Used 1998 Dodge Ram Pickup 1500 Extended Cab Consumer Reviews
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Not As Many Problems As Others
Jose Perales, 05/08/2010
1998 Dodge Ram Pickup 1500 Laramie SLT 4dr Extended Cab LB (5.2L 8cyl naturally aspired 5M)
12 of 12 people found this review helpful
My dad bought this truck in 2001 and we haven't had to replace anything but the water pump, and we had to fix the AC. Other than that, the truck has run great. The clear coat on the paint is chipping off but what do you expect it's been a while. Fuel economy is better than our newer 2005 Ram. It hauls a full load of roofing waste material almost every weekend easily. The truck is great.
My truck
dan, 05/26/2010
1998 Dodge Ram Pickup 1500 Laramie SLT 4dr Extended Cab SB (5.2L 8cyl naturally aspired 5M)
24 of 26 people found this review helpful
I bought my truck when I was 19. I put 75,000 miles on it. I sold it at 175,000 miles driving her from Phoenix, az. To San Diego, ca. To Austin, tx to Houston, tx. & to Kansas City, mo. I hauled cars on trailers around az. & tx. I also hauled my stuff in the bed from Phoenix to Austin. I drove the hell out of that truck going 100 mph+ from Phoenix to San Diego. Of course I took it off road and raced some cars & trucks on occasion. I did the work on it myself & she had all the power, towing capability, & even drove her while I delivered pizzas at domino's. I could pull 16-18 mpg in town. I can't own another truck now, since she was easy to work on, had enough power and towing, & I could scare little cars too.
Top Dog
abichard, 01/21/2012
1998 Dodge Ram Pickup 1500 ST 2dr Extended Cab SB (5.2L 8cyl naturally aspired 5M)
13 of 14 people found this review helpful
This is the 5th dodge ihave bought of this body style. The auto trans dodge missed on but with the 5 speed this truck is the best truck you can buy. Good power, great towing, and comfortable. I drive this truck every where. bought at 192k and at almost 300k now. Back seat is kinda small but I dont ride back there my gear does "firefighter". I put this truck through hell and back and keeps going strong. As for steering and all the little stuff people complain about if you maintance your truck, car, boat what ever like you should this problems will never come around. Buy A Dodge!!!
A real truck
ramfan86, 09/28/2010
1998 Dodge Ram Pickup 1500 Laramie SLT 2dr Extended Cab 4WD LB (5.2L 8cyl naturally aspired 5M)
13 of 15 people found this review helpful
I've had my ram for a while now and I absolutely love it. It's like a tank, nothing stops it. If you want good fuel economy buy a prius not a full-size truck. If you compare the 1500 to a diesel then you're a retard because of course there is no comparison. Diesels aren't all they are cracked up to be either, had one, didn't care for it. My paint peeled but hello, it's 2010, it's a twelve year old truck, that's actually pretty good. Never had any tranny or engine or suspension issues. Break's don't last so stop whining. (buy a prius). Put a nice exhaust, bigger tires, and murder it out and you have the toughest looking truck ever!
Best truck ever
Tearin up chevy's, 01/01/2009
1998 Dodge Ram Pickup 1500 Laramie SLT 4dr Extended Cab 4WD LB (5.2L 8cyl naturally aspired 5M)
11 of 13 people found this review helpful
This truck has been amazing since new. I pull goosenecks loaded down cross the midwest and drive this truck everyday. It now has over 400,000. Suggest buying this model over any of the other full size trucks made.
Ram Tough--despite the warnings...
jason, 10/29/2005
1998 Dodge Ram Pickup 1500 Laramie SLT 2dr Extended Cab 4WD SB (5.2L 8cyl naturally aspired 5M)
4 of 4 people found this review helpful
All anybody told me was "dont buy that truck." But after three years and 40k, my used (1998 model, purchased in 2003 with 60k on it) 1/2 ton Ram never let me down. Not once. Fuel effeciency is not great. I went from a 4 banger to the small block 8cyl Magnum, so the smaller engine was plenty of power. I towed 5800 pounds from Colorado to Pennsylvania, going 75 the whole way, no problem. Only complaint is that the anti-lock brakes tend to lock up when the weather is cold and real wet. Not winter, but late fall, early spring type stuff. It survived a winter in Crested Butte, Colorado and temperatures as low as -27 degrees. It still started. Good stuff.
