Three problems related to differential unit have been reported for the 2004 Dodge Ram 2500. The most recently reported issues are listed below.
My differential has went out twice in my 2004 Dodge Ram 2500 diesel truck. The first time it went out at 48k miles (may 2008) (covered by warranty) and the second time at 137k miles. Both times the failure begain with a winding sound from the differential,then followed by differemential slip. If not corrected right away the differential will begin rattling before coming apart. The potential harm is that the differential can lock up when going down the road. The repair action is to replace all bearings and gears in the differetntial $1800). I do not tow anything with this heavy duty truck. I have kept up with the recommended manufacturer maintenance schedules. I have reported this to Dodge and they do not recognize the problem as common. I have only 1k miles on the 2nd rebuilt differential and I already have to take it in for winding and slipping of the differential. I have it scheduled for 28 Jan 2011 to have it looked at again.
2004 Dodge 4x4 quad cab 2500. When is a pull or turnning to the left the rear differetial has a gringing sound. Started making this sound at about 45000 miles. Have contacted dealer to have is checked. Will followup after dealer visit.
2004 Dodge ram VIN#3d7ka28d04g176384 quad cab slt. There is an obvious noise coming from the rear of the vehicle, best described as a loud whine. It occurs while accelerating or decelerating at low rpm's and only when the vehicle is cold and the temperature outside is cold as well. The colder it is outside, the louder the whine noted from the rear end. After approximately 5-10 minutes of driving, the noise steadily diminishes and then eventually completely disappears. Took vehicle to the dealer and had it inspected during routine maintenance. Maintenance technician advised that it was normal and was probably the pinion gear. Took the truck back again as the temperature got colder and the whine got louder. They let the vehicle sit overnight and test drove it the next morning and, this time, heard the obvious whine. I was advised that there are no recalls or TSB's issued as of yet, but it is a problem that daimlerchrysler is investigating. The printout from dealerconnect stated that it is a rear propeller shaft center bearing noise issue-"especially when cold. " they also stated that a TSB or other notification may be issued after engineering review of the reported problem. It has been assigned a "solution number" of k32981098. I just wanted to report the problem to NHTSA so that appropriate follow up can be done and help expedite a recall notice if warranted.