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Is the Ram 1500 exhaust manifold covered under warranty?

Coverage for the Ram 1500 exhaust manifold depends on year, model, and the type of warranty in effect. In many scenarios, a manufacturing defect affecting the exhaust manifold falls under the powertrain warranty, and issues tied to emissions may be covered by the federal emissions warranty. Always verify with Ram or your dealer for your exact VIN.


Warranty structures that can apply to the exhaust manifold


Warranties vary by vehicle program and year. The following outlines the typical protections that could apply to an exhaust manifold issue on a Ram 1500.



  • Basic (bumper-to-bumper) warranty typically covers most components for a limited period after purchase.

  • Powertrain warranty covers major engine and transmission components, including the engine block and internal parts.

  • Rust-through warranty covers body corrosion, often with a long horizon or unlimited miles.

  • Emissions warranty (federal or state) covers components related to emissions control that can affect emissions output.


In all cases, the specific coverage depends on model year and market, and sometimes coverage is extended by recall campaigns or service bulletins.


Is the exhaust manifold explicitly included under these warranties?


The exhaust manifold is typically considered part of the engine or the exhaust system and can fall under different protections depending on the issue causing the failure. Manufacturing defects discovered during the warranty period are often covered under the powertrain warranty, while defects that affect emissions can be covered under emissions warranties. Exterior damage, wear, or damage caused by improper maintenance is usually not covered.


Emissions warranty specifics


For the Ram 1500, the federal emissions warranty generally protects major emission-control components for a substantial period, commonly up to 8 years or 80,000 miles on many 1996+ vehicles. California and other states with enhanced programs may offer broader coverage or different periods. The exact applicability to an exhaust manifold depends on whether the manifold is an emissions-related component or part of an emissions subsystem and whether the failure affects emissions or the performance of the emissions controls.


Because emissions laws and warranty terms vary by model year and region, confirm with your Ram dealer or consult the official warranty booklet for the exact numbers and eligible components.


How to verify coverage for your vehicle


Before you head to the dealer, gather these details to determine coverage quickly:



  • Your Ram 1500’s model year, trim, and VIN for warranty lookup

  • Your owner’s manual or warranty booklet, especially the sections on powertrain and emissions

  • Any recall notices or service bulle­tins that might affect the exhaust manifold


With the VIN, a Ram dealer can confirm current coverage status and help file a claim if appropriate.


What to do if you suspect an exhaust manifold issue


If you notice signs of a problem—such as exhaust noise, ticking sounds, visible cracks, or a loss of power—schedule an appointment with a Ram dealer or a certified mechanic. Bring your warranty documents and maintenance history to determine whether the repair could be covered.


Bottom line


Coverage of the Ram 1500 exhaust manifold is not a one-size-fits-all answer. It can be covered under the powertrain warranty or the emissions warranty, depending on the model year, region, and the nature of the issue. Always verify with a dealer using your VIN and consult the warranty booklet for the exact terms.


Summary


In short: exhaust manifold coverage on a Ram 1500 depends on year and warranty type; powertrain and emissions warranties are the most likely sources of coverage, but confirmation from a Ram dealer using your VIN is essential. Keep service records and read the warranty documents to understand the specifics for your vehicle.

Is the exhaust manifold part of the powertrain?


Yes, the exhaust manifold is part of the powertrain because it is a crucial component of the engine, which is a core part of the powertrain. While some sources may separate the exhaust system, many powertrain warranties explicitly include intake and exhaust manifolds as part of the engine coverage. 

  • Engine's role: The powertrain is the system that generates and delivers power to the wheels. The engine is the primary component, and the exhaust manifold is directly connected to it, collecting exhaust gases from the cylinders. 
  • Warranty coverage: Since the exhaust manifold is vital for the engine's performance and is attached to the engine block, it is included in the definition of the powertrain by many manufacturers and warranty providers. 
  • Function: The manifold's function is directly linked to the engine's operation, making it an integral part of the system that generates power. It collects emissions and directs them to the rest of the exhaust system. 



Is an exhaust manifold covered under a Ram warranty?


FAQs on Ram Exhaust Manifold Warranty
Yes, broken exhaust manifold bolts are covered under the powertrain warranty, provided the failure is due to a defect in materials or workmanship.



How much does it cost to replace the exhaust manifold on a Ram 1500?


Replacing an exhaust manifold on a Ram 1500 can cost anywhere from $700 to over $3,000 or more, depending on whether the damage is to one or both sides, the severity of the damage (such as broken bolts), and labor rates. The parts alone can range from about $360 to over $500 for a single manifold, while labor for a more difficult job, such as one with broken studs, can significantly increase the total cost. 
Cost breakdown

  • Parts: A single Mopar performance exhaust manifold can cost around $360 to $513, but replacement can be more expensive if both sides need to be replaced or if other parts are damaged. 
  • Labor: The labor cost depends on the extent of the damage. 
    • A minor repair might only require a few hours of labor.
    • A more complex job, such as one with rusted or broken bolts, could require significant extra time, driving the total cost higher. Some estimates put the labor for a challenging job to be around $150 to $300 for a DIYer or $3,700 to $4,000 for a professional shop. 
  • Total Cost: The total cost for the repair can range from approximately $700 to $900 for a simple replacement to over $3,000 for both sides in cases of broken bolts. 

Factors that influence the final cost
  • Number of manifolds: The repair cost will be higher if both the driver's and passenger's side manifolds need to be replaced.
  • Severity of damage: Broken studs or bolts can significantly increase the labor time and cost. 
  • Part choice: Using an OEM (Original Equipment Manufacturer) part from a dealership will likely be more expensive than using an aftermarket part from a third-party vendor. 
  • Labor rates: The final price can be affected by the hourly labor rates at your chosen repair shop.

What you can do
  • Get multiple quotes: Obtain estimates from several reputable mechanics to compare prices.
  • Consider a DIY approach: If you have the necessary skills and tools, you might be able to save money on labor by replacing the manifold yourself.
  • Upgrade to headers: While you're at it, you could consider upgrading to aftermarket headers, which can provide more power and a more aggressive sound. 



Does Ram have a recall for exhaust manifolds?


And 0901923 the latter being the updated. One so it covers the 2019 2022 Ram trucks with the 5.7 L V8 Hemi engines the symptoms of the problem are ticking after cold start.


Kevin's Auto

Kevin Bennett

Company Owner

Kevin Bennet is the founder and owner of Kevin's Autos, a leading automotive service provider in Australia. With a deep commitment to customer satisfaction and years of industry expertise, Kevin uses his blog to answer the most common questions posed by his customers. From maintenance tips to troubleshooting advice, Kevin's articles are designed to empower drivers with the knowledge they need to keep their vehicles running smoothly and safely.