Three problems related to radiator have been reported for the 2003 Dodge Ram 1500. The most recently reported issues are listed below.
2003 Dodge Ram 1500. Consumer writes in regards to passenger airbag recall replacement parts still on back order. Vehicle has multiple recalls that relates to steering, lighting, visibility, electrical, engine issues and requests loaner vehicle. The consumer stated the additional recalls, would probably explain, why he had to replace the thermostat, vehicle speed control and the radiator three times.
The contact owns a 2003 Dodge Ram 1500. The contact stated that the radiator was clogged and needed to be replaced. The failure occurred while driving 55 mph. Through further investigation, he discovered that Dodge was installing a filter system in the 2001-2003 models. The contact wanted to be reimbursed for part of the fee he paid to have the system replaced. Dodge would not reimburse him because the vehicle was under warranty. The purchase date was unknown. The current mileage was 50,300 and failure mileage was 50,214. Updated 01/24/08 the consumer stated Dodge will not assist with the cost of the vehicle because it is no longer under warranty. Updated 01/24/08.
I purchased a 2003 Dodge Ram 1500 quad cab in 10/2003. The temp gauge always showed the temp at above the normal range. Told by the salesperson that was normalat. At approximately 44k miles the vehicle overheated and broke down. Mechanic replaced thermostat - no help. Took vehicle to battison's dealership in duncan ok where the mechanic was accused of installing the thermostat backward. The dealership accused us of putting "stop leak" in the radiator and using non red coolant. Coolant was clear because vehicle overheated and water was only source. Stop leak was never used - the dealership's contractor for radiator repair it looked like stop leak could have been used - but couldn't tell for sure. The parts manager told us that at the same time our 2003 was in the shop a 2005 with 31k was in the shop with the same problem. The difference - the 2005 was under warranty. My thought - if Dodge isn't going to stand behind product after 36k miles then we won't purchase products from this line - Ford is looking better.