I have 17,000 miles on my truck. I took it in to a private alignment shop today since the dealer couldn't do it due to oversize tires. I found out that all 4 ball joints are bad. What a joke. I called the dealer (anonymous) to see if they would honor the warranty with the larger tires and leveling kit. Of course the dealer said it wouldn't be covered due to the increased stress that the oversize tires and leveling kit put on the suspension.

I understand the theory that, "I am my own warranty station" when I modify my truck. But larger tires should not cause ball joints to wear on a truck that weighs 8000lbs.

For those of you lurking and thinking about buying a Dodge...steer clear. This is not the only problem I have had with Dodge and their poor customer service. This will be my last Dodge. Thanks for allowing me to vent.

 

I hear your pain. The only way that we the consumer can get DC to make a change is if there are enough complaints filed with the NHTSA to prompt a recall. Everyone with this problem should file a complaint at http://www-odi.nhtsa.dot.gov/ivoq/ regardless if the dealer fixed the problem or not. The problem is with the design and that is not something that the dealer can fix. They can only apply a bandaid.

 

Mike67RS,
Why did you take it in for the alignment in the first place? Was the truck driving bad or were there symptoms of something wrong with the ball joints?

 

Mike67RS,
Why did you take it in for the alignment in the first place? Was the truck driving bad or were there symptoms of something wrong with the ball joints?

 

Since day 1, my truck had a slight pull to the right. When my ECM went, I figured I would have the alignment done at the same time. DC will allow one alignment during the warranty period. I had already installed the leveling and tires at that time. They were unable to complete the alignment due to oversize tires.

Does anyone elses truck say "Heavy Duty" on the tailgate. What a joke.

 

Its the same on the G.M.and Ford forums.The joints probaby had a problem but you shot yourself in the foot with mods.Now go print a punch of these ball joints threads and go to the dealer and NICELY sit down with the SERVICE MANAGER and see if he will take care of your joints.Point out its a known problem oversize tires/leveling kit or not.My reply as a service writer would have been "can you bring it by,lets let the service manager and I look at it and if we can warranty them we will"not knowing if the truck has 500lbs of mud suck to the under carriage or tires and wheels the size of Bigfoot.was the Dealer attemping to align under warranty?

 

Mine too. I will try another dealer. I just get frustrated by dealers and manufacturers who refuse to stand behind a product they market. Thanks for the advice...Mike

 

Was it the dealer you bought it at? hate to say this also.The RIGHT pull has been since the 3rd generations came out.Lots of threads on the subject.Mine goes right also.Has since day one.You gave a blanket statement to a service advisor by phone.Its lefyed and has a leveling kit.He gave you a blanket statement back.If its been lifted (he visions LIFTED and got BIG tires and wheels) If its were you bouight it or have done business before go in person and ask the service manager,by pass the writer for the moment.

 

What a stupid thing for the dealer to tell you, with my southern comfort conversion that included Maxxis 33" buckshot mudders (from the dealer install). I have weak upper ball joints, you bet I will file a complaint!

 

Not sure where or who DCX is sourcing their ball joints from, but it's sure looking like they are of poor quality. The Dakota's and Durango's were recalled for bad ball joints a couple months ago. Sound's like the Ram is not far behind. IMO, they should last 300K with OEM tires, and at least 150K with 35" tires and hard driving. 17K is a joke! Based on the recalls with other models, anyone with a problem should fill a complaint ASAP!

 

Your correct! I think file complaints and every one that has had a balljoint problem call Dc and get files opened on them.1-800-992-1997