The 1999 Dodge Ram Van is a workhorse built on Chrysler's B-series platform with robust but aging drivetrains. The 46RE/47RE automatic transmissions and intake manifold plenum gaskets are the Achilles' heels, while the engines themselves can rack up miles if maintained—though high-mileage abuse leads to predictable bottom-end and valvetrain wear.
46RE/47RE Transmission Failure (Governor Pressure Solenoid & Overdrive Clutch Pack)
Common · high severityTypical onset: 120,000-180,000 mi
Symptoms: No overdrive or erratic shifting between 3rd and 4th, Harsh 2-3 shift or slipping under load, Check engine light with P0753 or P0734 codes, Burnt transmission fluid smell
Fix: Governor pressure solenoid replacement is 3-4 hours if caught early ($300-600). Full rebuild with clutch packs, bands, and solenoid pack replacement runs 12-16 hours labor, often requires torque converter replacement too.
Estimated cost: $2,200-3,800
Intake Plenum Gasket Failure (5.2L & 5.9L V8)
Common · medium severityTypical onset: 80,000-140,000 mi
Symptoms: Rough idle with slight vacuum leak sound, Loss of coolant with no external leaks visible, White smoke from exhaust on cold start, P0171/P0174 lean codes or misfires on multiple cylinders
Fix: Plenum gasket replacement requires upper intake removal, new gaskets, and thorough cleaning of mating surfaces. 4-5 hours labor. Use updated Hughes Engines composite gasket to prevent repeat failure.
Estimated cost: $450-750
Transmission Mount and Crossmember Deterioration
Common · medium severityTypical onset: 100,000-160,000 mi
Symptoms: Clunking when shifting from park to drive or reverse, Excessive vibration at idle in gear, Visible sagging of transmission tailshaft, Driveline shudder during acceleration
Fix: Transmission mount replacement is straightforward but requires supporting the transmission. 2-3 hours labor. Inspect crossmember for rust perforation—common in salt states and requires welding or replacement.
Estimated cost: $250-500
Transmission Oil Cooler Line Corrosion and Leaks
Common · medium severityTypical onset: 90,000-150,000 mi
Symptoms: Transmission fluid dripping near radiator or frame rails, Low transmission fluid level without obvious pan leak, Rust staining along steel cooler lines, Transmission overheating in towing or hot weather
Fix: Steel lines corrode where they contact frame or run through crossmembers. Replacement requires 2-3 hours, longer if lines are seized. Replace with stainless braided or coated lines if available. Flush cooler to remove debris.
Estimated cost: $300-550
Head Gasket Failure (3.9L V6 Primarily)
Occasional · high severityTypical onset: 130,000-200,000 mi
Symptoms: External oil leaks from head-to-block mating surface, Coolant in oil (milky dipstick) or oil in coolant, Overheating or persistent coolant loss, White exhaust smoke and rough running
Fix: 3.9L V6 is prone to head gasket leaks due to casting design. Both heads require removal for proper repair—8-12 hours labor. Check for head warpage and surface condition; machining adds cost. V8s less common but similar labor.
Estimated cost: $1,800-2,800
Camshaft and Lifter Wear (High-Mileage or Oil-Starved Engines)
Occasional · high severityTypical onset: 180,000-250,000 mi
Symptoms: Ticking or tapping noise from valve covers that worsens with RPM, Loss of power and poor fuel economy, Check engine light with misfire codes across multiple cylinders, Metal debris in oil or visible lifter collapse
Fix: Camshaft replacement requires intake, valve covers, timing set, and lifter replacement. 10-14 hours labor. Often accompanied by worn rocker arms. Use synthetic oil and quality filters to prevent premature wear.
Estimated cost: $2,000-3,200
Fuel Pump Failure and Fuel Filter Clogging
Occasional · medium severityTypical onset: 100,000-180,000 mi
Symptoms: Stalling or no-start condition, especially when fuel tank below 1/4, Surging or hesitation under acceleration, Whining noise from fuel tank area, Low fuel pressure reading (below 45 psi)
Fix: Fuel pump requires dropping the tank—3-4 hours labor. In-line fuel filter on frame rail clogs from rust in older tanks; replace every 30k miles preventatively. Test pressure before condemning pump; weak pressure regulator can mimic pump failure.
Estimated cost: $400-700
Buy it if the transmission has been maintained or recently rebuilt and the plenum gasket has been addressed—these vans will run to 250k+ with proper care, but neglected transmissions and leaking plenums will nickel-and-dime you quickly.
AI-assisted summary drawn from NHTSA recall data, our labor-times database, and platform knowledge. Not a substitute for a pre-purchase inspection on a specific vehicle.