NHTSA vehicle safety data

1998 Dodge Ram Recalls, Ratings & Complaints

The 1998 Dodge Ram has 17 NHTSA recall campaigns and 483 owner complaints on file as of November 3, 2026. Recall repairs are usually free at an authorized Dodge dealer.

NHTSA recall and complaint data for the 1998 Dodge Ram, plus NCAP crash-test ratings. Recall data is refreshed daily from NHTSA.

Pre-purchase inspection checklist → Reliability & 5-year cost forecast →

1998 Dodge Ram owner complaints

Owners have filed 483 complaints with NHTSA about the 1998 Dodge Ram, describing incidents dated February 17, 1997 to April 9, 2010.

Most-cited components

Service Brakes 109 complaints
Power Train 80 complaints
Air Bags 66 complaints
Electrical System 48 complaints
Engine 38 complaints
Suspension 29 complaints

Of the 483 complaints on file, 79 report a crash and 6 a fire; across all 483 complaints, owners report 52 injuries and 3 deaths (owner-reported, not verified by NHTSA).

Newest complaints

ODI #10445718 · Filed January 28, 2012
THE SPARE TIRE MECHANISM THAT HOLD THE TIRE UNDER THE BED BROKE. THIS FAILURE WAS VERY DANGEROUS SINCE IT OCCURRED WHILE I WAS DRIVING, MY SPARE TIRE FELL ONTO THE STREET AND ROLLED. LUCKILY I WAS IN A 35 MPH AREA, BUT CARS STILL HAD TO MOVE OUT OF THE WAY OF THE ROLLING TIRE. HAD I BEEN ON THE…
ODI #10444690 · Filed January 20, 2012
TL* THE CONTACT OWNS A 1998 DODGE RAM VAN WITH AFTERMARKET BENDIX BRAKES (MODEL NUMBER: 13481).THE CONTACT WAS DRIVING 10 MPH WHEN THE BRAKES WERE APPLIED BUT THE VEHICLE DID NOT RESPOND, CAUSING THE CONTACT CRASHED INTO THE REAR OF ANOTHER VEHICLE. THERE WERE NO INJURIES.THE CONTACT DID NOT CALL…
ODI #10325497 · Filed April 13, 2010
TL*THE CONTACT OWNS A 1998 DODGE RAM 1500. THE CONTACT STATED THAT WHILE DRIVING AT APPROXIMATELY 40 MPH, THE BRAKE PEDAL WENT TO THE FLOORBOARD WHEN DEPRESSED. THE BRAKE INDICATOR LIGHT ALSO ILLUMINATED. THE BRAKES ALSO FAILED INTERMITTENTLY. THE VEHICLE WAS TAKEN TO AN AUTHORIZED DEALERSHIP FOR A…

Read all 483 complaints

FMVSS 108/REPLACEMENT HEADLAMPS/AMBER REFLECTOR

NHTSA #09E025000 · Exterior Lighting — Headlights · NHTSA notice

Reported May 11, 2009 · DOPE, INC.

Potentially affected: 42,540 vehicles

Owners notified July 28, 2009

Defect description

DOPE, INC. IS RECALLING 42,540 COMBINATION CORNER AND BUMPER LAMP ASSEMBLIES OF VARIOUS PART NUMBERS SOLD FOR USE AS AFTERMARKET EQUIPMENT FOR VARIOUS PASSENGER VEHICLES. THESE HEADLAMPS FAIL TO CONFORM TO THE REQUIREMENTS OF FEDERAL MOTOR VEHICLE SAFETY STANDARD NO. 108, "LAMPS, REFLECTIVE DEVICES, AND ASSOCIATED EQUIPMENT." THESE LAMPS DO NOT CONTAIN THE REQUIRED AMBER SIDE REFLECTORS.

Safety consequence

DECREASED LIGHTING VISIBILITY MAY RESULT IN A VEHICLE CRASH.

Manufacturer remedy

DOPE, INC. WILL NOTIFY OWNERS AND OFFER A FULL REFUND FOR THE NONCOMPLIANT COMBINATION LAMPS. THE SAFETY RECALL BEGAN ON JULY 28, 2009. OWNERS MAY CONTACT DOPE, INC. AT 1-626-272-1798.

Notes

THIS RECALL ONLY PERTAINS TO AFTERMARKET REPLACEMENT EQUIPMENT AND HAS NO RELATION TO ANY ORIGINAL EQUIPMENT INSTALLED ON VEHICLES PRODUCED BY THE VEHICLE MANUFACTURER.IN ORDER TO DETERMINE IF YOUR AFTERMARKET LAMP ASSEMBLY IS AFFECTED BY THIS NONCOMPLIANCE, PLEASE REVIEW THE LIST OF MODEL NUMBERS PROVIDED TO US BY DOPE, INC.THE LIST CAN BE FOUND UNDER "DOCUMENT SEARCH" LOCATED AT THE BOTTOM OF YOUR SCREEN. OWNERS MAY ALSO CONTACT THE NATIONAL HIGHWAY TRAFFIC SAFETY ADMINISTRATION'S VEHICLE SAFETY HOTLINE AT 1-888-327-4236 (TTY 1-800-424-9153), OR GO TO <A HREF=HTTP://WWW.SAFERCAR.GOV>HTTP://WWW.SAFERCAR.GOV</A> .

