🏷️ Basic Information

Make:

Dodge

Model:

Ram 2500

Year:

2003

Chassis Code:

DR

👋 Introduction

Market Position:

Essential diagnostic and repair resource for owners and independent repair shops of the 2003 Dodge Ram 2500. Targets users seeking to perform maintenance, repairs, and advanced troubleshooting.

Competitive Analysis:

Offers a high degree of specificity and official licensing, differentiating it from generic repair guides. Provides factory-level data for accurate and efficient service.

Key Features:

Official licensing ensures accuracy, comprehensive system coverage, detailed diagnostic procedures, extensive wiring diagrams, and up-to-date specifications for the 2003 model year.

📋 Manual Details

Coverage Areas:

Engine, Transmission, Drivetrain, Brakes, Suspension, Steering, HVAC, Electrical System, Bodywork, Diagnostics, Maintenance, Troubleshooting, Repair

Page Count:

Extensive (Software-based, content is comprehensive)

Manual Type:

Service & Repair Manual Software

Language:

English

Format:

Digital Software (likely PDF or proprietary executable)

📖 Manual Coverage

Systems Covered:

Engine mechanical (gasoline and diesel), Engine control systems (ECM/PCM), Fuel injection, Ignition, Exhaust, Cooling, Lubrication, Manual transmissions, Automatic transmissions, Transfer cases, Four-wheel drive systems, Front and rear axle assemblies, Driveshafts, Suspension components (front and rear), Steering system, Brake system (disc and drum, ABS), Anti-lock Braking System (ABS) module and components, Power steering, Heating, Ventilation, and Air Conditioning (HVAC) system, Charging system, Starting system, Lighting system, Ignition system, Instrument cluster, Powertrain Control Module (PCM) and related sensors, Body Control Module (BCM) and related functions, Wiring diagrams for all systems, Body and frame, Doors, Windows, Seats, Restraint systems (Airbags), Climate control, Audio system, Exterior and interior trim, Body electrical components, Diagnostic trouble codes (DTCs) and their meanings.

Procedures Included:

Scheduled maintenance, Oil changes, Filter replacements, Spark plug replacement, Belt inspection and replacement, Fluid level checks and top-offs, Brake pad and rotor replacement, Brake caliper service, Suspension component inspection and replacement (shocks, struts, ball joints, tie rods), Steering component service, Wheel alignment procedures, Cooling system flushing and filling, Radiator and hose replacement, Heater core service, Air conditioning system servicing (recharge, leak detection), Fuel filter replacement, Fuel pump replacement, Ignition coil and spark plug wire replacement, Engine diagnostics and troubleshooting, Transmission fluid and filter changes, Clutch replacement (manual transmission), Transfer case service, Differential fluid changes, Driveshaft U-joint replacement, Battery testing and replacement, Alternator testing and replacement, Starter motor replacement, Headlight and taillight bulb replacement, Wiper blade replacement, Fuse and relay testing and replacement, Interior component removal and installation (seats, door panels, dashboard), Exterior component removal and installation (bumpers, grilles, fenders), Airbag system diagnostics and safety precautions, Body panel repair and replacement, Glass replacement, Diagnostic scanner procedures, Torque specifications for critical fasteners, Component testing and diagnosis.

Technical Depth:

Comprehensive from basic maintenance to advanced diagnostics and full component rebuilds. Includes detailed troubleshooting flowcharts, diagnostic procedures, removal and installation instructions, and specifications for all major systems.

📊 Manual Specifications

File Format:

Digital Software (searchable text, high-resolution diagrams)

Print Quality:

N/A (Digital)

Binding Type:

N/A (Digital)

Paper Type:

N/A (Digital)

⚙️ Engine Specifications

Engine Displacement Gasoline:

5.7L (345 cu.in.) HEMI Magnum V8

Engine Displacement Diesel:

5.9L (359 cu.in.) Cummins Turbo Diesel I6

Horsepower 5.7L Hemi:

345 hp @ 5000 rpm

Torque 5.7L Hemi:

375 lb-ft @ 4000 rpm

Horsepower 5.9L Cummins:

305 hp @ 2800 rpm

Torque 5.9L Cummins:

555 lb-ft @ 1400 rpm

Fuel System Gasoline:

Sequential Electronic Multi-Port Fuel Injection (MPI)

Fuel System Diesel:

High-pressure Common Rail (HPCR) direct injection

Ignition System Gasoline:

Distributorless Ignition System (DIS) with coil-on-plug

Emissions Control Gasoline:

