1999 Dodge Ram 1500 Problems: 4 Issues Every Owner Should Know

1999 Dodge Ram 1500 Problems: 4 Issues Every Owner Should Know | Au7o

All 4 Known Issues

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500 owners

On the 1994-2003 Dodge Ram 1500, the 5.9L Magnum V8 intake manifold plenum gasket is a well-known failure point. The factory gasket degrades and allows engine oil to be drawn into the intake, causing oil consumption, misfires, and loss of power. The plenum pan sits atop the intake manifold and the gasket between them deteriorates over time. This is considered an inherent design flaw in all Magnum V8 engines (5.2L and 5.9L). Hughes Engines offers a permanent fix with a billet aluminum plenum plate that eliminates the gasket entirely.

This issue also affects: Citroën C3, Acura TL, Audi Q5

Common Symptoms

Excessive oil consumption
Engine misfires and rough idle
Oily residue visible through throttle body
Loss of power under load
Engine pinging or knocking

How to Fix

Confirm plenum gasket failure by removing the air hat and throttle body and checking for pooled oil or heavy oily residue in the intake, then verify with a vacuum test if needed. Repair requires removing the intake manifold, replacing the failed plenum pan gasket with an upgraded kit or, preferably, installing a Hughes Engines billet aluminum plenum plate and revised gasket set, along with new intake manifold belly pan bolts and threadlocker. While apart, inspect the manifold for warping and replace related intake gaskets, coolant, and vacuum lines as needed before torquing everything to spec in sequence. Typical repair cost is about $400-$900 in parts and labor at an independent shop, or roughly $150-$350 in parts for a DIY repair depending on whether the billet upgrade is used.

What Owners Are Using

Parts and tips from 500+ owners who fixed this issue

Tip
Tip
UpgradeBluetooth OBD-II scanner for reading engine codes and monitoring live data (BlueDriver Bluetooth OBD2 Diagnostic Scan Tool)
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UpgradeQuality synthetic oil and filter combo for engine maintenance (Mobil 1 Full Synthetic Oil and Filter Bundle)
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Typical repair cost:$150 - $500

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500+ owners have reported this issue

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Community Reported

High Confidence500 reportsLast reported by owners Feb 2026Reviewed Feb 2026

Community Reported

450 owners

On the 1996-2008 Dodge Ram 1500, the 46RE (V8 gas) and 47RE (diesel) 4-speed automatic transmissions in Ram 1500 trucks are prone to premature failure, particularly the overdrive unit, governor pressure solenoid, and torque converter lockup. These transmissions are based on the venerable A727/A518 Torqueflite design but the electronic overdrive components are the weak link. Transmission slipping, harsh shifts, and stuck-in-gear conditions are common, especially in towing applications. Overheating is the primary cause of failure.

This issue also affects: Acura TL, Acura ILX, Acura MDX

Common Symptoms

Transmission slipping in overdrive
Harsh or delayed shifts
Stuck in 2nd gear (limp mode)
Transmission overheating under towing
Torque converter shudder at highway speed

How to Fix

What Owners Are Using

Parts and tips from 450+ owners who fixed this issue

Tip
Tip
UpgradeTransmission flush kit for complete fluid exchange to address shudder (Liqui Moly Transmission Flush Kit)
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UpgradeFull synthetic ATF designed to reduce shudder in automatic transmissions (Valvoline MaxLife ATF Full Synthetic)
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Typical repair cost:$150 - $3,500

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450+ owners have reported this issue

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Community Reported

High Confidence450 reportsLast reported by owners Feb 2026Reviewed Feb 2026

On the 1994-2008 Dodge Ram 1500, exhaust manifold bolts break due to heat cycling, causing exhaust leaks with a ticking sound on cold start that diminishes as the engine warms up. The 5.7L Hemi and 5.9L Magnum are both affected.

This issue also affects: Chrysler Aspen

Common Symptoms

Ticking noise on cold start
Exhaust smell in cabin
Ticking diminishes when warm
Failed emissions inspection

How to Fix

Extract broken bolts and replace with new grade 8 bolts. If bolt breaks flush, requires drilling and easy-out extraction. Some owners upgrade to stainless steel studs with locking nuts to prevent recurrence.