Need 1 more new one
robert, 06/03/2010
1998 Dodge Ram Pickup 1500 Laramie SLT 4dr Extended Cab SB (5.2L 8cyl naturally aspired 5M)
8 of 10 people found this review helpful
I got this truck with 7 miles on it and I now have 315,212. I would buy another one if I could find a new one. The has been the best thing I ever bought new.
Ram Tough--- I Think Not!
PWM, 03/17/2002
1998 Dodge Ram Pickup 1500 Laramie SLT 4dr Extended Cab 4WD SB (5.2L 8cyl naturally aspired 5M)
7 of 9 people found this review helpful
Bought New in 1998. All highway miles. have replaced air conditioning compressor {2 times} air conditioner evaporator {1 time} and the transmission just went out. Not to mention several sensors & other small problems.
Good, Solid, American Truck
TDP1968, 06/18/2004
1998 Dodge Ram Pickup 1500 Laramie SLT 4dr Extended Cab SB (5.2L 8cyl naturally aspired 5M)
3 of 3 people found this review helpful
I bought this truck with 100,000 miles on it. It was still in excellent shape and has given me three great years of service. A few minor problems, but what vehicle with this many miles doesn't have a few quirks. My only true complaint is that the fuel mileage is less than Ford or Chevy for the same size vehicle. I would definitely buy this vehicle again, especially if it had better gas mileage. Another inconveinence is the lack of leg room in the extended cab. It is alright for children, but teenagers and adults are going to have problems. My wife rolled this truck last week and it is still driveable.
Great truck!!!
G. D. Holt, 06/27/2009
1998 Dodge Ram Pickup 1500 Laramie SLT 2dr Extended Cab 4WD SB (5.2L 8cyl naturally aspired 5M)
3 of 3 people found this review helpful
I purchased this truck from my local Dodge dealership. It was used but in great condition. I have owned this truck over 4 1/2 years with no major problems. It has a great ride and handles like a dream. I've owned other brands of trucks, but this Dodge is my favorite.
a rock solid sexy beast work truck
manlykitten, 11/08/2015
1998 Dodge Ram Pickup 1500 Laramie SLT 4dr Extended Cab SB (5.2L 8cyl naturally aspired 5M)
4 of 5 people found this review helpful
I own a gas 5.9 liter extended 4 door 4x4. No lift, slightly larger tires then stock. This truck was a 1500 covered to a 2500 or 3500 by putting more leaf springs in the rear. I am currently trying to figure out if it was 2500 or 3500.This truck was used to haul a 11,000lb camper cross country. It has plenty enough power. Although that is not a lot to us now, in 1998 the 3500 diesel model could only tow 12,000! Now with that in mind I think its 3500 springs. This truck tows almost any realistic thing any modern family needs with no problem. I do wish it had a ya more horsepower because you'll get to 30 mph even while towing like lightning, but anything above it has trouble gaining speed. Once my uncle bought it he used it to haul cars to his shop saying it towed better then his 5.7 Chevy 3500 1994 model. It does burn about a quart of oil per 350 or so miles but its towed a lot in its life. I get on highway about 17-18 but most people call me a lier but after reading these comments I know 90% of you say the same. I recommend this truck to anyone with a budget but needs something that is a brick, can tow a reasonable amount, and even to someone with a family with small kids. Remember tho, I've never had this truck with the 1500 original springs so idk about those. But what I do know with the beafed up springs, it will tow anything, id say, without breaking anything, safely tow no more then 11,000 and you don't do it to often either because you will bend gears in the rear after a long time. But besides towing, I have the Beachwood brown leather interior, wood dash, looks great. Auto seats still work great, even the compresser to air your seat harder. Very comfy highway ride. Grips good. Have a carpet cover over dash but I dont even think about it, looks great. Overall interior, great. Very comfy. Thats personally what I care about most coz thats where I'm spending my time. Take this thing hunting, off-Roading, anywhere and it will definitely go. I've done it. Overall 5 stars. Love this truck. I hope this was helpful. Btw also planing to put a 5th wheel ball in the back to haul gooseneck trailers with hay and cars. And also mine doesnt run hot at all. In fact, if it gets up to half, I get worried but it only gets that high when idling. So hope this was helpful to people, especially for those wanting to know how it tows.
