Owners have filed 16 complaints
about the 2002 Dodge RAM VAN with NHTSA between 2004 and 2015.
The largest single group is the body & structure.
Across this model's run it ranks 7 of 9 worst.
The letter says how bad. This says what kind — whether this year drew
an unusual number of complaints, unusually dangerous
ones, or failures that arrived unusually early.
The dashed ring is 50 — the national norm. Further out is worse.
Complaint volume — 25
Against the median year of the Dodge RAM VAN. 50 means typical for this
model; 100 means roughly double.
Severity — 100
31.3% of these complaints
involved a crash, fire, injury or death, against a national rate of
9.7%.
Early failure — 37
21% of failures with a mileage on record happened under
36,000 miles, against a national rate of
29%.
Complaints filed with NHTSA, by model year. Bar colour is the FaultScore grade:
A
B
C
D
F
ungraded
What breaks on a 2002 Dodge RAM VAN
Every complaint is filed against a part. Follow any row for the complaints about that part alone.
Body & Structure
425.0%
Median failure at 125,000 miles
Steering
318.8%
Median failure at 110,000 miles
Electrical System
318.8%
0 crashes, 2 fires · median 72,029 mi
Seats
16.3%
Median failure at 15,385 miles
Windows, Mirrors & Wipers
16.3%
Median failure at 28,000 miles
Fuel & Propulsion
16.3%
Brakes
16.3%
1 crashes, 0 fires · median 36,600 mi
Airbags
16.3%
1 crashes, 0 fires · median 36,600 mi
Engine & Cooling
16.3%
Median failure at 38,000 miles
When it fails
Odometer readings owners gave when they filed. About half of all
complaints include one.
1,000 – 9,999 miles
17.1%
10,000 – 24,999 miles
17.1%
25,000 – 49,999 miles
428.6%
50,000 – 74,999 miles
214.3%
75,000 – 99,999 miles
17.1%
100,000 – 149,999 miles
428.6%
150,000+ miles
17.1%
NHTSA crash tests
The agency crash-tested this model year itself. These are its own
photographs and star ratings.
These stars come from the pre-2011 crash test programme. NHTSA
rebuilt the programme for the 2011 model year and states that
ratings either side of that change are not comparable — so do
not read these against a 2011-or-newer car's stars.
Frontal crash test
Photographs taken by NHTSA during its own New Car Assessment Program crash
tests of this model year. Public domain.
Configuration
Overall
Front
Side
Rollover
2002 Dodge Ram 1500 Van
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—
—
—
When owners complained
A spike years after the car went on sale usually means a part wearing
out on schedule across the whole fleet — the kind of pattern no single
owner can see from inside their own car.
Jan 2004peak 2Feb 2015
NHTSA investigations into the 2002 Dodge RAM VAN
An investigation is the step before a recall: the agency has seen enough
complaints to look into a pattern itself. An open one means it thinks
something may be wrong and nothing has been fixed yet.
PE02082Opened 6 Nov 2002Closed 23 Apr 2003SEAT BELTS
SAFETY BELT CINCHING LATCH PLATE
THERE ARE NO INJURIES OR FATALITIES ASSOCIATED WITH THIS ALLEGED DEFECT.WHILE CONDUCTING THIS INVESTIGATION, ODI FOUND THAT THE SUBJECT CINCHES MEET THE LOAD BEARING REQUIREMENTS OF FEDERAL MOTOR VEHICLE SAFETY STANDARD 208, AND THAT MANY OF THE REPORTED FAILURES WERE DUE TO INCORRECT CHILD SAFETY SEAT INSTALLATIONS. ADDITIONALLY, THE REPORT RATE IS LOW (1.60/100K).THE INFORMATION AVAILABLE FAILS TO ESTABLISH THE EXISTENCE OF A DEFECT TREND AT THIS TIME.FURTHER ALLOCATION OF AGENCY RESOURCES TO THIS ISSUE IS UNWARRANTED AND THE PRELIMINARY EVALUATION IS BEING CLOSED.
Recalls on the 2002 Dodge RAM VAN
A complaint is one owner's allegation. A recall is the point at which
the manufacturer or a regulator agreed the defect is real and dangerous
enough to fix for free — however old the car is.
Canada — Transport Canada
Canada runs its own recall programme, and its campaigns do not
always mirror the American ones.
