What years are 2nd gen dodges?
There isn’t a single set of years that covers all second-generation Dodge models; each model has its own second-gen window. This guide highlights well-known second-generation Dodge models and their commonly cited year ranges, with notes on how to verify exact years for a specific vehicle you’re researching.
Understanding how Dodge labels generations
In automotive practice, a generation represents a major redesign or a new platform family for a model. When a model is said to be in its second generation, it means it has moved beyond the original design to incorporate significant styling, mechanical, or structural changes. Because different Dodge models launched their second generations at different times, the years vary model by model rather than following a universal range.
Representative second-generation Dodge models
Below are representative second-generation ranges for several popular Dodge models. If you’re researching a different model, tell me the exact model name and I’ll provide precise years.
- Dodge Challenger: 2nd generation commonly cited as 1978–1983.
- Dodge Charger: 2nd generation commonly cited as 1968–1970.
- Dodge Dart: 2nd generation commonly cited as 1963–1966.
- Dodge Durango: 2nd generation commonly cited as 2004–2009.
- Dodge Ram pickup: 2nd generation commonly cited as 1994–2001.
- Dodge Grand Caravan: 2nd generation commonly cited as 1991–1995.
These ranges are widely used by enthusiasts, restoration guides, and historical overviews. Exact endpoints can vary by market, year-specific styling updates, and whether mid-year changes are counted as part of a generation.
Notes on variations and verification
When researching a specific vehicle, exact generation boundaries can shift by one year or two depending on the model and market. VIN decoding, factory sales brochures, and reputable reference guides are reliable ways to confirm the precise generation and model-year alignment for any individual car.
How to verify the generation of a specific Dodge
Before purchasing or cataloging a car as “second generation,” use these verification steps to be precise and avoid misclassification.
- Check the vehicle identification number (VIN) for the build year and model details.
- Compare exterior styling cues and interior updates that are characteristic of the generation in question.
- Consult official Dodge catalogs or a trusted enthusiast resource for generation timelines by model.
- Verify any mid-year refreshes that could affect what is considered the second generation.
Accurate verification helps ensure you’re aligning a car with the correct generation, which matters for parts compatibility, value, and restoration accuracy.
Summary: Because each Dodge model defines its own second-generation window, there isn't a universal year range for “2nd gen Dodges.” Notable examples include Challenger (1978–1983), Charger (1968–1970), Dart (1963–1966), Durango (2004–2009), Ram pickup (1994–2001), and Grand Caravan (1991–1995). For any specific vehicle, verify generation using VIN data, official references, and model-specific timelines.
What year is a 2nd gen Dodge?
The 2nd generation Dodge Ram trucks were produced from the 1994 to 2002 model years. This generation included the Ram 1500, 2500, and 3500 models, with a notable update in 1998 for the 1500 and a new engine introduced for the 2500 and 3500 in 1998.5.
- 1994–2002: This covers the 2nd generation for the Ram 2500 and 3500 trucks.
- 1994–2001: This range specifically applies to the 2nd generation Ram 1500.
- Key Updates: The 1998 model year saw a significant interior and exterior refresh for the 1500, while a 1998.5 model year update for the 2500 and 3500 introduced a new engine.
What year 5.7 hemi to avoid?
You should be wary of the 2003, 2004, 2005, and 2006 Hemi engines, especially in the Dodge Ram and other LX-platform cars, as they were prone to issues like exhaust manifold bolts, engine stalling, and electrical problems. The 2011 and 2012 model years, particularly the 2012 Ram, are also considered problematic and should be avoided due to significant Hemi tick from lifter failure and other transmission issues.
Years to avoid
- 2003: Prone to transmission failure and engine problems, including issues with exhaust manifold bolts.
- 2004: Experienced continued engine stalling and power train concerns, which led to crashes and fires.
- 2005 and 2006: Especially in LX-platform cars like the Magnum, these years had significant issues with stalling after refueling, along with other electrical and engine problems.
- 2011 and 2012: The 2012 model is particularly notorious for the Hemi tick (lifter failure), and both years had issues with their transmissions and other engine components.
Common problems across multiple years
- Exhaust manifold bolts: Many years had weak or brittle exhaust manifold bolts that would break, causing exhaust leaks and a ticking sound.
- Hemi tick: A loud ticking sound that can be caused by exhaust leaks or, more seriously, failing lifters. The issue was more common in pre-2022 models due to lower oil pressure during idling.
- Transmission failures: Some years, particularly the 2003 and certain Ram 1500 models in 2012, 2013, and 2015, had documented transmission issues that could lead to costly repairs or replacement.
- Electrical problems: Several years, including 2003, 2014, and 2015, were prone to electrical issues that affected everything from the dashboard to steering.
What year are 3rd gen dodges?
The 3rd generation of Dodge Ram trucks spans from the 2002 to 2009 model years, with the 1500 (half-ton) models produced from 2002-2008 and the 2500 and 3500 (medium and heavy duty) models from 2003-2009. This generation is known for introducing the common-rail Cummins diesel engine and the Mega Cab option.
- Dodge Ram 1500: 2002–2008
- Dodge Ram 2500: 2003–2009
- Dodge Ram 3500: 2003–2009
What year were the 4th gen Dodges?
The name “Ram” was first used on a Dodge pickup truck in 1981. Since then, the truck that we now know as the Ram 1500 full-size pickup truck has seen plenty of changes. In fact, most of those changes happened in the recent fourth generation, which was in production from 2009 to 2018.
