TroubleAtlas Score
DODGE RAM-2500 (1994–2009) — Verified Specs, Fluids & OBD2
Built 1994–2009 · all production years covered on this single page
5.7L V8 Hemi • Gasoline
© Wikimedia Commons CC BY-SA
TroubleAtlas Score
An independent value score for the Dodge Ram-2500 (1994–2009) — reliability, safety, cost, parts, upkeep and documentation. Owing nothing to the manufacturer.
Scorecard · each voice 0–10
Reliabilityn/a
Safety & recallsn/a
Repair cost4.3
Parts & repairability7.5
Maintenance & durabilityn/a
Documentation & supportn/a
Independent · Verified · Never for sale
Every figure on this Dodge Ram-2500 (1994–2009) page is aggregated and cross-checked against more than 6.6 million real workshop operations, NHTSA records and OEM technical sources — and updated continuously. No invented estimates.
The Dodge Ram-2500 (1994–2009) uses Mopar 5W-20 Synthetic Blend engine oil. Its battery is group 65 (BCI), rated at 850A cold-cranking amps. It is powered by a 5.7L V8 Hemi engine. Its OEM tyre size is 215/55 R16. Use the sections below for verified fluids, battery, OEM tyres, the maintenance schedule, recommended parts and the most commonly reported OBD2 fault codes for this vehicle.
Common problems
Common repairs
Fluids & lubricants
Battery
Fault codes (OBD2)
Dashboard lights
Parts comparator
Accessories & tools
Tyres
Recalls & TSB
Complaints
Workshops nearby
COMMON PROBLEMS
Transmission fault signal (TCM)MODERATE
The transmission module detected a fault — check separate transmission codes.
Related codes: P0700
Misfire / Loss of cylinderMODERATE
Rough running, idle vibration, power loss.
Related codes: P0300
Thermostat: coolant temperature lowLOW
Thermostat stuck open — engine does not reach operating temperature.
Related codes: P0128
Battery/system voltage lowLOW
System voltage below 10V — check alternator, battery or wiring.
Related codes: P0562
P0011LOW
Check with an OBD2 scanner.
Related codes: P0011
COMMON REPAIRS
Front brake pads
Difficulty: Hard
2.3h
€161 – €206
Rear brake pads
Difficulty: Hard
2.3h
€161 – €206
Engine oil change
Difficulty: Hard
2.3h
€161 – €206
ABS Module
Difficulty: Hard
3.2h
€224 – €288
AVERAGE INDICATIVE COSTS
Prices may vary by area and workshop.
Full service
€ 120 – € 200
Full brake service
€ 180 – € 300
Spark plug replacement
€ 80 – € 140
Electronic diagnosis
€ 40 – € 70
OFFICIAL LABOUR TIMES (OLP)
Standard labour hours from a database of 6.6M+ real shop operations, with an indicative labour-cost estimate for your country.
