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1990-2003 Dodge Ram Van Problems: 4 Known Issues

1990-2003 model years · 360+ owner reports · Updated October 2026

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According to Au7o's analysis of 360+ owner reports, the 1990-2003 Dodge Ram Van has 4 documented known issues, with 1 rated critical. The most serious is Automatic Transmission Overdrive Failure (A518/46RH/46RE) ($150-$3,000 repair). The most commonly reported issue is Automatic Transmission Overdrive Failure (A518/46RH/46RE) with 200 owner reports. Across all issues with published estimates, repair costs range from $150 to $3,000. DIY maintenance guides at au7o.io.

In This Article

  • Ram Van Transmission2
  • Ram Van Engine1
  • Ram Van Cooling1
  • Recalls1
  • FAQ
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In This Article

  • Transmission2
  • Engine1
  • Cooling1
  • Recalls1
  • FAQ

All 4 Known Issues

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ALL YEARS20032002200120001999199819971996199519941993199219911990
Community reported
200 owners

The A518 (renamed 46RH, then 46RE) 4-speed automatic transmission in Ram Vans suffers from overdrive clutch pack failure, particularly under heavy loads or when used for towing. The Van's aerodynamic profile and heavy weight put more stress on the overdrive unit than truck applications. Symptoms include loss of overdrive, harsh 3-4 shift, and transmission overheating. The 46RE (electronic) version also suffers governor pressure solenoid failures causing erratic shifting. Overheating is accelerated in vans due to poor airflow to the transmission cooler.

This issue also affects: Chrysler 200, Chrysler 300M, Chrysler Cirrus

Common Symptoms

  • Loss of overdrive gear
  • Harsh or banging 3-4 shift
  • Transmission overheating on highway
  • Erratic shifting patterns (46RE electronic)
  • Transmission stuck in lower gears

How to Fix

Typical repair cost:$150 - $3,000

Research This Issue

Based on 200 owner reports

GoogleRedditYouTubeNHTSA
Community Reported
High Confidence200 owner reportsLast reported by owners Feb 2026Reviewed Feb 2026
Community reported
160 owners

The Ram Van's Dana rear axle develops pinion seal and axle shaft seal leaks that contaminate the rear brakes with gear oil. The pinion seal wears due to driveshaft runout, and the axle seals harden with age.

Common Symptoms

  • Gear oil dripping from rear axle
  • Wet spot at pinion yoke
  • Rear brakes grabbing or fading
  • Gear oil smell
  • Low rear differential fluid
  • Oil on inside of rear wheels

How to Fix

Replace the pinion seal and both axle shaft seals. Check the pinion bearing preload during reassembly. If gear oil has reached the brake shoes, replace the shoes and clean the drums. Top off with 75W-90 gear oil.

What you need to fix it

Only diagnosis- and fitment-reviewed repair parts are linked here.

  • SKF rear axle-shaft seal

    Replace the axle-shaft seal on the exact listed 1500 Van application Fitment: 1999-2003 Ram 1500 Van rear axle-shaft position; not 2500/3500 or pinion seal Live direct US product page when checked

    sixityauto

As an Amazon Associate, we earn from qualifying purchases; other part links may also earn au7o a commission. Confirm fitment by VIN before buying.

Typical repair cost:$150 - $500

Research This Issue

Based on 160 owner reports

GoogleRedditYouTubeNHTSA
Community Reported
High ConfidenceVerified160 owner reportsLast reported by owners Mar 2026Reviewed Aug 2026

Chrysler 09-05-00 documents internal plenum-pan leakage on the listed Ram Van population. Oil use or spark knock requires diagnosis; unrelated external leakage can occur at the same time.

This issue also affects: Dodge Durango, Dodge Ram 1500, Dodge Dakota

Common Symptoms

  • Increased oil use
  • Spark knock reported during acceleration

How to Fix

For a confirmed in-scope leak, follow the complete bulletin and exact service information, including prerequisite checks, matched gaskets/fasteners, tightening sequence and specified cleaning. Do not replace unrelated components automatically.

What you need to fix it

Only diagnosis- and fitment-reviewed repair parts are linked here.

  • Billet plenum plate, Fel-Pro gaskets, bolts and bypass hose

    Replace the confirmed leak-prone stamped belly-pan system Fitment: Hughes states 1992-2003 Dodge/Jeep 5.2L and 5.9L Magnum V8 Live direct manufacturer product page when checked

Research This Issue

GoogleRedditYouTubeNHTSA
Community Reported
Medium ConfidenceVerifiedReviewed Aug 2026

The rear A/C refrigerant lines running underneath the vehicle corrode and develop leaks, especially in rust-belt states. The lines are exposed to road salt and debris with minimal protection.