FMVSS 108/AFTERMARKET COMBINATION LAMPS

NHTSA #09E012000 · Exterior Lighting · NHTSA notice

Reported April 7, 2009 · SABERSPORT

Potentially affected: 16,270 vehicles

Owners notified May 11, 2009

Defect description

SABERSPORT IS RECALLING 16,270 COMBINATION CORNER AND BUMPER LAMP ASSEMBLIES OF VARIOUS PART NUMBERS SOLD FOR USE AS AFTERMARKET EQUIPMENT FOR VARIOUS PASSENGER VEHICLES. THESE HEADLAMPS FAIL TO CONFORM TO THE REQUIREMENTS OF FEDERAL MOTOR VEHICLE SAFETY STANDARD NO. 108, "LAMPS, REFLECTIVE DEVICES, AND ASSOCIATED EQUIPMENT." THESE LAMPS DO NOT CONTAIN THE REQUIRED AMBER SIDE REFLECTORS.

Safety consequence

DECREASED LIGHTING VISIBILITY MAY RESULT IN A VEHICLE CRASH.

Manufacturer remedy

SABERSPORT WILL NOTIFY OWNERS AND OFFER A FULL REFUND FOR THE NONCOMPLIANT COMBINATION LAMPS. THE SAFETY RECALL BEGAN ON MAY 11, 2009. OWNERS MAY CONTACT SABERSPORT AT 1-909-598-7589.

Notes

THIS RECALL ONLY PERTAINS TO AFTERMARKET REPLACEMENT EQUIPMENT AND HAS NO RELATION TO ANY ORIGINAL EQUIPMENT INSTALLED ON VEHICLES PRODUCED BY THE VEHICLE MANUFACTURER.IN ORDER TO DETERMINE IF YOUR AFTERMARKET LAMP ASSEMBLY IS AFFECTED BY THIS NONCOMPLIANCE, PLEASE REVIEW THE LIST OF MODEL NUMBERS PROVIDED TO US BY SABERSPORT.THE LIST CAN BE FOUND UNDER "DOCUMENT SEARCH" LOCATED AT THE BOTTOM OF YOUR SCREEN.OWNERS MAY ALSO CONTACT THE NATIONAL HIGHWAY TRAFFIC SAFETY ADMINISTRATION'S VEHICLE SAFETY HOTLINE AT 1-888-327-4236 (TTY 1-800-424-9153), OR GO TO <A HREF=HTTP://WWW.SAFERCAR.GOV>HTTP://WWW.SAFERCAR.GOV</A> .

FMVSS 108/HEADLAMPS/MISSING AMBER SIDE REFLECTORS

NHTSA #08E050000 · Exterior Lighting — Headlights · NHTSA notice

Reported August 11, 2008 · K2 MOTOR CORPORATION

Potentially affected: 1,921 vehicles

Owners notified December 17, 2008

Defect description

K2 MOTOR IS RECALLING 1,921 AFTERMARKET HEADLAMPS OF VARIOUS MODELS SOLD FOR USE ON THE ABOVE LISTED VEHICLES. THESE HEADLAMPS ARE MISSING THE AMBER SIDE REFLEX REFLECTOR WHICH FAILS TO CONFORM WITH THE REQUIREMENTS OF FEDERAL MOTOR VEHICLE SAFETY STANDARD NO. 108, "LAMPS, REFLECTIVE DEVICES, AND ASSOCIATED EQUIPMENT."

Safety consequence

WITHOUT THE AMBER SIDE REFLEX REFLECTORS, THE LIGHTING VISIBILITY MAY BE AFFECTED, POSSIBLY RESULTING IN A VEHICLE CRASH.

Manufacturer remedy

K2 MOTOR WILL NOTIFY OWNERS AND OFFER A FULL REFUND. THE RECALL BEGAN ON DECEMEBER 17, 2008. OWNERS MAY CONTACT K2 MOTOR AT 1-909-839-2992.

Notes

THIS RECALL ONLY PERTAINS TO AFTERMARKET REPLACEMENT EQUIPMENT AND HAS NO RELATION TO ANY ORIGINAL EQUIPMENT INSTALLED ON VEHICLES MANUFACTURED BY HONDA, FORD, OR CHRYSLER LLC. CUSTOMERS MAY CONTACT THE NATIONAL HIGHWAY TRAFFIC SAFETY ADMINISTRATION'S VEHICLE SAFETY HOTLINE AT 1-888-327-4236 (TTY: 1-800-424-9153); OR GO TO HTTP://WWW.SAFERCAR.GOV.