- Safety
- Technology
- Performance
- Interior
- Comfort
- Reliability
- Value
Last Long, Drives like a Champ
blue_jeanzz, 05/23/2014
1998 Dodge Ram Pickup 1500 Laramie SLT 2dr Extended Cab LB (5.2L 8cyl naturally aspired 5M)
5 of 7 people found this review helpful
This is a outstanding truck. I bought this in 99, and it has not had any bad problems. Around 133,xxx miles my front U-Joint went out. But i have not had any other problems. I would recommend this truck for a first vehicle if you have kids getting ready to drive. Its Something they can have fun with, beat up, and still run hard.
Go anywhere, do anything.
DBuck, 03/21/2005
1998 Dodge Ram Pickup 1500 Laramie SLT 4dr Extended Cab 4WD SB (5.2L 8cyl naturally aspired 5M)
2 of 2 people found this review helpful
Bought this truck used with over 100K on it; rebuilt engine and tranny. It's been a real workhorse. Love my truck. Hauls good, though not as well as a 'heavy duty'.
Solid used Truck
Sven Paul Levin, 10/14/2006
1998 Dodge Ram Pickup 1500 Laramie SLT 4dr Extended Cab LB (5.2L 8cyl naturally aspired 5M)
2 of 2 people found this review helpful
Plenty of power and solid drive. Avg gas mileage for truck. Felt more solid than the other major two trucks. Guys truck to drive. Not dainty.
Junk
NeverAgain!!!!, 04/08/2003
1998 Dodge Ram Pickup 1500 Laramie SLT 4dr Extended Cab SB (5.2L 8cyl naturally aspired 5M)
2 of 2 people found this review helpful
What a great truck to drive! Power to spare, comfortable, quiet, roomy, rides like a luxury car, and the fit and finish were superb. I had planned on keeping that truck forever.(and I do mean forever) BUT! At 75k the rear end cashed it in and i never towed a thing. (2500.00) At 98k the transmission started slipping but I was nursing it along thinking about getting rid of it and at 100k miles on the nose bang! The engine blew (4500.00). I put a new engine in it and sold it a month later. Theres just no excuse for this these days. Just ask a Toyota truck owner. By the way I changed the oil every 3k.
So far so good
heath, 05/26/2006
1998 Dodge Ram Pickup 1500 ST 4dr Extended Cab 4WD SB (5.2L 8cyl naturally aspired 5M)
2 of 2 people found this review helpful
I have owned this truck for a little over a year, and have not had a problem one. I drive 50 min. one way to work 5-6 days a week. The only thing is that the mileage tends to change from one fill up to the next. 14.5-16.5 mpg.
Speaking up too!
TDouty, 05/10/2002
1998 Dodge Ram Pickup 1500 Laramie SLT 4dr Extended Cab 4WD SB (5.2L 8cyl naturally aspired 5M)
2 of 2 people found this review helpful
I, too, was quite surprised to read all the negative reviews of this truck. I have owned this vehicle for over 4 years now and haven't had any major problems that weren't covered by the standard warranty. I understand the problem that was reported with the steering column. I had to have it replaced shortly after buying the vehicle because the shift lever was acting flakey and sometimes wouldn't come out of park. The brake rotors could be heftier; I've had problems with them warping and the most I tow is a 2000 lb popup camper. It's a simple job to take them off and take them to be touched up at the local garage. Overall, it's been a great truck.
One and done.... forever
bill of rights, 03/11/2008
1998 Dodge Ram Pickup 1500 Laramie SLT 2dr Extended Cab 4WD SB (5.2L 8cyl naturally aspired 5M)
4 of 6 people found this review helpful
I bought this truck brand new in 98. I am sure the newer ones are better. Granted, this truck has a lot of miles on it now, but the realibility was suspect from new. Had a lot of problems with spark knock. Dealer messed with the computer, throttle body, intake, spark plugs, wires, higher octane gas and still no fix. Computer would fix it for 1k miles or so then it would knock again. Rear main leaked since about 60k miles. Transmission replaced at 70k. Bad bad brakes. Right front wheel bearing two times. Sway bar two times. Steering box. Stereo replaced under warranty.Bad paint. List goes on. I still have the truck, but only drive it now to haul trash. Buy a Chevy.
