🏷️ Basic Information

Make:

Dodge

Model:

Ram

Year:

2004

Engine Type:

Gasoline

Vehicle Body Style:

Full-size Pickup Truck

Platform Generation:

Third Generation (DR/DH/D1)

Vin Engine Code:

H - 5.7L HEMI V8; E - 4.7L Magnum V8; B - 3.7L Magnum V6

👋 Introduction

Positioning:

The 2004 Dodge Ram was positioned as a formidable contender in the full-size pickup truck segment, known for its bold styling, powerful engine options, and robust build quality.

Competitors:

Key competitors included the Ford F-150, Chevrolet Silverado 1500, GMC Sierra 1500, and Toyota Tundra.

Features:

Distinctive 'Ram' grille, available HEMI V8 engine, Quad Cab and Mega Cab configurations, strong towing and payload capacities, variety of trim levels (ST, SLT, Laramie).

📋 Manual Details

Coverage:

Comprehensive owner's information for all 2004 Dodge Ram gasoline models.

Pages:

~300-350 pages (estimated for a typical 2004 owner's manual)

Type:

Owner's Manual

Language:

English

Part Number Example:

Likely in the range of P5149002xx or similar Dodge owner's manual numbering convention for that era. Specific part number may vary slightly by region or specific configuration.

Format:

Printed Booklet

📖 Manual Coverage

Systems:

Engine operation, transmission, brakes, steering, suspension, electrical system, lighting, climate control, safety features (airbags, seat belts), infotainment, instrument cluster, driver controls, exterior/interior features, wheels and tires, towing, maintenance procedures.

Procedures:

Starting and operating the vehicle, understanding dashboard indicators and warnings, basic fluid checks and top-offs, tire pressure checks, changing a flat tire, jump-starting the battery, operating climate control, using audio system, fuel filler operation, maintenance schedule overview, proper towing procedures, emergency procedures.

Depth:

Owner-level information for daily operation, basic maintenance, and understanding vehicle functions. Does not include detailed diagnostic procedures or component-level repair instructions found in service manuals.

📊 Manual Specifications

Format:

Physical printed document.

Quality:

Standard commercial print quality for automotive owner's manuals.

Binding:

Stapled or Perfect Bound

Paper:

Durable paper stock, typically with a glossy or semi-gloss finish.

Manual Completeness:

This is a complete owner's manual covering all essential aspects of vehicle ownership and operation for the specified model year and engine types.

⚙️ Engine Specifications

Engine Options:

Available engines include the 3.7L Magnum V6, 4.7L Magnum V8, and the highly acclaimed 5.7L HEMI V8.

5.7L Hemi V8:

Approx. 345 horsepower @ 5000 rpm, 375 lb-ft torque @ 3200 rpm (specific ratings may vary slightly by model year/configuration)

4.7L Magnum V8:

Approx. 260 horsepower @ 5000 rpm, 330 lb-ft torque @ 3600 rpm

3.7L Magnum V6:

Approx. 215 horsepower @ 5200 rpm, 235 lb-ft torque @ 4000 rpm

Fuel Delivery:

Multi-point fuel injection (MPI) for all gasoline engines.

Fuel Recommendation:

87 octane regular unleaded gasoline recommended for V6 and 4.7L V8. 91 octane recommended for optimal performance from the 5.7L HEMI V8, though 89 octane is acceptable.

Engine Code Description:

VIN Engine Code 'H' signifies the 5.7L HEMI V8, 'E' the 4.7L Magnum V8, and 'B' the 3.7L Magnum V6. This aids in identifying the specific engine installed.

🔧 Transmission

Transmission Options:

Standard transmissions varied by engine and trim, often a 4-speed automatic (42RE/45RFE/545RFE) for V8 engines and a 5-speed manual for the V6 in base models, though automatics were prevalent.

Optional Transmission:

5-speed manual transmission was available on some V6 models. 4-speed automatic (45RFE/545RFE) was common across V8 models.

Transmission Features:

Electronically controlled automatic transmissions with overdrive. Tow/Haul mode available on some automatic transmissions for improved towing performance.

📐 Dimensions

Wheelbase Options:

139.0 inches (standard bed), 154.7 inches (long bed), 160.5 inches (Mega Cab).

Overall Length:

Varies by cab and bed configuration: approx. 229.7 inches (regular cab, standard bed) to 260.1 inches (Mega Cab, long bed).

Width:

Approx. 79.9 inches (excluding mirrors).

Bed Length Options:

6.3 feet (standard bed), 8.0 feet (long bed).

Curb Weight:

Varies significantly by configuration, generally ranging from 4,700 lbs to 5,900 lbs.

Towing Capacity:

Up to 8,450 lbs (4x2, Quad Cab, 5.7L HEMI, with appropriate towing package).