Catalytic converter, EGR (Engine Gas Recirculation), Oxygen sensors

Emissions Control Diesel:

Diesel Oxidation Catalyst (DOC), Exhaust Gas Recirculation (EGR)

🔧 Transmission

Standard Transmission Gasoline:

NV4500 5-speed manual

Optional Transmission Gasoline:

48RE 4-speed automatic

Standard Transmission Diesel:

NV4500 5-speed manual

Optional Transmission Diesel:

48RE 4-speed automatic

Transmission Fluid Capacity 48Re:

Approx. 12.0 quarts (11.4 liters) with filter change

Transmission Fluid Type 48Re:

ATF+4 (Mopar)

Transmission Fluid Type Nv4500:

GL-3 or GL-4 rated gear oil, 75W-90

Transfer Case Options:

New Process (NP) 271 (manual shift) or NP273 (electric shift) for 4x4 models

📐 Dimensions

Wheelbase Standard:

134.1 inches (3406 mm)

Wheelbase Longbed:

154.1 inches (3914 mm)

Overall Length Standard:

229.9 inches (5839 mm)

Overall Length Longbed:

249.9 inches (6347 mm)

Overall Width:

79.7 inches (2024 mm)

Overall Height:

76.5 inches (1943 mm)

Bed Length Standard:

77.0 inches (1956 mm)

Bed Length Long:

97.7 inches (2482 mm)

Curb Weight Approx:

6,000 - 7,500 lbs (2722 - 3402 kg)

Gross Vehicle Weight Rating Gvwr:

8,800 - 9,750 lbs (3992 - 4423 kg) depending on configuration

🛡️ Safety Features

NHTSA Front Impact Driver:

Not specifically rated for 2003 model year, but typical for heavy-duty trucks of the era.

NHTSA Front Impact Passenger:

Not specifically rated for 2003 model year.

Active Safety Features:

Four-wheel Anti-lock Brakes (4W-ABS), Optional integrated trailer brake controller.

Passive Safety Features:

Front airbags for driver and passenger, Three-point seat belts with pretensioners, High-strength steel frame construction.

💡 Technology Features

Infotainment System:

Basic AM/FM stereo with CD player and cassette deck. Optional premium audio systems were available.

Driver Assistance Features:

ABS (Anti-lock Braking System), Cruise control.

Connectivity Features:

Limited by modern standards; primarily focused on basic audio inputs.

🔧 Maintenance

Oil Change Interval Gasoline:

Every 3,000 - 7,500 miles (5,000 - 12,000 km) or 6 months, depending on driving conditions and oil type (refer to manual for specific recommendations).

Oil Change Interval Diesel:

Every 7,500 miles (12,000 km) or 6 months, using synthetic diesel oil.

Engine Oil Type Gasoline 5.7L:

SAE 5W-20 (preferred) or SAE 10W-30

Engine Oil Capacity 5.7L:

7.0 quarts (6.6 liters) with filter

Engine Oil Type Diesel 5.9L:

API CJ-4 or CI-4 Plus (synthetic 5W-40 recommended)

Engine Oil Capacity 5.9L:

10.5 quarts (10.0 liters) with filter

Coolant Type:

Mopar OAT (Organic Additive Technology) Antifreeze/Coolant, ethylene glycol based

Brake Fluid Type:

DOT 3

Common Issues:

For 5.9L Cummins: Injector pump failure, fuel injector issues, occasional turbocharger problems. For 5.7L HEMI: Plugs fouling prematurely, occasional piston slap on cold starts. For both: U-joint wear, exhaust manifold leaks, HVAC blower motor issues, potential transmission hard shifting in automatics.

Standard Tire Size:

LT245/75R17

Wheel Bolt Pattern:

8x165.1 mm (8x6.5 inches)

📚 Vehicle History

Brand Heritage:

Dodge has a long-standing reputation for producing robust and capable trucks, with the Ram line dating back to 1981. Known for their heavy-duty capabilities and powerful engine options.

Model Evolution 2003:

The 2003 model year represents the second generation of the Dodge Ram (1994-2001) and is part of the transition into the third generation (2002-2008). For 2003, significant updates included the introduction of the HEMI 5.7L V8 engine and improvements to the Cummins turbodiesel.

Production Location:

Saltillo Truck Assembly, Saltillo, Coahuila, Mexico; Warren Truck Assembly, Warren, Michigan, USA

🏆 Awards & Recognition

Recognitions:

The Dodge Ram lineup, particularly with the Cummins diesel, has historically received recognition for its towing and hauling capabilities. The introduction of the HEMI engine further bolstered its performance reputation.