Wow
Joe Jiampetti, 11/27/2005
1998 Dodge Ram Pickup 1500 ST 2dr Extended Cab SB (5.2L 8cyl naturally aspired 5M)
2 of 3 people found this review helpful
I lost my S10 in the hurricane. I have been a Chevy guy but I really like this truck. Powerful roomy and great styling. You ride up high get the step bar to make it female friendly. Dodge did an awesome job putting this truck on the market.
Don't buy if you plan to tow!!
mike hall, 07/23/2005
1998 Dodge Ram Pickup 1500 Laramie SLT 4dr Extended Cab SB (5.2L 8cyl naturally aspired 5M)
2 of 4 people found this review helpful
I purchased this unit new, on price only. It was left over from 1998 into 99 sales year and discounted deeply. Now I know why. 12 - 15 mpg empty and 6 mpg towing a single car carrier (trailer gvw is 7000). It is a nice looking truck, but I could have purchased a diesel Ford and saved the difference just in fuel. Fuel guage failed recently, $800, thank you Dodge.
I'll never buy another one!
neveragain, 05/11/2002
1998 Dodge Ram Pickup 1500 Laramie SLT 4dr Extended Cab 4WD SB (5.2L 8cyl naturally aspired 5M)
2 of 4 people found this review helpful
This truck is a nightmare. I've had several full brake jobs, calipers, and master cylinder. Heating coil went out with 80000 miles. Now, after 6 times to ALLEN SAMUELS DODGE in Fort Worth Texas, I'm told that I need a new engine. Their suppossed 5-star service is truely pathetic. After several heated exchanges with service advisor, manager, I talked to the general manager, and was told that this is normal for the RAM1500 with 134000 miles. He actually tried to sell me another Dodge, I wouldn't buy another Dodge if you held a gun to my head!
Excellent Truck
stoltzt66, 09/27/2003
1998 Dodge Ram Pickup 1500 Laramie SLT 4dr Extended Cab 4WD SB (5.2L 8cyl naturally aspired 5M)
1 of 1 people found this review helpful
I've been very happy with this vehicle. I originally bought it for its looks. But after 5 years I'll say I'm glad I have it for every other reason too. It has everything you'll ever need on a vehicle, passenger room, hauling room and great comfort too.
Transmission fail by dodge
Boby, 05/05/2017
1998 Dodge Ram Pickup 1500 Laramie SLT 4dr Extended Cab LB (5.2L 8cyl naturally aspired 5M)
1 of 1 people found this review helpful
I have 98 1500 4x4 drive it is in great condition but I have put $200 in transmission sensors because dodge transmissions suck it works now until the tranny finally blows out like all dodges maybe they will get there act together some day
- Performance
- Comfort
Great Truck!!
Vince, 03/18/2005
1998 Dodge Ram Pickup 1500 Laramie SLT 2dr Extended Cab 4WD SB (5.2L 8cyl naturally aspired 5M)
1 of 1 people found this review helpful
The 1998 Dodge Ram is an exceptional truck. There is more than enough power and is a VERY comfortable ride except that the back seat could be a little better. So far the only problem that I have had with it is the U joint going bad on the right side.
Downhill towing only
restless, 09/10/2002
1998 Dodge Ram Pickup 1500 Laramie SLT 4dr Extended Cab 4WD SB (5.2L 8cyl naturally aspired 5M)
1 of 1 people found this review helpful
All maintenance done on schedule. Towing has only been performed with overdrive OFF. NEVER exceeded or even came close to rated towing capacity. Transmission after-cooler for additional protection installed. Transmission failed at 30K, 75K, and 100K. EVERY time it has been the torque converter clutch as the initial cause. Rear differential needed work at 25K and 60K. Transfer case failure at 75K. DO NOT shift on the fly, it will ruin the transfer case eventually, even when ONLY performed below 30mph.