Recall 200738939,078 units in Canada
Other
On certain vehicles, the ignition/park shift interlock system may become inoperable. This can allow the shifter to be moved out of the PARK position with the ignition key removed (or in the lock position) or it could allow the ignition key to be removed when the shifter has not been placed in the PARK position. This could allow the vehicle to roll away, possibly causing property damage and/or personal injury or death. Correction: Dealers will replace the gearshift blocker and bracket assembly.
Recall 20041294,392 units in Canada
Brakes
On certain vehicles, aftermarket batteries may leak electrolyte onto the ABS control module connector and compromise the sealing integrity of the connector. This may allow development of a high resistance short circuit in the connector, which could eventually lead to a fire. Correction: Dealer will inspect the ABS control module connector for electrolyte damage, and replace the connector as necessary. All affected vehicles will also have a shield installed to protect the connector from future battery electrolyte leakage.
Reports where the owner recorded a crash, a fire, an injury or a death.
at 56,059 milesHanover, MDFire
ELECTRICAL SYSTEM
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.
NHTSA complaint #10243799 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.
at 15,385 milesWaterford, MI1 injured
SEATS:FRONT ASSEMBLY:POWER ADJUST
TL* THE CONTACT OWNS A 2002 DODGE 1500 RAM VAN. DURING A ROUTINE TUNE UP ON THE VEHICLE THE CONTACT WAS LYING ON FLOOR WITH HIS BACK FACING THE DRIVER'S SEAT WHEN THE POWER SEAT BUTTON WAS ACCIDENTALLY ENGAGED. THE CONTACT WAS PINED BETWEEN THE SEAT AND THE PEDAL WELL. THE CONTACT WAS UNABLE TO REACH THE SWITCH TO PULL THE SEAT BACK. SOMEONE WAS UNSUCCESSFUL AT ATTEMPTING TO ASSIST HIM DUE TO THE SEAT BEING PUSHED FORWARD. THE FIRE DEPARTMENT'S ONLY OPTION WAS TO USE THE JAWS OF LIFE TO CUT THE DRIVER SEAT OUT OF THE VEHICLE. THE CONTACT STATED THAT THE FRONT SEAT LOCATION OF THE SWITCH WAS THE CAUSE OF THE FAILURE. THE CURRENT AND FAILURE MILEAGE WERE 15,385. *AK THE CONSUMER HAS PROVIDED A COPY OF INCIDENT REPORT FROM WATERFORD TOWNSHIP FIRE DEPARTMENT. UPDATE 05/10/07
NHTSA complaint #10185044 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.
at 36,600 milesHawthorne, CACrash
AIR BAGS
ON 11/07/05 I WAS DRIVING NORTH BOUND ON WESTERN AVE AT APPROX 4:30 PM,TRAVELING AT 40 MPH APPROACHING A RED LIGHT IN THE RIGHT LANE WITH 4 CARS IN FRONT OF ME ALL READY STOPPED,UPON MY DE PRESSING OF THE BRAKE PEDAL THERE WAS NO BRAKES, I TRIED AGAIN ,I DOWN SHIFTED ,AT THE LAST SECOND I SWERVED VIOLENTLY TO MISS THE CARS IN THE FIRST TWO RIGHT LANES,THEN COUNTERED CORRECTED TO MISS THE LEFT TURN LANE CARS ,FINALLY STRIKING A PICK UP TRUCK ,THAT WAS STOPPED AT THE RED LIGHT,THAT WAS OCCUPIED BY A FATHER, AND HIS TWO CHILDREN. A SHERIFFS OFFICER ALSO CHECKED THE BRAKES AND STATED IT WAS A MECHANICAL FAILURE ,HE ALSO STATED THAT WITH SUCH AN IMPACT THE AIR BAGS SHOULD HAVE DEPLOYED. MY VEHICLE IS A 2002 DODGE RAM 1 TON MAXI CARGO VAN WITH ONLY 36600. MILES . THE VERY NEXT DAY MY PASSENGER AND I LOOKED AT THE DAMAGE TO THE FRONT END AND TOOK PICTURES AND VIDEO TAPED THE DASH BOARD, THAT DID NOT INDICATE ANY SIGNS OF BRAKE, NOR AIR BAG FAILURE. THE RIGHT FRONT BRAKE LINE APPEARED TO HAVE BEEN RUBBING AGAINST THE UPPER FRAME CAUSING THE LINE TO RUB THROUGH. I HAVE PICTURES OF BOTH RIGHT AND LEFT BRAKE LINES TOUCHING CHASSIS AND BOTH SHOW SIGNS OF WEAR IN THE SAME PLACE BOTH HOSE AND CHASSIS. I HAVE ALL PARTS AND PICTURES. THERE IS MUCH MORE TO EXPLAIN . I HAVE JUST RECEIVED THE VAN BACK ON 01,10,06 AND STILL NOTICE SOME SORT OF BRAKING PROBLEM. I ALSO HAD LOOKED TO SEE NEW BRAKE LINES AND NOTICED THE UPON DEPRESSING THE BRAKE PEDAL THAT THE LINES MOVE UNDER PRESSURE AND THAT JUST MAYBE AFTER 36000 MILES THAT THIS PROBLEM MIGHT,CAUSE THE METAL BRAKE TUBE TO BEND TOWARDS THE FRAME. AS TO THE AIR BAG SENSORS I HAVE ASKED THE DEALER ,AUTO BODY SHOP, AND INSURANCE INVESTIGATOR WERE ARE THEY NO ONE COULD ANSWER THIS NOR DID IT CONCERN THEM.
