Vehicle Segment:
Full-size Pickup Truck
Target Audience:
Consumers and professional technicians requiring detailed repair and maintenance information for the 2008 Dodge RAM 1500.
Key Competitors:
Ford F-150, Chevrolet Silverado 1500, GMC Sierra 1500, Toyota Tundra, Nissan Titan.
Manual Advantage:
Official licensing ensures accuracy and completeness of information, crucial for proper vehicle repair and maintenance.
Software Benefit:
Online availability for instant access, often more user-friendly with search functions compared to printed manuals.
Coverage Scope:
Complete service and repair for all major vehicle systems.
Trim Levels Covered:
All trim levels including ST, SLT, Laramie, TRX, Sport, etc.
Body Styles Covered:
All configurations including Regular Cab, Quad Cab, and Mega Cab.
Drivetrains Covered:
2WD and 4WD models.
Estimated Pages:
~2000-3000 pages (typical for comprehensive software)
Manual Type:
Service and Repair Manual Software
Source Type:
Officially Licensed
Software Format:
Digital Software (likely executable or PDF-based)
Engine Systems:
Engine mechanical, cooling, lubrication, fuel injection, ignition, exhaust, emissions control, engine diagnostics.
Transmission Systems:
Manual and automatic transmission repair, diagnostics, fluid services, torque converter, transfer case (4WD).
Drivetrain Suspension:
Front and rear axle, driveshafts, CV joints, universal joints, suspension components (springs, shocks, control arms, ball joints), steering system.
Brake Systems:
Disc brakes (front and rear), ABS system, parking brake, brake fluid service.
Electrical Systems:
Battery, charging system, starting system, lighting, power windows, power locks, mirrors, wipers, horns, ignition system, instrument cluster, body control module (BCM).
HVAC Systems:
Air conditioning, heating, ventilation, climate control system.
Body And Chassis:
Frame, body panels, doors, hoods, tailgates, interior trim, seat adjustments, bumpers.
Restraint Systems:
Airbag system, seat belts.
Routine Maintenance:
Oil changes, filter replacements, fluid checks and top-offs, tire rotations, spark plug replacement, belt inspection and replacement.
Troubleshooting Diagnostics:
Diagnostic Trouble Codes (DTCs), symptom-based troubleshooting, wiring diagrams, diagnostic procedures for all major systems.
Repair And Rebuild:
Engine overhaul, transmission rebuild, brake caliper replacement, suspension component replacement, electrical component repair.
Component Replacement:
Alternator, starter, water pump, fuel pump, radiator, AC compressor, power steering pump, master cylinder, wheel bearings.
Special Tools Procedures:
Instructions on using specialized tools for specific repair procedures.
Depth Of Information:
Comprehensive, from basic maintenance to complete engine and transmission overhauls.
Diagnostic Level:
Advanced diagnostic procedures, including use of scan tools and interpretation of sensor data.
Wiring Diagrams:
Detailed electrical wiring schematics for all circuits.
Torque Specifications:
Precise torque values for all fasteners and critical components.
Tolerances Clearances:
Specific measurements for engine internal components, bearing clearances, etc.
Wheelbase Regular Cab:
133.0 inches (3378 mm)
Wheelbase Quad Cab:
140.5 inches (3569 mm)
Wheelbase Mega Cab:
154.7 inches (3929 mm)
Bed Lengths:
6'4" (Short Bed), 8'0" (Long Bed)
Curb Weight Approx:
4,700 - 5,500 lbs (10,362 - 2,495 kg) depending on configuration.
Gross Vehicle Weight Rating Gvw:
Up to 7,000 - 7,500 lbs (3175 - 3402 kg).
Towing Capacity Max:
Up to 9,100 lbs (4128 kg) with appropriate engine and towing package.
Payload Capacity Max:
Up to 1,700 - 2,000 lbs (771 - 907 kg) depending on configuration.
NHTSA Rollover Resistance:
3 stars (typical for trucks of this era, varies by configuration)
IIHS Ratings:
Varied by test and year, generally acceptable for its class.
ABS:
Standard Anti-lock Braking System.
Traction Control:
Available Traction Control System (TCS).
Electronic Stability Control Esc:
Available Electronic Stability Control (ESC).
Airbags:
Standard front airbags, optional side curtain airbags (depending on cab configuration and options).
Seat Belts:
3-point seat belts with pretensioners.
Infotainment System Options:
Optional SiriusXM Satellite Radio, AM/FM stereo with CD player, optional Uconnect hands-free communication system, optional navigation.
Available Driver Assistance:
Rear parking assist sensors, integrated trailer brake controller (optional).
Connectivity Features:
Auxiliary audio input jack (on some models/head units).
Oil Change Interval:
Typically every 3,000-7,500 miles (5,000-12,000 km) or 6 months, depending on driving conditions and oil type (consult manual for exact specifications).
Air Filter Replacement:
Every 15,000-30,000 miles (24,000-48,000 km) or as needed based on conditions.
Spark Plug Replacement:
30,000-100,000 miles (48,000-160,000 km) depending on spark plug type (e.g., copper vs. iridium).
Transmission Fluid Change:
Every 30,000-60,000 miles (48,000-96,000 km) for automatic transmissions, depending on towing and driving habits.
Engine Oil Spec:
SAE 5W-20 or 5W-30 (API Certified). Refer to manual for specific engine/climate recommendations.
Engine Oil Capacity:
Approximately 6 quarts (5.7 liters) for 3.7L and 4.7L, 7 quarts (6.6 liters) for 5.7L HEMI.
Coolant Type:
Chrysler HOAT (Hybrid Organic Acid Technology) Antifreeze/Coolant, typically a 50/50 mix with distilled water.
Transmission Fluid Type 45Rfe:
ATF+4 (MS-9602).
Transmission Fluid Type W5A580:
MB 236.14 or equivalent specification ATF.
Common Issue 1:
Water pump failures (especially on 4.7L V8).
Common Issue 2:
Brake wear, particularly front pads and rotors.
Common Issue 3:
Front suspension components (ball joints, tie rods) can wear prematurely with heavy use.
Common Issue 4:
Minor electrical gremlins or sensor issues, especially with age.
Common Issue 5:
Transmission shift quality issues (specific to certain transmission models and internal wear).
Dodge Truck History:
Dodge has a long and storied history in the truck market, with the RAM nameplate becoming a distinct brand in 2009. The RAM 1500 is a cornerstone of this lineage.
Fourth Gen Debut:
The fourth generation (DS) debuted for the 2002 model year, with significant updates and a facelift in 2006, which included revised styling, interior upgrades, and powertrain enhancements.
Assembly Locations:
Primary assembly in Saltillo, Mexico, and Warren, Michigan.