Couldn't Be Happier
PFL115, 10/15/2002
1998 Dodge Ram Pickup 1500 ST 4dr Extended Cab 4WD SB (5.2L 8cyl naturally aspired 5M)
1 of 1 people found this review helpful
Purchased my 1998 1500 Quad Cab Sport (5.9) as a dealer leftover for $24000 in December of 1998. Price was so cheap I purchased the dealer extended 7year/75,000 mile warranty for an additional $1200. I havent needed it. With 60,000 miles and regular dealer maintainence it has not had ONE mechanical problem. The original tires even lasted 50,000 miles! The truck is a joy to own and drive, very comfortable ride (smooth on the highway) and plenty of power. With the tow package, it cruises smoothly at 80 mph on the highway, barely turning 2400 rpm, and returns a solid 20 mpg at that speed!
DONT BUY ONE
octavion2z, 10/24/2004
1998 Dodge Ram Pickup 1500 Laramie SLT 4dr Extended Cab LB (5.2L 8cyl naturally aspired 5M)
1 of 1 people found this review helpful
Ihave dumped about 3000 in tranny alone,not to mention the rear end that sounds like i have giant tires on back (constant roar). Overall this truck looks great, however it is little more than a big fancy turd. Iwill never buy another dodge again.
Dodge Transmissions are weak
cdfrx1, 11/14/2002
1998 Dodge Ram Pickup 1500 ST 4dr Extended Cab 4WD SB (5.2L 8cyl naturally aspired 5M)
1 of 1 people found this review helpful
I owned my Dodge Ram for 2 years. I loved the design and comfort. After 2 years and about 40 days in the shop for the same problem over and over again (transmission) I finally gave up. The Dodge service people should be renamed Lip Service people. Dodge service is by far the worst service department of any of the big three auto makers.
Good and Bad
Colorado L, 10/15/2007
1998 Dodge Ram Pickup 1500 Laramie SLT 2dr Extended Cab 4WD SB (5.2L 8cyl naturally aspired 5M)
1 of 1 people found this review helpful
I have owned this truck for 3 years. Love it, fun to drive. Who can beat that sound? Issues, bad paint, brakes, fuel mileage. Replaced catalytic converter at 100,000 mi. Brake issues front knuckle replaced at 110000 mi. Paint started to really go bad this year 9 years old. So over all, good truck, with some mechanical issues. Worst issue is the fuel economy. 14- 16 mpg. But what do you expect with a big truck and big engine.
318 2x4
Bob Y., 07/18/2007
1998 Dodge Ram Pickup 1500 Laramie SLT 4dr Extended Cab LB (5.2L 8cyl naturally aspired 5M)
1 of 1 people found this review helpful
Got it to pull my 4200# travel trailer. The 95 Chevy with 350 would only do 50 mph up some of hills. The 318 has no problems keeping me at 65. Lots of room in front cab and all controls easy to reach, back area could be bigger. The 318 is great, plenty of power, mileage is what I expect out of a truck, better than the Chevy 350 and I got more power. I do my own maintenance (including anual trans filter and oil) and never been left standing on the side of the road.
1998 Dodge Ram 1500 4X4 Quad cab SB
mongooose, 02/11/2003
1998 Dodge Ram Pickup 1500 Laramie SLT 4dr Extended Cab 4WD SB (5.2L 8cyl naturally aspired 5M)
1 of 1 people found this review helpful
I ordered this trk in Nvo of 97 & waited impatiently! The dealer had it cleaned and waxed siiting in the middle of the shop, waiting for it's Master! and the expirience goes on from there. Excellent TRUCK, and that is what I expected ..a TRUCK. Pulls like an ox, I pulled so many people out of the snow! People would ask just what kind of truck is that, or what model is that? It is my pride and joy Has won 1st place every year in the Mid Atlantic Jamboree 4 years in a row! Lots of mods done & alot of aftermarket available. What more can I say. A great Fun TRUCK!
OK, but...
