Exhaust manifold bolts commonly break, exhaust manifold gaskets should be replaced and replace bolts as needed.
Problems for specific Dodge Ram 1500 years:
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Most reported 2003 Dodge Ram 1500 problems
Coolant Loss and Engine Overheating
Engine overheating can result from coolant leaks which are commonly found at the thermostat housing gasket, water pump, heater return tube O-ring at the water pump, intake manifold gasket, and timing cover gasket. Our technicians recommend a complete inspection of the cooling system after any repairs are made to be sure there are no other leaks.
41 Reports
Odor from HVAC vents
Some vehicles may develop a musty odor coming from the HVAC system, Dodge has issued a cleaner/disinfectant and a coating for the evaporator designed to inhibit bacterial growth.
26 Reports
Check Engine Light Due to Pinched Leak Detection Pump Vacuum Lines
If a Check Engine Light illuminates indicating leak detection pump (LDP) failure, the cause is often pinched or disconnected vacuum lines to the pump. Vacuum lines should be inspected before replacing the leak detection pump. Contamination (carbon or debris) in the pump can cause failure and any hoses should be cleared before a new pump is installed.
23 Reports
Cam Sensor Failure Causing no Start or Stalling
On the 3.7L V6 and 4.7L V8 the camshaft position sensor may fail and cause the engine to crank but not start or it can cause intermittent stalling. A failed camshaft sensor will require replacement.
22 Reports
Power Seat May Rock Due to Seat Track Issue
The track for the power seat may need to be replaced if the seat rocks when the vehicle accelerates or slows down.
14 Reports
Replace Transmission Cooler Return Filter if it Has "AB" Suffix
If the transmission delays initial gear engagement after being parked overnight or longer, it may be due to a suspect transmission cooler return filter. If the transmission was recently serviced and the part number for the cooler return filter contains an "AB" suffix at the end, a new filter should be installed.
14 Reports
Moisture may collect in PCV system and freeze in cold climates
The 3.7L V6 and 4.7L V8 in very cold climates (below freezing temperatures) moisture can collect in the Positive Crankcase Ventilation (PCV) system and freeze. This will cause various drivability problems and there are revised PCV system components to repair this concern.
10 Reports
Check Engine Light Due to Failed Thermostat
The thermostat may fail to close completely, causing the Check Engine Light to illuminate. This problem will prevent the engine from reaching normal operating temperature; a new thermostat should be installed.
8 Reports
Ticking Type Noise From Exhaust Manifold Area
On the 3.7L V6 and 4.7L V8 the Exhaust manifold bolts commonly break, exhaust manifold gaskets should be replaced and replace bolts as needed.
8 Reports
Software Updates Available for Check Engine Light Issues
The Check Engine Light may illuminate for many different reasons, some of which may be corrected by updating the software in the powertrain control module (PCM).
7 Reports
Throttle Body May Malfunction in Very Cold Climates
The throttle body may malfunction in very cold climates causing symptoms at engine start up. A throttle body causing problems will require replacement.
5 Reports
New bearing retainer to fix play in steering wheel
If it feels as though the steering wheel has a small amount of play (moves toward you when pulled), a new bearing retainer may be needed for the steering column.
4 Reports
New lower secondary door seal available to prevent dirt buildup on rocker panel
A new lower secondary door seal is available if clothing is getting dirty when entering or exiting the truck. Dirt or mud may build up on the rocker panel below the door.
3 Reports
Revised return spring available if cup holder binds or is slow to open
A revised return spring is available if the cup holder binds or is slow to open.
3 Reports