Troubleshooting

Third Generation Dodge Diesels: 2003-2009

Many components in the gen three trucks changed for the better. The VP44 injection pump was replaced with the more reliable common rail injection system. But with the introduction of this new system, some issues came with it. The injectors in third generation trucks commonly wear out around 100K miles, which isn't a terrible thing, but any predictably recurring issue is frustrating. The injection pressure regulators can fail on a whim and create inconsistent idling. The valve seats in 2005 and higher models tend to drop at higher RPMs in high EGT conditions and the plastic intercoolers in the 2005 models are unreliable and often fail, in Lind's experience.

The number 4 and 5 injector lines are held tight by vibration isolators that tend to come loose, which allows the lines to vibrate and eventually crack. Fortunately, Dodge produces updated line holds that fix the problem. Lind has also noticed that wheel hub assemblies chronically fail around 100K miles, and fail more often with the introduction of larger tires.

The next thing Lind noticed in third gens is the shoddy stock steering linkage. Around 70K miles or so, owners can expect excessive play in the tie rod ends. Dodge fixed this problem by designing a stronger, more durable linkage in the 2008 and up models, which fortunately can replace previous model steering as well.

The final thing on the list for the third generation Dodge pickups is the 68RFE tranny found in the 6.7L trucks. The double overdrive found in these models tends to suffer drops in the RPMs, which cause the truck to perform poorly. Lind has found that the overdrive section of the transmission has small clutch packs that cannot handle a lot of power. For this problem, companies have developed upgrade kits that help the transmission keep up with added power, although they are expensive. Owners should consider the cost of this rebuild before buying Dodges with this engine/transmission configuration.