FMVSS 108/AMBER SIDE REFLECTORS

NHTSA #06E060000 · Exterior Lighting · NHTSA notice

Reported June 29, 2006 · AAI MOTORSPORTS USA, LLC

Potentially affected: 87,745 vehicles

Owners notified August 1, 2006

Defect description

CERTAIN AAI MOTORSPORTS COMBINATION LAMPS SOLD AS REPLACEMENT LAMPS FOR USE ON THE ABOVE LIST PASSENGER VEHICLES. COMBINATION LAMPS NOT EQUIPPED WITH AMBER SIDE REFLECTORS FAIL TO CONFORM WITH THE REQUIREMENTS OF FEDERAL MOTOR VEHICLE SAFETY STANDARD NO. 108, "LAMPS, REFLECTIVE DEVICES, AND ASSOCIATED EQUIPMENT."

Safety consequence

LACK OF AMBER SIDE REFLECTORS IN THE LAMPS WILL DECREASE LIGHTING VISIBILITY TO OTHER DRIVERS AND MAY POSSIBLY RESULT IN A VEHICLE CRASH

Manufacturer remedy

AAI MOTORSPORTS WILL NOTIFY OWNERS AND REPLACE THE LAMPS FREE OF CHARGE. THE RECALL BEGAN ON AUGUST 1, 2006. OWNERS MAY CONTACT AAI MOTORSPORTS AT 909-923-9188.

Notes

THIS RECALL ONLY PERTAINS TO AAI MOTORSPORTS AFTERMARKET LAMPS AND HAS NO RELATION TO ANY ORIGINAL EQUIPMENT INSTALLED ON THE LISTED PASSENGER VEHICLES.FOR MORE INFORMATION ON THE LAMP MODEL NUMBERS, CLICK ON DOCUMENT SEARCH AND VIEW DOCUMENT TITLED "LAMP MODEL NUMBERS."CUSTOMERS MAY CONTACT THE NATIONAL HIGHWAY TRAFFIC SAFETY ADMINISTRATION'S VEHICLE SAFETY HOTLINE AT 1-888-327-4236 (TTY: 1-800-424-9153); OR GO TO HTTP://WWW.SAFERCAR.GOV.

DAIMLERCHRYSLER/ABS MODULE CORROSION

NHTSA #04V185000 · Service Brakes, Hydraulic — Antilock/Traction Control/Electronic Limited Slip — Control Unit/Module · NHTSA notice

Reported April 12, 2004 · DAIMLERCHRYSLER CORPORATION

Potentially affected: 44,588 vehicles

Manufacturer campaign D20 · Owners notified September 27, 2004 · Vehicles built July 1, 1997 – June 30, 2003 (per NHTSA)

Defect description

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.

Safety consequence

THIS MAY ALLOW DEVELOPMENT OF A SHORT CIRCUIT IN THE CONNECTOR, WHICH COULD EVENTUALLY LEAD TO A FIRE.

Manufacturer remedy

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.

Notes

DAIMLERCHRYSLER RECALL NO. D20.CUSTOMERS CAN ALSO CONTACT THE NATIONAL HIGHWAY TRAFFIC SAFETY ADMINISTRATION'S AUTO SAFETY HOTLINE AT 1-888-DASH-2-DOT (1-888-327-4236).

DAIMLERCHRYSLER/THROTTLE LINKAGE

NHTSA #02V161000 · Vehicle Speed Control · NHTSA notice

Reported June 14, 2002 · DAIMLERCHRYSLER CORPORATION

Potentially affected: 97,500 vehicles

Manufacturer campaign B15 · Owners notified July 29, 2002 · Vehicles built July 1, 1996 – December 31, 1997 (per NHTSA)

Defect description

ON CERTAIN PICKUP TRUCKS EQUIPPED WITH DIESEL ENGINES ONLY, THE THROTTLE LINKAGE JOINTS CAN CORRODE AND CAUSE THE THROTTLE TO BIND OR STICK.

Safety consequence

THIS COULD POTENTIALLY RESULT IN A LOSS OF THROTTLE CONTROL, INCREASING THE RISK OF A CRASH.

Manufacturer remedy

DEALERS WILL REPLACE THE ROD ENDS AND BALL STUDS. OWNER NOTIFICATION BEGAN JULY 29, 2002. 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.

Notes

ALSO, CUSTOMERS CAN CONTACT THE NATIONAL HIGHWAY TRAFFIC SAFETY ADMINISTRATION'S AUTO SAFETY HOTLINE AT 1-888-DASH-2-DOT (1-888-327-4236).

DAIMLERCHRYSLER/CLOCKSPRING MATERIAL

NHTSA #01V153000 · Air Bags · NHTSA notice

Reported May 8, 2001 · DAIMLERCHRYSLER CORPORATION

Potentially affected: 216,100 vehicles

Manufacturer campaign 982 · Owners notified June 18, 2001 · Vehicles built August 15, 1996 – October 31, 2000 (per NHTSA)

Defect description

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.

Safety consequence

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.

Manufacturer remedy

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.

Notes

ALSO CONTACT THE NATIONAL HIGHWAY TRAFFIC SAFETY ADMINISTRATION'S AUTO SAFETY HOTLINE AT 1-888-DASH-2-DOT (1-888-327-4236).