Brakes8 operations
| Operation | Labour hours (OLP) | Est. labour cost |
|---|---|---|
| ABS Module | 3.2h | € 144–€ 240 |
| ABS Pump | 4.0h | € 180–€ 300 |
| ABS Tone Ring | 2.4h | € 108–€ 180 |
| ABS Wheel Speed Sensor - Front | 1.3h | € 58–€ 97 |
| ABS Wheel Speed Sensor - Rear | 1.3h | € 58–€ 97 |
| Brake Bleed - All Four | 1.6h | € 72–€ 120 |
| Brake Booster | 4.0h | € 180–€ 300 |
| Brake Booster Check Valve | 0.3h | € 13–€ 22 |
Cooling8 operations
| Operation | Labour hours (OLP) | Est. labour cost |
|---|---|---|
| Coolant Bypass Pipe | 2.4h | € 108–€ 180 |
| Coolant Flush | 1.6h | € 72–€ 120 |
| Coolant Reservoir | 0.8h | € 36–€ 60 |
| Coolant Temperature Sensor | 0.8h | € 36–€ 60 |
| Cooling Fan Assembly | 1.6h | € 72–€ 120 |
| Cooling Fan Clutch | 1.6h | € 72–€ 120 |
| Cooling Fan Motor | 2.4h | € 108–€ 180 |
| Cooling Fan Relay | 0.5h | € 22–€ 37 |
Electrical8 operations
| Operation | Labour hours (OLP) | Est. labour cost |
|---|---|---|
| Airbag - Driver | 1.6h | € 72–€ 120 |
| Airbag - Passenger | 2.4h | € 108–€ 180 |
| Airbag - Side | 3.2h | € 144–€ 240 |
| Airbag Module/Computer | 1.6h | € 72–€ 120 |
| Alternator | 2.4h | € 108–€ 180 |
| Alternator Belt | 0.8h | € 36–€ 60 |
| Amplifier | 2.4h | € 108–€ 180 |
| Antenna | 0.8h | € 36–€ 60 |
Engine8 operations
| Operation | Labour hours (OLP) | Est. labour cost |
|---|---|---|
| Boost Pressure Sensor | 0.8h | € 36–€ 60 |
| Camshaft Position Sensor | 1.6h | € 72–€ 120 |
| Camshaft R&R | 12.8h | € 576–€ 960 |
| Connecting Rod Bearings | 24.0h | € 1080–€ 1800 |
| Crankshaft Position Sensor | 1.6h | € 72–€ 120 |
| Crankshaft R&R | 32.0h | € 1440–€ 2400 |
| Cylinder Head R&R | 9.6h | € 432–€ 720 |
| Cylinder Head Resurface | 12.8h | € 576–€ 960 |
Exhaust8 operations
| Operation | Labour hours (OLP) | Est. labour cost |
|---|---|---|
| Air Injection Check Valve | 1.3h | € 58–€ 97 |
| Catalytic Converter - California | 2.4h | € 108–€ 180 |
| Catalytic Converter - Direct Fit | 2.4h | € 108–€ 180 |
| Catalytic Converter - Universal | 3.2h | € 144–€ 240 |
| DEF Injector | 2.4h | € 108–€ 180 |
| DEF Tank | 3.2h | € 144–€ 240 |
| DPF Delete Pipe | 3.2h | € 144–€ 240 |
| Diesel Particulate Filter | 4.8h | € 216–€ 360 |
Fuel system8 operations
| Operation | Labour hours (OLP) | Est. labour cost |
|---|---|---|
| Charcoal Canister | 1.6h | € 72–€ 120 |
| EVAP Purge Valve | 1.3h | € 58–€ 97 |
| EVAP Vent Valve | 1.3h | € 58–€ 97 |
| Fuel Cap | 0.2h | € 9–€ 15 |
| Fuel Filler Neck | 2.4h | € 108–€ 180 |
| Fuel Filter | 0.8h | € 36–€ 60 |
| Fuel Filter - In-Tank | 3.2h | € 144–€ 240 |
| Fuel Injector - Single | 1.6h | € 72–€ 120 |
HVAC8 operations
| Operation | Labour hours (OLP) | Est. labour cost |
|---|---|---|
| AC Accumulator | 2.4h | € 108–€ 180 |
| AC Clutch Coil | 2.4h | € 108–€ 180 |
| AC Compressor | 4.0h | € 180–€ 300 |
| AC Compressor Clutch | 3.2h | € 144–€ 240 |
