Eight problems related to brake master cylinder have been reported for the 1996 Dodge RAM. The most recently reported issues are listed below.
While driving 50mph & went to apply brakes, master cylinder/power booster studs came out. It split the metal attachment. There were no brakes. Rearended another vehicle. Had contacted manufacturer. A representative checked vehicle's brakes & indicated the brakes were fine & manufacturer was not liable for anything.
Brake master cylinder prematurely malfunctioned, causing the power brake booster to fail. Also, caused the brake pedal to travel to the floor, resulting in extended stopping distance.
Excessive pedal effort required to stop vehicle in normal braking situations. Front brakes smoke during hard stops or in stop and go traffic. It also gives off a burning smell. Brought back to dealer 2 times and they state that it is "normal". I just found out that in 1997, Dodge changed the master cylinder on this truck to a larger unit. The rest of the brake system components are the same. I would think that this would solve my problem.
When applying the abs brakes the pedal will intermttently travel to the floor, causing extended stopping distance which nearly caused a collision. Also, dealer replaced calipers/rotors and master cylinder.
Going to a camp ground on dirt road, hauling a trailer, going down a hill, driver tried to apply brakes (abs), had no brakes, ran into another vehicle w/trailer, the other vehicle literally stopped the vehicle at bottom of hill. After inspection, it was found that the master cylinder was faulty.
Abs; went to apply the brakes and pedal went to the floor. Lost all braking power, also replaced leaking master cylinder/booster .
Master cylinder failed.
When applying brakes vehicle will pulls hard to left . Dealer has resurfaced front brakes, and flushed master cylinder and its lines, but defect keeps reoccurring.