What Owners Are Using

Parts and tips from 0+ owners who fixed this issue

UpgradeDorman exhaust manifold — solves cracking issues on many models (Dorman Exhaust Manifold)
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UpgradeDorman exhaust manifold bolt and stud kit (Dorman Exhaust Manifold Hardware Kit)
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Typical repair cost:$200 - $800

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Community Reported

Medium Confidence0 reportsLast reported by owners Invalid DateReviewed Invalid Date

Community Reported

400 owners

On the 1994-2002 Dodge Ram 1500, the dashboard on 2nd generation Ram trucks (1994-2002) is notorious for developing severe cracks and warping, especially in hot climates. The ABS plastic used deteriorates from UV exposure and heat cycling. Cracks typically begin around the defroster vents and spread across the entire dash surface. Chrysler faced a class-action lawsuit over this defect. Cracking is cosmetic but can create rattling and a safety hazard if pieces break free during airbag deployment.

Common Symptoms

Visible cracks spreading across dashboard surface
Dashboard warping or buckling
Rattling noises from cracked dash pieces
Cracking concentrated around defroster vents

How to Fix

What Owners Are Using

Parts and tips from 400+ owners who fixed this issue

Tip
Tip
UpgradeTrim removal tool set for body panel work without damage (MICTUNING Trim Removal Tool Set)
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UpgradeBondo body filler for dent and panel repair (Bondo Body Filler Kit)
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Typical repair cost:$150 - $1,500

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400+ owners have reported this issue

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Community Reported

High Confidence400 reportsLast reported by owners Feb 2026Reviewed Feb 2026

⚠️NHTSA Recalls18 recalls

AIR BAGS:FRONTAL:DRIVER SIDE:INFLATOR MODULE

Chrysler (FCA US LLC) is recalling certain model year 2005-2009 Dodge Ram 2500, 2004-2008 Dodge Ram 1500 and Durango, 2006-2009 Dodge Ram 3500, 2008-2010 Dodge Ram 4500 and 5500, 2007-2008 Chrysler Aspen, 2005-2010 Chrysler 300, 300C, 300S, and SRT8, 2006-2010 Dodge Charger, 2005-2008 Magnum, 2005-2011 Dodge Dakota, and 2006-2009 Mitsubishi Raider vehicles. The affected vehicles are equipped with a dual-stage driver frontal air bag that may be susceptible to moisture intrusion which, over time, could cause the inflator to rupture.

