2002 Dodge Ram 2500 Reliability ReportCommon Problems, Repair Costs & Expert Verdict
Should You Buy the 2002 Dodge Ram 2500?
The 2002 Dodge Ram 2500 offers immense utility and a legendary Cummins engine option, making it a tempting workhorse. However, be prepared for significant and often costly maintenance, particularly concerning its front suspension, electrical system, and the potential for a critical diesel fuel pump failure. This truck is a capable platform, but only for those willing to invest time and money to keep it running reliably.
Biggest Strengths
- Robust frame and drivetrain (especially Cummins engine core)
- Strong towing and hauling capabilities
- Availability of parts due to popularity
Top Risk Areas
The systems that break first on the 2002 Dodge Ram 2500. Mileage windows, repair costs, and fix-before-you-buy notes are in the full report.
NHTSA Recalls
2 recalls on record from NHTSA. Check your VIN atnhtsa.gov to see if the repair was performed.
VISIBILITY:GLASS, SIDE/REAR
CERTAIN CURVED TEMPERED REPLACEMENT GLASS MANUFACTURED BY HANGZHOU SAFETY GLASS LTD AND SUPPLIED TO SAFELITE BY AUTO TEMP INC., IDENTIFIED AS DOT-430, AND SOLD FOR USE ON CERTAIN DOMESTIC AND FOREIGN VEHICLES MAY NOT BREAK INTO SMALL PIECES AS EXPECTED OF TEMPERED GLASS AND FAILS TO CONFORM TO FEDERAL MOTOR VEHICLE SAFETY STANDARD NO. 205, "GLAZING MATERIALS."
ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING
CERTAIN REPLACEMENT K&N FUEL PERFORMANCE KITS, P/NOS. 57-1509, 57-1511, 57-1511-1, 57-1517, 57-1517-1, 57-1527, AND 57-1530. ALSO, A SMALL PERCENTAGE OF THESE KITS WERE SOLD UNDER THE MOPAR PERFORMANCE PARTS BRAND NAME (P/NOS. P5007069 AND P5007070). ALL KITS WERE MANUFACTURED FROM APRIL 20, 1999, THROUGH SEPTEMBER 23, 2004. THESE ASSEMBLIES WERE MANUFACTURED AS REPLACEMENT EQUIPMENT FOR CERTAIN DODGE PICKUP TRUCKS AND SUVS. A SMALL PIECE OF MATERIAL FROM THE TUBE WALL COULD BE SUCKED INTO THE ENGINE THROTTLE BODY, WHICH COULD CAUSE THE THROTTLE TO BECOME JAMMED IN THE OPEN POSITION.
What breaks on the 2002 Dodge Ram 2500?
Full reliability breakdown — engine, transmission, rust, electrical. With repair costs and mileage danger zones.
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Dodge Ram 2500 by Year
Compare reliability scores across nearby years of the Dodge Ram 2500. Click any year for its full report.
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Relevant Products for Your 2002 Dodge Ram 2500
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Frequently Asked Questions
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