2000 Dodge RAM Problems, Complaints & Recalls

Problem: On certain van and wagon vehicles equipped with 4-wheel antilock brake systems (abs), aftermarket batteries may leak electrolyte onto the abs control module connector, which can compromise sealing integrity of the connector.

Risk: This may allow development of a short circuit in the connector, which could eventually lead to a fire.

Fix: Dealers will inspect the abs control module connector for electrolyte damage and replace the connector as necessary. The recall will begin on september 27, 2004. Owners should contact daimlerchrysler at 1-800-853-1403.

Problem: Vehicle description: vans and wagons not equipped with power front seats. In the presence of road salt, water, and possibly other debris, the power seat connector located beneath the driver's seat could develop a high resistive short circuit that cycles the circuit breaker.

Risk: If the circuit breaker cycles for an extended period of time, heat could build up in the connector, possibly resulting in a fire.

Fix: Owners will receive instructions for removing the circuit breaker from the fuse panel. If an owner desires, their dealer can perform the repair. Owner notification began august 27, 2001. Owners who do not receive the free remedy within a reasonable time should contact daimlerchrysler at 1-800-853-1403.

Problem: 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 19, 2000 through october 23, 2000; lago alberto assembly plant ("m" in the 11th vin position) from may 23, 2000 through october 23, 2000; and saltillo assembly plant ("g" in the 11th vin position) from may 23, 2000 through october 23, 2000. Important: vehicles that have already had the proper clockspring installed, according to warranty records, have been excluded from this recall. In addition, 1997-2000 model year vehicles that have had a suspect replacement clockspring installed, according to warranty records, have been added to this recall.

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.

Fix: 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.

Problem: Vehicle description: pickup trucks equipped with an anti-lock braking system (abs). Some vehicles may have inadequate clearance between the front tire/wheel and the brake hose/abs sensor wire assembly. During full lock turns, it is possible for the tire or wheel to contact the brake hose/abs sensor wire assembly.

Risk: This could ultimately result in wire damage and/or a hole in the brake line, affecting brake effectiveness, increasing the risk of a crash.

Fix: Dealers will replace the front brake hose assemblies, and the abs sensor wire will be inspected and replaced if necessary. Owner notification began march 8, 2001. 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.

Problem: Vehicle description: pickup trucks equipped with optional trailer hitch. The trailer hitch side brackets were manufactured using material with insufficient strength.

Risk: Brackets built without proper material could fatigue and fracture in the area where the trailer hitch mounts to the frame.

Fix: Dealers will inspect the trailer hitches and replace any trailer hitch showing signs of fatigue cracking. If no evidence of cracking exists, the dealer will install two reinforcement brackets.

Problem: Vehicle description: light duty pickup trucks. The welds at the right side lower control arm bracket to axle tube attachment may have inadequate fatigue life due to poor weld quality. This can lead to separation of the control arm bracket from the axle tube.

Risk: If the bracket separates the vehicle could experience reduced directional stability, braking degradation and/or vehicle pull under braking.

Fix: Dealers will replace the front axle with a properly welded front axle.