Payload Capacity:

Up to 1,790 lbs (varies by configuration).

🛡️ Safety Features

NHTSA Driver Front Impact:

4 stars (for 2004 models).

NHTSA Passenger Front Impact:

4 stars (for 2004 models).

IIHS Frontal Offset:

Good (for 2004 models).

Active Safety:

Anti-lock Braking System (ABS) standard on all wheels. Available: Traction Control (on select models).

Passive Safety:

Driver and front passenger airbags, side curtain airbags (available on certain configurations), seat belt pretensioners, LATCH child seat anchor system.

💡 Technology Features

Audio System:

Standard AM/FM stereo with CD player. Optional: Premium Infinity sound system, SiriusXM satellite radio, in-dash 6-disc CD changer.

Navigation:

No integrated factory navigation system typically available for this model year; aftermarket solutions would be required.

Advanced Driver Assistance:

Limited to basic systems like ABS and optional traction control. Advanced driver-assistance systems (ADAS) such as adaptive cruise control, lane keeping assist, or blind-spot monitoring were not available.

Connectivity Features:

Optional Uconnect hands-free communication system (if equipped) allowing for Bluetooth connectivity for phone calls. No integrated Wi-Fi or smartphone mirroring.

Comfort Features:

Power windows, power door locks, cruise control, power adjustable pedals (available on higher trims), remote keyless entry.

🔧 Maintenance

Oil Change Interval:

Typically every 7,500 miles or 6 months, whichever comes first, under normal driving conditions (refer to manual for severe conditions).

Tire Rotation Interval:

Every 7,500 miles.

Spark Plug Replacement:

Generally around 100,000 miles for the HEMI and 4.7L V8, but consult manual for specific recommendations based on engine and plug type (e.g., platinum or iridium).

Cabin Air Filter Replacement:

Typically recommended every 12,000-15,000 miles or annually, depending on driving conditions and air quality. Consult manual for specific interval and location.

Engine Oil Type:

SAE 5W-20 is typically recommended for the 3.7L V6 and 4.7L V8. SAE 5W-20 or 5W-30 (depending on ambient temperature and specific recommendation) for the 5.7L HEMI V8. Always consult the owner's manual for the exact specification.

Engine Oil Capacity:

Varies by engine: approx. 5 quarts (3.7L V6), 6 quarts (4.7L V8), and 7 quarts (5.7L HEMI V8). Always verify with the manual.

Coolant Type:

Mopar Antifreeze/Coolant (HOAT - Hybrid Organic Acid Technology), typically orange or red in color. Do not mix with other coolant types.

Transmission Fluid Type:

ATF+4 (Automatic Transmission Fluid type 4) is standard for all automatic transmissions.

Brake Fluid Type:

DOT 3 or DOT 4 brake fluid.

Transfer Case Fluid Type:

NV244, NV245, NV271, NV273 transfer cases typically use Mopar NV244/245/271/273 Transfer Case Fluid or equivalent specification.

Differential Fluid Type:

API GL-5 hypoid gear oil, typically SAE 75W-90 for front and rear differentials. Limited-slip differentials may require specific friction modifiers.

Common Wear Items:

Ball joints, tie rod ends, sway bar links (typical for a truck of this age and weight), exhaust manifold cracks (especially on early 5.7L HEMI models), water pump leaks, and potential for rust on body panels in certain climates.

Transmission Issues:

Some reported issues with early versions of the 45RFE/545RFE transmission concerning torque converter clutch shudder or failure, often linked to fluid degradation or internal solenoid issues. Regular fluid changes are crucial.

📚 Vehicle History

Dodge Truck Legacy:

Dodge has a long-standing heritage in the pickup truck market, dating back to the 1930s, establishing a reputation for toughness and capability.

Ram Generation Transition:

The 2004 model year falls into the third generation of the Dodge Ram, which debuted for the 2002 model year. This generation introduced significant styling changes (the signature crosshair grille) and powertrain advancements, most notably the HEMI V8.

Assembly Locations:

Primarily assembled in Warren, Michigan, and Saltillo, Mexico.

Sales Performance:

The Dodge Ram was a strong seller in its segment, consistently ranking among the top-selling full-size pickup trucks in North America during the 2000s.

🏆 Awards & Recognition

Industry Accolades:

The 5.7L HEMI V8 engine was widely praised for its performance and distinctive sound, often cited as a key selling point. The Dodge Ram lineup frequently received positive reviews for its styling and capability.

Motor Trend Truck Of The Year:

While the 2003 Dodge Ram (the start of the generation) won MotorTrend's Truck of the Year, the 2004 model carried over many of these acclaimed attributes.

Emission Certifications:

Meets EPA and CARB emissions standards applicable for the 2004 model year.