04.5 HO Cummins with 73000 miles. In the past 10,000 miles the truck has had to have the rear main and camshaft seal replaced, the oil pan and gasket was warped-replaced (all done at Dodge's expense)-still leaks oil after long drives or when towing. The vacuum pump went, the front axle seeps, and now the water pump went. Needless to say the truck has spent a lot of time in the shop. My question is a simple-what would you do-trade in for a new one or have dealer fix oil leak one more time and hope that the truck goes another 200K? Its paid for so I hate to go into debt for another one but am scared to death of what may happen after that 100,000 mile line is crossed. Anyone else having this many issues?

 

I think I would hang on to it as long as repairs not coming out your pocket and truck is paid for keep it. Repairs you listed are going to happen eventually as wear and tear and is better to fix now for free then with your money. Drive it till the body falls off.

 

Faced a similuar situation but my problems were mostly running and breakdown issues. Tried to Lemon it but too many miles. Return trip from Florida this past April only averaged 7-8 MPG so just got fed up and traded for the 07 in my signature. Almost the same as the 04.5 other than color but all the same equipment but much better truck. Ended up trading for about $ .24 per mile for the 70K miles I had on it but so far with 4500 miles on new I haven't looked back....don't regret it one iota. You still seem to not be battling the warranty issues on yours so maybe if you can do without truck for periods of time I'd say save the payments and keep it or take it to another dealer, maybe someone with a better mechanic...or trade. Whatever your finances tell you. I don't regret the trade but mine was costing me money, Breakdown on the road, Hotels, rent a car and lost time so thats why for me it was cheaper to trade....do whats right for you. I got new for same payments, just owe longer again. And as far as another dealer, maybe someone on this board can advise you of good dealer(s) in your area....

 

sounds like it may be problematic,mite be worth selling and looking for a nice low k 12 valve.