Manifold/header/muffler/tail Pipe Problems of Dodge Ram Van

/18/05 1999 Dodge Ram Van 360 ci v-8 I bought the vehicle in the summer of 2000. I drive it very little-current mileage is 37,000 after 5 yrs. Ownership. We just took a trip to California, and went through almost a case of oil! also, the engine was pinging quite a bit-especially at highway speeds. I got on the internet when I got home from the trip, and found numerous complaints and comments from others who have had similar problems. A couple of them referred to a technical service bulletin that was supposed to have been issued by Dodge, but I couldn't find it (probably not available to the consumer). I called kari Dodge (local dealership) and described the problem to the service manager. He was very familiar with this problem-said it was common among 1999 and 2000 318 and 360 engines. He said the problem is caused by a faulty intake manifold gasket, and that I shouldn't be driving it, because engine damage could result. I made an appointment to have them check it out-and the cost will be $540 to make the repair. Looking back in time, I first noticed that the engine was pinging around 3 years ago, on a previous trip to California (it's most noticeable on extended highway trips-which I don't take very often). I would guess the mileage on the vehicle would have been around 20,000, which would have meant the warranty would have covered the repair. I just thought the problem was due to low octane fuel, so I started using higher octane fuel. Then, of course, from that time on, I have mainly been using the vehicle in town and rarely go over 50 mph, which makes the problem less noticeable. I really feel that this should be a recall issue for Dodge. On top of that, it makes me very unhappy that a potentially engine damaging defect like this could be allowed to exist-without some sort of notification to the owner. I suppose if they did that much, then it would be an admission of guilt on their part.

See all problems of the 1999 Dodge Ram Van 🔎.

With 62,000 miles on the vehicle the intake manifold had to be replaced. Vehicle was purchased new. Dealer replaced intake manifold and parts associated with it.