Campaign #15V31300027/05/2015

AIR BAGS:FRONTAL:PASSENGER SIDE:INFLATOR MODULE

Chrysler (FCA US LLC) expanded the affected population to include 73,712 2005-2009 RAM 2500 trucks produced at the St. Louis North Assembly Plant. With this change, Chrysler is recalling certain model year 2004-2008 RAM 1500, 2005-2009 RAM 2500, 2006-2009 RAM 3500, 2007-2010 RAM 3500 Cab Chassis, 2008-2010 RAM 4500 and 5500 Cab Chassis, 2004-2009 Dodge Durango, 2007-2009 Chrysler Aspen, 2007-2012 Jeep Wrangler, 2008-2012 Dodge Challenger, 2005-2008 Dodge Magnum, 2005-2012 Chrysler 300, 2006-2012 Dodge Charger, 2005-2011 Dodge Dakota, and 2006-2009 Mitsubishi Raider vehicles originally sold, or ever registered, in AL, CA, FL, GA, HI, LA, MS, SC, TX, Puerto Rico, American Samoa, Guam, the Northern Mariana Islands (Saipan), and the U.S. Virgin Islands, or "Zone A." Additionally, unless included in "Zone A" above, Chrysler is also recalling 2004-2008 RAM 1500, 2005-2009 RAM 2500, 2006-2009 RAM 3500, 2007-2009 RAM 3500 Cab Chassis, 2008-2009 RAM 4500 and 5500 Cab Chassis, 2004-2009 Dodge Durango, 2007-2009 Chrysler Aspen, 2007-2009 Jeep Wrangler, 2008-2009 Dodge Challenger, 2005-2008 Dodge Magnum, 2005-2009 Chrysler 300, 2006-2009 Dodge Charger, 2005-2009 Dodge Dakota and 2006-2009 Mitsubishi Raider vehicles originally sold, or ever registered, in AZ, AR, DE, Washington D.C., IL, IN, KS, KY, MD, MO, NE, NV, NJ, NM, NC, OH, OK, PA, TN, VA, and WV, or "Zone B." Lastly, unless included in "Zone A" or "Zone B" above, Chrysler is recalling certain 2005-2008 RAM 2500, 2006-2008 RAM 3500, 2007-2008 RAM 3500 Cab Chassis, 2008 RAM 4500 and 5500 Cab Chassis, 2004-2008 Dodge Durango, 2007-2008 Chrysler Aspen, 2007-2008 Jeep Wrangler, 2008 Dodge Challenger, 2005-2008 Dodge Magnum, 2005-2008 Chrysler 300, 2006-2008 Dodge Charger, 2005-2008 Dodge Dakota, and 2006-2008 Mitsubishi Raider vehicles originally sold, or registered, in AK, CO, CT, ID, IA, ME, MA, MI, MN, MT, NH, NY, ND, OR, RI, SD, UT, VT, WA, WI, and WY.

Campaign #16V35200024/05/2016

STEERING:LINKAGES:TIE ROD ASSEMBLY

Chrysler Group LLC (Chrysler) is recalling certain model year 2003-2008 Dodge RAM 2500 4x4 and 3500 4x4, model year 2007-2008 Dodge RAM 3500 4x2 Cab Chassis and model year 2006-2008 Dodge RAM 1500 Mega Cab 4x4 trucks manufactured February 12, 2002, through February 13, 2008. The left tie rod assembly may break.

Campaign #13V52800006/11/2013

STEERING:LINKAGES:TIE ROD ASSEMBLY

Chrysler Group LLC (Chrysler) is recalling certain model year 2008-2012 RAM 2500 4X4 and 3500 4X4 trucks, 2008-2012 Dodge RAM 3500 4x2 Cab Chassis, and model year 2008 Dodge RAM 1500 Mega Cab 4x4. The left tie rod assembly may break.

Campaign #13V52900006/11/2013

STEERING:LINKAGES:TIE ROD ASSEMBLY

CHRYSLER IS RECALLING CERTAIN MODEL YEAR 2008-2011 DODGE RAM 2500/3500 4X4, MANUFACTURED FROM FEBRUARY 14, 2008, THROUGH MARCH 28, 2011; MODEL YEAR 2008-2011 DODGE RAM 3500 CAB CHASSIS 4X2, MANUFACTURED FROM FEBRUARY 14, 2008, THROUGH MARCH 28, 2011; AND MODEL YEAR 2008 DODGE RAM 1500 MEGA CAB 4X4, MANUFACTURED FROM FEBRUARY 14, 2008, THROUGH AUGUST 15, 2008, BECAUSE THE LEFT TIE ROD BALL STUD MAY FRACTURE. THIS CONDITION TENDS TO OCCUR DURING LOW SPEED PARKING LOT TYPE MANEUVERS WHEN THE CUSTOMER IS MAKING A TIGHT TURN. ADDITIONALLY, MODEL YEAR 2003-2008 DODGE RAM 2500/3500 VEHICLES MAY HAVE RECEIVED THE AFFECTED TIE ROD ASSEMBLY AS A REPLACEMENT PART DURING NORMAL SERVICE.

Campaign #11V35000006/07/2011

+ 13 more recalls. Check all on NHTSA.gov

Enter your VIN at NHTSA.gov to check recalls specific to your vehicle.

Frequently Asked Questions

What are the most common Dodge Ram 1500 problems?

