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rv:van_issues [2020/09/04 12:01]
frater_secessus [RAM Promaster]
rv:van_issues [2024/01/27 16:04] (current)
princess_fluffypants [Ford E-Series]
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-[note from Secessus -- this page is updated as I find verifiable information.  Problems listed (or not listed) below do not mean one is better than the other.  I may have researched some more than others so far.  Truly, I don't care what van you buy and live in. It's your home, not mine. ]+//[note from Secessus -- this page is updated as I find verifiable information.  Problems listed (or not listed) below do not mean one is better than the other.  I may have researched some more than others so far.  Truly, I don't care what van you buy and live in. It's your home, not mine.]//
  
 ====== All vans have issues ====== ====== All vans have issues ======
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-===== on the likelihood of problems =====+===== On the likelihood of problems =====
  
-Only a small percentage of failures occur on any particular vehicles;  it's not like "this is guaranteed to happen to you!" It's more a list of things to look for, to be aware of.  Forums and complaint sites list tons of problems because **people with problems are more likely to post**.  It is rare to see a post saying "drove my van for a year and nothing happened!" Beware of people who claim "the [fill in the blank] forum is full of unhappy owners!!!" without mentioning unhappy owners of //their// vans on //their// forums. Forum links are included below for further research. +Only a small percentage of failures occur on any particular vehicles;  it's not like "this is guaranteed to happen to you!" It's more a list of things to look for, to be aware of.  Forums and complaint sites list tons of problems because **people with problems are more likely to post**.  It is rare to see a post saying "drove my van for a year and nothing happened!" Beware of people who claim "the [fill in the blank] forum is full of unhappy owners!!!" without mentioning unhappy owners of //their// vans on //their// forums. Forum links are included below for further research. More popular vans are also more likely to have documented problems, as the ownership base of people who are passionate enough about the vehicles to actually post to ownership forums and meticulously document everything is larger as well. 
 + 
 +With that being said, [[rv:diesel|use extreme caution with modern Diesel engines]].  Tightening emissions requirements have lead to extremely predictable (and expensive) repairs.
  
 Timely maintenance is likely to prevent or lessen the impact of the issues listed below. If your van has recalls or TSBs, try to have it fixed under warranty while it's still free.  Timely maintenance is likely to prevent or lessen the impact of the issues listed below. If your van has recalls or TSBs, try to have it fixed under warranty while it's still free. 
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 You may also want to think about [[rv:cargo_van:comparo#total_cost_of_ownership_comparison|Total Cost of Ownership]] or [[rv:cargo_van:comparo#annual_repair_costs|average annual repair costs]]. You may also want to think about [[rv:cargo_van:comparo#total_cost_of_ownership_comparison|Total Cost of Ownership]] or [[rv:cargo_van:comparo#annual_repair_costs|average annual repair costs]].
 +===== 1A Auto video series =====
 +
 +1A auto has [[https://www.youtube.com/playlist?list=PL37d7oWG6wDCjEXu1xeU3n5tXGRaa-svL|a video series]] about the Top 5 problems with many popular vehicles. Select "show all" and scroll down to see if your vehicle is listed. 
 +
 +
 ===== Chevy Astro ===== ===== Chevy Astro =====
  
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   * P1870  This can be caused by wear of the bore for the TCC isolator and regulator valves in the valve body.   * P1870  This can be caused by wear of the bore for the TCC isolator and regulator valves in the valve body.
   * alternator failures   * alternator failures
 +  * plastic radiator tank leaks((https://www.reddit.com/r/vandwellers/comments/11nlwg9/radiator_head_gasket/jbp5rvy/))
  
  
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   * use of non-[[https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Mopar_Automatic_Transmission_Fluid#1998_-_ATF+4_type_MS-9602_fluid|spec]] transmission fluid can cause failure, with Dexron II being the worst offender.((https://www.allpar.com/mopar/transmissions/fluids.html))   * use of non-[[https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Mopar_Automatic_Transmission_Fluid#1998_-_ATF+4_type_MS-9602_fluid|spec]] transmission fluid can cause failure, with Dexron II being the worst offender.((https://www.allpar.com/mopar/transmissions/fluids.html))
  
 +Models with Stow and Go may have the [[https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=LmWcpkqUurg|spare tire mounted in a non-standard position]].
  