This issue also affects: Chrysler 200, Jeep Grand Wagoneer

Common Symptoms

  • Rear A/C blows warm
  • Front A/C still works
  • Visible corrosion on underside lines
  • Oily residue on A/C fittings

How to Fix

Replace corroded A/C lines. Aftermarket replacement lines are available. Some owners fabricate custom stainless steel lines for permanent repair. Recharge system with R-134a after repair.

Typical repair cost:$300 - $800

Research This Issue

GoogleRedditYouTubeNHTSA
Community Reported
Medium Confidence
NHTSA Recalls1 recall

POWER TRAIN:AUTOMATIC TRANSMISSION:LEVER AND LINKAGE:COLUMN SHIFT

ON CERTAIN VAN AND PICKUP TRUCKS EQUIPPED WITH AUTOMATIC TRANSMISSIONS, THE IGNITION/PARK SHIFT INTERLOCK SYSTEM MAY BECOME INOPERATIVE. THIS CAN ALLOW THE SHIFTER TO BE MOVED OUT OF THE "PARK" POSITION WITH THE IGNITION KEY REMOVED (OR IN THE "LOCK" POSITION). THIS CAN ALSO ALLOW THE IGNITION KEY TO BE REMOVED WHEN THE SHIFTER HAS NOT BEEN PLACED IN THE "PARK" POSITION.

Campaign #07V55500004/12/2007

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

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Frequently Asked Questions

What are the most common Dodge Ram Van problems?

According to Au7o's analysis of 360+ owner reports, the 1990-2003 Dodge Ram Van has 4 documented issues. The most frequently reported are: Automatic Transmission Overdrive Failure (A518/46RH/46RE), Rear Axle Seal and Pinion Seal Leak, Plenum Gasket Failure (5.2L/5.9L V8). Of these, 1 is rated critical and should be addressed promptly.

Is the Dodge Ram Van reliable?

The 1990-2003 Dodge Ram Van has 4 known issues documented across 360+ owner reports. 1 issue is rated critical: Automatic Transmission Overdrive Failure (A518/46RH/46RE). 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 Van problems?

Repair costs for known Dodge Ram Van issues range from $150 to $3,000, depending on the specific problem and whether you choose DIY or professional repair. The most critical issue, Automatic Transmission Overdrive Failure (A518/46RH/46RE), typically costs $150-$3,000 to repair. Au7o provides step-by-step DIY maintenance guides that can help reduce repair costs.

What year Dodge Ram Van is the most reliable?

Reliability varies across model years of the Dodge Ram Van. Based on documented issues, problems are most commonly reported in earlier model years. Au7o recommends checking the specific known issues for your target year before purchasing, and having a pre-purchase inspection performed by a qualified mechanic. Our known issues database covers the 1990-2003 Dodge Ram Van with 4 documented issues documented across 360+ owner reports.

What is the 1990-2003 Dodge Ram Van Automatic Transmission Overdrive Failure (A518/46RH/46RE)?

The A518 (renamed 46RH, then 46RE) 4-speed automatic transmission in Ram Vans suffers from overdrive clutch pack failure, particularly under heavy loads or when used for towing. The Van's aerodynamic profile and heavy weight put more stress on the overdrive unit than truck applic… Repairs typically run $150-$3,000. Severity: high.

Content on this page was compiled with AI assistance using NHTSA complaints, TSBs, owner reports, and public automotive data. While we strive for accuracy, this information may contain errors. Always verify repair procedures and specifications with your vehicle's service manual or a qualified mechanic.

Data sourced from 360+ owner reports, NHTSA recalls, TSBs, and automotive forums.

What is the 1999-2003 Dodge Ram Van Rear Axle Seal and Pinion Seal Leak?

The Ram Van's Dana rear axle develops pinion seal and axle shaft seal leaks that contaminate the rear brakes with gear oil. The pinion seal wears due to driveshaft runout, and the axle seals harden with age. Repairs typically run $150-$500. Severity: medium.

What is the 1994-1999 Dodge Ram Van Plenum Gasket Failure (5.2L/5.9L V8)?

Chrysler 09-05-00 documents internal plenum-pan leakage on the listed Ram Van population. Oil use or spark knock requires diagnosis; unrelated external leakage can occur at the same time. Severity: medium.

What is the 1994-2003 Dodge Ram Van Rear A/C Line Corrosion and Refrigerant Leak?

The rear A/C refrigerant lines running underneath the vehicle corrode and develop leaks, especially in rust-belt states. The lines are exposed to road salt and debris with minimal protection. Repairs typically run $300-$800. Severity: low.