DAIMLERCHRYSLER/HOOD LATCH

NHTSA #01V040000 · Latches/Locks/Linkages — Hood — Latch · NHTSA notice

Reported February 12, 2001 · DAIMLERCHRYSLER CORPORATION

Potentially affected: 701,000 vehicles

Manufacturer campaign 973 · Owners notified September 17, 2001 · Vehicles built July 23, 1993 – May 10, 1999 (per NHTSA) · Recall influenced by NHTSA's Office of Defects Investigation

Defect description

ON CERTAIN PICKUP TRUCKS ORIGINALLY SOLD IN OR CURRENTLY REGISTERED IN THE FOLLOWING "SALT BELT" STATES: MAINE, NEW HAMPSHIRE, VERMONT, MASSACHUSETTS, RHODE ISLAND, CONNECTICUT, NEW YORK, NEW JERSEY, PENNSYLVANIA, DELAWARE, MARYLAND, THE DISTRICT OF COLUMBIA, WEST VIRGINIA, OHIO, INDIANA, MICHIGAN, ILLINOIS, WISCONSIN, MINNESOTA, IOWA, AND MISSOURI. CORROSION OF THE RETURN SPRING ON THE HOOD SECONDARY LATCH COULD CAUSE THE MECHANISM TO BIND IN THE "RELEASE POSITION."

Safety consequence

IF THE PRIMARY LATCH IS NOT ENGAGED, THE HOOD COULD OPEN UNEXPECTEDLY.

Manufacturer remedy

DEALERS WILL REPLACE THE SECONDARY HOOD LATCH. OWNER NOTIFICATION BEGAN SEPTEMBER 17, 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.

Notes

DAIMLERCHRYSLER RECALL NO.973.ALSO CONTACT THE NATIONAL HIGHWAY TRAFFIC SAFETY ADMINISTRATION'S AUTO SAFETY HOTLINE AT 1-888-DASH-2-DOT (1-888-327-4236).

DAIMLERCHRYSLER/TRAILER HITCH BRACKET

NHTSA #00V107000 · Trailer Hitches · NHTSA notice

Reported April 11, 2000 · DAIMLERCHRYSLER CORPORATION

Potentially affected: 357,000 vehicles

Manufacturer campaign 872 · Owners notified April 24, 2000 · Vehicles built January 1, 1998 – September 30, 1999 (per NHTSA)

Defect description

VEHICLE DESCRIPTION: PICKUP TRUCKS EQUIPPED WITH OPTIONAL TRAILER HITCH. THE TRAILER HITCH SIDE BRACKETS WERE MANUFACTURED USING MATERIAL WITH INSUFFICIENT STRENGTH.

Safety consequence

BRACKETS BUILT WITHOUT PROPER MATERIAL COULD FATIGUE AND FRACTURE IN THE AREA WHERE THE TRAILER HITCH MOUNTS TO THE FRAME.

Manufacturer remedy

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.

Notes

OWNER NOTIFICATION BEGAN APRIL 24, 2000.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 1-800-992-1997. ALSO CONTACT THE NATIONAL HIGHWAY TRAFFIC SAFETY ADMINISTRATION'S AUTO SAFETY HOTLINE AT 1-888-DASH-2-DOT (1-888-327-4236).

DAIMLERCHRYSLER/HYDRAULIC CLUTCH LINE

NHTSA #99V115000 · Power Train — Clutch Assembly · NHTSA notice

Reported May 6, 1999 · DAIMLERCHRYSLER CORPORATION

Potentially affected: 8,883 vehicles

Manufacturer campaign 828 · Owners notified December 27, 1999 · Vehicles built July 31, 1993 – April 30, 1999 (per NHTSA) · Recall influenced by NHTSA's Office of Defects Investigation

Defect description

VEHICLE DESCRIPTION: PICKUP TRUCKS EQUIPPED WITH MANUAL TRANSMISSION, V10 ENGINES AND FOUR-WHEEL-DRIVE TRANSFER CASES. UNDER SUSTAINED MAXIMUM RATED VEHICLE LOAD, WHILE DRIVING UP A STEEP GRADE IN FOUR-WHEEL-DRIVE LOW RANGE IN HOT AMBIENT CONDITIONS, THE LOCAL EXHAUST TEMPERATURE PROXIMATE TO THE HYDRAULIC CLUTCH LINE CAN GENERATE LINE TEMPERATURES THAT EXCEED THE TEMPERATURE LIMIT OF THE CLUTCH LINE MATERIAL. IF THIS CONDITION OCCURS AND THE CLUTCH IS DEPRESSED, THE LINE COULD RUPTURE.

Safety consequence

THE FLUID COULD IGNITE ON THE HOT EXHAUST POSSIBLY RESULTING IN A VEHICLE FIRE.

Manufacturer remedy

DEALERS WILL REPLACE THE HYDRAULIC CLUTCH ASSEMBLY.

Notes

OWNER NOTIFICATION BEGAN DECEMBER 27, 1999. 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 CHRYSLER AT 1-800-992-1997. ALSO CONTACT THE NATIONAL HIGHWAY TRAFFIC SAFETY ADMINISTRATION'S AUTO SAFETY HOTLINE AT 1-888-DASH-2-DOT (1-888-327-4236).