 ===== Ford E-Series ===== ===== Ford E-Series =====
  
 +[[rv:ford_e-series|Ford E-Series specific article]]
  
-  * early ignition coils/packs failure +Generally very reliable, and 250,000+ miles can reasonably be expected without any major repairs.  Relatively easy to work on and fix for the few things that do break. The exception being the diesel engines, however [[rv:diesel|this problem is not limited to Ford]]. 
-  * ball joint failure + 
-  * leaking cylinder head gasket +  * **To say that the 6.0L diesel engine "has problems" is being polite** 
-  1997-2008 2-valve Triton engines may experience the  spark plug ejection issue((http://www.fordproblems.com/spark-plug-ejection/)),((https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Ford_Modular_engine#Spark_plug_issues))  +    This is the exception to the line at the beginning of the article that said //"Only a small percentage of failures occur on any particular vehicles"//
-  * 2004-2011 3-val 5.4 Tritons with Variable Valve Timing can have timing chaintensioneror cam phaser issues -- listen for noises at startup.((https://autowise.com/common-problems-ford-5-4-triton-engine/)),((https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Ford_Modular_engine#Spark_plug_issues)),((https://www.reddit.com/r/vandwellers/comments/hw888i/2010_ford_e350_life_expectancy/fyy5uh8/))   +    * The International VT365 (rebadged as Ford 6.0L Powerstroke)(("has the reputation as being the worst diesel engine ever put into a pickup truck". https://www.reddit.com/r/vandwellers/comments/f0jzbt/is_it_a_bad_idea_to_get_a_diesel_van/fgweslt/)) was put into the 2004-2010 model year Ford E-Series vans/chassis. It has the reputation of being [[https://www.dieselworldmag.com/diesel-technology/why-the-6-0l-is-so-unreliable/|one of the worst engines ever used]] in a commercial vehicle. Multiple $5,000+ repair bills are a guarantee, //especially// on vans that have spent a lot of time idling (ambulances). 
-  2004-2007 3-valve 4.6L, 5.4L and 6.8L can experience spark plug breakage or head damage during removal.((http://assets.carcomplaints.com/docs/ford-tsb-08-7-6.pdf))  Changing at 50k miles instead of the stated 100k and using anti-seize may help prevent seizure.  +  * Easy to steal 
-  * 5.4 Tritons can experience oil pan gasket leaks.  The part costs ~$20 but replacement runs about $1000, due to requirement to lift the engine. +    * A flat-head screwdriver and //maybe// a hammer is all that's needed to punch out a door lock, and there's no computer chip in the keys so if someone can turn the ignition cylinder by force (again not hardscrewdriver and maybe pliers)the engine will start It is **highly recommended** to install a hidden kill switch (the start relay and/or fuel pump relays are popular), and to reinforce your door locks with kits such as the [[https://jimmijammer.com/Product,%20JJ.htm|Jimmy Jammer]]. 
 +  * Ignition coils/packs failure 
 +    * Characterized by a rough running engine and misfires on acceleration. 
 +    * The parts cost $75-$150 and can easily be done in a driveway with simple hand tools.  Expect to pay $300 in a shop. 
 +  * E-150 ball joint failure 
 +    * Characterized by rattling and clunking when going over bumps. If left unaddressed, the entire front suspension can collapse. Having the ball joints replaced typically costs ~$350 per side. 
 +  * The E-150 was generally very under-built for its weight spec, and other brake/suspension repairs are common 
 +    * //Note:// The E-250 and E-350 vans use much stronger suspension componentsand do not experience this problem (at least, not in an endemic way and no more than any other van) 
 +  * HVAC Blower motor problems 
 +    * The blower motor resistor can fail every 3-4 years. Symptom is that the HVAC fan only works on one speed (usually high).  Replacing it is cheap and [[https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=HzQllt2MAwQ|takes ~45 minutes]]. 
 +  * [[https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Ford_Modular_engine#Spark_plug_issues|The spark plug ejection issue]]((http://www.fordproblems.com/spark-plug-ejection/)) 
