Developed a loud ticking on start-up in my 2009 Ram SLT Hemi. I'm certain it is the exhaust manifold bolt(s). I had an issue previously with a bad lifter, but it was a different sound and didn't stop when truck was warmed up. The ticking noise now lasts about 15 - 20 seconds on start-up and then stops. I don't have extended or lifetime warranty (Canadian truck) so I'll be paying the shot on this one. Just wondering what cost range is likely to be from anyone else who has had the same problem.

Second part of the question is how difficult is the repair? I know it will depend on where the bolt(s) have broken off. I'm guessing this is not a DIY project. Any thoughts on dealer vs independent shop for this repair? I'm thinking dealer because this is a common problem and they will have more experience with it and any TSBs on the issue.

Appreciate any comments!

 

Since there is a TSB for this (well known) issue, I assume the repairs for this are free? They were on my 09 anyway. If I am wrong I am sure someone can correct me on this. It is amazing to me that this inexpensive part which saved them maybe a few pennies has ended up costing Chrysler so much in warranty repairs; I hope they learned from this one. Replace ALL the bolts at once!! If one is broken more are soon to follow. When my second one broke it was flush with the head surface and so they had to pull the head off and send it out to a machine shop for repair - you don't want that trust me. Good luck.

 

Hemi Rom is correct, ther IS a TSB for the exhaust manifold bolts. This should NOT cost you anything. If your dealer wants to charge you, call chrysler ASAP...!!!

 

Beyond that, if you are the original owner then you should have your lifetime powertrain warranty.

 

Thanks for the replies, but a TSB is not a recall and the dealer is under no obligation to do the repair at no charge...unless the vehicle is under warranty. A TSB is a standardized repair procedure for a common problem, but it's not the same as a mandated recall. I might be able to get the dealer to give me a break on the cost as this is a common problem, but unfortunately it's going to be at the dealer's discretion.

Unfortunately, Canadian Dodge trucks do not get the lifetime powertrain warranty that US owners get.

 

You mean 'got'. Only the 2009 models got that.

Rob

 

Whoop`s, you`re right, the TSB is NOT a recall... i dont know what i was thinking.
Regardless, call chrysler, they may just do it out of good will for you... dosent hurt to ask them.

 

My 2009 is at the dealer right now getting all the bolts replaced. 4 of the 16 had snapped. I was getting the same "ticking" noise on cold start up and it turned out to be the exhaust leak from the bolts.

Thankfully it's all covered under my lifetime power train warranty, so no cost to me. I wish the same could be said for the bad O2 sensor that was also going out. A $300 hit there.

 

How many miles have you got on the truck? I would think that the O2 sensor would be covered under the 100K emissions warranty

 

Scratch that, I guess it is only 80K for the cat and PCM. The 02 is 3/36 only