Owners of the 2008 Dodge RAM 1500 pickup truck for information on operation, maintenance, and features.
Competitive Analysis
Competitors 2008:
Ford F-150, Chevrolet Silverado 1500, GMC Sierra 1500, Toyota Tundra, Nissan Titan.
Key Features Vehicle
Notable Features 2008:
Distinctive 'big rig' styling, available HEMI V8 engine, coil-spring rear suspension for improved ride quality (on certain models).
Manual Value Proposition
Value For Owner:
Provides essential information for safe and efficient operation, proper maintenance, and understanding vehicle systems, aiding in owner satisfaction and long-term vehicle care.
📋 Manual Details
Coverage Areas
Manual Type:
Owner's Manual
Language:
English
Format:
Digital Download (PDF)
Page Count
Estimated Page Count:
Approx. 300-400 pages (typical for a full owner's manual of this era)
📖 Manual Coverage
Systems Covered
Engine Systems:
Operation, basic maintenance, fluid levels, warning indicators, troubleshooting for available engines.
Transmission Systems:
Operation, fluid checks, basic maintenance, and warning indicators for automatic transmissions.
Braking Systems:
Operation of ABS, parking brake, and brake system warning lights.
91 Octane Premium Unleaded Gasoline recommended for optimal performance and MDS operation
Fuel System
Fuel Delivery:
Multi-port Fuel Injection (MPI)
🔧 Transmission
Standard
Transmission Option 1 Type:
4-Speed Automatic (42RLE)
Transmission Option 1 Applicability:
Standard on 3.7L V6 and 4.7L V8 engines.
Optional
Transmission Option 2 Type:
5-Speed Automatic (5-45RFE)
Transmission Option 2 Applicability:
Optional/Standard on 5.7L HEMI V8 engines (depending on trim and configuration).
Features
Transmission Fluid Type:
ATF+4 (MS-9602)
Transfer Case Type:
Electronically controlled 2-speed transfer case (4x4 models)
📐 Dimensions
Exterior
Wheelbase Regular Cab:
120.0 inches (3048 mm)
Wheelbase Extended Quad Cab:
140.5 inches (3569 mm)
Overall Length Regular Cab:
199.0 inches (5055 mm) (6'4" bed)
Overall Length Quad Cab:
220.0 inches (5588 mm) (6'4" bed)
Overall Width:
79.1 inches (2009 mm)
Overall Height:
74.6 inches (1895 mm) (approximate, varies by configuration)
Cargo
Bed Length Std:
6 feet 4 inches (1.93 m)
Bed Length Long:
8 feet (2.44 m) (available on some configurations)
Weights
Curb Weight Approx:
4,700 - 5,500 lbs (2132 - 2495 kg) (varies by configuration and drivetrain)
Max Gvw:
Up to 7,200 lbs (3266 kg) (varies by configuration)
Max Towing Capacity:
Up to 9,100 lbs (4128 kg) (properly equipped)
🛡️ Safety Features
Ratings
NHTSA Front Barrier Driver:
5 Stars (2008 Model)
NHTSA Front Barrier Passenger:
5 Stars (2008 Model)
NHTSA Side Barrier Driver:
5 Stars (2008 Model)
NHTSA Side Barrier Rear Passenger:
5 Stars (2008 Model)
IIHS Front Impact Rating:
Good (2008 Model)
IIHS Side Impact Rating:
Good (2008 Model)
Active Features
Antilock Brakes:
Standard (ABS)
Traction Control:
Available (Electronic Stability Control - ESC on some models)
Passive Features
Airbags Front:
Advanced front airbags for driver and passenger
Airbags Side:
Available front seat-mounted side airbags, available full-length side curtain airbags (depending on cab style and trim).
Seatbelts:
Three-point active seatbelts with pretensioners and load limiters, LATCH child seat anchor system.
💡 Technology Features
Infotainment
Audio System Options:
Standard AM/FM/CD player, optional satellite radio (SiriusXM), optional upgraded Boston Acoustics sound system.
Uconnect Availability:
Available Uconnect Hands-Free Communication and/or Uconnect Navigation on select trims and option packages.
Driver Assistance
Parking Sensors:
Available rear park assist system.
Cruise Control:
Standard
Connectivity
Auxiliary Input:
Available auxiliary audio input jack for portable music players.
🔧 Maintenance
Service Intervals
Oil Change Interval Gas:
Every 3,000-6,000 miles or 3-6 months, depending on driving conditions and oil type used. Refer to manual for specific intervals based on oil quality (e.g., synthetic vs. conventional).
Tire Rotation Interval:
Every 6,000 - 8,000 miles (or as recommended by tire manufacturer).
Engine Air Filter Replacement:
Inspect every 15,000 miles, replace as needed (typically every 30,000 miles or sooner in dusty conditions).
Cabin Air Filter Replacement:
Inspect every 15,000 miles, replace as needed (typically every 30,000 miles or sooner in dusty/polluted conditions).
Fluid Specifications
Engine Oil Type:
SAE 5W-20 (for 3.7L V6 and 4.7L V8), SAE 5W-20 or 5W-30 (for 5.7L HEMI V8). Always check manual for precise API service category and specific viscosity recommendations.
Coolant Type:
Mopar OAT (Orange) Antifreeze/Coolant, 5-Year/100,000 Mile Formula (or equivalent HOAT).
Brake Fluid Type:
DOT 3
Power Steering Fluid Type:
Mopar Power Steering Fluid or ATF+4 (refer to specific recommendation in manual).
Known Issues
Common Problem 1:
Death wobble (front suspension/steering linkage issues, often exacerbated by wear).
Common Problem 2:
Water pump leaks (especially on the 5.7L HEMI).
Common Problem 3:
Proxy sensor issues leading to starting problems (on some models with proximity key systems).
Common Problem 4:
Rust on body panels, particularly around wheel wells and rocker panels.
📚 Vehicle History
Brand Heritage
Dodge Truck Legacy:
Dodge has a long history of producing robust and capable trucks, with the RAM nameplate originating in 1981.
Model Evolution
Fourth Generation Ram:
The 2008 RAM 1500 is part of the fourth generation (2002-2008 for this specific redesign, with major updates for 2006). This generation is known for its distinctive styling and improved ride quality.
No specific award for the 2008 model year, but the RAM platform has received awards in other years.
Ratings
Jd Power Dependability:
Varies by specific model year and trim; consult J.D. Power historical data for specific ratings.
Certifications
Epa Fuel Economy Estimates:
Varies significantly by engine, drivetrain, and cab configuration. For example, a 2008 1500 4x2 with 5.7L HEMI might achieve around 13 MPG city / 17 MPG highway. Consult EPA archives for precise figures.
Ao escolher uma seleção, a página inteira é atualizada.