 +    This applies to all of the gas engines that were installed in the entire range of Econoline vans from 1997-2008  
 +    * Replacing spark plugs on these engines is a delicate process due to the limited threadsIt should be done using a very accurate torque wrench, they should be torqued to the Ford specification //and not a single in-lb further//. 
 +    * 2V engine sparkplug issues may be addressed with Calvan kit or Timesert kits.  tstechmind recommends the Calvan design.((https://www.reddit.com/r/vandwellers/comments/tn91zx/advice_on_ford_econoline_vansengines/i206wts/)) 
 +  * 5.4L V-8 can experience oil pan gasket leaks.  The part costs ~$20 but replacement runs about $1000, due to requirement to lift the engine
 +  * 4R70E 4-spd transmission (found behind the 4.6L V-8 gas engine from 2002-2005) 
 +    * While it's reliable in light usage, the transmission is generally "weak" and under-sized for the load application.  It's advised to not do any towing with this transmission, and to keep build-outs as lightweight as possible
   * 2005 – 2006 E-150 w/4R75E((4spd auto that came with 4.2L, 4.6L, & 5.4L)) Transmission can experience slipping. Replace forward clutch drum and update ECU with program 06B06.   * 2005 – 2006 E-150 w/4R75E((4spd auto that came with 4.2L, 4.6L, & 5.4L)) Transmission can experience slipping. Replace forward clutch drum and update ECU with program 06B06.
-  * sticking solenoid regulator on 4R100((4spd auto in heavy duty 1997–2004 models)) Transmission (P0715, P0716 & P0717) +  * Sticking solenoid regulator on 4R100((4spd auto in heavy duty 1997–2004 models)) Transmission (P0715, P0716 & P0717)  
-  * The International VT365 (rebadged as Ford 6.0 L PowerStroke) found in 2003-2010 model year Ford E-Series vans/chassis was problematic.(("has the reputation as being the worst diesel engine ever put into a pickup truck". https://www.reddit.com/r/vandwellers/comments/f0jzbt/is_it_a_bad_idea_to_get_a_diesel_van/fgweslt/))+
   * 1996-2001 2v Tritons may have a nylon intake manifold that can crack and leak.((https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Ford_Modular_engine#Intake_manifold_defect))   * 1996-2001 2v Tritons may have a nylon intake manifold that can crack and leak.((https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Ford_Modular_engine#Intake_manifold_defect))
 +  * 2011 - 2013 5.4L 2V and 6.8L 2V Engine – Excessive Engine Oil Consumption (valve seals)((https://ford.oemdtc.com/2278/5-4l-2v-and-6-8l-2v-engine-excessive-engine-oil-consumption-2011-2013-ford-e-series))
 +  * Leaking cylinder head gasket
 +
 +Common problems on Ford engines not installed in vans, but might be in RVs and Trucks. (All gasoline van engines are 2-valve, not 3-valve).
 +
 +  * 2004-2007 3-valve 4.6L, 5.4L and 6.8L can experience spark plug breakage or head damage during removal.((http://assets.carcomplaints.com/docs/ford-tsb-08-7-6.pdf))  Changing at 50k miles instead of the stated 100k and using anti-seize may help prevent seizure.
 +    * While these 3-valve engines were never installed in the vans, many mechanics recommend the increased change frequency on the 2-valve engines as well.
 +  * 2004-2011 3-val 5.4 Tritons with Variable Valve Timing can have timing chain, tensioner, or cam phaser issues -- listen for noises at startup.((https://autowise.com/common-problems-ford-5-4-triton-engine/)),((https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Ford_Modular_engine#Spark_plug_issues)),((https://www.reddit.com/r/vandwellers/comments/hw888i/2010_ford_e350_life_expectancy/fyy5uh8/))
 +  * The 6.4L Powerstroke diesel engine was //slightly// less terrible than the 6.0, [[https://www.dieselworldmag.com/diesel-technology/why-the-6-4l-is-so-awful-awful/|but not by much]]. Vehicles using it are considered "throwaways". Most common vehicle-killing problems are failures of the DPF, high-pressure fuel pump or other emissions hardware, which are often cab-off repairs for a pickup truck((Meaning the entire cab of the truck has to be lifted up and off of the body/frame just to be able to access the parts that need replacing)).
 +
 +
 ===== Ford Transit ===== ===== Ford Transit =====
  