| AC Compressor Oil Add | 0.8h | € 36–€ 60 |
| AC Condenser | 4.0h | € 180–€ 300 |
| AC Evaporator | 9.6h | € 432–€ 720 |
| AC Expansion Valve (TXV) | 6.4h | € 288–€ 480 |
Steering8 operations
| Operation | Labour hours (OLP) | Est. labour cost |
|---|---|---|
| Center Link/Drag Link | 2.4h | € 108–€ 180 |
| Electric Power Steering Module | 2.4h | € 108–€ 180 |
| Electric Power Steering Motor | 4.0h | € 180–€ 300 |
| Idler Arm | 1.6h | € 72–€ 120 |
| Pitman Arm | 1.9h | € 85–€ 142 |
| Power Steering Fluid Flush | 0.8h | € 36–€ 60 |
| Power Steering Gear Box | 5.6h | € 251–€ 420 |
| Power Steering Hose - High Pressure | 1.6h | € 72–€ 120 |
Suspension8 operations
| Operation | Labour hours (OLP) | Est. labour cost |
|---|---|---|
| Air Line | 1.6h | € 72–€ 120 |
| Air Spring/Air Bag | 2.4h | € 108–€ 180 |
| Air Suspension Compressor | 2.4h | € 108–€ 180 |
| Air Suspension Height Sensor | 1.6h | € 72–€ 120 |
| Air Suspension Valve Block | 3.2h | € 144–€ 240 |
| Ball Joint - Lower | 2.9h | € 130–€ 217 |
| Ball Joint - Upper | 2.4h | € 108–€ 180 |
| Ball Joints - Upper and Lower | 4.8h | € 216–€ 360 |
Transmission8 operations
| Operation | Labour hours (OLP) | Est. labour cost |
|---|---|---|
| Kickdown Cable | 1.3h | € 58–€ 97 |
| Neutral Safety Switch | 1.6h | € 72–€ 120 |
| Overdrive Solenoid | 3.2h | € 144–€ 240 |
| Shift Cable | 2.4h | € 108–€ 180 |
| Shift Linkage | 1.6h | € 72–€ 120 |
| Shift Solenoid - Single | 4.3h | € 193–€ 322 |
| Shift Solenoids - All | 9.4h | € 423–€ 705 |
| Torque Converter | 7.2h | € 324–€ 540 |
WORKSHOP LABOUR RATES BY COUNTRY
Average independent-workshop hourly labour rates, to estimate repair costs in your country.
🇩🇪Germany€95/h
🇪🇸Spain€55/h
🇫🇷France€75/h
🇮🇹Italy€45/h
🇬🇧UK£80/h
🇺🇸USA$120/h
Reference rate
€45/h
Source: Eurostat 2024
💧 FLUIDS & LUBRICANTS
📋 RECALLS & TSB (0)
No official recall verified for this vehicle in the NHTSA database.
COMMON OBD2 CODES TO CHECK
P0420
P0420
Powertrain
P0171
P0171
Powertrain
P0300
P0300
Powertrain
P0128
P0128
Powertrain
P0455
P0455
Powertrain
P0700
P0700
Transmission
P0442
P0442
Powertrain
P0172
P0172
Powertrain
P0401
P0401
Powertrain
All documented fault codes for this vehicle
The most documented diagnostic codes for this model, by system and severity. Tap a code for the full guide.
P0455
powertrain
LOW⏱ 0.62h avgP0442
powertrain
LOW⏱ 0.62h avgP0440
powertrain
LOW⏱ 0.78h avgP0420
powertrain
MEDIUM⏱ 1.24h avgP0300
powertrain
HIGH⏱ 1.22h avgP0172
powertrain
MEDIUM⏱ 1.13h avgP0171
powertrain
MEDIUM⏱ 0.95h avgP0730
transmission
MEDIUM⏱ 1.25h avgP0700
transmission
HIGH⏱ 1.25h avgP0401
powertrain
MEDIUM⏱ 1.25h avgP0011
powertrain
MEDIUM⏱ 5.4h avgU0100
network
HIGHP0562
electrical
MEDIUM⏱ 0.58h avgP0128
powertrain
MEDIUM⏱ 0.88h avg
DASHBOARD WARNING LIGHTS — UNIVERSAL GUIDE
53 warning lights classified by urgency. Appears on your vehicle? Check the urgency level.