DAIMLERCHRYSLER/AIR BAG CONTROL MODULE

NHTSA #99V002000 · Air Bags · NHTSA notice

Reported January 7, 1999 · DAIMLERCHRYSLER CORPORATION

Potentially affected: 46,193 vehicles

Manufacturer campaign 816 · Owners notified February 15, 1999 · Vehicles built November 15, 1997 – June 5, 1998 (per NHTSA)

Defect description

VEHICLE DESCRIPTION: VANS AND VANS USED FOR CONVERSION. IF A HEAVY OBJECT IMPACTS THE METAL CASING OF THE AIR BAG ELECTRONIC CONTROL MODULE (AECM), LOCATED UNDER THE DRIVER SEAT, THE MODULE COULD INADVERTENTLY DEPLOY THE AIR BAGS.

Safety consequence

UNEXPECTED AIR BAG DEPLOYMENT CAN RESULT IN OCCUPANT INJURY.

Manufacturer remedy

DEALERS WILL REPLACE THE AECM WITH A MODULE THAT INCORPORATES REVISED HARDWARE AND SOFTWARE ON ALL AFFECTED VEHICLES.

Notes

OWNER NOTIFICATION BEGAN FEBRUARY 15, 1999. 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 CHRYSLER AT 1-800-992-1997.ALSO CONTACT THE NATIONAL HIGHWAY TRAFFIC SAFETY ADMINISTRATION'S AUTO SAFETY HOTLINE AT 1-888-DASH-2-DOT (1-888-327-4236).

CHRYSLER/HIGH ENGINE IDLE SPEED

NHTSA #98V209000 · Engine and Engine Cooling — Engine — Diesel · NHTSA notice

Reported September 8, 1998 · CHRYSLER CORPORATION

Potentially affected: 30,747 vehicles

Owners notified September 28, 1998 · Vehicles built December 15, 1997 – May 31, 1998 (per NHTSA)

Defect description

VEHICLE DESCRIPTION: LIGHT DUTY PICKUP TRUCKS EQUIPPED WITH 5.9L - 24 VALVE DIESEL ENGINE. AN INTERMITTENT HIGH ENGINE IDLE CONDITION CAN OCCUR DUE TO A MALFUNCTION OF THE VEHICLE SPEED SENSOR.

Safety consequence

THIS CREATES A SIGNAL WHICH IS MISINTERPRETED BY THE ENGINE CONTROL SOFTWARE, CAUSING A HIGH IDLE SPEED CONDITION.

Manufacturer remedy

DEALERS WILL REPLACE THE ENGINE CONTROLLER SOFTWARE TO CORRECT ERRONEOUS SPEED SENSOR SIGNALS.

Notes

OWNER NOTIFICATION BEGAN SEPTEMBER 28, 1998. 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 CHRYSLER AT 1-800-992-1997.ALSO CONTACT THE NATIONAL HIGHWAY TRAFFIC SAFETY ADMINISTRATION'S AUTO SAFETY HOTLINE AT 1-888-DASH-2-DOT (1-888-327-4236).

CHRYSLER/CAB/FRAME BOLTS

NHTSA #98V208000 · Structure · NHTSA notice

Reported September 8, 1998 · CHRYSLER CORPORATION

Potentially affected: 12,400 vehicles

Owners notified September 21, 1998 · Vehicles built March 31, 1998 – June 15, 1998 (per NHTSA)

Defect description

VEHICLE DESCRIPTION: LIGHT DUTY PICKUP TRUCKS. THESE VEHICLES MAY HAVE BEEN BUILT WITH BOLTS THAT WERE NOT PROPERLY HARDENED. THE BOLTS WERE USED TO ATTACH THE CAB AND THE CORE SUPPORT TO THE FRAME.

Safety consequence

THIS CONDITION CAN ALLOW THE CAB TO SEPARATE FROM THE FRAME INCREASING THE RISK OF A CRASH.

Manufacturer remedy

DEALERS WILL REPLACE THESE BOLTS WITH PROPERLY HARDENED BOLTS.

Notes

OWNER NOTIFICATION BEGAN SEPTEMBER 21, 1998.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 CHRYSLER AT 1-800-992-1997.ALSO CONTACT THE NATIONAL HIGHWAY TRAFFIC SAFETY ADMINISTRATION'S AUTO SAFETY HOTLINE AT 1-888-DASH-2-DOT (1-888-327-4236).

CHRYSLER/FUEL LINE LEAKAGE

NHTSA #98V207000 · Engine and Engine Cooling — Engine — Diesel · NHTSA notice

Reported September 8, 1998 · CHRYSLER CORPORATION

Potentially affected: 25,014 vehicles

Owners notified September 14, 1998 · Vehicles built December 15, 1997 – April 30, 1998 (per NHTSA)

Defect description

VEHICLE DESCRIPTION: LIGHT DUTY PICKUP TRUCKS EQUIPPED WITH 5.9L - 24 VALVE DIESEL ENGINE. THE LOW PRESSURE DIESEL FUEL SUPPLY TUBE LOCATED IN THE ENGINE COMPARTMENT BETWEEN THE FILTER AND THE HIGH PRESSURE PUMP CAN FRACTURE.