-  * [[rv:ford_transit#known_issues|Giubo driveline component failure]], addressed in a recall.   +[[rv:ford_transit|Ford Transit article]] 
-  * transmission filter cannot be accessed for normal service;  requires removal of front subframe which may be difficult due to seized bolts.  Normal service is done by a //fluid exchange machine// at the Ford dealer. +
-  * Ecoboost carbon fouling on intake valves +
-  * Ecoboost shuddering from plug fouling +
-  * [[rv:ford_transit#known_issues|windshield gutter runoff can flood airbox]] -- [[https://www.fordtransitusaforum.com/threads/my-turd-ecu-plug-cover.78812/post-1035547|workaround]]. +
-  * speed sensor failure causes limp mode +
-  * water can drain on ECU plug; diverter installed at some point per Customer Satisfaction Program 15B39. [[https://www.fordtransitusaforum.com/threads/my-turd-ecu-plug-cover.78812/#post-1035483"Workaround]] using iced tea jug. +
-  * cabin leak near passenger footwell +
-  * transmission solenoid failure (SSM 45065) requires removal of transmission.  +
-  * heater core failure - TSB 18-2172.  Flushing with [[https://amzn.to/37phI7r|Prestone Cor-Guard]] and refilling (as in the TSB) may be good preventative maintenance. +
-  * leaking roof rack mount plugs((https://www.fordtransitusaforum.com/threads/roof-plug-leak.36690/))+
  