Show all dashboard warning lights
🔴 IMMEDIATE STOP — pull over
Oil Pressure WarningEngine
Engine Temperature WarningCooling
Brake System WarningBrakes
Immobilizer / Key FaultSecurity
🟠 WARNING — check soon
Malfunction Indicator Light (MIL) / Check EngineEngine
Diesel Particulate Filter (DPF)Emissions
Battery / Charging SystemElectrical
Low Fuel WarningFuel
ABS WarningBrakes
Brake Pad Wear IndicatorBrakes
Electronic Parking Brake (EPB)Brakes
Power Steering WarningSteering
ESC / Stability Control FaultChassis
Tire Pressure Warning (TPMS)Chassis
Transmission Temperature WarningTransmission
Transmission / Gearbox FaultTransmission
Airbag / SRS WarningActive safety
EGR / Exhaust Gas Recirculation FaultEmissions
Catalytic Converter / Emissions FaultEmissions
AdBlue / DEF Level LowEmissions
Coolant Level LowCooling
Hybrid / EV System WarningHybrid
EV Charge System FaultHybrid
12V Battery (Hybrid/EV Auxiliary)Hybrid
Suspension Fault / Air SuspensionSuspension
CAN Bus / Network Communication FaultNetwork
Water in Fuel FilterFuel
Diesel Injector FaultFuel
Steering Angle Sensor FaultSteering
Turbo / Boost Pressure FaultEngine
Regenerative Braking Fault (Hybrid/EV)Hybrid
🟡 MONITOR
Fuel Cap / Evap SystemEmissions
4WD / AWD SystemDrivetrain
Bulb Failure WarningLighting
Headlight Range / Leveling FaultLighting
Service / Maintenance DueMaintenance
A/C System FaultHvac
Clutch Wear WarningTransmission
Cruise Control / ACC FaultADAS
🔵 INFORMATION
Engine Temperature Low (Blue)Cooling
Glow Plug / Diesel PreheatEngine
Traction Control / ESC OffChassis
Seatbelt ReminderActive safety
Rear Fog Light IndicatorLighting
Lane Departure / LDWS WarningADAS
Forward Collision Warning (FCW/AEB)ADAS
Blind Spot Monitor FaultADAS
Rear Parking Sensor / Camera FaultADAS
Windshield Washer Fluid LowMaintenance
Door Open WarningBody
Hood / Trunk Open WarningBody
Gear Shift Indicator (Manual)Transmission
Sport / Performance Mode ActiveTransmission
REPORTED COMPLAINTS & PROBLEMS (NHTSA)
4581 owner complaints filed with the U.S. National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) for the Dodge Ram-2500 across model years 1994–2009. These are real, verified reports submitted by vehicle owners.
282 crash reports 72 fires 177 injuries 10 deaths
Complaints by model year (most reported first)
Model year 2006667
Model year 2003661
Model year 2004579
Model year 2005421
Model year 2007360
Model year 2008317
Model year 1999313
Model year 1996291
Most reported components (all years)
Steering1316
Suspension640
Air Bags533
Power Train454
Structure408
Electrical System355
Sample reports
THE DASH HAS CRACKED INTO SEVERAL PIECES THAT ARE NOW A HAZZARD OF FLYING SHARDS IN CASE OF AN ACCIDENT. ALSO THERE ARE HOLES INT THE DASH WHERE THE PIECES HAVE BROKEN OUT THAT CAN ALLOW DEBRIS TO FALL INSIDE THE DASH THAT CAN CAUSE FIRE… (MY 2002)
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 N… (MY 1999)
MIX DOOR FAILS TO BLOW HEATED AIR UP THROUGH DEFROST VENTS. VISIBILITY IS ZERO WHEN IT IS BELOW FREEZING AND THERE IS MOISTURE IN THE AIR. IT APPEARS THERE IS NO RECALL FOR THIS EVEN THOUGH IT IS AN EXTREME SAFETY HAZARD. *TR (MY 2003)
I WAS DRIVING ON THE HIGHWAY AT 50MPH GOING AROUND A SLIGHT BEND TO THE RIGHT WHEN I EXPERIENCED THE DODGE "DEATH WOBBLE." I HAD TO SLOW DOWN AND PULL OVER FOR IT TO GO AWAY. THIS IS THE 3RD TIME THIS HAS HAPPENED. ALL THE FORUMS I'VE… (MY 2006)
Source: NHTSA complaints database (U.S. data.gov). Figures cover production years 1994–2009.
Frequently Asked Questions
What does fault code P0300 mean on the Dodge Ram-2500?