Safety consequence

THIS CONDITION CAN ALLOW FUEL TO LEAK. IN THE PRESENCE OF AN IGNITION SOURCE, FUEL LEAKAGE CAN RESULT IN A FIRE.

Manufacturer remedy

DEALERS WILL REPLACE THE LOW PRESSURE DIESEL FUEL SUPPLY TUBE.

Notes

OWNER NOTIFICATION IS EXPECTED TO BEGIN SEPTEMBER 14, 1998.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 CHRYSLER AT 1-800-992-1997.ALSO CONTACT THE NATIONAL HIGHWAY TRAFFIC SAFETY ADMINISTRATION'S AUTO SAFETY HOTLINE AT 1-888-DASH-2-DOT (1-888-327-4236).

CHRYSLER/FUEL LINE LEAKAGE

NHTSA #98V182000 · Fuel System, Gasoline — Delivery — Hoses, Lines/Piping, and Fittings · NHTSA notice

Reported August 6, 1998 · CHRYSLER CORPORATION

Potentially affected: 8,144 vehicles

Owners notified August 17, 1998 · Vehicles built August 1, 1997 – February 26, 1998 (per NHTSA)

Defect description

VEHICLE DESCRIPTION: LIGHT DUTY TRUCKS EQUIPPED WITH EITHER A 8.0L V-10 ENGINE OR A 5.9L V-8 HEAVY DUTY GASOLINE ENGINE. AN EXHAUST SYSTEM HEAT SHIELD ATTACHING SCREW IS TOO CLOSE TO THE UNDERBODY FUEL LINE. THE LINE CAN RUB AGAINST THE SCREW, POSSIBLY CAUSING FUEL LEAKAGE.

Safety consequence

FUEL LEAKAGE IN THE PRESENCE OF AN IGNITION SOURCE CAN RESULT IN A FIRE.

Manufacturer remedy

DEALERS WILL REMOVE THE UNDERBODY HEAT SHIELD ATTACHING SCREW AND REPLACE IT WITH RUBBER ADHESIVE. THE CHASSIS FUEL LINE WILL BE INSPECTED FOR SIGNS OF WEAR AND ANY TUBES INDICATING WEAR WILL BE REPLACED.

Notes

OWNER NOTIFICATION BEGAN AUGUST 17, 1998.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 CHRYSLER AT 1-800-992-1997.ALSO CONTACT THE NATIONAL HIGHWAY TRAFFIC SAFETY ADMINISTRATION'S AUTO SAFETY HOTLINE AT 1-888-DASH-2-DOT (1-888-327-4236).

CHRYSLER/SEAT BELT BUCKLES

NHTSA #98V105000 · Seat Belts — Front — Buckle Assembly · NHTSA notice

Reported May 14, 1998 · CHRYSLER CORPORATION

Potentially affected: 4,200 vehicles

Owners notified June 1, 1998 · Vehicles built April 1, 1998 – April 15, 1998 (per NHTSA)

Defect description

VEHICLE DESCRIPTION: PASSENGER VEHICLES. THE FRONT SEAT BELT BUCKLES WERE NOT PROPERLY RIVETED TO THE SUPPORT STRAP.

Safety consequence

IN THE EVENT OF A VEHICLE CRASH, THE SEAT BELT ASSEMBLY WOULD HAVE REDUCED STRENGTH, INCREASING THE RISK OF PERSONAL INJURY.

Manufacturer remedy

DEALERS WILL REPLACE THE FRONT OUTER SEAT BELT BUCKLES WITH BUCKLES THAT HAVE BEEN PROPERLY RIVETED.

Notes

OWNER NOTIFICATION IS EXPECTED TO BEGIN DURING JUNE 1998.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 CHRYSLER AT 1-800-992-1997.ALSO CONTACT THE NATIONAL HIGHWAY TRAFFIC SAFETY ADMINISTRATION'S AUTO SAFETY HOTLINE AT 1-888-DASH-2-DOT (1-888-327-4236).

CHRYSLER/WHEEL SEPARATION

NHTSA #98V075000 · Service Brakes, Air — Disc — Rotor · NHTSA notice

Reported April 8, 1998 · CHRYSLER CORPORATION

Potentially affected: 1,550 vehicles

Owners notified May 25, 1998 · Vehicles built October 15, 1997 – October 31, 1997 (per NHTSA)

Defect description

VEHICLE DESCRIPTION: LIGHT DUTY PICKUP TRUCKS. THE BRAKE ROTOR MATERIAL STRENGTH IS NOT SUFFICIENT CAUSING A HUB FATIGUE FRACTURE.

Safety consequence

THIS FRACTURE CAN RESULT IN CRACK PROPAGATION AROUND THE WHEEL MOUNTING BOLT CIRCULE ULTIMATELY RESULTING IN A WHEEL SEPARATION.

Manufacturer remedy

DEALERS WILL INSPECT THE BRAKE ROTORS AND IF NECESSARY, REPLACE THESE ROTORS.