- +  * 2015-2017 [[https://duckduckgo.com/?q=ford+transit+(giubo+OR+guibo)&ia=web|Giubo driveline coupling can crack]], [[https://media.ford.com/content/fordmedia/fna/us/en/news/2017/06/28/ford-issues-one-safety-recall-and-two-safety-compliance-recalls.pdf|addressed in a recall]](pdf).  
 +    * 2018 and newer vans have omitted the Giubo completely.   
 +  * AWD system shuts down due to overheating. https://www.fordtransitusaforum.com/threads/awd-system-shut-down.83672/ 
 +    * Not really an "issue" as much as an inherent [[rv:awd|limitation of the technology]]. 
 +  * Warped exhaust manifolds on turbocharged engines 
 +    * The cast iron exhaust manifolds only use 8 studs to attach to the engine, and are prone to warping/cracking.  While Ford did not issue an official recall, they did update the part to a new Stainless Steel part that uses all 9 stud holes on the block. Transits built after December 2020 use the new part. 
 +    * See https://www.fordtransitusaforum.com/threads/revised-ford-exhaust-manifolds-for-3-5-eco-boost-engines-2015-2021.86742/ for details 
 +  * Attempting to re-use the rear axle bolts after replacing or servicing the rear brake rotors will result in them breaking and [[https://www.fordtransitusaforum.com/threads/rear-axel-shaft-came-out-while-driving.88806/|the axle]] taking a [[https://www.fordtransitusaforum.com/threads/ever-see-this.78759/#post-1035119|horizontal exit]] from [[https://www.fordtransitusaforum.com/threads/warning-about-brake-noise.81079/|the van]]. 
 +    * Not so much a design problem, but the result of a common mistake made by inexperienced mechanics (even Ford Dealership techs). Removing the rear brake rotors for replacement or resurfacing requires pulling out the axle, but the five bolts holding the axle in are **single-use**. Like head bolts, they stretch upon install and have to be replaced every time. Trying to re-use the bolts will result in the failures described above. 
 +  * Boom/Hum/Moan Noise Or Vibration From Rear While Driving At Highway Speeds 
 +    * Some 2015–2020 Transit vehicles equipped with rear wheel drive (RWD) and a U-joint at the transmission flange and rear driveshaft may experience a boom/hum/moan noise or vibration from the rear while driving. This noise or vibration is most prevalent at highway speeds (112-121 km/h [70–75 mph] for 4.10 axle ratio, 121-128 km/h [75-80 mph] for 3.73 axle ratio, and 136-145 km/h [85-90 mph] for 3.31 axle ratio) and may also be present to a lesser degree at roughly half of those speeds. 
 +    * Addressed under Technical Service Bulletin 20-2214, installation of part number LK4Z-4A263-C (Torsional Damper Kit) 
 +  * Transmission filter cannot be accessed for normal service;  requires removal of front subframe which may be difficult due to seized bolts.  Normal service is done by a //fluid exchange machine// at the Ford dealer. 
 +  * Ecoboost carbon fouling on intake valves 
 +    * Direct-injected engines like the EcoBoost can experience **carbon build-up on the intake valves**.  Although uncommon in normal use, it could be more common for vandwellers due to [[electrical:12v:alternator#effect_on_gdi_engines|idling for long periods]] to [[electrical:12v:alternator|charge from the alternator]]. This requires removal of the head to address: 
 +      * "The only Ford-approved course of action at this time is to replace the cylinder head, although “Manual cleaning with a brush and various carbon dissolving products has been used with great success on vehicles out of warranty.”((https://www.autoguide.com/auto-news/2015/01/is-carbon-buildup-a-problem-with-direct-injection-engines-.html)) 
 +  * Ecoboost shuddering from plug fouling (see above) 
 +  * Windshield gutter runoff can flood airbox -- [[https://www.fordtransitusaforum.com/threads/my-turd-ecu-plug-cover.78812/post-1035547|workaround]]. 
 +  * Speed sensor failure causes limp mode 
 +  * Water can drain on ECU plug; diverter installed at some point per Customer Satisfaction Program 15B39. [[https://www.fordtransitusaforum.com/threads/my-turd-ecu-plug-cover.78812/#post-1035483|Workaround]] using iced tea jug. 
 +  * Cabin leak near passenger footwell 
 +  * Transmission solenoid failure (SSM 45065) requires removal of transmission.  
 +  * Heater core failure - TSB 18-2172.  Flushing with [[https://amzn.to/37phI7r|Prestone Cor-Guard]] and refilling (as in the TSB) may be good preventative maintenance. 
 +  * Leaking roof rack mount plugs((https://www.fordtransitusaforum.com/threads/roof-plug-leak.36690/)) 
   * [[rv:ford_transit#quirks|brake pedal position]]   * [[rv:ford_transit#quirks|brake pedal position]]
- 
   * TSBs   * TSBs
     * 2015 Transit – Interior High Intensity LED Cargo Lamps May Emit A Low Glow When They Should Be Off – Built On Or Before 4/22/2015((possibly related to [[https://www.fordtransitusaforum.com/threads/dome-lights-dont-turn-off-completely.21689/post-274913|dimmer switch]]))     * 2015 Transit – Interior High Intensity LED Cargo Lamps May Emit A Low Glow When They Should Be Off – Built On Or Before 4/22/2015((possibly related to [[https://www.fordtransitusaforum.com/threads/dome-lights-dont-turn-off-completely.21689/post-274913|dimmer switch]]))
 +  * Body panels detach from interior bracing
 +    * Not actually a problem; intentional.  See [[rv:ford_transit#quirks|Ford Transit Quirks]]
  