NHTSA complaint #10147400 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.
at 36,600 milesHawthorne, CACrash
SERVICE BRAKES, HYDRAULIC:FOUNDATION COMPONENTS:HOSES, LINES/PIPING, AND FITTINGS
ON 11/07/05 I WAS DRIVING NORTH BOUND ON WESTERN AVE AT APPROX 4:30 PM,TRAVELING AT 40 MPH APPROACHING A RED LIGHT IN THE RIGHT LANE WITH 4 CARS IN FRONT OF ME ALL READY STOPPED,UPON MY DE PRESSING OF THE BRAKE PEDAL THERE WAS NO BRAKES, I TRIED AGAIN ,I DOWN SHIFTED ,AT THE LAST SECOND I SWERVED VIOLENTLY TO MISS THE CARS IN THE FIRST TWO RIGHT LANES,THEN COUNTERED CORRECTED TO MISS THE LEFT TURN LANE CARS ,FINALLY STRIKING A PICK UP TRUCK ,THAT WAS STOPPED AT THE RED LIGHT,THAT WAS OCCUPIED BY A FATHER, AND HIS TWO CHILDREN. A SHERIFFS OFFICER ALSO CHECKED THE BRAKES AND STATED IT WAS A MECHANICAL FAILURE ,HE ALSO STATED THAT WITH SUCH AN IMPACT THE AIR BAGS SHOULD HAVE DEPLOYED. MY VEHICLE IS A 2002 DODGE RAM 1 TON MAXI CARGO VAN WITH ONLY 36600. MILES . THE VERY NEXT DAY MY PASSENGER AND I LOOKED AT THE DAMAGE TO THE FRONT END AND TOOK PICTURES AND VIDEO TAPED THE DASH BOARD, THAT DID NOT INDICATE ANY SIGNS OF BRAKE, NOR AIR BAG FAILURE. THE RIGHT FRONT BRAKE LINE APPEARED TO HAVE BEEN RUBBING AGAINST THE UPPER FRAME CAUSING THE LINE TO RUB THROUGH. I HAVE PICTURES OF BOTH RIGHT AND LEFT BRAKE LINES TOUCHING CHASSIS AND BOTH SHOW SIGNS OF WEAR IN THE SAME PLACE BOTH HOSE AND CHASSIS. I HAVE ALL PARTS AND PICTURES. THERE IS MUCH MORE TO EXPLAIN . I HAVE JUST RECEIVED THE VAN BACK ON 01,10,06 AND STILL NOTICE SOME SORT OF BRAKING PROBLEM. I ALSO HAD LOOKED TO SEE NEW BRAKE LINES AND NOTICED THE UPON DEPRESSING THE BRAKE PEDAL THAT THE LINES MOVE UNDER PRESSURE AND THAT JUST MAYBE AFTER 36000 MILES THAT THIS PROBLEM MIGHT,CAUSE THE METAL BRAKE TUBE TO BEND TOWARDS THE FRAME. AS TO THE AIR BAG SENSORS I HAVE ASKED THE DEALER ,AUTO BODY SHOP, AND INSURANCE INVESTIGATOR WERE ARE THEY NO ONE COULD ANSWER THIS NOR DID IT CONCERN THEM.
NHTSA complaint #10147400 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.
Wakefield, RIFire
ELECTRICAL SYSTEM
FIRE IN DASHBOARD
NHTSA complaint #10056172 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.