Notes

OWNER NOTIFICATION IS EXPECTED TO BEGIN DURING MAY 1998.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 CHRYSLER AT 1-800-992-1997.ALSO CONTACT THE NATIONAL HIGHWAY TRAFFIC SAFETY ADMINISTRATION'S AUTO SAFETY HOTLINE AT 1-888-DASH-2-DOT (1-888-327-4236).

1998 Dodge Ram 1500 Extended Cab

—

out of 5

Overall Safety Rating

Not Rated

Frontal Crash

Not Rated

Driver: 4, Passenger: 4

Side Crash

Not Rated

Driver: Not Rated, Passenger: Not Rated

Side Pole

Not Rated

Rollover

Not Rated

Safety Technology

483 owner complaints have been filed with NHTSA for the 1998 Dodge Ram.

Structure; Tires

ODI #10445718

Incident: April 3, 2007 · Filed: January 28, 2012

THE SPARE TIRE MECHANISM THAT HOLD THE TIRE UNDER THE BED BROKE. THIS FAILURE WAS VERY DANGEROUS SINCE IT OCCURRED WHILE I WAS DRIVING, MY SPARE TIRE FELL ONTO THE STREET AND ROLLED. LUCKILY I WAS IN A 35 MPH AREA, BUT CARS STILL HAD TO MOVE OUT OF THE WAY OF THE ROLLING TIRE. HAD I BEEN ON THE INTERSTATE, IT COULD HAVE BEEN DISASTROUS. *TR

Service Brakes, Hydraulic; Equipment Adaptive/Mobility

ODI #10444690

Crash

Incident: January 10, 2010 · Filed: January 20, 2012

TL* THE CONTACT OWNS A 1998 DODGE RAM VAN WITH AFTERMARKET BENDIX BRAKES (MODEL NUMBER: 13481).THE CONTACT WAS DRIVING 10 MPH WHEN THE BRAKES WERE APPLIED BUT THE VEHICLE DID NOT RESPOND, CAUSING THE CONTACT CRASHED INTO THE REAR OF ANOTHER VEHICLE. THERE WERE NO INJURIES.THE CONTACT DID NOT CALL THE MANUFACTURER OF THE VEHICLE OR THE BRAKES IN REGARD TO THE FAILURE. THE FAILURE MILEAGE WAS 90,000. THE VIN WAS NOT AVAILABLE.

Service Brakes, Hydraulic; Electrical System

ODI #10325497

Incident: April 9, 2010 · Filed: April 13, 2010

TL*THE CONTACT OWNS A 1998 DODGE RAM 1500. THE CONTACT STATED THAT WHILE DRIVING AT APPROXIMATELY 40 MPH, THE BRAKE PEDAL WENT TO THE FLOORBOARD WHEN DEPRESSED. THE BRAKE INDICATOR LIGHT ALSO ILLUMINATED. THE BRAKES ALSO FAILED INTERMITTENTLY. THE VEHICLE WAS TAKEN TO AN AUTHORIZED DEALERSHIP FOR A DIAGNOSTIC TEST AND THE CONTACT WAS INFORMED THAT THE BRAKING SYSTEM WAS FUNCTIONING PROPERLY BUT THE FAILURES WERE CAUSING BY AN ELECTRIC COMPONENT. THE VEHICLE WAS AT THE DEALERSHIP FOR REPAIR AT THE TIME OF THE COMPLAINT. THE CURRENT AND FAILURE MILEAGES WERE APPROXIMATELY 115,000.

Structure

ODI #10317690

1 injury

Incident: December 1, 2009 · Filed: March 8, 2010

TL* THE CONTACT OWNS A 1998 DODGE RAM. THE CONTACT STATED THAT WHILE THE VEHICLE WAS PARKED HE NOTICED THE DASH BOARD OF THE VEHICLE WAS CRACKED BADLY. THE CONTACT STATED THAT THE WEATHER WAS NOT HOT AND WAS NOT A FACTOR WITH THE VEHICLE DASH BOARD DEFECT. THE CONTACT HAD PIECES OF THE DASHBOARD FLY INTO HIS EYES. HE TOOK THE VEHICLE TO THE DEALER FOR DIAGNOSTIC AND TESTING. THE DEALER STATED THAT THE OWNER OF THE VEHICLE WOULD HAVE TO PAY FOR THE REPAIRS. THERE HAD BEEN NO REPAIRS DONE AT THE TIME OF THE COMPLAINT. THE APPROXIMATE FAILURE MILEAGE WAS 74,000. THE APPROXIMATE CURRENT MILEAGE WAS 85,000.