  
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 ===== Mercedes Sprinter ===== ===== Mercedes Sprinter =====
 +
 +[[rv:sprinter|Mercedes Sprinter page]]
  
 [[https://amzn.to/2RPkRqG|Autel MD802 code readers]] are often recommended for those that do their own maintenance. [[https://amzn.to/2RPkRqG|Autel MD802 code readers]] are often recommended for those that do their own maintenance.
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   * Body rust issues until 2017 (?) - Metallic colors may have received better clearcoat.   * Body rust issues until 2017 (?) - Metallic colors may have received better clearcoat.
-  * 2008+ diesel emissions control:  [[https://www.linkedin.com/pulse/fatal-flaw-mercedes-benz-sprinters-tom-robertson|the "fatal flaw"]]   +  * 2008+ diesel emissions control:   
-  * fuel injector [[https://sprintergurus.com/fuel-injector-black-death/|"black death"]]+    * AKA [[https://www.linkedin.com/pulse/fatal-flaw-mercedes-benz-sprinters-tom-robertson|the "fatal flaw"]]
 +    * 2008-2018 model years are particularly problematic due to the location of the components. They are very tightly packed and there isn't much airflow in the area, leading to heat buildup that eventually cooks the DEF tank/heater and exhaust particulate filter.  This is made worse when subjected to long periods of idling.  
 +    * The tight packaging makes the system very difficult to access for repairs/replacement, requiring sometimes dozens of hours of labor. Repair bills can easily run [[https://www.reddit.com/r/VanLife/comments/ews1r4/hit_with_the_most_intense_mechanics_bill/|into the thousands]]. 
 +    * For the 2019 model year, the system underwent significant redesign and anecdotal reports have been generally positive, with increase reliability and easier to access components. However it will always be an [[rv:diesel|achilles heel of any modern diesel]]. 
 +  * fuel injector [[https://web.archive.org/web/20221006002758/https://sprintergurus.com/fuel-injector-black-death/|"black death"]]
   * T1N:  glow plug seizure in cylinder head   * T1N:  glow plug seizure in cylinder head
- 
   * pay close attention to [[https://bevo.mercedes-benz.com/bevolisten/229.5_en.html|M-B specs for engine oils]].  [[https://bevo.mercedes-benz.com/d/d/en/Spec_223_2.pdf|Which spec goes with which engine]].   * pay close attention to [[https://bevo.mercedes-benz.com/bevolisten/229.5_en.html|M-B specs for engine oils]].  [[https://bevo.mercedes-benz.com/d/d/en/Spec_223_2.pdf|Which spec goes with which engine]].
 +  * Service may be difficult to locate; not all M-B dealers can work on the Sprinter vans and some do not work on //any// vehicle over 10 years old. 
 +  * Parts and hourly rate are expensive, particularly at M-B dealerships. Many repairs (especially regarding the emission systems on 2010+ vans) are locked behind proprietary computer systems that are only available at a dealership.
 +
  
  
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 ===== RAM Promaster ===== ===== RAM Promaster =====
 +
 +
 +
  
 Learn more about this vehicle on [[https://www.promasterforum.com/|the Promaster forum]] or the [[rv:ram_promaster|Promaster article]]. Learn more about this vehicle on [[https://www.promasterforum.com/|the Promaster forum]] or the [[rv:ram_promaster|Promaster article]].
  