The most recent complaints
In the owners' own words, exactly as filed with NHTSA.
at 165,000 milesLanghorne, PA
STRUCTURE:BODY
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.
NHTSA complaint #10682494 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.
at 110,000 milesChicago, IL
STEERING
ON 8/8/14, A LOUD BANGING SOUND OCCURRED WHEN GOING OVER BUMPS AND RAILROAD TRACKS WHILE DRIVING TO WORK. AT THAT TIME, STOPPED DRIVING VAN UNTIL WERE ABLE TO TAKE IT TO BETTENHAUSEN CHRYSLER JEEP IN TINLEY PARK, IL. ON 8/14/14. ON THE SAME DATE, WE WERE INFORMED THE VEHICLE WAS UNSAFE TO DRIVE. THE AREA AROUND THE SWAY BAR IS COMPLETELY RUSTED AWAY. THE OTHER AREAS OF THE FRAME SHOW RUST AND CORROSION WHICH WILL EVENTUALLY CAUSE THE STEERING MECHANISM TO FAIL MAKING THE VEHICLE VERY UNSAFE TO DRIVE. THE PROPER PROCEDURES WERE FOLLOWED TO DETERMINE IF CHRYSLER WOULD WARRANTY THE REPAIR OF THIS VEHICLE SINCE THEY HAVE EXPERIENCED THIS SAME PROBLEM WITH SOME OF THEIR OTHER VEHICLES. VAN WAS TRANSPORTED TO RIVERDALE BODY SHOP, TINLEY PARK, ILLINOIS, TO DETERMINE THE COST OF REPAIRS. CHRYSLER WAS CONTACTED. ON 8/27/14 WERE INFORMED CHRYSLER WOULD NOT WARRANTY THIS VEHICLE. A TELEPHONE CALL WAS MADE TO THEIR CUSTOMER CARE CENTER WHEREIN A CASE WAS PRESENTED TO GET THEM TO WARRANTY THE WORK. A LETTER WAS ALSO SENT OUT TO DIFFERENT CHRYSLER PEOPLE ON THIS SAME DATE.
NHTSA complaint #10629261 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.
at 110,000 milesChicago, IL
STRUCTURE
ON 8/8/14, A LOUD BANGING SOUND OCCURRED WHEN GOING OVER BUMPS AND RAILROAD TRACKS WHILE DRIVING TO WORK. AT THAT TIME, STOPPED DRIVING VAN UNTIL WERE ABLE TO TAKE IT TO BETTENHAUSEN CHRYSLER JEEP IN TINLEY PARK, IL. ON 8/14/14. ON THE SAME DATE, WE WERE INFORMED THE VEHICLE WAS UNSAFE TO DRIVE. THE AREA AROUND THE SWAY BAR IS COMPLETELY RUSTED AWAY. THE OTHER AREAS OF THE FRAME SHOW RUST AND CORROSION WHICH WILL EVENTUALLY CAUSE THE STEERING MECHANISM TO FAIL MAKING THE VEHICLE VERY UNSAFE TO DRIVE. THE PROPER PROCEDURES WERE FOLLOWED TO DETERMINE IF CHRYSLER WOULD WARRANTY THE REPAIR OF THIS VEHICLE SINCE THEY HAVE EXPERIENCED THIS SAME PROBLEM WITH SOME OF THEIR OTHER VEHICLES. VAN WAS TRANSPORTED TO RIVERDALE BODY SHOP, TINLEY PARK, ILLINOIS, TO DETERMINE THE COST OF REPAIRS. CHRYSLER WAS CONTACTED. ON 8/27/14 WERE INFORMED CHRYSLER WOULD NOT WARRANTY THIS VEHICLE. A TELEPHONE CALL WAS MADE TO THEIR CUSTOMER CARE CENTER WHEREIN A CASE WAS PRESENTED TO GET THEM TO WARRANTY THE WORK. A LETTER WAS ALSO SENT OUT TO DIFFERENT CHRYSLER PEOPLE ON THIS SAME DATE.
NHTSA complaint #10629261 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.
at 140,000 milesPlymouth, MA
STEERING
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.
NHTSA complaint #10408489 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.
at 140,000 milesLowell, MA
STRUCTURE:FRAME AND MEMBERS
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.
NHTSA complaint #10397262 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.
at 88,000 milesSacramento, CA
ELECTRICAL SYSTEM
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.
NHTSA complaint #10329756 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.
at 56,000 milesPikeville, TN
STEERING
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.
