According to Au7o's analysis of 380+ owner reports, the 1990 Dodge Ram Van has 2 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 $50 to $3,000. DIY maintenance guides at au7o.io.
On the 1990-2003 Dodge Ram Van, 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.
High Confidence200 owner reportsLast reported by owners Feb 2026Reviewed Feb 2026
Community reported
180 owners
On the 1990-2003 Dodge Ram Van, the 5.2L and 5.9L Magnum V8 engines in Ram Vans are prone to a persistent idle surge or hunting condition where RPMs cycle between 500-1500 RPM at idle. This is caused by a combination of vacuum leaks (common at the plenum gasket), failing Idle Air Control (IAC) valve, dirty throttle body, and deteriorating vacuum hoses. The confined engine bay of the van makes these engines run hotter than truck applications, accelerating component degradation. The IAC valve is the most common single cause.
Start by checking for stored trouble codes, then inspect for vacuum leaks with special attention to the intake plenum/belly pan gasket, PCV lines, brake booster hose, and all small vacuum hoses; a smoke test is the fastest way to confirm leaks. Remove and clean the throttle body and Idle Air Control (IAC) passage with throttle body cleaner, and replace the IAC valve if cleaning does not stabilize idle, as it is the most common failure on these Magnum engines. If oil is found in the intake or the engine has a persistent vacuum leak from the manifold, replace the plenum gasket/belly pan gasket and intake manifold seals, then clear codes and perform an idle relearn by letting the engine idle with all accessories off for several minutes. Typical repair costs range from about $100-$250 for throttle body service and an IAC valve, $100-$300 for vacuum hose and tune-up related fixes, and $600-$1,200 if the plenum gasket repair is required due to labor access in the van chassis.
What you need to fix it
Only diagnosis- and fitment-reviewed repair parts are linked here.
Idle Air Control valve cross-referencing 53030657/AB/AC
Replace only when cleaning and electrical/airflow testing proves the IAC cannot control idle Fitment: Product explicitly lists 1999-2003 Ram 1500/2500/3500 Van 5.2L/5.9L; early 1990-1998 years require separate catalog verification Live d…
Repair the manifold belly-pan leak only when smoke/vacuum/oil inspection confirms it Fitment: 1992-2003 5.2L/5.9L Magnum V8 Live direct manufacturer product page when checked
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High ConfidenceVerified180 owner reportsLast reported by owners Feb 2026Reviewed Aug 2026
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
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According to Au7o's analysis of 380+ owner reports, the 1990 Dodge Ram Van has 2 documented issues. The most frequently reported are: Automatic Transmission Overdrive Failure (A518/46RH/46RE), 5.2L/5.9L Engine Idle Surge and Hunting. Of these, 1 is rated critical and should be addressed promptly.
Is the Dodge Ram Van reliable?
The 1990 Dodge Ram Van has 2 known issues documented across 380+ 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 $50 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 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.
What is the 1990-2003 Dodge Ram Van 5.2L/5.9L Engine Idle Surge and Hunting?
The 5.2L and 5.9L Magnum V8 engines in Ram Vans are prone to a persistent idle surge or hunting condition where RPMs cycle between 500-1500 RPM at idle. This is caused by a combination of vacuum leaks (common at the plenum gasket), failing Idle Air Control (IAC) valve, dirty thro… Repairs typically run $50-$400. Severity: medium.
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.