 +  * short headlight life (low beam).  TSB 08-106-17 says to replace with [[https://amzn.to/2Rp4pys|L0000H7SLL Super Long Life headlamp bulbs]]  Also see [[https://www.promasterforum.com/threads/headlamp-adjustment.55922/post-663353|this comment]] about proper alignment in the sockets.  Turning headlights off in daylight rather than using them as DRL often can extend bulb life to years. 
 +  * Pentastar tick [[https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=_8KwKWJamp0|due to failed rocker bearings]];  replacing them too late can cause damage to the cam. 
   * use of non-[[https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Mopar_Automatic_Transmission_Fluid#1998_-_ATF+4_type_MS-9602_fluid|spec]] transmission fluid can cause failure, with Dexron II being the worst offender.((https://www.allpar.com/mopar/transmissions/fluids.html))   * use of non-[[https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Mopar_Automatic_Transmission_Fluid#1998_-_ATF+4_type_MS-9602_fluid|spec]] transmission fluid can cause failure, with Dexron II being the worst offender.((https://www.allpar.com/mopar/transmissions/fluids.html))
 +  * [[https://youtu.be/oEKs8Nzh1W8?t=55|Per Kip]], trans rebuild diagnoses are often failures of the solenoid pack, which "costs 400-$500 and can be replaced in 2-3 hours without having to take the transmission out".
   * spark plug changes must be done with care to avoid damaging the spark plug carriers "tubes"((https://www.pentastars.com/engines/repairs.php))   * spark plug changes must be done with care to avoid damaging the spark plug carriers "tubes"((https://www.pentastars.com/engines/repairs.php))
   * the [[rv:ram_promaster#filters_and_fluids|oil filter housing can be cracked if overtightened]]   * the [[rv:ram_promaster#filters_and_fluids|oil filter housing can be cracked if overtightened]]
   * 2014 model known for squeaking brakes, sticking parking brake   * 2014 model known for squeaking brakes, sticking parking brake
-  * short headlight life (low beam).  TSB 08-106-17 says to replace with [[https://amzn.to/2Rp4pys|L0000H7SLL Super Long Life headlamp bulbs]] 
   * marker lights leaking   * marker lights leaking
   * P0750 transmission code may be from the solenoid pack, which [[https://www.promasterforum.com/threads/transmission-failure-kinda.65425/#post-450321|can be replaced without removing the transmission]].   * P0750 transmission code may be from the solenoid pack, which [[https://www.promasterforum.com/threads/transmission-failure-kinda.65425/#post-450321|can be replaced without removing the transmission]].
-  * the small bolts on the intake plenum can rust and seize.((https://www.promasterforum.com/threads/rusted-intake-plenum-manifold-bolts.87023/post-674445))  Solutions include waterproofing the bolts or installing an engine cover. +  * the small bolts on the intake plenum can rust and seize.((https://www.promasterforum.com/threads/rusted-intake-plenum-manifold-bolts.87023/post-674445))  Solutions include waterproofing the bolts or cutting and installing an engine cover((Part number 04861773AA)).  
 +  * a plywood or other load-spreading subfloor should be installed to prevent fatigue to metal floor.  At least two cases of floor damage have been reported when the floor was repeatedly flexed in the same area.
  
 +  * the odometer cannot record more than 1 million kilometers (~620,000 miles)((https://www.promasterforum.com/threads/replaced-ecm-on-2014-pm-3500-3-6-with-620k.92394/))
   * diesel version transmission disliked by many   * diesel version transmission disliked by many
   * steering wheel is bus-like and not tilt-adjustable   * steering wheel is bus-like and not tilt-adjustable
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   * 6th gear is very high for MPG purposes;  the PM will downshift to 5th on minor grades   * 6th gear is very high for MPG purposes;  the PM will downshift to 5th on minor grades
   * some fuel pumps shut off frequently while fueling the vehicle   * some fuel pumps shut off frequently while fueling the vehicle
 +  * if the transmission-to-frame ground is loose it can affect the ignition interlock((https://www.promasterforum.com/threads/no-start-key-stuck-new-battery-didnt-fix-it.80634/post-613641))
  
  
   * [[https://www.promasterforum.com/threads/list-of-technical-service-bulletins-recalls.45193/|TSBs]]   * [[https://www.promasterforum.com/threads/list-of-technical-service-bulletins-recalls.45193/|TSBs]]
 +  * [[https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=2a3j7V_Mssk|video]] - how to assess a used Promaster
 ===== RAM Promaster City ===== ===== RAM Promaster City =====
  
rv/van_issues.1599235270.txt.gz · Last modified: 2020/10/11 19:48 (external edit)