NHTSA complaint #10289935 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.
at 56,059 milesHanover, MDFire
ELECTRICAL SYSTEM
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.
NHTSA complaint #10243799 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.
at 15,385 milesWaterford, MI1 injured
SEATS:FRONT ASSEMBLY:POWER ADJUST
TL* THE CONTACT OWNS A 2002 DODGE 1500 RAM VAN. DURING A ROUTINE TUNE UP ON THE VEHICLE THE CONTACT WAS LYING ON FLOOR WITH HIS BACK FACING THE DRIVER'S SEAT WHEN THE POWER SEAT BUTTON WAS ACCIDENTALLY ENGAGED. THE CONTACT WAS PINED BETWEEN THE SEAT AND THE PEDAL WELL. THE CONTACT WAS UNABLE TO REACH THE SWITCH TO PULL THE SEAT BACK. SOMEONE WAS UNSUCCESSFUL AT ATTEMPTING TO ASSIST HIM DUE TO THE SEAT BEING PUSHED FORWARD. THE FIRE DEPARTMENT'S ONLY OPTION WAS TO USE THE JAWS OF LIFE TO CUT THE DRIVER SEAT OUT OF THE VEHICLE. THE CONTACT STATED THAT THE FRONT SEAT LOCATION OF THE SWITCH WAS THE CAUSE OF THE FAILURE. THE CURRENT AND FAILURE MILEAGE WERE 15,385. *AK THE CONSUMER HAS PROVIDED A COPY OF INCIDENT REPORT FROM WATERFORD TOWNSHIP FIRE DEPARTMENT. UPDATE 05/10/07
NHTSA complaint #10185044 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.
at 36,600 milesHawthorne, CACrash
AIR BAGS
ON 11/07/05 I WAS DRIVING NORTH BOUND ON WESTERN AVE AT APPROX 4:30 PM,TRAVELING AT 40 MPH APPROACHING A RED LIGHT IN THE RIGHT LANE WITH 4 CARS IN FRONT OF ME ALL READY STOPPED,UPON MY DE PRESSING OF THE BRAKE PEDAL THERE WAS NO BRAKES, I TRIED AGAIN ,I DOWN SHIFTED ,AT THE LAST SECOND I SWERVED VIOLENTLY TO MISS THE CARS IN THE FIRST TWO RIGHT LANES,THEN COUNTERED CORRECTED TO MISS THE LEFT TURN LANE CARS ,FINALLY STRIKING A PICK UP TRUCK ,THAT WAS STOPPED AT THE RED LIGHT,THAT WAS OCCUPIED BY A FATHER, AND HIS TWO CHILDREN. A SHERIFFS OFFICER ALSO CHECKED THE BRAKES AND STATED IT WAS A MECHANICAL FAILURE ,HE ALSO STATED THAT WITH SUCH AN IMPACT THE AIR BAGS SHOULD HAVE DEPLOYED. MY VEHICLE IS A 2002 DODGE RAM 1 TON MAXI CARGO VAN WITH ONLY 36600. MILES . THE VERY NEXT DAY MY PASSENGER AND I LOOKED AT THE DAMAGE TO THE FRONT END AND TOOK PICTURES AND VIDEO TAPED THE DASH BOARD, THAT DID NOT INDICATE ANY SIGNS OF BRAKE, NOR AIR BAG FAILURE. THE RIGHT FRONT BRAKE LINE APPEARED TO HAVE BEEN RUBBING AGAINST THE UPPER FRAME CAUSING THE LINE TO RUB THROUGH. I HAVE PICTURES OF BOTH RIGHT AND LEFT BRAKE LINES TOUCHING CHASSIS AND BOTH SHOW SIGNS OF WEAR IN THE SAME PLACE BOTH HOSE AND CHASSIS. I HAVE ALL PARTS AND PICTURES. THERE IS MUCH MORE TO EXPLAIN . I HAVE JUST RECEIVED THE VAN BACK ON 01,10,06 AND STILL NOTICE SOME SORT OF BRAKING PROBLEM. I ALSO HAD LOOKED TO SEE NEW BRAKE LINES AND NOTICED THE UPON DEPRESSING THE BRAKE PEDAL THAT THE LINES MOVE UNDER PRESSURE AND THAT JUST MAYBE AFTER 36000 MILES THAT THIS PROBLEM MIGHT,CAUSE THE METAL BRAKE TUBE TO BEND TOWARDS THE FRAME. AS TO THE AIR BAG SENSORS I HAVE ASKED THE DEALER ,AUTO BODY SHOP, AND INSURANCE INVESTIGATOR WERE ARE THEY NO ONE COULD ANSWER THIS NOR DID IT CONCERN THEM.