Random/Multiple Cylinder Misfire Detected This code is among the most documented for this model — tap it in the OBD2 section for the full step-by-step guide.
What does fault code P0128 mean on the Dodge Ram-2500?
Coolant temperature below thermostat regulating temperature — thermostat stuck open or faulty This code is among the most documented for this model — tap it in the OBD2 section for the full step-by-step guide.
What does fault code P0011 mean on the Dodge Ram-2500?
A Camshaft Position Timing Over-Advanced or System Performance (Bank 1) This code is among the most documented for this model — tap it in the OBD2 section for the full step-by-step guide.
Are airbags problems common on the Dodge Ram-2500?
Yes — 553 of 4000 real owner reports filed with NHTSA mention the airbags. One owner reported: “I EXITED A DEPARTMENT STORE;GOT INTO MY VEHICLE,PUT MY KEY IN THE IGNITION ,AND WHEN I TURNED THE KEY TO THE ON POSITION MY DRIVERS SIDE AIR BAG DEPLOYED.I RECEIVED NUMEROUS ABRASIONS TO MY CHIN AND N…” See the owner-reported complaints section below for more.
Are electrical problems common on the Dodge Ram-2500?
Yes — 652 of 4000 real owner reports filed with NHTSA mention the electrical. One owner reported: “I WAS DRIVING HOME AT NIGHT WITH $105 WORTH OF GROCERIES AND ALL OF A SUDDEN MY HEADLIGHTS JUST QUIT WORKING AND IT WAS PRETTY DARK COULDN'T SEE ANYTHING SO I HAD TO PULL OVER AND STOP AND WAIT FOR SO…” See the owner-reported complaints section below for more.
Are steering problems common on the Dodge Ram-2500?
Yes — 996 of 4000 real owner reports filed with NHTSA mention the steering. One owner reported: “VEHICLE INSPECTION INDICATED A PROBLEM WITH THE STEERING SYSTEM. THE STEERING ROD WAS COMING OUT OF THE GEAR BOX. STEERING BOX WAS REPLACED. TEST DRIVE OF VEHICLE WAS A DISASTER. THE VEHICLE WAS MOVIN…” See the owner-reported complaints section below for more.
What tyres does the Dodge Ram-2500 (1994–2009) use?
The original OEM tyre size for the Dodge Ram-2500 (1994–2009) is 215/55 R16. Compatible alternative sizes: ["255/65R19", "275/55R19", "255/65R18", "285/50R20", "285/55R20"]. See the Tyres section on this page to compare offers from the main suppliers.
What is the right battery for the Dodge Ram-2500 (1994–2009)?
The battery specified for the Dodge Ram-2500 (1994–2009) is group 65 (BCI), with a cold cranking rating of 850A. See the Battery section on this page for the main cross-references between brands.
What engine oil should I use on the Dodge Ram-2500 (1994–2009)?
The engine oil specification for the Dodge Ram-2500 (1994–2009) is Mopar 5W-20 Synthetic Blend. Always use the viscosity grade approved by the manufacturer: a different oil can reduce engine protection and void the warranty. Check the change interval in the Maintenance section.
Which OBD2 fault codes are commonly documented for the Dodge Ram-2500 (1994–2009)?
Commonly documented OBD2 codes across many vehicles include: P0420, P0300, P0171. Find the full description, likely causes and estimated repair costs in the OBD2 Codes section on this page.
How often should the Dodge Ram-2500 (1994–2009) be serviced?
Routine maintenance for the Dodge Ram-2500 (1994–2009) typically includes an oil change every 6,000–9,000 miles (10,000–15,000 km), an air filter every 12,000–18,000 miles (20,000–30,000 km) and a brake inspection every 12,000 miles (20,000 km). Check the full plan with specific intervals in the Scheduled Maintenance section on this page.
Have a specific fault code on your Dodge Ram-2500 (1994–2009)? Search the code in the OBD2 section of this page or use the full TroubleAtlas DTC database. Need tyres? Compare prices and compatible sizes in the TroubleAtlas comparator.