned up. It was not driven that day. Any electrical recalls for this vehicle? *Tr
- Structure
I have 2002 dodge RAM 1500 with a cracked dash which IS bad the cracks started out small and now there are several. In the event of an airbag deployment what IS to stop this dash from separating and causing life threatening injuries. Dodge needs to recognize this as a major safety concern and recall for replacement. *tr
- Structure
At approximately 25,000 on my vehicle, in the year of 2004, I noticed small cracks starting to form on the dashboard this progressed into much larger cracks, completely destroying the entire dashboard over the years. This was a safety issue, because small segments of the plastic material fell into…
At approximately 25,000 on my vehicle, in the year of 2004, I noticed small cracks starting to form on the dashboard this progressed into much larger cracks, completely destroying the entire dashboard over the years. This was a safety issue, because small segments of the plastic material fell into the back of the dashboard causing failure of the air conditioner vents, defroster, and illumination of the dashboard lights. A recall should have been issued based on the thousands of complaints by dissatisfied owners. Chrysler corporation has agreed to repair the dashboard, but only if I agree to a $500 deductible, in which I have not agreed to, simply because I believe they are trying to charge me the difference between the wholesale and retail price, of the dashboard. I would appreciate any assistance in this matter. Thank you. ..updated 01/17/2013 *bf
- Electrical system · Structure
Dash IS cracking in several places dropping parts of dashboard into fan motor to overheat causing interference with air conditioner operation. *tr
- Electrical system · Exterior lighting · Vehicle speed control
Rear door wiring failure causing the wires to short out the instrument cluster, speedometer, door locks, power windows, doom lighting. The wiring failure IS due to a poor design and poor quality of materials used on both sides of the read doors wiring system between the b pillar connector and the door. This can be identified by removing the black rubber booth. *tr
- Unknown or other
I have 2002 dodge RAM 1500 with a cracked dash which IS bad the cracks started out small and now there so many that the broken piece have started to fall through into the floor and down through the defrost .what these dashes are made of you would thing that they would not crack but has some of…
I have 2002 dodge RAM 1500 with a cracked dash which IS bad the cracks started out small and now there so many that the broken piece have started to fall through into the floor and down through the defrost .what these dashes are made of you would thing that they would not crack but has some of these pieces could become airborne if you have the windows down causing accident if it were to hit you in the face. I think there needs to be a recall before someone gets hurt from flying plastic. *tt
- Structure
The top of the dash on my 2002 dodge RAM IS severely cracked. this issue has been taking place since approximately 2004 and IS now starting to work it's way to the front of the dash. I thought this problem occurred because it was parked outside, but I have since learned this IS a common problem…
The top of the dash on my 2002 dodge RAM IS severely cracked. this issue has been taking place since approximately 2004 and IS now starting to work it's way to the front of the dash. I thought this problem occurred because it was parked outside, but I have since learned this IS a common problem among many (if not most) dodge rams. I also did not know that there was a place to report this problem until now. otherwise, I would have reported this years ago. *Tr
- Structure
I have a 2002 dodge RAM 1500 quad cab 4X4 and my dashboard IS cracking and looking like a jigsaw puzzle. it started with one crack at the window area and now they are all over the dash. I haven't done anything to cause this to happen, it just cracks and keeps cracking. *kb
- Structure › Frame and members
Frame rails are corroding. Driver's side has a 3' 6" section of badly corroded frame. there are holes large enough to put three fingers through. Passenger's side IS beginning to corrode. Frame has not failed yet. *tr
- Structure
I own a 2002 dodge RAM 1500. the dash IS cracking. searching online I have found I am not the only one with problem. I also have a problem with my airbag light going on and off. my truck has been garage kept since I bought it and only has 76,000 mile on it. I think this issue needs to be…
I own a 2002 dodge RAM 1500. the dash IS cracking. searching online I have found I am not the only one with problem. I also have a problem with my airbag light going on and off. my truck has been garage kept since I bought it and only has 76,000 mile on it. I think this issue needs to be looked into with a recall since I see so many problems observed online with this year of truck. I am afraid that with wiring under the dash it might pose a safety problem. my airbag light did not start going on and off until I noticed by dash cracked. *tr
- Structure
I have a 2002 dodge RAM 1500 quard cab truck. The dashboard has cracks from one side to the other.from the front of the dash to the back of it. *kb
- Structure
I have a 2002 dodge RAM 1500 truck. The dashboard has several cracks in it from one side to the other. I saw on the news that other RAM truck owners have the same problem *kb
- Electrical system
2009 the rear door wiring shorted due to faulty design, and shorted the instrument cluster leaving the vehicle without any instruments readings, instruments lights or a way to drive at night. Currently the back doors accessories power doors locks and windows don't work as the problem has been found…
2009 the rear door wiring shorted due to faulty design, and shorted the instrument cluster leaving the vehicle without any instruments readings, instruments lights or a way to drive at night. Currently the back doors accessories power doors locks and windows don't work as the problem has been found to be the wiring of the back doors with this feature. The wiring began to rub against each other exposing wires thus creating a short to the instrument cluster and lighting system. *Tr
- Steering · Suspension › Front
Simultaneous failure of the inter and outer tie rods, upper and lower ball joints on a 2002 dodge RAM 1500 quad cab. The vehicle has never been use as a work truck, driven on dirt roads and currently has 120,000 highway miles. Rack and pinion IS leaking oil, and needs to be replaced IS coming a part. *tr
- Structure
I just purchased a 2002 dodge 1500 quad cab and about a week after I bought it the dash has cracked in 3 different places from windshield to front of dash. I was cleaning the dash and did not see one of the cracks and cut my hand on it. They have very sharp edges on them. At this time I have not repaired it. *tr
- Structure
The dash on our 2002 dodge RAM quad cab IS cracked from the windshield to the outside molding. If I was ever in an accident the pieces would fly off and passengers and driver would sustain serious injury or death. I can't believe chrysler corp has not fixed this know problem. They need to fix the problem and be held accountable. Please please please make them fix it. *Tr
Defect investigations
NHTSA’s Office of Defects Investigation opened these reviews into vehicles including this one.
- Rear axle failure
See attached report.
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.
- 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.
- 10220995Part 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.
- 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.
- 10175743Disinfectant Solution Recommended for COVID-19
- 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.
- 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~
Every Dodge RAM Quad Cab model year
Bars are owner complaints, dots mark years with recalls. Select a year to open its report.