NHTSA complaint #10147400 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.
at 36,600 milesHawthorne, CACrash
SERVICE BRAKES, HYDRAULIC:FOUNDATION COMPONENTS:HOSES, LINES/PIPING, AND FITTINGS
ON 11/07/05 I WAS DRIVING NORTH BOUND ON WESTERN AVE AT APPROX 4:30 PM,TRAVELING AT 40 MPH APPROACHING A RED LIGHT IN THE RIGHT LANE WITH 4 CARS IN FRONT OF ME ALL READY STOPPED,UPON MY DE PRESSING OF THE BRAKE PEDAL THERE WAS NO BRAKES, I TRIED AGAIN ,I DOWN SHIFTED ,AT THE LAST SECOND I SWERVED VIOLENTLY TO MISS THE CARS IN THE FIRST TWO RIGHT LANES,THEN COUNTERED CORRECTED TO MISS THE LEFT TURN LANE CARS ,FINALLY STRIKING A PICK UP TRUCK ,THAT WAS STOPPED AT THE RED LIGHT,THAT WAS OCCUPIED BY A FATHER, AND HIS TWO CHILDREN. A SHERIFFS OFFICER ALSO CHECKED THE BRAKES AND STATED IT WAS A MECHANICAL FAILURE ,HE ALSO STATED THAT WITH SUCH AN IMPACT THE AIR BAGS SHOULD HAVE DEPLOYED. MY VEHICLE IS A 2002 DODGE RAM 1 TON MAXI CARGO VAN WITH ONLY 36600. MILES . THE VERY NEXT DAY MY PASSENGER AND I LOOKED AT THE DAMAGE TO THE FRONT END AND TOOK PICTURES AND VIDEO TAPED THE DASH BOARD, THAT DID NOT INDICATE ANY SIGNS OF BRAKE, NOR AIR BAG FAILURE. THE RIGHT FRONT BRAKE LINE APPEARED TO HAVE BEEN RUBBING AGAINST THE UPPER FRAME CAUSING THE LINE TO RUB THROUGH. I HAVE PICTURES OF BOTH RIGHT AND LEFT BRAKE LINES TOUCHING CHASSIS AND BOTH SHOW SIGNS OF WEAR IN THE SAME PLACE BOTH HOSE AND CHASSIS. I HAVE ALL PARTS AND PICTURES. THERE IS MUCH MORE TO EXPLAIN . I HAVE JUST RECEIVED THE VAN BACK ON 01,10,06 AND STILL NOTICE SOME SORT OF BRAKING PROBLEM. I ALSO HAD LOOKED TO SEE NEW BRAKE LINES AND NOTICED THE UPON DEPRESSING THE BRAKE PEDAL THAT THE LINES MOVE UNDER PRESSURE AND THAT JUST MAYBE AFTER 36000 MILES THAT THIS PROBLEM MIGHT,CAUSE THE METAL BRAKE TUBE TO BEND TOWARDS THE FRAME. AS TO THE AIR BAG SENSORS I HAVE ASKED THE DEALER ,AUTO BODY SHOP, AND INSURANCE INVESTIGATOR WERE ARE THEY NO ONE COULD ANSWER THIS NOR DID IT CONCERN THEM.
NHTSA complaint #10147400 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.
Countryside, IL
FUEL SYSTEM, GASOLINE:STORAGE
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.
NHTSA complaint #10118657 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.
at 28,000 milesCoon Rapids, MN
VISIBILITY:DEFROSTER/DEFOGGER/HVAC SYSTEM
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.
NHTSA complaint #10105684 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.
at 3,100 milesPennsauken, NJ
STRUCTURE:BODY
MY 2002 DODGE CONVERSION VAN WOULD SIT OVERNIGHT THEN START THE NEXT DAY BUT STALL RIGHT AFTER STARTING. HAPPENED TWICE IN 3 WEEKS.
NHTSA complaint #10078668 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.
Wakefield, RIFire
ELECTRICAL SYSTEM
FIRE IN DASHBOARD
NHTSA complaint #10056172 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.
at 38,000 milesHuntsville, AL
ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING:ENGINE:GASOLINE:BELTS AND ASSOCIATED PULLEYS
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.
NHTSA complaint #10056146 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.