ME TOO, 02/18/2003
1998 Dodge Ram Pickup 1500 Laramie SLT 4dr Extended Cab 4WD SB (5.2L 8cyl naturally aspired 5M)
1 of 1 people found this review helpful
Ever since the re-design of the '94 models, I lusted after one. Leased a loaded quad-cab. Then, reality hits. Had to replace rotors around 10,000 miles($500). Front bumper paint(Black Sport Model) started to bubble, flake. Now, the front bumper has rust spots all over. Dealer said "we've seen this happen before, but warranty doesn't cover". Had to replace speakers TWICE! Then, all was good until 55,000 miles (5.9 L - engine).Passing gear and poor fuel caused a sucked intake gasket, and COMPLETELY threw off the timing. Once again, no warranty coverage. But overall, the truck did it's job and it's had it's own hightlights as well.
As good a truck as any (Better than GM)
JIMBEL500, 06/24/2002
1998 Dodge Ram Pickup 1500 Laramie SLT 4dr Extended Cab SB (5.2L 8cyl naturally aspired 5M)
1 of 1 people found this review helpful
I love this truck. I hate that they changed the body style in 2002. It could have better brakes. I have changed mine every 15000 miles. I had a main fuse blew and that is it. I have been very happy with the towing package. I pull a 5000# boat with it and it pulls it out of a steap ramp. In all I give this truck a score of 95%. Gas mile could be better but all trucks could be but then how would it pull my boat. (and it is the 5.9l 360)
Love my 98 ram. My wallet ehh not so much
Jayj, 06/01/2017
1998 Dodge Ram Pickup 1500 Laramie SLT 4dr Extended Cab 4WD SB (5.2L 8cyl naturally aspired 5M)
1 of 1 people found this review helpful
I have a 98 SLT Laramie 4x4 quad cab with 5.9 magnum. I love this truck but just dropped $3000+ into repairs few months back. Got brakes all around. drums, calipers, put cross drilled slotted rotors. Helped a lot with braking. Truck has 3in lift with bigger wheels/tires. Doesnt help! Replaced almost all front end. ball joints, idler, pitman arm, Center link, etc. Water pump went out just recently. I've had this truck about 3 1/2 yrs and all this stuff basically happend at the same time all within 1.5 months. But i do drive this truck like a RACE CAR every morning to work and 4 wheel it time to time. Bought it with 110,xxx OG miles now has 138,883. Gas mileage isn't the greatest but i don't care if i did I would buy a prius. Interior is compfy and spacious back seat not so much. a/c is ice freaking cold. I've never had any electrical problems. And I have a killer sound system with upgraded engine ground and power wires. Towing I don't do much but the two times I did was with a car hauler with furniture plus the bed filled. It did great in my opinion5 hour dr from NM to AZ. Ya dodge could work on this and that but so could ford or gm or even toyota and nissan no body's perfect.
- Safety
- Technology
- Performance
- Interior
- Comfort
- Reliability
- Value
Dodge Defense
no3515, 04/22/2002
1998 Dodge Ram Pickup 1500 Laramie SLT 4dr Extended Cab SB (5.2L 8cyl naturally aspired 5M)
1 of 1 people found this review helpful
I just read a bunch of negative reviews of the truck I own and I have to speak up. I have 70K miles on my 98 quad cab and have never (knock on wood) had a single problem with it. New front brake pads at 45K, new tires at 55K, new battery at 63K, rear drum shoes are about due now. That's it. This is a great truck. Check the TSB's since 1998: Dodge: 1, Ford F-150: 200+!!! All this, and I regularly pull a 3000# boat around like it's nothing! Get both sides of the story before you buy.
own 2 of these turkeys
stevel, 01/15/2003
1998 Dodge Ram Pickup 1500 ST 2dr Extended Cab SB (5.2L 8cyl naturally aspired 5M)
1 of 1 people found this review helpful
Owned Fords for years, but bought 2 of these Dodge turkeys in 98. After warranty period expired they began to fall apart. One needed the differential replaced at 50k, major AC work and major transmission problems shortly thereafter. Leaking brake slave cylinders. Second one was fine until 79k when the computer failed which also costs big bucks to replace. Both trucks see light duty & regular services. Won't buy another Dodge.