Exterior Lighting; Interior Lighting; Electrical System

ODI #10276115

Incident: July 8, 2009 · Filed: July 8, 2009

TL*THE CONTACT OWNS A 1998 DODGE RAM. THE CONTACT STATED THAT THE BRAKE LIGHTS AND INTERIOR LIGHTING FAIL TO DIM WHEN THE VEHICLE IS TURNED OFF. PRIOR TO THE FAILURES, SHE NOTICED THAT THE INSTRUMENT PANEL LIGHTS WOULD NOT DIM. THE VEHICLE HAS NOT BEEN DIAGNOSED BY THE DEALER. THE CURRENT AND FAILURE MILEAGES WERE 132,216. UPDATED 07/28/09. *LJ UPDATED 07/30/09.*JB

Air Bags

ODI #10244104

Incident: August 1, 2008 · Filed: October 1, 2008

TL*THE CONTACT OWNS A 1998 DODGE RAM. WHILE DRIVING VARIOUS SPEEDS, THE AIR BAG WARNING INDICATOR RANDOMLY ILLUMINATES AND THE AIR BAG CHIME WILL BEGIN TO SOUND. THE HORN IN THE VEHICLE HAS ALSO STOPPED WORKING. THE CONTACT TOOK THE VEHICLE TO THE DEALER AND PROVIDED THEM WITH INFORMATION HE FOUND ONLINE REGARDING NHTSA CAMPAIGN ID NUMBER 01V153000 (AIR BAGS). HE WAS INFORMED THAT THE VIN WAS NOT INCLUDED IN THE RECALL, ALTHOUGH THE FAILURES WERE IDENTICAL. THE CONTACT WOULD BE RESPONSIBLE FOR THE REPAIR COSTS. THE VEHICLE IS CURRENTLY AT THE DEALER AND THEY STATED THAT THE CLOCK SPRINGS WERE THE CAUSE OF THE FAILURES IN THE HORN AND THE AIR BAGS. THE AIR BAG SYSTEM WAS COMPLETELY DISABLED AND WOULD NOT DEPLOY IN THE EVENT OF A CRASH. THE FAILURE MILEAGE WAS 124,000 AND CURRENT MILEAGE WAS 125,000. UPDATED 10/20/08. *LJ UPDATED 10/21/08. *JB

Wheels

ODI #10226215

Crash

Incident: March 24, 2008 · Filed: April 25, 2008

1998 DODGE RAM TIRE FELL OFF WHILE DRIVING. CONSUMER STATES THAT THE TIRE FELL OFF WHILE DRIVING ON THE HIGHWAY. THIS CAUSED THE VEHICLE TO STOP IN THE CENTER LANE OF THE HIGHWAY. *KB THE LUG NUTS WERE MISSING. THE VEHICLE WAS ALSO STRUCK MY ANOTHER VEHICLE. (OHIO TRAFFIC CRASH REPORT # 10-0246-90) *JB

Air Bags

ODI #10208176

Incident: October 20, 2007 · Filed: November 7, 2007

TL*THE CONTACT OWNS A 1998 DODGE RAM. THE CONTACT STATED THAT THE AIR BAG INDICATOR LIGHT ILLUMINATES AND AN ALARM SOUNDS FOUR TIMES INTERMITTENTLY. EVENTUALLY, THE AIR BAG LIGHT DIMS. THE CONTACT WILL HAVE THE VEHICLE INSPECTED. THERE ARE TWO AIR BAG RECALLS (NHTSA CAMPAIGN ID NUMBERS 01V153000 AND 99V002000); HOWEVER, THE MANUFACTURER STATED THAT HIS VEHICLE WAS NOT INCLUDED IN EITHER ONE. THE CURRENT MILEAGE WAS 120,000 AND FAILURE MILEAGE WAS 119,800.

Vehicle Speed Control

ODI #10153457

Incident: January 11, 2006 · Filed: March 22, 2006

DT*: THE CONTACT STATED WHILE DRIVING THE VEHICLE WITH THE CRUISE CONTROL SET ON 70 MPH IT BECAME STUCK. THE VEHICLE'S SPEED KEPT ACCELERATING, THE ENGINE REVVED. THE BRAKE PEDAL HAD TO BE DEPRESSED VERY HARD TO GET THE VEHICLE TO SLOW DOWN. AFTER SLOWING DOWN THE VEHICLE IT WAS PUT INTO NEUTRAL. THE VEHICLE WAS THEN SHUT OFF; AND TAKEN TO A DEALERSHIP. UPON INSPECTION THE PROBLEM WAS THE CRUISE CONTROL VALVE THAT WAS LOCATED UNDER THE BATTERY. ACID FROM THE BATTERY LEAKED DOWN ONTO THE CRUISE CONTROL VALVE CAUSING IT TO STICK. THE DEALER DISCONNECTED THE CRUISE CONTROL. UPDATED 04/11/06. *JB

Engine and Engine Cooling; Power Train

ODI #10117560

Fire

Incident: April 6, 2005 · Filed: April 6, 2005

WHILE DRIVING VEHICLE STALLED. DRIVER WAS UNABLE TO RESTART VEHICLE, AND HAD IT TOWED TO DEALER. MECHANIC DETERMINED THAT TRANSMISSION AND ENGINE NEEDED TO BE REPLACED DUE TO WEAR AND TEAR. *AK

Other Dodge Ram model years

Check your 1998 Dodge Ram VIN

Not every recall applies to every VIN in a given year. Enter the 17-character VIN from your Dodge Ram at nhtsa.gov/recalls to see whether your specific vehicle has an unrepaired recall.

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