Vehicle Segment:
Full-size pickup truck
Target Audience:
Owners, DIY mechanics, professional service technicians
Primary Competitors 2004:
Ford F-150, Chevrolet Silverado 1500, GMC Sierra 1500, Toyota Tundra
Notable Features:
Robust construction, powerful engine options, towing capability, spacious interior
Engine Systems:
Engine mechanical, lubrication, cooling, fuel delivery, ignition, emission controls, engine diagnostics
Transmission Systems:
Automatic and manual transmissions, clutch, transfer case (if applicable)
Drivetrain Systems:
Driveshafts, axles, differentials, CV joints
Suspension Systems:
Front and rear suspension, shock absorbers, springs, control arms, ball joints
Steering Systems:
Power steering, steering column, tie rods, steering linkage
Brake Systems:
Front and rear brakes (disc/drum), ABS, parking brake
Electrical Systems:
Battery, charging system, starter, lighting, wiring diagrams, fuses, relays
HVAC Systems:
Heating, ventilation, air conditioning system components and operation
Body And Frame:
Body panels, doors, hood, tailgate, interior trim, frame diagnostics
Diagnostics:
Diagnostic Trouble Codes (DTCs), scan tool procedures, symptom-based troubleshooting
Maintenance Procedures:
Oil changes, filter replacements, fluid checks, tire rotation, spark plug replacement, belt inspection/replacement
Repair Procedures:
Component removal and installation, major system repairs, engine rebuild, transmission overhaul
Troubleshooting Procedures:
Step-by-step diagnostic guides for common and complex issues
Wiring Diagrams:
Detailed electrical schematics for all systems
Depth Of Coverage:
Comprehensive, from basic maintenance to full engine and transmission rebuilds
Diagnostic Capabilities:
Advanced diagnostic procedures, including pinpoint tests and system analysis
Engine Options:
4.7L V8 (Magnum), 5.7L V8 (HEMI), 3.7L V6 (if applicable to specific trims/models)
Engine Code 4 7L:
265 cid (SOHC)
Engine Code 5 7L:
345 cid (HEMI, OHV)
Horsepower 4 7L:
Approx. 235-245 hp (varies by sub-model/tuning)
Torque 4 7L:
Approx. 290-300 lb-ft (varies by sub-model/tuning)
Horsepower 5 7L:
Approx. 345-350 hp
Torque 5 7L:
Approx. 375-380 lb-ft
Fuel Delivery:
Sequential Multi-Port Fuel Injection (MPI)
Fuel Type:
Unleaded gasoline
Engine Oil Type 4 7L:
API Certified SAE 5W-30 (check specific sub-model for variations)
Engine Oil Capacity 4 7L:
5.0 quarts (4.7 L) with filter
Engine Oil Type 5 7L:
API Certified SAE 5W-20 (HEMI engine, check specific sub-model for variations)
Engine Oil Capacity 5 7L:
7.0 quarts (6.6 L) with filter
Coolant Type:
Mopar Antifreeze/Coolant (MS-7170 or equivalent OAT)
Standard Transmission:
4-speed Automatic (42RE, 45RFE/48RE depending on engine/model)
Optional Transmission:
5-speed Manual (NV3500 for V6, NV4500 for V8 applications)
Transfer Case:
Part-time 4WD (NV241DLD, NV271D) or Full-time 4WD (NV244D)
Automatic Transmission Fluid Type:
ATF+4 (MS-9602 compliant)
Manual Transmission Fluid Type:
API GL-5 SAE 75W-90 synthetic gear lubricant
Wheelbase Options:
134.5 inches (standard cab/short bed), 140.5 inches (Quad Cab/short bed), 154.5 inches (Quad Cab/long bed)
Bed Length Options:
6.3 feet (short bed), 8.0 feet (long bed)
Curb Weight Range:
4,600 - 5,500 lbs (approximate, varies by configuration)
Gross Vehicle Weight Rating Gvwr:
6,000 - 8,800 lbs (depending on payload package/model)
NHTSA Front Impact Driver:
Good (5-star rating in some configurations)
NHTSA Front Impact Passenger:
Good (5-star rating in some configurations)
IIHS Front Offset Crash Rating:
Acceptable
ABS:
Standard Anti-lock Braking System (ABS)
Airbags:
Driver and passenger front airbags
Available Infotainment Features:
AM/FM stereo, CD player, cassette player (optional), premium audio systems, navigation (late models/optional)
Available Driver Assistance:
Cruise control
Available Connectivity:
Power outlets
Oil Change Interval:
Every 3,000-7,500 miles or 6-12 months (depending on driving conditions and oil type used)
Transmission Fluid Change Interval:
Every 30,000-60,000 miles (automatic, severe use may require more frequent changes)
Spark Plug Replacement Interval 4 7L:
Approx. 100,000 miles (Platinum or Iridium plugs)
Spark Plug Replacement Interval 5 7L:
Approx. 100,000 miles (HEMI ignition plugs)
Common Issues Reported:
Radiator failure, ignition coil failure, water pump leaks, ABS sensor failures, plenum gasket leaks (on some older 5.7L HEMI engines), death wobble (front suspension/steering components)
Dodge Truck Legacy:
Dodge has a long history of producing rugged and capable trucks, dating back to the 1930s.
Third Generation Ram:
The 2004 model is part of the third generation (2002-2008) of the Dodge Ram, characterized by its distinctive 'Big Rig' styling.
Manufacturing Location:
Saltillo, Mexico; Warren, Michigan, USA