RAMMIN' Tough
Purvis, 08/30/2003
1998 Dodge Ram Pickup 1500 Laramie SLT 4dr Extended Cab 4WD SB (5.2L 8cyl naturally aspired 5M)
1 of 2 people found this review helpful
I love my truck! bought it in 98 no problems, had rotors changed at 52,000mi. strong 5.9, although it sips gas...awesome power! Dodge Trucks RULE!
2 payments left
rsquad, 04/08/2002
1998 Dodge Ram Pickup 1500 Laramie SLT 2dr Extended Cab 4WD SB (5.2L 8cyl naturally aspired 5M)
1 of 2 people found this review helpful
I've had to replace numerous parts some of which include the steering column, power steering pump, right front wheel bearing and front brakes. All of this work was done before I even had 40,000 miles. Now I have a problem in the rear differential which I was quoted $1100 to fix. Fortunately my lease is up next month. This truck has cured me of ever purchasing a Chrysler product again. I purchased 15,000 miles a year and now with all the problems, I was unable to use all the miles. If your considering a Chrysler product it would be advisable to look at a different make.
Ram Tough
pw, 11/15/2002
1998 Dodge Ram Pickup 1500 Laramie SLT 4dr Extended Cab 4WD SB (5.2L 8cyl naturally aspired 5M)
1 of 2 people found this review helpful
This vehicle is drivn mostly highway miles and very,very little off road. I have had to replace the air conditioning system, transmission, several fuel injectors just to mention a few items. VERY costly to keep on the road. Don't recomend this truck to anyone who needs reliability in their transportation!!
5-speed makes a reliable truck
bigred _ram, 10/14/2009
1998 Dodge Ram Pickup 1500 Laramie SLT 2dr Extended Cab 4WD SB (5.2L 8cyl naturally aspired 5M)
1 of 2 people found this review helpful
I bought this dodge private party from the original owner at 213,000 miles the original clutch lasted until 205,000 miles before it got replaced. I owned it for 2 months it now has 221,000 miles on it since I owned it I had to replace a headlight switch (push pull type)replaced the upper and lower intake gaskets, valley pan plenum gasket, power steering pump after i replaced the askets myself there is absolutely no oil consumption. the truck starts great in cold weather, never overheated in hot weather, climbs hills great and blows by other trucks. truck has performance mods but runs like new for the original miles on everything. I will never buy another ford again, dodge 4 ever!! great truc
Can't trust this one
menothappy, 08/03/2003
1998 Dodge Ram Pickup 1500 Laramie SLT 4dr Extended Cab 4WD SB (5.2L 8cyl naturally aspired 5M)
1 of 2 people found this review helpful
Dodge Trucks are Ram Tough? My data says different. Not only did the thing break down on me at 63K miles, but the so-called "power train" warranty really didn't cover the power train. That is unless you don't consider the heads and head gasket as part of the engine. Also had a pass through window that leaked, brakes and bed that squeaked,and had the fuel pump go out at 30K miles.
Overal Quality
BobbyD, 05/01/2018
1998 Dodge Ram Pickup 1500 ST 4dr Extended Cab SB (5.2L 8cyl naturally aspired 5M)
1 of 3 people found this review helpful
Suspension, drivetrain and durability very poor. History of transmission and electrical problems, quality is TERRIBLE. Would never buy another one should be sued for false advertising
- Safety
- Technology
- Performance
- Interior
- Comfort
- Reliability
- Value
It's Sad
creedout, 04/10/2002
1998 Dodge Ram Pickup 1500 ST 2dr Extended Cab SB (5.2L 8cyl naturally aspired 5M)
1 of 4 people found this review helpful
Nothing but troubles with this Dodge. Seat handles brake. Need to replace brakes every 10-12000 miles. (poor design I guess). The gas gauge stopped working. The water pump and thermostat gaskets are leaking water. and the thing is using a quart of oil every 2000 miles. What a piece. All this and I have only 38000 miles on it. Oh and have always babied it with oil and mello 6 mile trips to work. Oh and all this came right after the warranty ran out .How convenient for Dodge !!!!!!
