2002 Dodge Ram Van: problems, recalls and reliability
1 recall and 14 owner complaints on record; most reports concern structure.
Data updated weekly · latest recall Dec 2007
All counts are reports filed with NHTSA in the United States - US market only, not worldwide totals.
Common problems
Computed from 14 owner complaints filed with NHTSA for this exact model year.
“Took van in for inspection and was informed that the entire frame had rust issues. Was told the front frame was so bad I should just park it as that anything from the radiator to the engine could just fall out with one good jolt. Did a little research and found this is a common problem with these vehicles as with the toyota trucks. The body shop I took it to said he had 13 of them this year alone. I crawled under there and there are large areas of frame that has just disappeared. Either poor quality steel or improper rust prevention at manufacture point could cause this much damage. Company should be made to step up and replace the frames. *tr”Owner report · Structure · Feb 2015
“Tl* the contact owns a 2002 dodge ram 2500 van. The contact stated while driving 2 mph the steering mount broke from the frame causing a faulty wheel alignment. The vehicle was towed to the contacts home. The contact inspected the frame and notice excessive rust on the frame. The contact called the manufacturer regarding the frame and the manufacturer stated there were no related recalls. The contact stated if he was driving on the highway at high speeds a crash could have occurred. The failure mileage was 140,000.”Owner report · Steering · Jun 2011
“Total loss of steering due to severe frame rot, which led to the detachment of the steering mounts on the passenger side. Luckily it happened at a slow speed, at that point had to be towed. Had just exited highway at speeds of 65 mph. I informed dodge of this problem approximately 6 months ago, basically they don't care. Vehicle is only 8 years old. If it is happening to my van it is happening to all vans. Action needs to be taken quickly in order to save lives. *tr”Owner report · Structure · Apr 2011
Show 7 more owner reports
“All power stops to vehicle, shutting entire engine, power brakes, steering off. It occurs daily, whil edriving on roads/freeways, creating a seriously hazardous situation. Dealer previously replaced the power control module. Problem recently started again. Dealer wants to replace the pcm again at huge cost, but cannot replicate problem and inst sure the pcm is the problem. Might be faulty wiring, but dealer cannot tell. *tr”Owner report · Electrical System · May 2010
“Tl*the contact owns a 2002 dodge ram van 3500. While the vehicle was parked the steering wires broke in half and the steering box snapped off. He attempted to file a claim with the manufacturer and was denied; however, a supervisor advised him to have the steering box diagnosed by the dealer. He has not taken the vehicle to the dealer. The failure mileage was 56,000.”Owner report · Steering · Oct 2009
“This vehicle belongs to verizon communications. The van had an under hood fire that originated in the ABS module area. The driver noticed smoke coming from under the hood of the van while it was parked at a jobsite where he was working. He called 911 and extinguished the fire with a fire extinguisher. He disconnected the battery cables. Daimlerchrysler issued safety recall d20 in 2004 to address this problem but the recall repair has not corrected the problem. Verizon has had 29 incidents that occurred after the recall was performed. This is an unsafe condition that warrants further investigation and action. *tr”Owner report · Electrical System · Mar 2005
“I have a problem with the gas tank on my full size van. After coming to a stop a thud can be felt coming from under the van. It only happens when the fuel level reaches 3/4 to 1/2. The dealer told me there are no baffles in the tank and replacing the tank may not cure the problem. I am concerned that this may become worse.”Owner report · Fuel System, Gasoline · Mar 2005
“Windows fog over dangerously, obstructing vision. Dealer reports that air blend door of heater/defroster is rusted solid preventing the admission of fresh air to the cabin, and thus the defrosters. According to the dealer the door is rusted solid in the recirculate position. I suppose this could result in excess carbon monoxide buildup as well as obstructed vision.*ak”Owner report · Visibility · Jan 2005
“My 2002 dodge conversion van would sit overnight then start the next day but stall right after starting. Happened twice in 3 weeks.*ak”Owner report · Structure · May 2004
“Consumer was driving and suddenly vehicle quit. Mechanic determined that a cam bearing broke, bringing vehicle to a complete stop. Vehicle had to be towed to dealer. *ak”Owner report · Engine And Engine Cooling
When filing, owners marked a crash in 1 of these complaints and injuries in 1 - self-reported to NHTSA, not verified accident statistics.
Recalls - 1 campaign
ON CERTAIN VAN AND PICKUP TRUCKS EQUIPPED WITH AUTOMATIC TRANSMISSIONS, THE IGNITION/PARK SHIFT INTERLOCK SYSTEM MAY BECOME INOPERATIVE. THIS CAN ALLOW THE SHIFTER TO BE MOVED OUT OF THE "PARK" POSITION WITH THE IGNITION KEY REMOVED (OR IN THE "LOCK" POSITION). THIS CAN ALSO ALLOW THE IGNITION KEY TO BE REMOVED WHEN THE SHIFTER HAS NOT BEEN PLACED IN THE "PARK" POSITION.
Remedy: DEALERS WILL REPLACE THE GEARSHIFT BLOCKER AND BRACKET ASSEMBLY FREE OF CHARGE. THE RECALL IS EXPECTED TO BEGIN DURING JANUARY 2008. OWNERS MAY CONTACT CHRYSLER AT 1-800-853-1403.
How other years compare
Counts are not adjusted for time on the road here - see all Ram Van years ranked fairly for the age-adjusted comparison.
Check your exact Ram Van by VIN
Recalls and equipment differ between individual vehicles. Decode your VIN to see what applies to yours.
Open VIN decoderFrequently asked questions
Is the 2002 Dodge Ram Van reliable?
NHTSA has 14 owner complaints and 1 recall campaign on record for the 2002 Dodge Ram Van. The most complained-about area is structure.
Does the 2002 Dodge Ram Van have open recalls?
1 recall campaign has been issued, the latest concerning power train. Check your specific vehicle by VIN - recall repairs are free at franchised dealers.
Source: NHTSA recall campaigns and owner complaints (public domain). Counts reflect reports on file and are not a defect rate.