According to Au7o's analysis of 1,350+ owner reports, the 1999-1999 Dodge Ram 1500 has 4 documented issues. The most frequently reported are: 5.9L Magnum Plenum Gasket Failure, 46RE/47RE Automatic Transmission Failure, Exhaust Manifold Bolt Breakage (V8 Engines). Of these, 2 are rated critical and should be addressed promptly.

Is the Dodge Ram 1500 reliable?

The 1999-1999 Dodge Ram 1500 has 4 known issues documented across 1,350+ owner reports. 2 issues are rated critical: 5.9L Magnum Plenum Gasket Failure and 46RE/47RE Automatic Transmission Failure. Prospective buyers should inspect for these issues and factor potential repair costs into their purchase decision. Regular maintenance following the manufacturer's schedule helps prevent many common problems.

How much does it cost to fix common Dodge Ram 1500 problems?

Repair costs for known Dodge Ram 1500 issues range from $150 to $3,500, depending on the specific problem and whether you choose DIY or professional repair. The most critical issue, 5.9L Magnum Plenum Gasket Failure, typically costs $150-$500 to repair. Au7o provides step-by-step DIY maintenance guides that can help reduce repair costs.

What is the 1994-2003 Dodge Ram 1500 5.9L Magnum Plenum Gasket Failure?

The 5.9L Magnum V8 intake manifold plenum gasket is a well-known failure point. The factory gasket degrades and allows engine oil to be drawn into the intake, causing oil consumption, misfires, and loss of power. The plenum pan sits atop the intake manifold and the gasket between… Repairs typically run $150-$500. Severity: high.

What is the 1996-2008 Dodge Ram 1500 46RE/47RE Automatic Transmission Failure?

The 46RE (V8 gas) and 47RE (diesel) 4-speed automatic transmissions in Ram 1500 trucks are prone to premature failure, particularly the overdrive unit, governor pressure solenoid, and torque converter lockup. These transmissions are based on the venerable A727/A518 Torqueflite de… Repairs typically run $150-$3,500. Severity: high.

What is the 1994-2008 Dodge Ram 1500 Exhaust Manifold Bolt Breakage (V8 Engines)?

Exhaust manifold bolts break due to heat cycling, causing exhaust leaks with a ticking sound on cold start that diminishes as the engine warms up. The 5.7L Hemi and 5.9L Magnum are both affected. Repairs typically run $200-$800. Severity: medium.

What is the 1994-2002 Dodge Ram 1500 Dashboard Cracking and Warping?

The dashboard on 2nd generation Ram trucks (1994-2002) is notorious for developing severe cracks and warping, especially in hot climates. The ABS plastic used deteriorates from UV exposure and heat cycling. Cracks typically begin around the defroster vents and spread across the e… Repairs typically run $150-$1,500. Severity: low.

1999 Dodge Ram 1500 Problems: 4 Issues Every Owner Should Know

All 4 Known Issues

1994-2003 Dodge Ram 1500: 5.9L Magnum Plenum Gasket Failure#

Common Symptoms

How to Fix

What Owners Are Using

Research This Issue

1996-2008 Dodge Ram 1500: 46RE/47RE Automatic Transmission Failure#

Common Symptoms

How to Fix

What Owners Are Using

Research This Issue

1994-2008 Dodge Ram 1500: Exhaust Manifold Bolt Breakage (V8 Engines)#

Common Symptoms

How to Fix

What Owners Are Using

Research This Issue

1994-2002 Dodge Ram 1500: Dashboard Cracking and Warping#

Common Symptoms

How to Fix

What Owners Are Using

Research This Issue

Other Dodge Models

Frequently Asked Questions

What are the most common Dodge Ram 1500 problems?

Is the Dodge Ram 1500 reliable?

How much does it cost to fix common Dodge Ram 1500 problems?

What is the 1994-2003 Dodge Ram 1500 5.9L Magnum Plenum Gasket Failure?

What is the 1996-2008 Dodge Ram 1500 46RE/47RE Automatic Transmission Failure?

What is the 1994-2008 Dodge Ram 1500 Exhaust Manifold Bolt Breakage (V8 Engines)?

What is the 1994-2002 Dodge Ram 1500 Dashboard Cracking and Warping?