Good From Far...But Far From Good!!
sigep-sarge, 08/26/2003
1998 Dodge Ram Pickup 1500 Laramie SLT 2dr Extended Cab 4WD SB (5.2L 8cyl naturally aspired 5M)
1 of 4 people found this review helpful
My sister-in-law leased the truck new, I purchased the truck with 35000. In less than a year I have had to replace plugs & wires twice, flushed the fuel system twice (professionally), installed a K&N Air filter, and replaced the intake manifold gasket. That was all to get rid of cylinder 8 misfires. The Front main seal was leaking oil at 38000 miles. The rear axle was shot at 37000 and the factory made me pay $500 to replace verything. The trim in the interior feels like It's made of cheap plastic..oh, it is. I thought the bigger 360 would have some guts to it...not really. Im going for a Chevy or GMC...soon.
Decent truck for 1998
Ryan, 06/05/2009
1998 Dodge Ram Pickup 1500 Laramie SLT 4dr Extended Cab 4WD SB (5.2L 8cyl naturally aspired 5M)
0 of 0 people found this review helpful
Still nice driving down the road even hitting bumps other than my Flowmaster 40 I put in it, very quiet. My issues are with the upper and lower ball joints, the AC evaporator and the heater core. The AC has been out for years, the heater core leaks and the ball joints went two years ago. To get to the heater core and evaporator you have to take the whole dash out, about $400 in labor alone. The ball joints were replaced with actual ones that CAN be greased. Failed rear seat lever.
A real work truck!
liv24wheel, 02/02/2005
1998 Dodge Ram Pickup 1500 Laramie SLT 2dr Extended Cab SB (5.2L 8cyl naturally aspired 5M)
0 of 0 people found this review helpful
I have a 1998 Ram with a 5.9L V8. I bought it stock and now it has 6" (3" Rancho, 3" body) of lift, 35" BFGoodrich All-Terrains. I use my truck hard and it has proven to hold up to my abuse. The only things I have had to fix are normal maintenance issues. I tow a 5500lb K5 Blazer on an 18' trailer with my truck now, and I can pass F-150s with the Triton 5.4L while towing. This is a great truck and will do what you need!
98 Quad-Cab 4x4
mfloyd, 02/26/2005
1998 Dodge Ram Pickup 1500 Laramie SLT 4dr Extended Cab 4WD SB (5.2L 8cyl naturally aspired 5M)
0 of 0 people found this review helpful
I bought this truck new in Feb of 1998.I didnt order it because I needed a good reliable truck right then. My 85 Ford 4x4 was breaking down faster then I could keep up with it. So I bought my Dodge off the lot. The truck has preformed great. Very comfortable interior, great looking exterior. These trucks are like the vehicles of years gone by when you could tell the make and model from a 1/2 mile away. Now most vehicles all look the same. You have to walk up close to see the name badge to see what it is, but not the Dodge Ram. You can tell it's a Ram from a mile away
Don't listen to the negative reviews
CBizzle, 06/06/2002
1998 Dodge Ram Pickup 1500 Laramie SLT 4dr Extended Cab 4WD SB (5.2L 8cyl naturally aspired 5M)
0 of 0 people found this review helpful
I've had this car for a year and a half and let me tell you it's a great truck. Never had any major problems with it at all. Great on and off road truck. Having both a Yukon and a dodge ram, the dodge definitley gives you a better ride when you are going off road. Would recommend to anyone.
5.2l ram 4x4
josh roorda, 03/17/2005
1998 Dodge Ram Pickup 1500 Laramie SLT 4dr Extended Cab 4WD SB (5.2L 8cyl naturally aspired 5M)
0 of 0 people found this review helpful
This has been a very good truck, very reliable. I haul building supplies etc. with it very often. I have a slide in camper. The truck seems to handle weight OK after air bags were installed. I find the steering to be poor and non responsive. Engine runs well and has adequate power, but fuel economy is much worse than expected.
Buy at your own risk!
Aaron90, 05/08/2008
1998 Dodge Ram Pickup 1500 Laramie SLT 4dr Extended Cab LB (5.2L 8cyl naturally aspired 5M)
0 of 0 people found this review helpful
I had this truck for about 3-4 years now. I like it, but It keeps breaking down from something; first, an electrical problem, then the transmission, then the water pump, finally, another electrical problem; Whatever you do, do not buy one if you do not want to spend a lot of money on it so it could break down on you